### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nᵉdab**, represented by `{{H5069}}`, conveys the concept of being liberal or acting out of one's own freewill. Its definition includes acting or giving liberally, offering freely, or being minded of one's own freewill. This specific term appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Ezra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5069}}` is central to the decree authorizing the return and restoration of worship in Jerusalem. The word describes the generous attitude of both gentile rulers and the Israelites. The king and his counsellors have "freely offered" silver and gold to the God of Israel [[Ezra 7:15]]. This is mirrored by the "freewill offering" of the people and priests who are "offering willingly" for the house of God [[Ezra 7:16]]. The term also applies to the personal decision of the Israelites, priests, and Levites who "are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem" [[Ezra 7:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of these freewill actions:
* `{{H2987}}` **yᵉbal** (to bring): This word is defined as "to bring; bring, carry." It is used for the action of transporting the silver and gold that the king and his counsellors have "freely offered" [[Ezra 7:15]].
* `{{H3549}}` **kâhên** (priest): Defined as "one officiating, a priest," this term identifies one of the groups, along with the people, that provides a "freewill offering" and is described as "offering willingly" [[Ezra 7:16]].
* `{{H1946}}` **hûwk** (to go): Meaning "to go; causatively, to bring; bring again, come, go (up)," this word describes the journey of those who are "minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem" [[Ezra 7:13]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5069}}` is highlighted in its specific context within Ezra:
* **Willing Contribution:** The word emphasizes that support for God's house is a voluntary act. This is shown through the gifts "freely offered" by the king [[Ezra 7:15]] and the "freewill offering" from the people and priests [[Ezra 7:16]].
* **Personal Volition:** The concept extends beyond material goods to personal commitment. It describes the internal motivation of the people who chose of their "own freewill to go up to Jerusalem," linking the heart's disposition to physical action [[Ezra 7:13]].
* **Unified Purpose:** `{{H5069}}` is applied to the king, his counsellors, the common people, and the priests, showing a unified spirit of willing support for the house of God in Jerusalem [[Ezra 7:15-16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5069}}` is a focused but important term that defines the spirit behind the restoration of worship in Jerusalem. It captures the essence of voluntary and liberal giving, whether in the form of precious metals or personal commitment. The word illustrates how the rebuilding effort was supported by the willing hearts of both gentile leadership and the people of Israel, all acting freely to support the work of God.
TRV