Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Tribute-service in the biblical context refers to the compulsory labor or tax imposed by a ruling authority on a subjugated people. This concept is prevalent throughout the Old Testament, where it often signifies the subjugation of one nation by another and the obligations that arise from such a relationship. Tribute could be in the form of labor, goods, or monetary payments. Old Testament References The concept of tribute-service is first introduced in the context of Israel's history with Egypt. In Exodus 1:11, the Israelites were subjected to harsh labor under Pharaoh: "So they appointed taskmasters over them to oppress them with forced labor, and they built Pithom and Rameses as store cities for Pharaoh." This form of tribute-service was characterized by its oppressive nature and lack of freedom for the Israelites. In the period of the Judges, the Israelites themselves imposed tribute-service on the Canaanites. Judges 1:28 states, "When Israel became strong, they pressed the Canaanites into forced labor but never drove them out completely." Here, tribute-service is depicted as a means of asserting dominance over a conquered people, while also highlighting Israel's failure to fully obey God's command to drive out the inhabitants of the land. During the reign of Solomon, tribute-service took on a more organized form. Solomon conscripted labor for his extensive building projects, including the construction of the Temple. In 1 Kings 5:13-14, it is recorded, "Then King Solomon conscripted a labor force of thirty thousand men from all Israel. He sent them to Lebanon in shifts of ten thousand a month, so that they were one month in Lebanon and two months at home." This passage illustrates how tribute-service was used to achieve national projects, though it also led to discontent among the people, as seen in the subsequent division of the kingdom. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of tribute is more commonly associated with taxation rather than forced labor. The Roman Empire imposed taxes on its subjects, including the Jewish people. In Matthew 22:17-21, the Pharisees and Herodians question Jesus about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus responds, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s." This passage underscores the distinction between earthly obligations and spiritual duties, while also acknowledging the legitimacy of governmental authority. Theological Implications Tribute-service in the Bible often serves as a metaphor for the spiritual bondage of sin and the liberation that comes through God's intervention. The Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage is a foundational narrative that prefigures the ultimate deliverance from sin through Jesus Christ. In this sense, tribute-service can be seen as a symbol of the human condition under sin, from which believers are freed through faith in Christ. Furthermore, the imposition of tribute-service by Israel on other nations reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises. Despite Israel's failures, God's purposes are ultimately accomplished, pointing to the future establishment of His kingdom where true justice and freedom will reign. Conclusion While tribute-service in the Bible often reflects the harsh realities of political and social subjugation, it also serves as a backdrop for understanding God's redemptive work in history. Through the lens of Scripture, believers are reminded of the ultimate freedom found in Christ and the call to live as citizens of His eternal kingdom. Concordance Tribute-service (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 8:8 Thesaurus Tribute-service (1 Occurrence)Tribute-service. Tribute-money, Tribute-service. Tribute-silver . Multi-Version Concordance Tribute-service (1 Occurrence). ... /t/tribute-service.htm - 6k Impose (12 Occurrences) Tribute-money (2 Occurrences) Tribute-silver (1 Occurrence) Resources How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do some churches have a Sunday night/evening service? | GotQuestions.org Is an online church service a valid way to do church? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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