Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Biblical Context: The term "one-tenth" is commonly associated with the concept of the tithe in the Bible. The tithe, derived from the Hebrew word "ma'aser," literally means "a tenth part." It is a portion, specifically one-tenth, of one's income or produce that is set apart as an offering to God. This practice is deeply rooted in the Old Testament and serves as an expression of gratitude, obedience, and acknowledgment of God's provision. Old Testament References: The principle of giving one-tenth is first introduced in Genesis 14:20, where Abram gives Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High, "a tenth of everything." This act of giving a tenth is seen as a voluntary expression of worship and recognition of God's sovereignty. In the Mosaic Law, the tithe becomes a formal requirement for the Israelites. Leviticus 27:30 states, "Thus any tithe of the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD." The tithe was intended to support the Levitical priesthood, as the Levites had no inheritance of land among the Israelites (Numbers 18:21-24). Deuteronomy 14:22-23 further elaborates on the purpose of the tithe, instructing the Israelites to set aside a tenth of their produce each year to learn to fear the LORD their God always. This practice was not only a means of provision for the religious leaders but also a way to cultivate a heart of reverence and dependence on God. New Testament Perspective: While the New Testament does not explicitly command Christians to tithe, the principle of giving remains significant. Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing in Matthew 23:23, where He criticizes the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He states, "You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." The New Testament emphasizes the spirit of generosity and cheerful giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." This reflects a shift from a legalistic obligation to a heartfelt response to God's grace. Theological Significance: The concept of one-tenth as a tithe underscores the biblical principle of stewardship. It acknowledges that everything belongs to God and that humans are merely caretakers of His creation. By setting aside a portion of their resources, believers demonstrate trust in God's provision and prioritize His kingdom over personal gain. The tithe also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the believer's dependence on Him. It is an act of worship that aligns the heart with God's purposes and fosters a spirit of generosity and community support. Practical Application: In contemporary Christian practice, the principle of tithing continues to be a topic of discussion. Many believers view it as a guideline for giving, while others see it as a starting point for greater generosity. Regardless of the specific approach, the underlying principle remains: giving is an integral part of the Christian life, reflecting a heart transformed by the gospel and committed to advancing God's kingdom on earth. Greek 787. assarion -- an assarion, a farthing (one tenth of a drachma) ... an assarion, a farthing (one tenth of a drachma). Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter Transliteration: assarion Phonetic Spelling: (as-sar'-ee-on) Short Definition: a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/787.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 259. echad -- one... can him who (1), one the other (1), one to another (1), one will to another (1), one another (4), one thing (2), one thing to another (1), one-tenth (1), one ... /hebrew/259.htm - 7k 6224. asiri -- tenth 6241. issaron -- tenth part Library Concerning the Festivals; and How Each Day of Such Festival is to ... part 2 part 1 Concerning "Perfect" and "One. " Foreword The Manner of Our Offering Sacrifices. How Moses was Displeased at This, and Foretold that God was Angry ... Whether Men are Bound to Pay Tithes under a Necessity of Precept? The Lawful and Unlawful Use of Law. Introduction Thesaurus One-tenth (9 Occurrences)One-tenth. Onesiph'orus, One-tenth. One-third . Multi-Version Concordance One-tenth (9 Occurrences). Exodus 29:40 And ... /o/one-tenth.htm - 8k Tenth-part (6 Occurrences) Tenth (89 Occurrences) Deal (170 Occurrences) Onesiph'orus (2 Occurrences) One-third (3 Occurrences) Omer (5 Occurrences) Legion (3 Occurrences) Log (12 Occurrences) Guilt-offering (34 Occurrences) Resources Is there any conclusive proof of God? | GotQuestions.orgHow did the Israelites deny themselves in Leviticus 23:27? | GotQuestions.org How do the elements of the Passover Seder point to Christ? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance One-tenth (9 Occurrences)Exodus 29:40 Leviticus 14:21 Numbers 5:15 Numbers 15:4 Numbers 28:21 Numbers 28:29 Numbers 29:4 Numbers 29:10 Numbers 29:15 Subtopics Related Terms |