Nadab

Nadab is a masculine personal name appearing in the Old Testament, derived from the Hebrew element nadav meaning "generous" or "noble". The name is borne by two distinct figures in the biblical narrative.

Etymology

The name Nadab originates from the Hebrew root N-D-B, which conveys ideas of voluntariness, generosity, and willingness. The same root appears in other Hebrew names such as Nadav (the modern Israeli form) and in related vocabulary like nedavah ("offering").

Biblical bearers

In Exodus 6:23, Nadab is introduced as the firstborn son of Aaron and Elisheba. Along with his father and brothers, he was consecrated as a priest. However, in Leviticus 10:1-2, Nadab and his brother Abihu offered "unauthorized fire" before the Lord, contrary to his command, and were consumed by flames from heaven — a divine judgment for their transgression. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the sanctity of worship.

The second Nadab is recorded as the second king of the northern Kingdom of Israel, reigning in the 10th century BCE. According to 1 Kings 15:25-28, he was the son of Jeroboam I and continued his father's sinful policies. After a reign of just two years, Nadab was assassinated by Baasha during a military campaign, and his entire family was exterminated, fulfilling a prophecy against the house of Jeroboam.

Usage in sacred scriptures

The name Nadab occurs in the Greek (Septuagint) and Latin (Vulgate) versions of the Old Testament in the same contexts as the Hebrew original. In English Bibles, it consistently appears in translations of the relevant passages (e.g., King James Version, Revised Standard Version).

• Meaning: "Generous" or "noble"
• Origin: Hebrew
• Type: Biblical personal name
• Usage regions: Biblical (Hebrew, Greek, Latin) and subsequently in Christian traditions worldwide