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.
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.
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.
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.
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