Topical Encyclopedia Mathanias, also known as Mattaniah, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. His name, which means "gift of Yahweh," is indicative of the Hebrew tradition of naming individuals in a way that reflects their relationship with God. Mathanias is primarily noted in the context of the lineage of the kings of Judah and the priestly families.1. Mathanias, the King of Judah: Mathanias is most prominently recognized as the original name of Zedekiah, the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. He was the son of Josiah and the uncle of Jehoiachin. When Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, captured Jerusalem, he appointed Mathanias as king, changing his name to Zedekiah to signify his vassal status. This is recorded in 2 Kings 24:17: "Then the king of Babylon made Mattaniah, Jehoiachin’s uncle, king in his place, and changed his name to Zedekiah" . Zedekiah's reign was marked by political turmoil and eventual rebellion against Babylon, leading to the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. 2. Mathanias in the Priestly Lineage: Another individual named Mathanias is mentioned in the context of the priestly families. In 1 Chronicles 9:15, Mathanias is listed among the Levites who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile: "Bakbakkar, Heresh, Galal, and Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph" . This Mathanias was a descendant of Asaph, a prominent Levite musician and seer during the reign of King David, indicating his role in the musical and liturgical traditions of the temple. 3. Mathanias in the Book of Nehemiah: In the post-exilic period, Mathanias is also mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah 11:17 refers to a Mathanias who was involved in the thanksgiving services: "Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, the leader who began the thanksgiving in prayer" . This highlights his role in the restoration of worship practices in Jerusalem after the return from exile. 4. Mathanias in the Book of Ezra: In Ezra 10:26, a Mathanias is listed among those who had taken foreign wives and were required to put them away as part of the reforms led by Ezra: "And of the descendants of Elam: Mattaniah, Zechariah, Jehiel, Abdi, Jeremoth, and Elijah" . This reflects the broader effort to restore the purity of the Israelite community by adhering to the Mosaic Law. Mathanias, in his various mentions, represents both the royal and priestly aspects of Israelite society. His presence in the biblical narrative underscores the themes of leadership, worship, and covenant faithfulness that are central to the history of Israel as recorded in the Scriptures. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MATHANIASmath-a-ni'-as: the King James Version in 1 Esdras 9:31. Thesaurus Mathanias... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MATHANIAS. math-a-ni'-as: the King James Version in 1 Esdras 9:31. See MATTHANIAS. ... /m/mathanias.htm - 6k Mates (1 Occurrence) Matthanias Mathelas Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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