### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mattânâh**, represented by `{{H4979}}`, refers to a **gift** or **present**. It appears **17 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries a dual meaning, signifying a sacrificial **offering** in a good sense, or a corrupting **bribe** in a bad sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H4979}}` appears in several distinct contexts. It describes personal acts of generosity, such as when Abraham gave **gifts** to the sons of his concubines [[Genesis 25:6]] or when a father bestowed great **gifts** of silver and gold upon his sons [[2 Chronicles 21:3]]. The term is also used for sacred offerings consecrated to God, as seen with the "holy **gifts**" which the children of Israel hallow [[Exodus 28:38]]. Conversely, `mattânâh` can have a negative connotation, as a **gift** that "destroyeth the heart" [[Ecclesiastes 7:7]] or as idolatrous **gifts** offered alongside forbidden practices [[Ezekiel 20:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of a **gift**:
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give, used with greatest latitude of application): As the primary verb for giving, it is frequently used in conjunction with `mattânâh` to describe the action of bestowing a gift, whether by a person [[Genesis 25:6]] or as a divine appointment [[Numbers 18:7]].
* `{{H8641}}` **tᵉrûwmâh** (a present (as offered up), especially in sacrifice or as tribute; gift, heave offering): This word specifies a type of sacred contribution. It is explicitly linked to `mattânâh` in the command to offer a **heave offering** from all the **gifts** received [[Numbers 18:29]].
* `{{H1215}}` **betsaʻ** (plunder; by extension, gain (usually unjust); covetousness, (dishonest) gain): This term stands in direct contrast to a righteous gift. One who is greedy of **gain** is opposed to one who "hateth **gifts**" [[Proverbs 15:27]], highlighting the moral distinction between just giving and corrupt acquisition.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4979}}` is centered on its moral and spiritual implications.
* **Gifts as Worship:** `mattânâh` is integral to the act of worship. The Levites are described as a **gift** given to the LORD [[Numbers 18:6]], and the priestly office itself is a "service of **gift**" [[Numbers 18:7]]. Offerings given to God are categorized among holy **gifts** [[Exodus 28:38]] and are to be presented alongside other prescribed offerings [[Leviticus 23:38]].
* **The Corruption of Giving:** The word also serves as a warning against improper giving. A **gift** can destroy the heart [[Ecclesiastes 7:7]], and hating such **gifts** is associated with life [[Proverbs 15:27]]. In Ezekiel, **gifts** are associated with idolatry and polluting God's holy name [[Ezekiel 20:39]].
* **Generosity and Blessing:** A righteous **gift** is often a response to divine blessing. The people are instructed to give a **gift** from their hand according to the **blessing** of the LORD [[Deuteronomy 16:17]]. This principle is also reflected in human relationships, such as the sending of **gifts** to the poor during a time of celebration [[Esther 9:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4979}}` is more than a simple term for a present. It captures the complex nature of giving within the biblical framework, spanning from acts of familial generosity [[Genesis 25:6]] and sacred worship [[Exodus 28:38]] to corrupting bribes [[Ecclesiastes 7:7]] and idolatrous offerings [[Ezekiel 20:31]]. The word's significance lies in its capacity to represent both a holy act dedicated to God and a destructive force that can lead one astray.
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