Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, tithes refer to the practice of giving one-tenth of one's income or produce as an offering to God. This practice is deeply rooted in the Old Testament and serves as a means of supporting the Levitical priesthood and the work of the Tabernacle, and later, the Temple. The concept of a "tithe of tithes" specifically pertains to the portion of the tithes that the Levites were required to give to the priests.Biblical Foundation The primary scriptural basis for the tithe of tithes is found in the Book of Numbers. God commands the Levites, who receive the tithes from the Israelites, to offer a tenth of these tithes to the priests. Numbers 18:26 states: "Speak to the Levites and tell them: ‘When you receive from the Israelites the tithe I have given you as your inheritance, you must present a tenth of that tithe as the LORD’s offering." This command underscores the principle that even those who serve in the temple and benefit from the tithes are not exempt from giving. The Levites, who were responsible for the service of the Tabernacle, were to acknowledge God's provision by offering a portion of what they received to the priests, who were Aaron's descendants and held the highest religious office. Purpose and Significance The tithe of tithes served several purposes within the Israelite community. Firstly, it provided for the sustenance of the priests, who had no inheritance of land among the tribes of Israel. As Numbers 18:20 indicates, the LORD said to Aaron, "You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any portion among them; I am your portion and your inheritance among the Israelites." Secondly, this practice reinforced the principle of stewardship and gratitude. By requiring the Levites to give a portion of their received tithes, it emphasized that all provisions ultimately come from God and should be used to honor Him and support His work. Implementation and Practice The tithe of tithes was a practical expression of the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. It was a tangible way to support the religious leaders who facilitated worship and maintained the spiritual life of the nation. The Levites, in turn, were reminded of their dependence on God and their role as intermediaries between the people and the priests. In Nehemiah 10:38 , the practice is reaffirmed during the post-exilic period: "A priest of Aaron’s line shall accompany the Levites when they collect the tithes, and the Levites are to bring a tenth of the tithes up to the house of our God, to the storerooms of the treasury." Theological Implications The tithe of tithes highlights the broader biblical theme of giving back to God from what He has provided. It reflects the understanding that all blessings come from God and that His people are called to be faithful stewards of these blessings. This practice also illustrates the interconnectedness of the community of faith, where each group supports the other in fulfilling God's purposes. In summary, the tithe of tithes for the priests is a significant aspect of the biblical tithe system, emphasizing the principles of provision, stewardship, and communal responsibility within the covenant community of Israel. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 18:26Thus speak to the Levites, and say to them, When you take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then you shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 10:38 Library Whether Men are Bound to Pay Tithes under a Necessity of Precept? In the Spiritual Israel the High-Priests are those who Devote ... part 1 Hebrews vii. 3-Jan A Liberal Church The Secular Clergy What Happened to the Hebrews During Thirty-Eight Years in the ... Reformation Certain Prayers and Laws. Woes on the Pharisees Resources What does it mean to rob God (Malachi 3:8)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about Christian tithing? Should a Christian tithe? | GotQuestions.org Why do I face the consequences of Adam's sin when I did not eat the fruit? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Tithes: A Tithe of Tithes for the Priests Tithes: Customary in Later Times Tithes: Jacob Vows a Tenth of all his Property to God Tithes: Mosaic Laws Instituting Tithes: Paid by Abraham to Melchizedek Tithes: Payment of, Resumed in Hezekiah's Reign Related Terms Contributions (19 Occurrences) Heave-offerings (13 Occurrences) Treasure-house (6 Occurrences) |
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