מַתָּן

מַתָּן

a present

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַתָּן (mattân) refers to a gift or present, often given in specific social or religious contexts. In its most basic sense, it denotes a tangible offering, such as the bride-price Jacob's sons deceitfully demand from Shechem (Genesis 34:12). In a religious setting, it describes the sacred contributions given to the priests, as seen with the offerings to Aaron and his sons (Numbers 18:11). The book of Proverbs uses the term to describe gifts that can appease anger (Proverbs 21:14) or gain access to the powerful (Proverbs 18:16), showing its function in social diplomacy.

Biblical Usage

The word is used five times in the Old Testament, primarily in narrative and wisdom literature. In Genesis 34:12, it appears in a legal-marital context for a bride-price. In Numbers 18:11, it is used in a cultic, priestly context for holy offerings. The three occurrences in Proverbs (18:16, 19:6, 21:14) apply the term to social interactions, where gifts are tools for influence, favor, or appeasement in human relationships.

Etymology

מַתָּן (mattân) is a noun derived from the common Hebrew root נ־ת־ן (n-t-n), meaning 'to give.' It is a cognate of the noun מַתָּנָה (mattânâ, H4979), which has a very similar meaning of 'gift.' The form mattân emphasizes the concrete object that is given.

Semantic Range

While primarily a social term, מַתָּן gains theological weight in its use for the holy gifts (terumah) given to sustain the priesthood (Numbers 18:11), framing material support for God's ministers as an act of worship. In Proverbs, its usage highlights the power dynamics of gift-giving, which can be wise (Proverbs 18:16) or manipulative (Proverbs 19:6), offering practical wisdom on human nature that complements the biblical view of God as the ultimate giver of every good gift. In ancient Near Eastern culture, gift-giving was a complex social ritual establishing relationships, obligations, and status. A מַתָּן was not merely a spontaneous present but often a calculated transaction. The bride-price in Genesis 34:12 was a legal requirement, and the gifts in Proverbs were strategic tools for courtiers. This differs from the modern Western concept of a gift given purely out of generosity, as these gifts carried expectations and created social bonds. מַתָּנָה (mattânâ, H4979) — A nearly identical term for 'gift,' often used interchangeably. שֹׁחַד (shochad, H7810) — A 'bribe,' a gift given with corrupt intent to pervert justice. תְּרוּמָה (terumah, H8641) — A 'contribution' or 'heave offering,' specifically a sacred gift dedicated to God or the priesthood.

Word Details