Brief Overview of Ματταθίας (Strong’s G3161: Mattathías)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament provides deeper insights into the text’s meaning and cultural context. The word Ματταθίας (Mattathías), appearing in Luke 3:25, is a name of Hebrew origin that reflects the deep-rooted tradition of the Jewish people in the time of Jesus. This name is significant in the genealogy of Jesus, illustrating the continuity of faith and heritage through generations. It connects the New Testament narrative with the Old Testament and highlights the importance of lineage and identity in ancient Jewish culture.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: Ματταθίας (Mattathías) [mat-ta-THEE-as]
The name Ματταθίας is pronounced [mat-ta-THEE-as]. It is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name מַתִּתְיָהוּ (Mattithyah), which means “gift of Yahweh.” This name is particularly notable for its use among the Hasmonean leaders, such as Mattathias, the father of Judas Maccabeus, emphasizing its historical and religious significance.

Etymology: Ματταθίας is derived from the Hebrew מַתִּתְיָהוּ (Mattithyah), composed of the roots מַתָּן (mattan), meaning “gift,” and יָהּ (Yah), a shortened form of Yahweh. This etymology reflects a deep theological perspective, highlighting the belief that individuals with this name are considered blessings or gifts from God.

Part of Speech: Proper Noun. Ματταθίας is a masculine proper noun used in the genealogical context of the New Testament. It follows the first declension pattern for Greek nouns, which is essential for understanding its grammatical use and structure.

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Defining Meanings

1. Mattathías, a Name in the Genealogy of Jesus: Ματταθίας is listed in the genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3:25. It helps establish Jesus’ lineage and fulfills the messianic prophecies that connect Him to the Davidic line.
2. Gift of Yahweh: The name Ματταθίας signifies “gift of Yahweh,” which was a common theme in Hebrew names, emphasizing the belief that children and descendants are blessings from God.
3. Historical Figure: The name Mattathias also resonates with the history of the Maccabean revolt, as Mattathias was a prominent leader who initiated the rebellion against the Seleucid Empire. This historical connection would have been familiar to the Jewish audience of the time.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Μαθθίας (Matthías) [mahth-EE-as]: A variation of the name Ματταθίας, meaning “gift of Yahweh.” This name is used for the apostle Matthias, chosen to replace Judas Iscariot.
2. Μαθθαῖος (Matthaios) [mah-THAH-ee-os]: Refers to the apostle Matthew, the author of the first Gospel. While similar in etymology, Μαθθαῖος is used to describe a different individual.
3. Ματταθά (Mattathá) [mat-ta-THAH]: Another related name appearing in the genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3:31, showcasing the commonality of this root name in Jewish tradition.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

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Case, Number, Gender: Ματταθίας is a singular, masculine proper noun. It follows the first declension pattern, as shown in the table below:

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s interpret Ματταθίας as a proper name, consistent in its reference to an individual in the genealogy of Jesus. Theologically, Ματταθίας is significant as it connects Jesus to the faithful history of Israel and underscores the fulfillment of God’s promises through His lineage. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 3:25: “The son of Mattathias [Ματταθίας], the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Naggai.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

The name Ματταθίας is primarily found in Jewish contexts and does not appear in classical Greek literature outside the biblical and intertestamental periods. It is, however, significant in Jewish history, particularly in relation to the Maccabean period.

Noteworthy Summary

The name Ματταθίας, meaning “gift of Yahweh,” holds historical, theological, and cultural significance. It connects the New Testament narrative to the history of Israel and highlights the importance of genealogies in affirming Jesus’ messianic role. Understanding this name offers insight into the continuity of faith and God’s promises to His people.

Did You Know?

1. The name Ματταθίας is associated with the Hasmonean leader who sparked the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucids, leading to the rededication of the Temple, celebrated as Hanukkah.
2. Genealogies in the New Testament are not just historical records but theological affirmations of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah.
3. The name Ματταθίας reflects a common practice in Jewish culture to express faith and gratitude through names, often linking individuals directly to God’s attributes or actions.