### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mattânâh**, represented by `{{H4980}}`, identifies a specific location in the desert. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Its definition indicates it is a proper name for a place the Israelites passed through during their journey from the wilderness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4980}}` marks a stage in the Israelites' journey. It first appears as their destination after leaving the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}` where a significant **well** `{{H875}}` was dug by the leaders of the people [[Numbers 21:18]]. The text then immediately mentions it again as the point of departure as they continue their travels, moving from **Mattanah** to Nahaliel [[Numbers 21:19]]. This places it firmly within the travel itinerary of Israel as they moved through the desert.
### Related Words & Concepts
The location of **Mattanah** is understood through its connection to other places and events in the Israelites' journey:
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): The Israelites journeyed from the **wilderness** to Mattanah, highlighting its setting in a desert landscape [[Numbers 21:18]].
* `{{H875}}` **bᵉʼêr** (well): The journey to Mattanah immediately follows an account where the **princes** `{{H8269}}` and **nobles** `{{H5081}}` of the people dug a **well** [[Numbers 21:18]].
* `{{H5160}}` **Nachălîyʼêl** (Nahaliel): This location, defined as "valley of God," was the next destination for the Israelites after departing from Mattanah [[Numbers 21:19]].
* `{{H1120}}` **Bâmôwth** (Bamoth): From Nahaliel, the Israelites proceeded to **Bamoth**, which means "heights," continuing their travels east of the Jordan [[Numbers 21:19]].
### Theological Significance
While a minor location, **Mattanah** carries thematic weight within the narrative of Israel's wanderings.
* **A Landmark of Israel's Journey:** The mention of **Mattanah** serves as a specific waypoint, documenting the Israelites' progress through the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}` on the path God led them [[Deuteronomy 8:2]].
* **The Role of Leadership:** Its context is tied to an act of leadership and provision. Before arriving at **Mattanah**, the **princes** `{{H8269}}` and **nobles** `{{H5081}}` of the **people** `{{H5971}}` dug a **well** `{{H875}}` by the direction of the **lawgiver** `{{H2710}}` with their **staves** `{{H4938}}` [[Numbers 21:18]].
* **A Point of Transition:** **Mattanah** functions as a point of transition, marking the journey from one encampment to the next, specifically from **Mattanah** to **Nahaliel** `{{H5160}}` and then onward to **Bamoth** `{{H1120}}`, showing their steady movement [[Numbers 21:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4980}}` **Mattânâh** is more than just a name on a map; it is a marker in the historical and spiritual journey of Israel. Though it appears only twice, its placement in the text connects it to themes of leadership, provision, and the guided progression of God's people through the wilderness. It functions as a specific, recorded step in the path from the desolation of the desert toward their ultimate destination.
TRV