### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâdân**, represented by `{{H5083}}`, means a **present (for prostitution)** or **gift**. It is an exceptionally rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, yet it carries significant weight in its sole context. The word is derived from a root meaning "to give."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H5083}}` is in [[Ezekiel 16:33]]. In this passage, God uses a powerful metaphor to condemn Israel's spiritual infidelity. He contrasts the typical practice of prostitutes receiving payment with Israel's unique sin. While others "give gifts to all whores," Israel is accused of doing the opposite: "but thou givest thy **gifts** to all thy lovers." This startling reversal highlights the depth of Israel's desire to commit spiritual "whoredom" `{{H8457}}`, actively paying for the privilege of being unfaithful to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding passage illuminate the meaning of `{{H5083}}`:
* `{{H5078}}` **nêdeh** (gifts): This word, meaning "a bounty (for prostitution)," is used in the same verse to describe the payment a normal prostitute receives. Its use in direct contrast with `{{H5083}}` emphasizes the perversity of Israel's actions [[Ezekiel 16:33]].
* `{{H2181}}` **zânâh** (to commit adultery): The root of the chapter's allegory, this word describes Israel's act of figurative idolatry. The nation has "played the harlot" with many lovers, forsaking God [[Jeremiah 3:1]].
* `{{H157}}` **ʼâhab** (to have affection for): This word identifies the recipients of Israel's misguided "gifts" as her "lovers." This points to the foreign nations and false gods Israel pursued instead of loving God as commanded [[Deuteronomy 6:5]].
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give): This is the action word used for both the giving of gifts to whores and Israel's giving of its own gifts. The contrast shows how the act of giving has been corrupted by Israel [[Ezekiel 16:33]].
* `{{H7809}}` **shâchad** (to donate, i.e. bribe): The verse states that Israel "hirest" its lovers, reinforcing that `{{H5083}}` is a payment made to solicit sin, not a gift received from it [[Ezekiel 16:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5083}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful usage.
* **Perversion of Divine Gifts:** The word illustrates a profound spiritual corruption. Rather than receiving good things from God, who promises to "give you an expected end" [[Jeremiah 29:11]], Israel uses its resources as a **gift** to pursue idolatry.
* **The Cost of Idolatry:** `{{H5083}}` shows that spiritual adultery is not a passive falling away but an active, costly endeavor. Israel is portrayed as paying a price and hiring lovers "on every side" `{{H5439}}` in its rebellion against its covenant with God [[Ezekiel 16:33]].
* **Unique Depravity:** The use of this specific term highlights the uniqueness of Israel's sin. It is not just common "whoredom" `{{H8457}}`, but a self-funded campaign of unfaithfulness that is unparalleled and unnatural in its structure.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, **nâdân** `{{H5083}}` serves as a critical theological marker. It defines a "gift" not as something received, but as a payment made to solicit sin. Its use in [[Ezekiel 16:33]] powerfully illustrates the depth of Israel's spiritual rebellion, portraying the nation as so eager for idolatry that it inverts the natural order and pays dearly for its own unfaithfulness.
TRV