Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of tribute refers to a form of taxation or compulsory payment imposed by a ruler upon his subjects. This practice is evident throughout the Scriptures, where kings and governing authorities exact tribute to support their reign, maintain their courts, and fund public works or military endeavors. The imposition of tribute is often seen as a demonstration of authority and power, reflecting the hierarchical structure of ancient societies.Old Testament Context The Old Testament provides several instances where tribute is exacted by kings from their own subjects. One notable example is found in the reign of King Solomon. Solomon, known for his wisdom and extensive building projects, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, imposed heavy taxes on the Israelites to fund these endeavors. In 1 Kings 4:7, it is recorded, "Solomon had twelve governors over all Israel, who provided food for the king and his household. Each one made provision for one month of the year." This system of provision can be seen as a form of tribute, where the subjects were required to support the king's household and projects. Another example is found during the reign of King Rehoboam, Solomon's son. When Rehoboam ascended to the throne, the Israelites approached him, requesting relief from the heavy yoke of labor and tribute imposed by his father. In 1 Kings 12:4, they pleaded, "Your father made our yoke heavy. Now, therefore, lighten the harsh labor and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you." Rehoboam's refusal to ease the burden led to the division of the kingdom, illustrating the potential consequences of excessive tribute demands. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of tribute continues to be relevant, particularly in the context of Roman rule over Judea. The Roman Empire imposed various taxes on its subjects, including the Jews, which were often resented. In Matthew 22:17-21, the Pharisees and Herodians attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. They ask, "Tell us, then, what is Your opinion? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?" Jesus responds by asking for a denarius and inquiring whose image is on the coin. When they answer, "Caesar's," He replies, "So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." This passage highlights the recognition of earthly authorities and their right to exact tribute, while also affirming the higher obligation to God. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the practice of exacting tribute by kings from their subjects underscores the biblical principle of submission to governing authorities. Romans 13:1-7 emphasizes this, stating, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established." The passage further instructs believers to pay taxes, as authorities are considered God's servants who give their full time to governing. However, the Bible also warns against the abuse of power and the imposition of unjust burdens on the people. The prophets frequently condemned the exploitation and oppression of the poor by those in authority. In Micah 3:1-3, the prophet rebukes the leaders of Israel for their unjust practices, illustrating God's concern for justice and righteousness in governance. In summary, the concept of tribute in the Bible reflects the broader themes of authority, responsibility, and justice. While rulers have the right to exact tribute, they are also called to govern with fairness and compassion, recognizing their ultimate accountability to God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 8:10-17And Samuel told all the words of the LORD to the people that asked of him a king. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Papal Power in the Church Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Political Constitution of Egypt The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Footnotes The Iranian Conquest The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources When and how was Judah conquered by the Babylonians? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Nebuchadnezzar? | GotQuestions.org How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.org Tribute: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Tribute (Taxes) by the Arabians: To Jehoshaphat Tribute (Taxes) by the Arabians: To Solomon Tribute (Taxes): from Conquered Nations Tribute: All Saints Exhorted to Pay Tribute: Christ to Avoid Offense Wrought a Miracle to Pay for Himself Tribute: Exacted from all Conquered Nations Tribute: Kings of Israel: Forbidden to Levy Unnecessary or Oppressive Tribute: Kings of Israel: Often Oppressed the People With Tribute: Kings of Israel: Set officers Over Tribute: Often Exacted in Gold and Silver Tribute: Often Exacted in Labour Tribute: Often Exacted in Produce of Land Tribute: Priests and Levites Exempted From Tribute: Roman was Paid in Roman Coin Tribute: Roman was Resisted by the Galilaeans Under Judas of Galilee Tribute: Roman: Christ Showed to the Pharisees and Herodians the Propriety Tribute: Roman: Collected by the Publicans Tribute: Roman: Decree of Augustus For Tribute: Roman: First Levied in Judea when Cyrenius Was Governor Tribute: Roman: Our Lord Falsely Accused of Forbidding to Pay Tribute: Roman: Persons Enroled For, in the Native Place of Their Tribe Tribute: Sometimes Exacted by Kings from Their own Subjects Tribute: The Jews Required to Pay Half a Shekel to God As Tribute: when Oppressive Frequently Led to Rebellion Related Terms Tribute-service (1 Occurrence) Tiglathpileser (3 Occurrences) |
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