Topical Bible: Tithe: The Pious Governors of Israel Caused the Payment of

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The concept of tithing, or giving a tenth of one's income or produce, is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition and is seen as an act of obedience and worship to God. Throughout the history of Israel, various leaders and governors emphasized the importance of tithing as a means to support the Levitical priesthood, the temple, and the community at large.

Biblical Foundation of Tithing

The practice of tithing is first mentioned in the context of Abraham, who gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High (Genesis 14:18-20). This act set a precedent for the Israelites, who were later commanded to tithe as part of the Mosaic Law. 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 Role of Pious Governors

Throughout Israel's history, several pious governors and leaders played a crucial role in ensuring the observance of tithing. These leaders recognized the tithe as essential for maintaining the religious and social order of the nation.

1. Hezekiah's Reforms: King Hezekiah, known for his religious reforms, reinstituted the practice of tithing during his reign. In 2 Chronicles 31:4-5 , it is recorded, "Moreover, he commanded the people living in Jerusalem to give the portion due to the priests and Levites, so that they could devote themselves to the Law of the LORD. As soon as the command was issued, the people of Israel gave in abundance the firstfruits of grain, new wine, oil, honey, and all the produce of the field. And they brought in an abundance—a tithe of everything."

2. Nehemiah's Leadership: Nehemiah, a governor during the post-exilic period, also emphasized the importance of tithing. Upon his return to Jerusalem, he discovered that the Levites had not been receiving their due portions, which led them to abandon their duties. Nehemiah 13:10-12 recounts, "I also learned that because the portions for the Levites had not been given, each of the Levites and singers responsible for the service had gone back to his own field. So I rebuked the officials and asked, 'Why has the house of God been neglected?' Then I gathered the Levites and singers together and stationed them at their posts. And all Judah brought a tenth of the grain, new wine, and oil into the storerooms."

Theological Significance

The enforcement of tithing by these pious governors underscores its theological significance. Tithing was not merely a financial obligation but a spiritual discipline that reflected the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. It was a tangible expression of gratitude, trust, and dependence on God's provision. By ensuring the payment of tithes, these leaders helped to sustain the worship and service of the temple, thereby fostering a community centered on God's law and presence.

Conclusion

The pious governors of Israel, through their leadership and reforms, reinforced the practice of tithing as a vital component of Israel's religious life. Their actions ensured that the spiritual and material needs of the community were met, allowing the people to live in accordance with God's commandments and to experience His blessings.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 31:5
And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the first fruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Nehemiah 13:11,12
Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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