As an expert in biblical studies, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question about the name Mathias in the Bible.

Step 1: English Answer

The name Mathias does not appear in the standard English translations of the Bible. However, the name is closely related to Matthias, which is found in the New Testament. The story of Matthias is recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, which is the fifth book of the New Testament and serves as a history of the early Christian church.

After the betrayal and subsequent death of Judas Iscariot, one of the original twelve apostles, the remaining apostles decided to choose a replacement. According to the account in Acts 1:15-26, they nominated two candidates: Joseph, who was also called Barsabbas and Justus, and Matthias. They prayed for guidance and then cast lots to determine who would be the new apostle. The lot fell to Matthias, and he was added to the number of the eleven remaining apostles.

The name Matthias is derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, which means "gift of Yahweh" or "gift from God." It is a variant of the name Matthew (Matthaios in Greek), which is also the name of one of the four evangelists who authored a Gospel in the New Testament. The name Matthew is of Hebrew origin and has the same meaning as Matthias.

The use of lots in the selection of Matthias is significant as it reflects the belief in divine providence guiding the choice. This method was also used in Old Testament times, such as in the selection of Saul as king (1 Samuel 10:20-21).

It's worth noting that the spelling and pronunciation of biblical names can vary across different languages and cultures. In some translations or languages, the name might be closer to Mathias. However, in the widely recognized English versions of the Bible, the name is consistently rendered as Matthias.

The story of Matthias is not just about the selection of an apostle but also about the early Christian community's commitment to continuity and the importance of the apostolic office. It shows the apostles' adherence to Jesus' instructions and their belief in the necessity of having twelve apostles, mirroring the twelve tribes of Israel.

In conclusion, while the name Mathias is not found in the English Bible, Matthias is a significant figure in the New Testament, chosen by the apostles through prayer and the casting of lots to complete their number after the betrayal of Judas Iscariot.

Step 2: Divider

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Variant of Matthaios (see MATTHEW) which appears in the New Testament as the name of the apostle chosen to replace the traitor Judas Iscariot.read more >>