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Unveiling the Word
The Greek word Μαθουσαλά (Mathousala), translated as “Methuselah” in English, is significant in both biblical and cultural contexts. This word, first appearing in Luke 3:37, references one of the most well-known figures in the Bible, Methuselah, the grandfather of Noah and the man noted for having lived the longest recorded lifespan in the Bible (969 years). Understanding the meaning of Μαθουσαλά helps readers gain deeper insights into genealogical records, which are crucial for understanding the lineage of key biblical figures and the significance of life spans in ancient contexts. Moreover, the usage of this word connects the New Testament with Old Testament genealogies, further grounding the Gospels in the Hebrew Scriptures.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: Μαθουσαλά (Mathousala) [ma-thoo-sa-LAH]
Etymology: Μαθουσαλά derives from the Hebrew name מְתוּשֶׁלַח (Methushelach), meaning “man of the dart” or “his death shall bring.” This name likely reflects a combination of two Hebrew roots: “math” (man) and “shalach” (to send or to cast).
Part of Speech: Noun (proper name). Μαθουσαλά is a masculine proper noun, used specifically to refer to the individual Methuselah.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
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- Methuselah, Son of Enoch: Μαθουσαλά primarily refers to Methuselah, the son of Enoch and grandfather of Noah, as mentioned in the genealogical records of Luke 3:37 and Genesis 5:21-27.
- A Symbol of Longevity: Beyond the specific reference to the biblical figure, the name Μαθουσαλά is often used culturally and historically as a symbol of extreme longevity due to Methuselah’s noted 969-year lifespan.
Exploring Similar Words
- Ἐνώχ (Henoch) [HEH-nokh]: This refers to Enoch, Methuselah’s father. Enoch is known for being taken by God, having never experienced death, in contrast to his son Methuselah’s extraordinarily long life.
- Νῶε (Noe) [NO-eh]: Noah, the grandson of Methuselah, is the key figure in the story of the Flood. His lineage, traced through Μαθουσαλά, demonstrates the continuity of God’s covenant through generations.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
As a proper noun, Μαθουσαλά follows the standard morphological structure for Greek proper names derived from Hebrew. Below is its basic declension in singular form, as proper nouns do not take a plural form:
| Case | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Μαθουσαλά |
| Genitive | Μαθουσαλά |
| Dative | Μαθουσαλά |
| Accusative | Μαθουσαλά |
For a deeper understanding of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
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Studying Lexicon Insights
Lexicons provide fascinating insights into the name Μαθουσαλά. BDAG highlights that Μαθουσαλά refers specifically to Methuselah, the longest-living figure in the Bible, and that his lineage leads directly to Noah, thus embedding him in the genealogical significance of salvation history. Thayer’s notes the meaning of the name and its Hebrew roots, suggesting that it carries implications regarding prophetic judgment or sending (as with “dart” or “spear”). Other lexicons, such as LSJ and Vine’s, emphasize the usage of Μαθουσαλά within the context of biblical genealogies, noting its importance in connecting the Old and New Testament records.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
- Luke 3:37: “The son of Methuselah [Μαθουσαλά], the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalalel, the son of Cainan.”
This verse appears in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, connecting Jesus through the line of notable patriarchs, including Methuselah, back to Adam.
- Genesis 5:27: “So all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred and sixty-nine years, and he died.”
This verse in Genesis recounts Methuselah’s lifespan, the longest in the biblical record, making Μαθουσαλά a symbol of longevity.
Analyzing Classical Usage
Though Μαθουσαλά appears exclusively in biblical contexts, its etymological connections to Hebrew culture offer deeper insights. Below are examples of related genealogical discussions in Greek and Hebrew contexts:
| Author | Name of Work | Text |
|---|---|---|
| Septuagint | Genesis 5:21-27 | “And Methuselah (Μαθουσαλά) lived 969 years.” |
| Philo of Alexandria | On the Eternity of the World | “Methuselah (Μαθουσαλά) and his lineage show the endurance of God’s covenant.” |
| Josephus | Antiquities of the Jews | “Methuselah (Μαθουσαλά), grandfather of Noah, was the longest-living man.” |
Noteworthy Summary
The name Μαθουσαλά (Mathousala) serves as a vital link between the Old and New Testaments, appearing in the genealogy of Jesus in Luke 3:37. Methuselah, renowned for his 969-year lifespan, is both a literal and symbolic figure representing longevity. His connection to figures like Noah and Enoch underscores the importance of biblical genealogies in preserving the continuity of God’s covenant with humanity.
Did You Know?
- Methuselah is the longest-lived figure in the Bible, living 969 years, making him a symbol of extreme longevity.
- Methuselah’s death is often thought to have occurred just before or even during the year of the Great Flood, connecting him directly to the story of Noah.
- The name Μαθουσαλά appears only once in the New Testament (Luke 3:37), but its significance extends back to the Old Testament genealogies in Genesis.
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