(Aramaic) corresponding to מַתָּנָה; {a present; specifically (in a good sense), a sacrificial offering, (in a bad sense) a bribe}; gift.
Transliteration:mattᵉnâʼ
Pronunciation:mat-ten-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word `{{H4978}}` (מַתְּנָא, mattᵉnâʼ) serves as the direct counterpart to the Hebrew `{{H4979}}` (מַתָּנָה, mattānâ), both conveying the fundamental sense of "gift" or "present." Its semantic range, however, is notably broad and context-dependent, encompassing both positive and negative connotations. In a beneficial or sacred sense, `{{H4978}}` can refer to a "sacrificial offering" or a provision given for a righteous purpose, particularly in the context of temple service. Conversely, in a detrimental sense, it can denote a "bribe," something given to corrupt, influence unjustly, or pervert justice. This dual nature underscores the ethical ambiguity that can accompany the act of giving.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, `{{H4978}}` is found exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, primarily within the book of Ezra, where it consistently relates to the provisions and support for the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem.
* In [[Ezra 6:9]], King Darius decrees that the necessary provisions for the temple sacrifices—young bulls, rams, lambs, wheat, salt, wine, and oil—be "given" (מַתְּנָא) to the priests in Jerusalem daily. Here, `{{H4978}}` signifies a royal endowment, a generous provision for the sacred worship of God.
* Similarly, [[Ezra 7:17]] speaks of money to be used to "buy bulls, rams, and lambs, with their grain offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them on the altar." While the verb "buy" is used, the context of these items as "offerings" (which are gifts to God) aligns with the positive sense of `{{H4978}}` as a sacrificial gift.
* [[Ezra 7:20]] refers to "whatever else is needed for the house of your God, which you may have occasion to spend," to be spent from the royal treasury. This again highlights `{{H4978}}` as a royal "gift" or provision for the upkeep and service of the temple.
* Perhaps the most nuanced usage appears in [[Ezra 7:24]], where King Artaxerxes declares that "it shall not be lawful to impose tribute, custom, or toll" (מַתְּנָא) on any of the temple personnel. In this instance, `{{H4978}}` refers to the various forms of compulsory "gifts" or payments (taxes, tribute) that would normally be rendered to the state. The exemption granted is itself a royal "gift" to the temple staff, ensuring their dedication to religious duties without financial burden. This usage leans towards the "present" or "tribute" aspect, demonstrating the word's flexibility beyond solely religious offerings or corrupt payments.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is its Hebrew cognate, `{{H4979}}` (מַתָּנָה, mattānâ), which also means "gift" and is used extensively in contexts ranging from human presents to divine blessings. Other significant Hebrew terms for "gift" include `{{H4976}}` (מַתָּת, mattāt), often denoting a present or donation. When considering the negative connotation of `{{H4978}}` as a "bribe," it aligns semantically with Hebrew words such as `{{H7810}}` (שֹׁחַד, shōḥaḏ), which almost exclusively carries the negative sense of a bribe or illicit payment. Concepts interwoven with `{{H4978}}` include divine provision, human generosity, religious offering, political tribute, and the ethical implications of giving and receiving.
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of `{{H4978}}` in Ezra primarily illuminate the theme of divine provision for His people and His worship. Even through the decrees of foreign, pagan kings, God orchestrates the "giving" of resources necessary for the rebuilding and functioning of His temple. This demonstrates God's sovereignty over all earthly powers, turning their decrees into instruments for His redemptive purposes. The exemption from tribute in [[Ezra 7:24]] further underscores God's care for those dedicated to His service, ensuring their freedom to minister without secular encumbrance. The potential for `{{H4978}}` to mean "bribe" (though not explicitly used in this negative sense in its biblical occurrences) implicitly reminds the reader of the ethical dimension of all giving. A gift, whether from human or divine hands, can be an act of grace and worship, or it can be an instrument of corruption and injustice, highlighting the critical importance of the giver's intent and the recipient's integrity.
### Summary
`{{H4978}}` (מַתְּנָא, mattᵉnâʼ) is an Aramaic term signifying a "gift" or "present." Its semantic range extends from sacred "sacrificial offerings" and royal provisions for divine worship to the more pejorative sense of a "bribe" or even compulsory "tribute." In the biblical text, primarily Ezra, `{{H4978}}` consistently refers to the generous provisions and exemptions granted by Persian kings for the sustenance and service of the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem. Theologically, it underscores God's providential care for His people and His house, often working through unexpected means, while implicitly reminding us of the ethical responsibility inherent in all acts of giving.
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