מַצָּה

מַצָּה

properly, sweetness; concretely, sweet (i.e. not soured or bittered with yeast); specifically

Definition

The Hebrew word מַצָּה (matstsâh) primarily refers to unleavened bread—bread made without yeast or leaven, which does not rise and remains flat. In the Old Testament, it most often denotes the specific bread eaten during the Passover festival, as commanded in Exodus 12:8, 15, and 20. By extension, the term can also refer to the entire Feast of Unleavened Bread itself (Exodus 12:17; 13:6), a seven-day observance following Passover. Its basic meaning of 'sweetness' or 'something not soured' highlights its contrast with leavened, fermented products.

Biblical Usage

This word appears 42 times, predominantly in the Pentateuch (especially Exodus and Leviticus) in ritual and legal contexts concerning Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. It is used both for the physical bread (e.g., Genesis 19:3, where Lot serves unleavened bread to his guests) and for the festival observance (e.g., Exodus 12:17; 13:6). Later historical books, like Joshua and Kings, reference it in connection with Passover celebrations (Joshua 5:11; 2 Kings 23:9).

Etymology

Derived from the root מָצַץ (mātsats, H4711), which means 'to suck out' or 'drain,' implying greedily devouring something for its sweetness. This root sense evolved to denote something 'sweet' (not soured) and, concretely, bread made without the souring agent of leaven.

Semantic Range

Unleavened bread is theologically significant as a symbol of purity, haste, and separation from sin. During the Exodus, it represented the Israelites' hurried departure from Egypt (Exodus 12:39) and a break with their old life. In the Passover, it signifies a removal of corruption (leaven often symbolizing sin) and consecration to God (1 Corinthians 5:7-8 draws on this symbolism). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the New Testament imagery of Christ as our Passover lamb. In ancient Israelite culture, leaven (yeast) was associated with fermentation and decay. Unleavened bread was not merely a dietary item but a ritual necessity during Passover, commemorating God's deliverance. Its preparation was quicker than leavened bread, fitting the narrative of haste in Exodus. The annual Feast of Unleavened Bread reinforced communal identity and obedience to covenant law. לֶחֶם (lechem, H3899) — the general word for 'bread' or 'food,' which can be leavened or unleavened. חָמֵץ (chāmēts, H2557) — 'leavened' or 'fermented,' the direct opposite of מַצָּה.

Word Details