Does the Synodal Translation of 2 Corinthians 9:5 Match the Greek Original?

The Synodal translation of 2 Corinthians 9:5 generally conveys the apostle Paul's thought, but the word "побор" (extortion/tribute) is more of an interpretive rendering than a literal equivalent of the Greek original. Paul contrasts a generous, willing gift with covetousness and a reluctance to share, rather than endorsing fund collection under pressure.

The apostle writes about the offering that the Corinthian Christians had previously promised for the needy believers in Jerusalem. He sends the brothers ahead so that the gift would be prepared in advance. The goal was not to compel the congregation to give more, but rather that their participation would be a manifestation of love, faith, and generosity.

What the Text Specifically Says

In the Synodal translation, the last part of the verse reads: "как благословение, а не как побор" ("as a blessing, and not as an extortion/levy"). The sense of this verse can be rendered as follows: Paul desires that the promised offering be ready as a generous gift-blessing, and not as something reflecting stinginess or covetousness.

“So I thought it necessary to encourage the brothers to visit you first and arrange in advance the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift, not as an extortion.” 2 Cor 9:5

The expression "encourage the brothers" comes from the Greek word parakaleō. It can mean to urge, appeal to, exhort, or encourage. This is an important detail: Paul does not issue a command, nor does he resort to manipulation. He pastorally encourages the church to carry out the good decision it had already made.

"Blessing" and "Covetousness/Levy" in the Greek Original

The first key word is eulogia, meaning "blessing." In this context, it signifies a generous gift, a benevolent offering that brings blessing both to the giver and to the recipient. The offering is not merely a financial transaction: it is meant to be a spiritual ministry of love.

The second word is pleonexia. Its standard meaning is covetousness, greediness, or an insatiable desire to have more. Therefore, "побор" (extortion/forced levy) is not a literal translation. In modern usage, a levy or extortion often implies money extracted under compulsion. However, Paul is primarily warning against the gift being marked by stinginess—that is, looking like a meager or begrudgingly surrendered sum.

At the same time, the Synodal translation conveys the practical nuance of the phrase: when a person clings tightly to their possessions, an offering can feel to them like an unpleasant "exaction." The apostle desires the opposite: that the Corinthians give willingly, in advance, and with large-hearted generosity.

The Context: Relief for the Saints, Not a Church Tax

The ninth chapter of this epistle does not institute a mechanism for compulsory collections, nor does it speak directly about tithing. It concerns voluntary relief for the "saints"—the needy Christians in Jerusalem. The Corinthians had already expressed readiness to participate in this cause, and Paul desires that the promise be fulfilled orderly and without embarrassment upon his arrival.

“This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.” 2 Cor 9:12

Thus, Christian generosity carries both a social and a missional dimension. It alleviates people's needs and leads them to give thanks to God. A material gift offered in faith becomes a testimony to the reality of the Gospel.

The Principle of Voluntariness in Giving

Another verse in this chapter explicitly explains what the believer's attitude toward giving ought to be. God looks not merely at the amount, but at the motive of the heart. A gift presented out of shame, fear, or external compulsion does not align with the spirit of the apostolic teaching.

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Cor 9:7

This does not mean that a Christian should give only when experiencing an emotional high. Paul speaks of a deliberate decision: "what you have decided in your heart." Generosity requires prayer, planning, responsibility, and trust in God. But it must never spring from coercion.

Ellen White repeatedly emphasized that offerings for God's cause must be a voluntary response to God's love. She warned against methods that pressure the conscience, while at the same time urging believers not to be indifferent to the needs of the church, the mission, and the poor. Biblical generosity unites freedom of heart with faithfulness in stewarding God's gifts.

Conclusion and Practical Application

Thus, the Synodal translation of 2 Corinthians 9:5 is not incorrect, but the word "побор" somewhat narrows the meaning of the Greek pleonexia. It is more accurate to speak of covetousness, stinginess, or a grudging spirit. Paul's main point is clear: the offering must be a blessing, not a painful concession wrung out of a person.

Practically speaking: plan your offerings ahead of time, pray for wisdom in managing your finances, support God's cause and those in need. Give not for human praise or out of pressure, but as a grateful response to God for His grace.