### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun מַתָּן (mattân, `{{H4976}}`) is derived from the root verb נָתַן (nathan, `{{H5414}}`), meaning "to give," "to put," or "to set." As a noun, *mattân* fundamentally denotes "that which is given," a "present," or a "gift." Its semantic range extends to encompass anything bestowed, whether as a donation, a reward, a recompense, or even a bribe. The core meaning emphasizes the tangible item or portion that is transferred from one party to another, highlighting the object of the giving act rather than the act itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *mattân* appears relatively few times in the Old Testament, yet its occurrences reveal a rich tapestry of social, economic, and ethical contexts:
* **Social and Diplomatic Gifts:** In [[Genesis 34:12]], Jacob's sons demand a *mattân* (gift) and dowry for Dinah, illustrating its role in marital negotiations and social exchange. Proverbs frequently highlights the power of a *mattân* to influence relationships: "A man's *mattân* makes room for him and brings him before great men" [[Proverbs 18:16]], and "Every man is a friend to him who gives *mattân*" [[Proverbs 19:6]]. These verses underscore the social utility and persuasive power of gifts in gaining favor or access. Similarly, [[Proverbs 21:14]] notes, "A *mattân* in secret pacifies wrath," pointing to its use in reconciliation or appeasement.
* **Sacred Offerings and Provisions:** In the priestly texts of Numbers, *mattân* refers to designated portions or offerings. For instance, the priests' portions from the offerings of the Israelites are called a "gift" (*mattân*) to Aaron and his sons [[Numbers 18:11]]. Likewise, the Levites are commanded to give a *mattân* from their tithes to the priests, described as a "heave offering to the Lord" [[Numbers 18:29]]. These instances highlight *mattân* as a sacred contribution or a divinely ordained provision for those serving in the sanctuary.
* **Inheritance and Royal Provision:** In Ezekiel's vision of the new temple, *mattân* is used to describe the prince's gift of inheritance to his sons or servants [[Ezekiel 46:16-17]]. This usage emphasizes the concept of a bestowed legacy or a permanent provision.
* **Bribery and Corruption:** Perhaps the most ethically charged use of *mattân* is found in [[Ecclesiastes 7:7]]: "Surely oppression makes a wise man mad, and a *mattân* corrupts the heart." Here, *mattân* clearly refers to a bribe, a gift given with the intent to pervert justice or influence judgment unfairly. This context reveals the potential for gifts to be used for illicit and morally compromising purposes.
Across these contexts, *mattân* consistently refers to a tangible item given, but the purpose and moral implications of that giving are highly varied, ranging from legitimate social exchange and sacred duty to outright corruption.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root verb נָתַן (nathan, `{{H5414}}`) is the foundational concept, signifying the act of giving itself. *Mattân* is the *result* or *object* of that giving. Other Hebrew words for "gift" or "offering" carry distinct nuances:
* מִנְחָה (minchah, `{{H4503}}`): Often denotes a tribute, offering, or present, particularly a grain offering in a religious context, or a diplomatic gift.
* שַׁי (shai, `{{H7862}}`): A present or tribute, often given to a superior.
* תְּרוּמָה (terumah, `{{H8641}}`): A contribution or heave offering, specifically for the sanctuary.
* נֵדֶר (neder, `{{H5088}}`): A vow, often implying a dedicated offering to God.
* בְּרָכָה (berakah, `{{H1293}}`): Blessing, which can sometimes manifest as a material gift (e.g., [[Genesis 33:11]]).
While these terms share semantic overlap, *mattân* often emphasizes the direct, tangible bestowal of an item, whether for social maneuvering, designated provision, or illicit influence. Its usage in the Septuagint often corresponds to Greek δῶρον (doron, `{{G1435}}`), another general term for "gift."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *mattân* is multifaceted, reflecting both human responsibility and the ethical dimensions of material exchange:
* **Human Obligation and Support:** The use of *mattân* in the context of priestly and Levitical portions in Numbers highlights the divine economy and the human obligation to support those dedicated to sacred service. It underscores the principle of stewardship, where a portion of one's blessings is returned to God or designated for His work.
* **Ethical Nuance of Giving:** The stark contrast between *mattân* as a beneficial social tool (Proverbs) and a corrupting bribe (Ecclesiastes) presents a profound ethical lesson. It reveals that the "gift" itself is morally neutral; its ethical valence is determined by the intent of the giver, the circumstances of the exchange, and its ultimate effect. A *mattân* can facilitate peace and good relations or pervert justice and corrupt the heart. This duality serves as a warning against the misuse of material resources and power.
* **Justice and Righteousness:** The condemnation of *mattân* as a bribe in [[Ecclesiastes 7:7]] directly ties into the broader biblical emphasis on justice and righteousness. The perversion of judgment through gifts is a recurring concern in the Old Testament, underscoring God's demand for integrity in all dealings, especially among those in authority.
* **Divine Provision (Indirectly):** While *mattân* is not typically used to describe God's gifts to humanity in the same way as terms like "blessing" or "covenant love" (חֶסֶד, chesed, `{{H2617}}`), the underlying concept of divine giving is pervasive. Human acts of giving, including *mattân*, often occur within a framework of God's prior provision and generosity.
### Summary
מַתָּן (mattân, `{{H4976}}`) is a Hebrew noun meaning "gift" or "present," derived from the verb "to give" (נָתַן, `{{H5414}}`). It consistently refers to a tangible item that is bestowed. Its biblical occurrences demonstrate a wide range of applications: from legitimate social and diplomatic gestures, designated sacred provisions for priests and Levites, and royal inheritance, to the morally reprehensible act of bribery. The word's significance lies in its reflection of human social dynamics, economic principles, and, crucially, the ethical implications of material exchange. *Mattân* is inherently neutral, with its moral value determined by the intent of the giver and the context of the giving, serving either to foster good relations and fulfill obligations or to corrupt justice and pervert the heart. It thus offers a nuanced perspective on the power and responsibility associated with giving and receiving in the biblical world.
TRV