### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maṭʻam**, represented by `{{H4303}}`, refers to a **delicacy** or **savoury meat**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses**, typically describing a specially prepared and highly desirable food that is the object of great affection or desire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4303}}` is central to the account of Isaac, Jacob, and Esau. Isaac, near death, requests that Esau prepare him **savoury meat** that he loves, so that he may give his blessing ([[Genesis 27:4]], [[Genesis 27:7]]). The term is used repeatedly as Rebekah instructs Jacob to prepare **savoury meat** from goat kids to deceive the aged patriarch and secure the blessing for himself ([[Genesis 27:9]], [[Genesis 27:14]]). The word also appears in Proverbs, where it serves as a warning against longing for the **dainty meats** of a deceitful host, labeling them as "deceitful meat" ([[Proverbs 23:3]], [[Proverbs 23:6]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the preparation and desire associated with this special food:
* `{{H157}}` **ʼâhab** (to have affection for): This verb is directly tied to the reason for the request, as the meal is described as something Isaac **loves** [[Genesis 27:4]].
* `{{H183}}` **ʼâvâh** (to wish for; desire): In Proverbs, this word is used to caution against the intense longing for such **dainties** [[Proverbs 23:6]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make): This action verb is consistently used for the act of preparing the **savoury meat**, highlighting the deliberate effort required to **make** the special dish [[Genesis 27:4]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (food, especially bread): This word for general food or **bread** is contrasted with the specific delicacy of `{{H4303}}`, appearing alongside it in the meal Jacob presents [[Genesis 27:17]] and in the warning in Proverbs [[Proverbs 23:6]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H4303}}` centers on desire and deception.
* **Catalyst for Action:** The intense desire for this specific food is the primary catalyst for the pivotal events in Genesis 27. Isaac's request for **savoury meat** sets in motion a plan of deception that changes the course of patriarchal lineage [[Genesis 27:4]].
* **Object of Intense Desire:** The food is not merely for sustenance but is an object of deep personal craving. It is something Isaac "loves" [[Genesis 27:9]] and that a guest might be "desirous of" [[Proverbs 23:3]], indicating a pleasure that goes beyond simple hunger.
* **Symbol of Deceit:** The word carries a strong connotation of deception. In Genesis, the **savoury meat** is the central prop in a scheme to mislead Isaac. Proverbs makes this theme explicit, warning that such "dainties" can be "deceitful meat" offered by one with an "evil eye" ([[Proverbs 23:3]], [[Proverbs 23:6]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4303}}` is more than just a type of food; it represents a specific, deeply craved delicacy. Its use in Scripture illustrates how a strong physical desire can become a pivotal point in a narrative, serving as the trigger for deception and life-altering consequences. From its role in the story of a stolen blessing to its use as a moral warning in Proverbs, **maṭʻam** highlights the potential danger of seemingly pleasant but ultimately deceitful things.
TRV