The practice of tithing, or giving a tenth of one's income or produce, is deeply rooted in biblical tradition and is one of the earliest recorded forms of religious offering. The concept of the tithe is first introduced in the Book of Genesis, where Abram (later Abraham) gives a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. Genesis 14:20 states, "Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything." This act of giving a tithe to a priestly figure establishes a precedent for the practice as a means of supporting those who serve in religious capacities.

The tithe is further institutionalized in the Mosaic Law, where it becomes a formal requirement for the Israelites. Leviticus 27:30 commands, "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." This directive underscores the sacred nature of the tithe, designating it as belonging to God and setting it apart for His purposes.

The Book of Numbers provides additional insight into the purpose of the tithe, specifically as a provision for the Levites, who were set apart for service in the tabernacle and later the temple. Numbers 18:21 states, "Behold, I have given the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do, the service of the Tent of Meeting." This allocation of the tithe to the Levites underscores its role in sustaining those who minister before the Lord, as they had no inheritance of land like the other tribes of Israel.

Deuteronomy 14:22-29 expands on the use of the tithe, introducing the concept of a triennial tithe, which was to be stored within the towns and used to support not only the Levites but also the foreigners, orphans, and widows. This provision highlights the tithe's broader social function, ensuring the well-being of the community and the sustenance of those without land or means of support.

The prophetic literature also addresses the issue of tithing, often in the context of calling the people back to faithfulness. Malachi 3:10 famously exhorts, "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, "and see if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure." This passage emphasizes the reciprocal nature of tithing, where faithfulness in giving is met with divine blessing.

In the New Testament, while the explicit command to tithe is not reiterated, the principle of supporting those who minister in spiritual matters is affirmed. 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, indicating that the practice itself is not condemned but should be accompanied by a heart aligned with God's values.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the support of ministers in 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 , drawing a parallel to the Old Testament practice: "Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat of its food, and those who attend to the altar partake in the offerings? In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel." This teaching reinforces the enduring principle that those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service are to be supported by the community of believers.

Throughout the biblical narrative, the tithe emerges as a divinely instituted means of providing for those who minister in God's name, ensuring that they are sustained in their service and that the work of the ministry continues unimpeded.Genesis 14:20
And blessed be the most high God, which has delivered your enemies into your hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Hebrews 7:6
But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Book of Jubilees
... no mention is made of the custom of drawing ... only the first-fruits, but also the second
tithe which was ... with the heavenly origin and hoar antiquity of Jewish ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the book of jubilees.htm

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Tithe: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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