Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin The concept of tithing, or paying tithes, is rooted in the biblical tradition of giving a tenth of one's income or produce to God. The term "tithe" comes from the Old English word "teogotha," meaning "tenth." This practice is first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 14:20, where Abram gives a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High: "Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything" . Old Testament Law The formalization of tithing is found in the Mosaic Law, where the Israelites are commanded to give a tenth of their produce and livestock to support the Levitical priesthood. 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 Levites, who had no inheritance of land, as described in Numbers 18:21: "Behold, I have given the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do, the work of the Tent of Meeting" . Purpose and Use Tithes were used not only to support the Levites but also to provide for the needs of the community, including the poor, widows, and orphans. Deuteronomy 14:28-29 outlines the triennial tithe, which was stored in towns for the Levites and the needy: "At the end of every three years, bring a tenth of all your produce for that year and store it within your gates. Then the Levites, who have no portion or inheritance among you, and the foreigners, the fatherless, and the widows within your gates, may come and eat and be satisfied" . Prophetic Emphasis The prophets emphasized the importance of tithing as a reflection of faithfulness to God. Malachi 3:10 is a well-known passage that challenges the Israelites to bring the full tithe into the storehouse: "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this," says the LORD of Hosts. "See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure" . This passage underscores the connection between obedience in tithing and divine blessing. New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, Jesus affirms the practice of tithing while emphasizing the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. In Matthew 23:23, He criticizes the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing while neglecting more important matters: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your mint, dill, and cumin, but you have neglected the more important matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former" . Christian Practice While the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing, it encourages generous and cheerful giving. 2 Corinthians 9:7 states, "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" . Many Christians view tithing as a guideline for giving, reflecting a heart of gratitude and trust in God's provision. Theological Significance Tithing is seen as an act of worship and obedience, acknowledging God's sovereignty and provision. It serves as a tangible expression of faith and commitment to God's work on earth. By giving a portion of their resources, believers participate in the mission of the church and the care of those in need, aligning their financial priorities with biblical principles. Topical Bible Verses Malachi 3:10Bring you all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in my house, and prove me now herewith, said the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Topicalbible.org 2 Corinthians 9:7 Deuteronomy 14:22-29 Leviticus 27:30 1 Corinthians 16:2 Matthew 23:23 Malachi 3:8 Strong's Hebrew 6237. asar -- to take the tenth of, tithe... of, tithe NASB Word Usage paying (1), receive the tithes (1), receive tithes (1), surely give (1), surely give a tenth (1), surely tithe (1), take a tenth (2). ... /hebrew/6237.htm - 6k Library Whether Men are Bound to Pay Tithes of all Things? Whether Men are Bound to Pay Tithes under a Necessity of Precept? Whether the Clergy Also are Bound to Pay Tithes? Whether it is a Sin to Tempt God? The Man Christ Jesus An Argument Anticipated. Whether Fasting is an Act of Abstinence? Of Removing Tithes. False Civilization The Pharisee and Publican Resources Should a Christian mortgage a home? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian pay into Social Security and/or accept Social Security payments? | GotQuestions.org The Christian and Money ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Paying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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