feminine of נָדִיב; properly, nobility, i.e. reputation; soul.
Transliteration:nᵉdîybâh
Pronunciation:ned-ee-baw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word נְדִיבָה (nᵉdîybâh, `{{H5082}}`) is a rare term, appearing only once in the Masoretic Text. It is the feminine form of the more common adjective נָדִיב (nādîyb, `{{H5081}}`), which derives from the verbal root נָדַב (nādab, `{{H5068}}`), meaning "to volunteer," "to offer willingly," or "to be generous." Consequently, nᵉdîybâh carries the core semantic range of its masculine counterpart, encompassing notions of nobility, willingness, generosity, and a princely or magnanimous disposition. The Strong's definition suggests "nobility, i.e. reputation; soul," but its sole biblical occurrence clarifies its primary nuance as describing a quality of spirit rather than a standalone noun for "soul" or "reputation" directly. Its essential meaning is a spirit characterized by freedom, generosity, and a noble inclination.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of נְדִיבָה (nᵉdîybâh, `{{H5082}}`) is found in [[Psalm 51:12]] (which is [[Psalm 51:14]] in some English translations due to verse numbering differences):
"Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit." (ESV)
The Hebrew text reads: "וְרוּחַ נְדִיבָה תִסְמְכֵנִי" (wᵉrûaḥ nᵉdîybâh tismᵉkhenî), which translates literally as "and a spirit of nobility/willingness uphold me." This verse is part of David's profound prayer of repentance after his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah. In this context, נְדִיבָה modifies the noun רוּחַ (ruakh, `{{H7307}}`), meaning "spirit." David is not merely asking for any spirit, but specifically for a "spirit of nobility" or a "willing spirit." This contrasts sharply with a spirit that is rebellious, stubborn, or begrudging in its obedience to God. The desired spirit is one that freely, generously, and nobly aligns itself with God's will and commandments, demonstrating an inner disposition of willing submission and devotion. It is a spirit that is not forced into obedience but chooses it out of a deep-seated, noble impulse.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical connection for נְדִיבָה (nᵉdîybâh, `{{H5082}}`) is its masculine counterpart, נָדִיב (nādîyb, `{{H5081}}`). This word appears more frequently and consistently denotes nobility, generosity, and willingness, often in the context of leaders or those with a princely disposition (e.g., [[Psalm 113:8]], [[Proverbs 17:26]]). The verbal root נָדַב (nādab, `{{H5068}}`) further illuminates the semantic field, emphasizing the concept of volunteering or offering freely and generously, as seen in the context of freewill offerings (e.g., [[Exodus 35:29]]). Other related terms include נְדָבָה (nᵉdābâh, `{{H5087}}`), a "freewill offering," which embodies the very essence of a willing, uncoerced gift.
Conceptually, נְדִיבָה relates to:
* **Repentance and Restoration:** The context of [[Psalm 51]] highlights the need for a transformed heart and spirit as integral to true repentance and divine restoration.
* **Divine Grace:** The request for such a spirit implies it is a gift from God, not something one can conjure up independently, especially after profound moral failure.
* **Obedience and Will:** It speaks to the quality of human will in relation to divine commands – a spirit that is not merely compliant but willingly and generously obedient.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of נְדִיבָה (nᵉdîybâh, `{{H5082}}`) in [[Psalm 51:12]] is profound. David's prayer for a "willing spirit" (רוּחַ נְדִיבָה) goes beyond a mere desire for forgiveness; it expresses a longing for an inner transformation that enables genuine, uncoerced obedience. This is not a spirit of legalistic adherence, but one characterized by a noble, generous, and free disposition towards God's will. It acknowledges that true walking with God stems from an inner desire and alignment, rather than external compulsion.
This concept foreshadows the New Covenant promise where God puts His Spirit within His people, enabling them to walk in His statutes and keep His rules (e.g., [[Ezekiel 36:26-27]]). The "willing spirit" desired by David is, in essence, a spirit aligned with God's own character – generous, free, and purposeful. It underscores the biblical truth that a renewed heart is foundational to a renewed life of devotion and service to God. It is a spirit that delights in God's law and embraces His purposes with a noble and unreserved commitment.
### Summary
The Hebrew word נְדִיבָה (nᵉdîybâh, `{{H5082}}`) is a unique and significant term, appearing only once in [[Psalm 51:12]]. As the feminine form of נָדִיב (nādîyb, `{{H5081}}`), it carries the core meaning of nobility, willingness, and generosity. In its sole biblical context, it modifies רוּחַ (ruakh, `{{H7307}}`), describing a "noble spirit" or "willing spirit" that David implores God to uphold him with. This "willing spirit" signifies an inner disposition characterized by free, uncoerced, and generous obedience to God's will, standing in stark contrast to a rebellious or grudging heart. It highlights the depth of true repentance and the divine restoration of a heart that freely aligns with God's purposes, serving as a powerful theological statement on the nature of genuine faith and devotion.
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