Matte'nai is a biblical name that appears in several contexts within the Old Testament. The name Matte'nai, which can also be spelled Mattaniah or Mattanai, is of Hebrew origin and means "gift of Yahweh." This name is associated with various individuals in the post-exilic period, particularly during the time of the return from Babylonian exile and the subsequent rebuilding of Jerusalem and the Temple.

1. Matte'nai the Priest: One of the notable figures named Matte'nai is a priest who is mentioned in the book of Ezra. In Ezra 10:20, Matte'nai is listed among the sons of Immer who had taken foreign wives. The passage reads: "From the descendants of Immer: Hanani and Zebadiah." This context is part of a larger narrative where Ezra, a scribe and leader, calls the Israelites to repentance and to separate themselves from foreign influences that were contrary to the Law of Moses. Matte'nai, along with others, responded to this call by putting away their foreign wives, demonstrating a commitment to the covenantal laws of Israel.

2. Matte'nai the Levite: Another individual named Matte'nai is mentioned in Nehemiah 12:8, where he is identified as a Levite. The verse states: "The Levites were Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, and also Mattaniah, who, together with his associates, was in charge of the songs of thanksgiving." This Matte'nai played a significant role in the worship practices of the restored community, particularly in the musical and liturgical aspects of the Temple service. His involvement underscores the importance of worship and thanksgiving in the life of the post-exilic community.

3. Matte'nai in the Lineage of the Priests: In Nehemiah 12:25, another reference to a Matte'nai is found, where he is listed among the gatekeepers who served in the days of Joiakim, the son of Jeshua. The verse reads: "Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were gatekeepers who guarded the storerooms at the gates." This role was crucial for maintaining the security and sanctity of the Temple, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter.

The various individuals named Matte'nai highlight the diverse roles played by those who bore this name in the religious and communal life of Israel during the post-exilic period. Whether as priests, Levites, or gatekeepers, each Matte'nai contributed to the spiritual renewal and reestablishment of Israel's identity as a people dedicated to the worship of Yahweh. Their accounts are woven into the larger narrative of Israel's return from exile and the restoration of their covenant relationship with God.Matte'nai (3 Occurrences)

Ezra 10:33
Of the sons of Hashum: Mattenai, Mattattah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, Shimei.
(See RSV)

Ezra 10:37
Mattaniah, Mattenai, and Jaasai;
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 12:19
and of Joiarib, Mattenai; of Jedaiah, Uzzi;
(See RSV)

Matte'nai (3 Occurrences)
Matte'nai. Mattenai, Matte'nai. Matter . Multi-Version Concordance
Matte'nai (3 Occurrences). Ezra 10:33 Of the sons of Hashum: Mattenai ...
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Mattenai (3 Occurrences)

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Matter (263 Occurrences)

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