The Hebrew verb nadab means to incite to give voluntarily, to offer willingly, or to volunteer freely. The related noun nedabah (H5071) means a freewill offering. Nadab describes the generous impulse of the heart that moves someone to give or serve without compulsion — the opposite of grudging obligation.
The theology of nadab is joyful generosity. In Exodus 25:2 and 35:21–29, God calls Israel to bring offerings from everyone whose heart moves them willingly — the tabernacle was built on nadab giving. The same spirit animated David's preparations for the Temple (1 Chronicles 29:5–17) and the post-exilic reconstruction (Ezra 1:6; 3:5). Nadab generosity flows from gratitude, not guilt. The New Testament echoes this: 'God loves a cheerful giver' (2 Corinthians 9:7). The willing, free heart is the hallmark of covenant relationship.