מַתִּתְיָה

Mattithjah, the name of four Israelites

Definition

Mattithyâh is a Hebrew proper name meaning 'gift of Yahweh' or 'gift of the LORD.' It is borne by four distinct individuals in the Old Testament, all of whom served in significant religious or communal roles. The most prominent is a Levite appointed as a gatekeeper for the Ark of the Covenant (1 Chronicles 15:18, 21) and later as a musician in the temple worship (1 Chronicles 16:5). Another Mattithiah was a Levite in the line of Asaph who served as a temple musician (1 Chronicles 25:3, 21). A third is listed among those who had taken foreign wives during the exile (Ezra 10:43), and a fourth stood beside Ezra during the public reading of the Law (Nehemiah 8:4).

Biblical Usage

The name Mattithyâh appears eight times, exclusively in post-exilic historical books (1 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah). Its usage consistently identifies Levites involved in temple service, either as gatekeepers, musicians, or participants in religious reforms. For example, in 1 Chronicles 15:18, 21, Mattithiah is among the Levites appointed to play musical instruments before the Ark. In Nehemiah 8:4, a Mattithiah stands beside Ezra as he reads the Law, emphasizing a role in communal instruction and revival.

Etymology

The name is a compound of two Hebrew elements: מַתָּת (mattâth, H4991), meaning 'gift,' and יָהּ (Yâh, H3050), a shortened form of the divine name Yahweh (the LORD). Thus, it literally means 'gift of Yah.' An alternate, longer form of the name is מַתִּתְיָהוּ (Mattithyâhû), which uses the full form of the divine name. This name reflects a common Hebrew naming pattern that acknowledges God as the source of blessing.

Semantic Range

As a theophoric name (containing God's name), Mattithyâh serves as a constant, personal reminder of God's gracious nature as a giver. The individuals bearing this name were actively involved in worship (1 Chronicles 16:5) and the restoration of covenant faithfulness (Nehemiah 8:4), embodying the idea that they themselves were gifts from God for the service of His people. Understanding the name's meaning enriches reading by highlighting how personal identity in Israel was intertwined with confession of God's character.

In ancient Israel, names were often descriptive and carried significant meaning, reflecting circumstances, hopes, or theological statements. A name like 'Gift of Yahweh' expressed gratitude and acknowledged divine providence in the child's life. The individuals with this name, all from the priestly tribe of Levi, lived out this identity through their dedicated temple service, literally offering their gifts back to God in worship and leadership.

Nethanyahu (נְתַנְיָהוּ, H5418) — Also means 'given of Yahweh'; a different name with a similar meaning and theophoric element. Mattan (מַתָּן, H4976) — Means 'gift,' sharing the root מַתָּת but without the divine name component.

Word Details

Scripture References