מַטְאֲטֵא
𐤌𐤈𐤀𐤈𐤀
maṭʼăṭêʼ
H4292 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A broom, sweeping implement; refers specifically to a simple tool for sweeping debris, dust, or refuse. In biblical usage, a literal object used for cleaning, or used metaphorically for complete removal or purging, especially as an image for divine judgment or cleansing.
Semantic Range
broom, sweeping implement, instrument of sweeping, tool for removing dust/refuse; metaphorical—means of purging, instrument of complete removal, agent of divine judgment
Root / Etymology
Denominative noun from the Hebrew root טאטא (to sweep). The form מַטְאֲטֵא arises with the prefix מ and characteristic noun ending; the root denotes the act of sweeping or removing by sweeping.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term appears only in Isaiah 14:23, a poetic and prophetic context, where it is used metaphorically for total destruction or cleansing of Babylon, likened to sweeping away dirt. The usage suggests both a functional understanding (sweeping implement) and a symbolic application (instrument of removal or purging). It is distinct from other Hebrew words for broom, which are rare or later developments. English translations variably render the term as 'besom' (archaic), 'broom,' or 'sweeping tool,' but may not fully convey the force of removal or the completeness implied in the prophetic context. The metaphor of sweeping as purging or judging is contextually rooted in parallel ancient Near Eastern idioms, but the noun itself is not widespread in biblical Hebrew.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
apparently a denominative from טִיט; a broom (as removing dirt (compare English 'to dust', i.e. remove dust)); besom.
Bantu Hebrew
No Bantu Hebrew comparisons have been submitted for this word yet.
+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
טאטא (ṭ-ʾ-ṭ-ʾ) — to sweep, remove by sweeping, clear away
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H4292-01 |
בְּ/מַטְאֲטֵ֣א | bemateate | HR/Ncmsc |
with the broom of | with broom of | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H4292-01 |
Isaiah 14:23 | בְּ/מַטְאֲטֵ֣א | bemateate | HR/Ncmsc |
with the broom of | with broom of |