Μαϊνάν (Mainan)
Mainan
Menna
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Mainan appears only once in the New Testament, listed as an ancestor of Joseph in Luke’s genealogy (Luke 3:31). It is a proper noun with no direct lexical definition beyond its identity as a person in the line of descent leading to Jesus.
Lexical sources suggest the name likely has Hebrew origins, possibly related to terms meaning "soothsayer" or "enchanted," though this etymology remains speculative. As a genealogical entry, it serves to connect Joseph to earlier generations without adding narrative detail or theological commentary in its immediate context.
Its single occurrence highlights the meticulous nature of Luke’s historical record, tracing Jesus’ human lineage back through many unnamed or obscure figures. The presence of Mainan underscores the continuity of Israel’s ancestral line, affirming Jesus’ connection to his heritage even when specific biographical details are absent from the biblical text.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When you read Luke’s genealogy, it can feel like a long list of names that blur together. Mainan is one of those quiet entries, appearing only once in Scripture as an ancestor of Joseph. He stands between Melea and Mattatha, holding his place in the line that leads to David and eventually to Jesus.
This single mention reminds us that God’s plan works through ordinary people across generations. We do not know Mainan’s personal story or achievements, yet he was faithful to be part of a larger history. His inclusion shows that every generation matters in God’s unfolding purpose, even when their names seem obscure to us today.
For your faith, this offers comfort. You are part of a long chain of believers who have trusted God before you. Just as Mainan helped connect the past to the Messiah, your life connects with others in the family of God. There is dignity in simply being present and faithful in your own time.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of Menna1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Μεννὰ1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 3:31
the son of Melea, the son of Menan, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David,
This verse places Mainan directly between Melea and Mattatha, anchoring Jesus’ human lineage to the house of David through Nathan.