מַתָּת
a present
Definition
מַתָּת refers to a gift or present, often given in contexts of honor, hospitality, or divine blessing. It can denote a tangible offering, such as the gift King Jeroboam offers to the prophet in 1 Kings 13:7, or a metaphorical one, like the 'gift' of being able to enjoy one's labor as described in Ecclesiastes 3:13 and 5:19. In Ezekiel's temple vision (Ezekiel 46:5, 11), it specifically refers to prescribed offerings given to the prince. The word generally implies something freely given, not earned, highlighting a gesture of goodwill or favor.
Biblical Usage
The word appears six times across historical, wisdom, and prophetic books. In 1 Kings 13:7, it is a royal gift offered to a prophet. In wisdom literature (Proverbs 25:14; Ecclesiastes 3:13, 5:19), it describes blessings or the ability to enjoy life's fruits as gifts from God. In Ezekiel's prophetic visions (Ezekiel 46:5, 11), it denotes specific ritual offerings. The usage consistently involves a transfer of something valuable, whether between humans or from God to humans.
Etymology
מַתָּת is a feminine noun derived from the root מ־ת־ן (m-t-n), meaning 'to give.' It is an abbreviated form of מַתָּן (mattan, H4976), which also means 'gift.' Both words share the core idea of giving, with מַתָּת often carrying a slightly more formal or specific nuance of a presented gift. Cognates appear in other Semitic languages with similar meanings.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it often portrays God as the ultimate giver of good gifts. In Ecclesiastes, the ability to find satisfaction in work is itself a מַתָּת from God (Ecclesiastes 3:13; 5:19), teaching that joy and contentment are divine blessings, not merely human achievements. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by emphasizing the gracious, unearned nature of God's provisions, connecting to broader biblical themes of grace and stewardship.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, giving a מַתָּת was a key social practice to establish or honor relationships, show hospitality, or secure favor. Unlike a simple transaction, it often carried expectations of reciprocity or reinforced social bonds. Gifts to prophets or in temple settings, as seen in its uses, were acts of respect and religious duty. This differs from a modern, purely voluntary 'gift,' as it was deeply embedded in the honor-shame framework and covenant relationships of the time.
מַתָּן (mattan, H4976) — A more common term for 'gift,' often interchangeable but sometimes seen as the base form. מִנְחָה (minchah, H4503) — Specifically a tribute, offering, or present, often used in cultic or diplomatic contexts. שַׁלְמָנִים (shalmanim, H7964) — A gift or offering for peace or alliance, emphasizing a pact or treaty context. תְּשׁוּרָה (t'shurah, H8670) — A gift, often brought as a present when visiting someone.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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