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H5078 · Hebrew · Old Testament
נֵדֶה
nedeh
Noun
gift, bribe, contribution

Definition

Nedeh (H5078) refers to a gift or payment — with particular emphasis in Ezekiel on the improper 'gifts' given to hired prostitutes as a metaphor for Israel's idolatrous payments to foreign powers (Ezek 16:33-34). Unlike the generous nedavah (freewill offering), nedeh carries a connotation of transactional exchange that corrupts relationship. Ezekiel uses it to expose the absurdity of Israel's spiritual adultery: unlike ordinary harlots who receive payment, Israel paid others to come worship their idols.

Usage & Theological Significance

The contrast between nedeh and the freewill offering (nedavah, H5071) is theologically significant. True worship gives freely and receives freely — grace operating in both directions. But idolatry inverts this: it costs you everything and gives you nothing of lasting value. Jesus contrasted true worship (in spirit and truth, John 4:24) with the transactional religiosity that had corrupted the temple (Mark 11:15-17). The gifts we bring to God should flow from love, not from the manipulation of nedeh.

Key Bible Verses

Ezekiel 16:33 Men give gifts [nedeh] to all prostitutes, but you gave your gifts to all your lovers, bribing them to come to you from every side.
Ezekiel 16:34 So you were different from other women in your whorings. No one solicited you to play the whore, and you gave payment, while no payment was given to you; therefore you were different.
Hosea 2:5 For their mother has played the whore; she who conceived them has acted shamefully.
John 4:24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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