### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **mattᵉnâʼ**, represented by `{{H4978}}`, translates to **gift**. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses, all within the book of Daniel. The term corresponds to the Hebrew word for a present and can denote a gift in a good sense, a sacrificial offering, or a bribe in a bad sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4978}}` is used exclusively in the context of a king offering rewards. King Nebuchadnezzar promises "**gifts** and rewards and great honour" to any who could interpret his dream [[Daniel 2:6]]. After Daniel successfully does so, the king bestows upon him "many great **gifts**" as a sign of favor and promotion [[Daniel 2:48]]. Later, when faced with King Belshazzar's offer of reward, Daniel rejects the royal incentive, stating, "Let thy **gifts** be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another" [[Daniel 5:17]], choosing instead to deliver God's message without worldly compensation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the concept of gifts and rewards in the book of Daniel:
* `{{H5023}}` **nᵉbizbâh** (reward): This term, meaning "a largess; reward," appears alongside **mattᵉnâʼ** as part of the king's promised compensation, emphasizing the transactional nature of the offer ([[Daniel 2:6]], [[Daniel 5:17]]).
* `{{H3052}}` **yᵉhab** (to give): As the verb for giving, this word is intrinsically linked to `{{H4978}}`. A king is the one who will **give** the gifts [[Daniel 5:17]], and God is the ultimate giver of wisdom [[Daniel 2:23]].
* `{{H3367}}` **yᵉqâr** (honour): Defined as "value," "dignity," or "glory," this word is often part of the package offered with gifts. The king's promise includes "**gifts** and rewards and great **honour**," indicating that gifts are a tangible expression of royal esteem [[Daniel 2:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4978}}` is found in the contrast between earthly and divine value.
* **Royal Favor:** In the court of Babylon, gifts are a primary instrument of royal power and favor. They are used by the king to reward service, incentivize loyalty, and display wealth [[Daniel 2:48]].
* **Worldly vs. Spiritual Motivation:** Daniel's acceptance of gifts from Nebuchadnezzar [[Daniel 2:48]] versus his rejection of them from Belshazzar [[Daniel 5:17]] highlights a crucial distinction. When the gift is a reward for a completed divine task, it is accepted; when it is an incentive for a future one, it is rejected, emphasizing that his prophetic service is not for sale.
* **Source of Reward:** The context shows that while earthly kings give material gifts, Daniel's ability comes from God, who gives wisdom and knowledge [[Daniel 2:23]]. Daniel's actions prioritize the source of his true ability over the temporary rewards of a human king.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4978}}` is a specific term used to describe the material presents offered by a monarch. Its limited use in Daniel provides a powerful illustration of the dynamics within a royal court. More importantly, it serves as a narrative tool to contrast the value of transient, earthly rewards with the higher calling and divine endowment of a prophet of God.
TRV