Learn more about Tithe

Introduction to Tithe

The word “tithe” originates from the Old English word teogotha, meaning “tenth.” In the biblical context, a tithe refers specifically to the practice of giving one-tenth of one’s income or produce as an offering to God. This principle was an essential aspect of the religious and communal life of ancient Israel and has continued to hold significance in many Christian traditions as a model for stewardship and generosity.

Tithe Pronunciation

“Tithe” is pronounced as tahyth, rhyming with “scythe.”

Tithe in the Bible

The practice of tithing appears extensively throughout both the Old and New Testaments, with its foundations rooted in the Mosaic Law and continued relevance in the teachings of Jesus and the early Church. Below are key biblical references and their contexts:

• Genesis 14:18-20: The first mention of a tithe occurs when Abram gives a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. This act is considered voluntary and worshipful, acknowledging God’s provision.
• Genesis 28:20-22: Jacob vows to give a tenth to God if God protects and blesses him, highlighting a personal act of devotion and covenant.
• Leviticus 27:30-32: This passage formally establishes the tithe in the Mosaic Law, declaring that a tenth of all produce and livestock belongs to the Lord and is “holy to the Lord.”
• Numbers 18:21-26: The Levites, who had no land inheritance, were supported through the tithes of the other tribes. A portion of their tithe was further offered to the priests.
• Deuteronomy 12:5-19; 14:22-29; 26:12-15: These passages outline various aspects of tithing, including the festival tithe (for communal feasting) and the poor tithe (every third year to support Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows).
• Malachi 3:8-10: A strong prophetic rebuke for withholding tithes, with a call to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse” and a promise of overflowing blessings for obedience.
• Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42: Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing of herbs while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness, affirming that the former should not replace the latter.
• Hebrews 7:1-10: The writer uses the story of Melchizedek and Abraham’s tithe to discuss Christ’s superior priesthood, drawing theological implications from the act of tithing.

Related Themes and Meanings to Tithe

The tithe touches on several broader biblical themes:

• Stewardship: Tithing emphasizes that all possessions ultimately belong to God, and humans are stewards entrusted to manage them faithfully.
• Worship: Giving a tithe is seen as an act of worship and gratitude, acknowledging God's provision and lordship.
• Social Justice: The poor tithe and support for Levites show a communal concern for equity and care for the vulnerable.
• Faith and Trust: Tithing requires trust in God’s continued provision, even when resources are limited.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Tithe

• The ancient Israelites were likely required to give more than one tithe, totaling closer to 20-23% annually when including the poor and festival tithes.
• The term “storehouse” in Malachi 3:10 refers to rooms in the temple complex where grain and other offerings were kept for distribution.
• Early Christian writings beyond the Bible, such as the Didache, reflect continued concern for supporting ministers and the poor, though the formal tithe was not universally imposed.
• In medieval Europe, tithing was codified into law, with people required to give a tenth of their produce or income to the Church, a practice that persisted into the modern era in some countries.

Tithe in Christian Practice Today

While the New Testament does not command tithing as law for believers, it promotes generous and cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Many Christian denominations encourage tithing as a model, often as a voluntary guideline rather than a strict obligation. The spirit of giving in the New Testament emphasizes willingness, proportionality, and care for others over rigid percentages.