Topical Bible: Tithe: Consisted of a Tenth of all Cattle

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Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of the tithe, particularly as it pertains to cattle, is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition and is a significant aspect of the economic and spiritual life of ancient Israel. The tithe, which means "a tenth," was a portion of one's produce or livestock that was set apart as an offering to God. This practice is grounded in the belief that everything belongs to God, and the tithe is a recognition of His provision and sovereignty.

Biblical Foundation

The requirement to tithe a tenth of all cattle is explicitly mentioned in the Mosaic Law. Leviticus 27:32 states, "Every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd’s rod will be holy to the LORD." This passage underscores the principle that every tenth animal from the herd or flock was to be consecrated to God. The process of passing under the shepherd's rod was a method of counting and selecting the animals for the tithe, ensuring that the selection was impartial and systematic.

Purpose and Use

The tithe served multiple purposes within the community of Israel. Primarily, it was an act of worship and obedience, acknowledging God's provision and lordship. Additionally, the tithe supported the Levitical priesthood, who had no inheritance of land and relied on the tithes for their sustenance. 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 work of the Tent of Meeting."

Furthermore, the tithe was used to support the broader community, including the poor, the widow, and the orphan, as outlined in Deuteronomy 14:28-29. This aspect of the tithe reflects the social justice component of the law, ensuring that the needs of the vulnerable were met.

Spiritual Significance

The practice of tithing a tenth of all cattle was not merely a legalistic requirement but held deep spiritual significance. It was a tangible expression of faith and trust in God's provision. By giving the first and best portion to God, the Israelites demonstrated their reliance on Him for their future needs. Malachi 3:10 captures this promise of provision: "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, 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."

Historical Context

In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, livestock was a primary measure of wealth and economic stability. Thus, tithing a tenth of one's cattle was a significant act of devotion and sacrifice. The tithe was not limited to cattle alone but extended to all produce, reflecting the comprehensive nature of God's claim over all aspects of life.

New Testament Perspective

While the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing in the same manner as the Old Testament, the principle of giving remains a vital aspect of Christian life. Jesus affirmed the practice of tithing in Matthew 23:23, while also emphasizing the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. The early church continued the tradition of generous giving, as seen in Acts 4:32-35, where believers shared their possessions to meet the needs of the community.

In summary, the tithe of a tenth of all cattle was a foundational practice in ancient Israel, serving as an expression of worship, a means of supporting religious and social structures, and a demonstration of trust in God's provision.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 27:32
And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatever passes under the rod, the tenth shall be holy to the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Book of Jubilees
... the creation to the entrance into Canaan consisted of fifty ... first-fruits, but also
the second tithe which was ... in the earth; and God permitted one-tenth of them ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the book of jubilees.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... They consisted also of short sentences, by which ... his servants for their labour: cattle,
cereals, fermented ... stuffs, common or precious metals,""all that the ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
... been the first to tender him allegiance for many years, took precedence of all the
rest ... it was in this temple that they dedicated to the god the tenth of the ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... the chase and by the rearing of cattle; but the ... the people of Yamutbal and of
Yatbur^^"all independent of ... These deities received a tenth of the spoil after ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... devoted themselves to the pasturing and rearing of cattle, and, during ... family of
Levi, but was recruited from all the tribes; it levied a tithe on the ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... and cursed at that most fearful rate that it made her tremble to hear him,' 'that
he was the ungodliest fellow for swearing that ever she heard in all her life ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm