### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Nâdâb**, represented by `{{H5070}}`, means **liberal** and is the name of four Israelites mentioned in scripture. It appears **20 times** across **20 unique verses**. While the name appears in different genealogies, it is most prominently associated with two key figures: the firstborn son of Aaron the priest, and a king of Israel who was the son of Jeroboam.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5070}}` is central to one of the most sobering accounts in the Pentateuch. Nadab, as the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` son of Aaron, was consecrated to **minister... in the priest's office** `{{H3547}}` ([[Numbers 3:2]], [[Exodus 28:1]]). He was privileged to ascend the mountain with Moses and the elders of Israel [[Exodus 24:9]]. However, he and his brother Abihu offered **strange** `{{H2114}}` **fire** `{{H784}}` before the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, an act which God had not commanded [[Leviticus 10:1]]. Consequently, they both **died** `{{H4191}}` before the LORD [[Numbers 26:61]]. Another Nadab, the son of King Jeroboam, reigned over Israel for two years before he was assassinated by Baasha while besieging Gibbethon ([[1 Kings 15:25]], [[1 Kings 15:27]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are crucial for understanding the context of Nadab, son of Aaron:
* `{{H175}}` **ʼAhărôwn** (Aharon, the brother of Moses): Nadab's identity is defined by his father, **Aaron**. He was one of Aaron's **sons** `{{H1121}}` chosen for the priesthood [[Exodus 28:1]] and died before his **father** `{{H1}}` [[1 Chronicles 24:2]].
* `{{H30}}` **ʼĂbîyhûwʼ** (father (i.e. worshipper) of Him (i.e. God); Abihu, a son of Aaron): **Abihu** is Nadab's inseparable partner in both calling and transgression. They are named together when called to serve [[Exodus 6:23]], when they sinned [[Leviticus 10:1]], and when their deaths are recorded [[Numbers 3:4]].
* `{{H2114}}` **zûwr** (to turn aside... strange, profane): This word defines the core of their sin. They offered **strange** fire, a profane and unauthorized form of worship that was a departure from God's commands [[Leviticus 10:1]].
* `{{H4191}}` **mûwth** (to die... kill): This term marks the immediate and severe divine judgment for their act of disobedience. Scripture repeatedly states that Nadab and Abihu **died** `{{H4191}}` before the LORD ([[Numbers 3:4]], [[Numbers 26:61]]).
* `{{H3547}}` **kâhan** (to officiate as a priest): This describes the sacred office Nadab was given. Because he died without children, his brothers Eleazar and Ithamar **executed the priest's office** `{{H3547}}`, ensuring the continuation of the Aaronic line [[1 Chronicles 24:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5070}}`, particularly through the story of Aaron's son, is significant.
* **The Holiness of God:** The account demonstrates the absolute holiness of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` and the necessity of approaching Him on His terms. Offering **strange** `{{H2114}}` **fire** `{{H784}}` was a violation of this holiness, resulting in immediate judgment [[Leviticus 10:1]].
* **Obedience over Initiative:** Nadab's story is a stark warning against unauthorized and self-willed worship. His action, though seemingly zealous, was disobedient because it was something the LORD "commanded them not" [[Leviticus 10:1]], highlighting that obedience is paramount.
* **Responsibility of Leadership:** As the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` son of the high priest, Nadab was in a position of immense spiritual privilege and responsibility [[Numbers 3:2]]. His fall underscores the principle that greater privilege brings greater accountability.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5070}}` is more than just a name in a king list or genealogy. The person of Nadab, son of Aaron, serves as a powerful and permanent biblical lesson on the nature of true worship. His story illustrates the grave consequences of profaning the sacred and reminds believers in every generation that God is to be worshiped not according to human invention but according to His divine command.
TRV