September 21
Why this day? This is the day the name-day calendar sets aside for Saint Matthew.
A tax collector in Capernaum in the first century, in Galilee. He left his meticulous records to follow a new path, then rigorously transcribed Jesus's teachings, becoming the first evangelist.
What stays with us: One can change one's life without waiting for permission from the past. The ability to reinvent oneself while bringing order and meaning to lived experience is a universal human strength.
Source: Nominis — Église catholique en France · Wikidata · Wikipédia
Matei is celebrated in France, Italy, Spain and Germany on September 21.
The name « Matei » is the Romanian and Bulgarian form of our Matthew, and behind these two names lies the same beautiful promise: Mattityahu, in Hebrew, means “gift of God.” The eponym is prestigious — Saint Matthew, the tax collector turned apostle, traditional author of the first of the four Gospels. A name, therefore, rich in spirituality and history, celebrated on September 21 in the West.
In Romania, Matei is a true institution, upheld by the Orthodox Church and by major national figures: the voivode Matei Basarab, Prince of Wallachia in the 17th century, or King Matei Corvin (Matthias Corvinus), glory shared with Hungary. It is a name that is both classic and proudly identity-driven, very common among young Romanians today. In France, it charms with its southern, melodic sound, more original and sunny than Matthew, while keeping the same reassuring root. Elegant, gentle, rooted in two thousand years of history, Matei blends tradition and freshness.
The name “Matei” carries a gift-like quality — “gift of God” — and often embodies this sunny generosity. In its Romanian form of Matthew, it blends the depth of a millennial heritage with a distinctly southern freshness: he is a warm, approachable boy, noticeable without forcing the issue. Nourished by a number 3 full of expression, Matei has an easy rapport, pleasant speech, and a knack for the right word; he loves telling stories, exchanging ideas, making people laugh, and his company is one sought after.
But the eponym also brings considerable depth. Saint Matthew, the tax collector who left everything to follow a calling, embodies the capacity for conversion, the courage to change one’s life, and fidelity to an ideal. Matei shares this profound integrity beneath his sociable exterior: solid loyalty, sincere attachment to values and to those close to him. The great Romanian figures of the name — the wise voivode Matei Basarab, the brilliant Matei Corvin — further blow a wind of elegance, intelligence, and love of culture; Matei often enjoys books, ideas, and beauty.
Emotionally, he is a generous heart who gives much and loves being surrounded. He needs bonds, camaraderie, a warm circle in which to express his enthusiasm. His sociability may be accompanied by a touch of sensitivity — he dislikes being ignored — but his good humor quickly prevails. Curious, adaptable, comfortable across cultures thanks to his traveling first name (Matteo, Mateo, Matthew…), Matei moves through life with optimism and openness. A bright and faithful companion, gifted at shared happiness, and true to his promise: to be, for those around him, a true gift.
Playful portrait, for entertainment.
What science says. The effect of a first name on character is documented, and several scientific studies have looked into it. They do not show that a name contains a hidden personality, but that it captures attention, triggers social expectations and slightly changes the way others respond to us. Read our article what the psychology of first names is based on to find out more.
Matthias approaches romance with the quiet intensity of a sacred vow. Named for the "Gift of God," he does not merely seek a partner; he seeks a soul mirror, someone who recognizes the divine spark within the mundane. His seduction is not loud or performative; it is an act of profound, tactile presence. He loves with a steady, grounding warmth, offering security that feels like coming home after a long exile. He is drawn to authenticity and depth, repelled by the superficial glitter of empty gestures. In the bedroom, his touch is deliberate, seeking to heal and connect rather than just to conquer. He views intimacy as a reciprocal offering, a sacred exchange where vulnerability is the ultimate currency. However, his devotion requires reciprocity. If he senses emotional dishonesty or a lack of spiritual alignment, his warmth cools rapidly. He is not one to chase shadows; he invests fully, expecting the same profound commitment in return. For Matthias, love is not a game—it is a testament.
It means 'gift of God', from the Hebrew Mattityahu combining 'gift' and a short form of the divine name Yahweh.
He is the apostle chosen by lot, as told in the Acts of the Apostles, to replace Judas Iscariot among the Twelve after Jesus's Ascension.
May 14 in the modern Roman Catholic calendar; it was moved from the traditional February 24 in the 1969 reform to avoid Lent.
They share the same Hebrew root meaning 'gift of God', but they are distinct names honoring two different biblical figures.
It is an established but uncommon classic that has been steadily rising as a dignified alternative to Matthew.
Playful profile, for entertainment.
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