☀️
← Back to Lexicon
H4991 · Hebrew · Old Testament
מַתָּת
mattath
Noun feminine
gift, present — a thing given, a grant

Definition

Mattath is another derivative of natan (H5414, to give), closely related to mattan (H4976). It appears 5 times, most notably in Ecclesiastes where Qohelet reflects on gifts from God. The form emphasizes the thing given — the gift itself as an object of reception from a giver greater than oneself.

Usage & Theological Significance

In Ecclesiastes, mattath appears in the context of the Teacher's conclusion that enjoyment of life's simple goods — food, drink, work, relationship — is itself a gift from God. This is not hedonism but sacramental theology: the creation is to be received with open hands, not grasped. The ability to enjoy the gift is itself a gift. This theology of receivership runs from Genesis ("God gave") through the NT: "What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?" (1 Corinthians 4:7).

Key Bible Verses

Ecclesiastes 3:13 That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil — this is the gift [mattath] of God.
Ecclesiastes 5:19 Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil — this is a gift [mattath] of God.
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive?
James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.
Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️