This name occurs in Luke 3:31, part of the genealogical section between David and Joseph. Like many names in this portion of Luke's genealogy, Mattatha is otherwise unknown outside this reference. The Hebrew origin (Mattathah) means 'gift of Yahweh.' Luke's genealogy differs from Matthew's in this section, tracing through Nathan rather than Solomon, suggesting different branches of David's descendants. These lesser-known names establish Jesus' legitimate Davidic lineage through careful record-keeping, even when individuals didn't hold prominent positions in Israel's political history.