Mattatha
Meaning and Origin
The name Mattatha originates from the Hebrew root matan (מַתָּן), meaning 'gift' or 'given.' This etymological foundation reflects the name's association with divine blessings and offerings, which is a recurring theme in biblical nomenclature. In its linguistic journey, the name has been transliterated into Greek as Ματταθά (Mattatha) and Latin as Matatha, maintaining its core meaning across languages and cultures.
Historically, the name Mattatha is tied to the lineage of King David and the genealogy of Jesus Christ, emphasizing its deep roots in Jewish and Christian traditions. Its appearance in the Gospel of Luke situates it within a theological framework that underscores God's providence in orchestrating the messianic lineage. This context adds a layer of historical and spiritual depth to the name's meaning, making it a symbol of divine purpose and fulfillment.
Name Mattatha in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
While the name Mattatha is not commonly used in modern naming conventions, its biblical significance ensures its continued recognition in Christian and Jewish circles. The name retains its original Hebrew form, מַתַּתָּא (Mattata), in Jewish traditions, while variations such as Ματταθά (Mattatha) and Matatha appear in Greek and Latin texts, respectively.
In English-speaking countries, the name is occasionally rendered as Matatha or Matthat, depending on the Bible translation. However, it remains relatively obscure compared to more widely known biblical names. Despite its rarity, Mattatha holds a place of honor in theological studies and discussions about the genealogy of Jesus.
Culturally, the name serves as a reminder of the deep historical and spiritual connections between the Old and New Testaments. Its presence in scripture highlights the enduring legacy of biblical names and their role in shaping religious identity and heritage across generations.
Biblical and Cultural Significance
Mattatha holds significant spiritual weight due to its inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as recorded in Luke 3:31. With a Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100, the name is moderately associated with God's overarching plan in scripture, particularly in the context of the messianic lineage. Its Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 highlights its strong connection to Jesus, further emphasizing its importance in Christian theology.
The name represents a pivotal link in the lineage that traces Jesus back to King David. By appearing in the branch of David's descendants through Nathan instead of Solomon, Mattatha underscores the humility and universality of Jesus' origins. This divergence from the royal line points to the fulfillment of messianic prophecies in a way that aligns with Luke's theological themes of salvation for all humanity.
Though not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, Mattatha's inclusion in Jesus' genealogy speaks volumes about the value of every individual in God's redemptive plan. It also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, even through seemingly obscure individuals.
Biblical Context
The name Mattatha appears in Luke 3:31 as part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. This verse places Mattatha as a descendant of Nathan, one of King David's sons, and highlights an alternate lineage that diverges from the royal line through Solomon. This alternate path is significant because it demonstrates God's ability to work through unexpected channels to fulfill His promises.
In the context of Luke's Gospel, the genealogy serves to establish Jesus' Davidic heritage while also illustrating the universality of His mission. By tracing Jesus' lineage through Nathan rather than Solomon, the narrative emphasizes themes of humility and inclusivity. Mattatha's position in this genealogy thus becomes a testament to God's sovereignty and the intricate weaving of His redemptive plan.
The inclusion of Mattatha in scripture, though brief, carries profound theological implications. It reinforces the idea that every name and individual in the biblical narrative plays a role in the unfolding story of salvation, pointing ultimately to Jesus as the Messiah.
Divine Proximity Metrics
Biblical References
- Luke 3:31