Topical Encyclopedia In the period of Nehemiah, the practice of tithing was a significant aspect of the religious and communal life of the Israelites. Nehemiah, a key figure in the post-exilic restoration of Jerusalem, played a crucial role in re-establishing the observance of the Law, including the giving of tithes, which had been neglected during the Babylonian exile.Historical Context Nehemiah served as the governor of Judah during the Persian period, around the mid-5th century BC. After the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, Nehemiah was instrumental in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and reforming the community's spiritual and social practices. The restoration of tithing was part of a broader covenant renewal that sought to align the people with the Mosaic Law. Biblical References The Book of Nehemiah provides detailed accounts of the reforms instituted by Nehemiah, including the reinstitution of tithes. In Nehemiah 10:37-39 , the people pledged to bring "the firstfruits of our dough, our contributions, the fruit of every tree, and the new wine and oil to the priests at the storerooms of the house of our God, along with a tenth of our land’s produce to the Levites." This passage highlights the commitment to support the Levitical priesthood, which was responsible for the temple services and had no inheritance of land. Nehemiah 12:44 further describes the appointment of men "over the storerooms for the contributions, firstfruits, and tithes," ensuring that the portions required by the Law were collected and distributed properly. This organizational structure was crucial for maintaining the temple services and supporting the Levites and priests. Reforms and Challenges Nehemiah's reforms were not without challenges. Upon his return to Jerusalem after a brief absence, Nehemiah discovered that the tithes were not being properly administered, leading to the neglect of the Levites and the temple services. Nehemiah 13:10-12 records his response: "I also learned that the portions assigned to the Levites had not been given to them, and that all the Levites and singers responsible for the service had gone back to their own fields. So I rebuked the officials and asked, 'Why has the house of God been neglected?' Then I gathered the Levites and singers together and stationed them at their posts. And all Judah brought a tenth of the grain, new wine, and oil into the storerooms." Nehemiah's decisive action underscores the importance of tithing as a means of sustaining the religious life of the community and ensuring that the temple functioned as the center of worship and spiritual renewal. Theological Significance The re-establishment of tithing under Nehemiah reflects a broader theological theme of covenant faithfulness. Tithing was not merely a financial obligation but a tangible expression of the Israelites' commitment to God and His commandments. It served as a reminder of God's provision and the people's dependence on Him. By restoring the practice of tithing, Nehemiah reinforced the community's identity as God's chosen people, dedicated to living according to His statutes. In summary, the practice of tithing under Nehemiah was a critical component of the post-exilic reforms that sought to restore the spiritual and communal life of the Israelites. Through his leadership, Nehemiah ensured that the temple services were maintained and that the people remained faithful to their covenantal obligations. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 13:12Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil to the treasuries. Nave's Topical Index Library How Xerxes the Son of Darius was Well Disposed to the Jews; as ... The Restoration. Malachi Reformation The "Fraternity" of Pharisees The Church of Christ Was Moses "A Literary Fiction"? "The House of Israel" part 1 Palestine Eighteen Centuries Ago 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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