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מַטְרֵד (mat.red)

mat.red

Matred

H4308 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 2 verses

N:N-F-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
2 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-F-P

Word Overview

Matred is a proper noun appearing in only two biblical verses, Genesis 36:39 and 1 Chronicles 1:50. She is identified as an Edomite woman from the era of the Patriarchs, specifically noted as the daughter of Mezahab and the mother of Mehetabel.

The name translates to "pushing forward" or "one who advances." In the context of Genesis 36, which lists Edom’s royal lineage, Matred is mentioned as the wife of Hadar (or Hadad), king of Pau. Her inclusion in these genealogies serves to document the established families of Edom alongside those of Israel.

Although she plays no active role in the narrative, her name preserves a detail about Edomite social structures during this period. The sources highlight her as a link between her father Mezahab and her daughter Mehetabel, anchoring her within a specific historical record rather than a theological story.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

Matred appears in the Bible as a woman from the lineage of Edom, mentioned in Genesis and Chronicles. Her name means "pushing forward," suggesting a life of steady progress or advancement. Though she is not a central character in any dramatic story, her inclusion in these genealogies shows that God records the lives of ordinary people alongside kings and leaders.

This detail reminds us that every family line matters to God. The careful recording of names like hers preserves history and honors the women who shaped their communities through faithfulness in daily life. We can find comfort in knowing that our own contributions, however quiet they may seem, are part of a larger story known to God.

Her presence in Scripture encourages us to value the roles we play within our families and communities. Whether leading or supporting, each person has a place in God's plan. This word invites reflection on how we move forward in faith, trusting that our steps are seen and remembered by Him.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Matred2×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • מַטְרֵ֔ד2×

Key Verses

  • Genesis 36:39
    Baal Hanan the son of Achbor died, and Hadar reigned in his place. The name of his city was Pau. His wife’s name was Mehetabel, the daughter of Matred, the daughter of Mezahab.

    This verse identifies Matred as the mother of Mehetabel, linking her to the royal lineage of Edom through her daughter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Matred in the Bible?

Matred is a woman from Edom mentioned in Genesis 36:39 and 1 Chronicles 1:50. She is identified as the daughter of Mezahab and the mother of Mehetabel, wife of King Hadar.

What does the name Matred mean?

The name Matred comes from a Hebrew root meaning "to push forward" or "to advance." It suggests movement or progress, fitting for someone in a lineage that continues through generations.

Why is Matred included in the Bible if she has no story?

Her inclusion preserves the historical record of Edomite families. Genealogies like these show that God values every individual, even those not named as central characters in narrative stories.

Every Occurrence (2 verses across 2 books)