The Hebrew word mattâth, represented by H4991, is an abbreviated feminine form of מַתָּן that means a present; gift. It appears only 6 times across 6 unique verses, yet it conveys a significant concept of a present or endowment, often one that comes from a divine source.
In its scriptural usage, H4991 consistently refers to something bestowed. The book of Ecclesiastes frames the ability to enjoy life as a divine endowment, stating that for a person to eat, drink, and enjoy the good of their labor "is the gift of God" Ecclesiastes 3:13. This idea is expanded to include riches and wealth, with the power to enjoy them also identified as "the gift of God" Ecclesiastes 5:19. The term can also denote a tangible present between people, such as the reward a king offered to a man of God 1 Kings 13:7. In contrast, Proverbs uses the term to warn against insincerity, comparing someone who boasts of a "false gift" to clouds without rain Proverbs 25:14. Finally, in Ezekiel, it is used in a ritual context to describe the measure of a meat offering as a gift based on one's ability to give (Ezekiel 46:5, Ezekiel 46:11).
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of H4991:
- H5414 nâthan (to give): This primitive root is the very action that produces a gift. It is used directly in contexts where God is said to give riches and wealth, which are then identified as a mattâth Ecclesiastes 5:19.
- H2506 chêleq (portion): This word often describes the substance of a gift, referring to an allotment or inheritance. The ability to take one's portion from their labor is considered part of God's gift Ecclesiastes 5:19.
- H4503 minchâh (offering): This term, signifying a sacrificial offering or donation, is used in conjunction with mattâth in Ezekiel, illustrating that a gift can be an act of worship directed toward God Ezekiel 46:11.
The theological weight of H4991 is concentrated in a few key ideas:
- Divine Source of Joy: The word powerfully communicates that blessings are not merely material possessions but also the God-given capacity to enjoy them. The ability to find joy in one's labor and sustenance is explicitly defined as a gift from God (Ecclesiastes 3:13, Ecclesiastes 5:19).
- Worship as Gift-Giving: In the context of the temple regulations in Ezekiel, the act of bringing an offering is framed as giving a gift. This suggests that worship involves presenting a gift to God from the abundance He has first provided Ezekiel 46:5.
- The Integrity of Gifts: The concept of a "false gift" introduces a moral dimension, highlighting the importance of substance and sincerity in giving. A true gift brings benefit, whereas a boastful but empty promise is worthless Proverbs 25:14.
In summary, H4991 is a focused term that defines a gift primarily as a divine endowment. Though rare, its usage is significant, encompassing the material blessings of life, the capacity for joy, human acts of generosity, and the offerings of worship. It illustrates the biblical principle that all good things, from daily provision to a person's ultimate portion in life, originate as a gift from God.
TRV