Matityahu is a modern Hebrew form of Matthew, a name deeply rooted in Jewish and Christian traditions. It derives from the Hebrew name Mattithiah, meaning "gift of Yahweh" (from the elements mattan 'gift' and Yah a shortened form of Yahweh). The name appears in the Hebrew Bible in several forms, including Mattaniah and Nethaniah, and is associated with priestly lineage. Historical Significance The most famous bearer of this name in Jewish history is Mattathias ben Johanan (Hebrew: מַתִּתְיָהוּ הַכֹּהֵן בֶּן יוֹחָנָן), the Jewish priest who ignited the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire around 166–165 BCE. According to 1 Maccabees and the writings of Josephus, Mattathias, a Kohen from the village of Modi'in, refused to offer pagan sacrifices and killed a fellow Jew who complied, then fled to the mountains with his sons. His action sparked a rebellion that ultimately restored Jewish religious freedom and is commemorated in the festival of Hanukkah. Mattathias is mentioned in the Al HaNissim prayer recited during the holiday. His son Judas Maccabeus succeeded him as leader. Religious Context The name Matityahu is a theophoric name combining mattan ('gift') with Yah (a shortened form of Yahweh). In Jewish tradition, the name is considered a variant of Mattithiah, which appears in the Hebrew Bible (e.g., Ezra 10:43) and was borne by several biblical figures. The name's Christian counterpart, Matthew, is also used in the New Testament, as Matthew (originally named Levi) became one of Jesus' apostles and the historically attributed author of the Gospel of Matthew. The modern Hebrew form Matityahu is most commonly used in Israel today, preserving direct continuity with the ancient priestly name. Related Forms Cognates of Matityahu appear in other languages: Armenian Matevos, Basque Matia, and English Matthew. Biblical forms include Mattithiah and related names like Mattaniah and Nethaniah. Meaning: "Gift of Yahweh" Origin: Hebrew Type: Given name (modern Hebrew form)