Mattaniah(9)
Mattaniah in the Bible — descendant of Mica (NEH 11:17), gatekeeper (NEH 12:25). Mattaniah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “gift, or hope, of the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Mattaniah was a male Levite known for his role as a gatekeeper and a descendant of Mica. He was a leader in initiating thanksgiving during prayer, highlighting his spiritual leadership within the Levitical community. His service is documented in the books of Nehemiah.
Names & Titles
The name Mattaniah means 'gift of YHWH,' reflecting a theophoric element that acknowledges God's gift. This proper name, as recorded in Nehemiah 11:17, does not indicate it was given directly by God but carries significant spiritual meaning.
Family
Scripture explicitly records Mattaniah as a descendant of Mica, establishing his lineage within the tribe of Levi. Beyond this, no additional family relationships are detailed in the biblical text.
Significance
Mattaniah's significance lies in his dual role as a gatekeeper and a spiritual leader who began thanksgiving at prayer. His position as a descendant of Mica situates him within the Levitical tradition, entrusted with both physical and spiritual responsibilities in the post-exilic community. These roles underscore the importance of faithful service and worship in the restoration period documented in Nehemiah.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- מַתַּנְיָה
- Transliteration
- matanəyah
- Meaning
- gift of y-h-v-h
- Greek
- Μαθανια
- Reference
- NEH 11:17
- Strong's
- H4983
Family & Relationships (1)
descendant
Notes
leader in beginning the thanksgiving at prayer (NEH 11:17)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mattaniah in the Bible?
Mattaniah was a male Levite known for his role as a gatekeeper and a descendant of Mica. He was a leader in initiating thanksgiving during prayer, highlighting his spiritual leadership within the Levitical community. His service is documented in the books of Nehemiah.
What does the name Mattaniah mean?
The name Mattaniah means “gift, or hope, of the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.