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H5736 · Hebrew · Old Testament
עָדַף
adaph
Verb
to remain over/be in excess/have abundance

Definition

A verb meaning to remain over, be left as a surplus, or have in excess. It describes what is left over after the basic need is met — the extra, the abundance, the overflow. This concept of surplus and overflow appears in the context of the tabernacle offering, where the people gave more than enough, and in wisdom literature about stewardship.

Usage & Theological Significance

The concept of surplus appears in one of the most remarkable scenes in Scripture: when Moses called the people to bring offerings for the tabernacle, they gave so much that craftsmen reported to Moses that the people were bringing more than enough — he had to restrain them from giving (Exodus 36:5-7). This is the adaph economy: abundance that overflows from grateful hearts. The New Testament echoes this: the early church had no needy persons because those with abundance supplied those with lack. Grace creates a culture of surplus-sharing rather than scarcity-hoarding.

Key Bible Verses

Exodus 26:12 As for the additional length of the tent curtains, the half curtain that is left over shall hang over the back of the tabernacle.
Exodus 36:7 The material they had was more than enough — there was some left over.
2 Corinthians 8:14 At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need.
Luke 9:17 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
Proverbs 11:24 One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

Related Words

External Resources

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