Voluntary
TextsWhat is the meaning of Voluntary in the Bible?
The King James Version translates the Hebrew term nedhabah as 'voluntary offering' in Leviticus 7:16 and Ezekiel 46:12, whereas the Revised Version employs 'freewill offering'. The phrase 'of his own voluntary will' in Leviticus 1:3 is identified as a gloss and omitted in the Revised Version.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding these translation variations clarifies the distinction between mandatory sacrifices and those given by choice, allowing readers to accurately grasp the specific ritual obligations and freedoms described in the biblical text.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Voluntary functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Voluntary in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Voluntary clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Leviticus 7:16Ezekiel 46:12Leviticus 1:3
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Voluntary." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/voluntary/