Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
GIFT, The practice of making presents as a token of esteem and respect prevailed very extensively in the East. They were frequently made to secure favor, as in the case of Jacob and Esau, Gen 32:13-15. Kings and princes often made splendid gifts. Gen 45:22-23, and subjects approached their kings with presents. 1 Kgs 4:21; 2 Chr 17:5, etc. To refuse to make presents to a king was a mark of contempt, 1 Sam 10:27. The articles thus bestowed were very various — cattle. Gen 32:13; garments, 2 Kgs 5:23; money, 2 Sam 18:11, etc. See, for a list of presents, 1 Kgs 10:25. " Matt 2:11.
The peculiar offerings under the Law are spoken of as gifts. Deut 16:17; Matt 5:23-24. And it is with singular force that the blessings of the gospel through Jesus Christ are called gifts, inasmuch as they cannot be purchased, and nothing can be given in return for them.