### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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