Leviticus 27:30

Thus any tithe from 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.

Study Bible

Thus any tithe of the land
The word "tithe" comes from the Hebrew word "ma'aser," which means a tenth part. In ancient Israel, the tithe was a divine ordinance, a portion of the produce of the land set aside for sacred purposes. The land itself was seen as a gift from God, and the tithe was a recognition of His provision and sovereignty. This practice was not merely a ritual but a profound acknowledgment of God's ownership over all creation. The tithe served as a reminder that everything the Israelites had was due to God's blessing.

whether from the grain of the soil
The "grain of the soil" refers to the staple crops that were essential for sustenance in ancient agrarian societies. Grain, such as wheat and barley, was a primary food source and a symbol of God's provision. The Hebrew word for grain, "dagan," signifies abundance and sustenance. By tithing the grain, the Israelites expressed their gratitude for God's provision and their dependence on Him for their daily bread. This act of giving back a portion of the harvest was a tangible expression of faith and trust in God's continued provision.

or the fruit of the trees
The "fruit of the trees" includes the produce from orchards, such as olives, figs, and dates, which were vital to the diet and economy of ancient Israel. The Hebrew word "peri" for fruit signifies not only physical nourishment but also spiritual fruitfulness. In offering the first fruits, the Israelites acknowledged God's blessing and their role as stewards of His creation. This practice underscored the principle that all good things come from God and that His people are called to honor Him with the first and best of what they receive.

belongs to the LORD
The phrase "belongs to the LORD" emphasizes the concept of divine ownership. The Hebrew word "kodesh" is often translated as "holy" or "set apart." This indicates that the tithe was not merely a charitable contribution but a sacred obligation. By declaring that the tithe belongs to the LORD, the scripture reinforces the idea that God is the ultimate owner of all things. The act of tithing was a declaration of faith, acknowledging God's authority and expressing devotion to Him.

it is holy to the LORD
The term "holy" signifies something that is set apart for a sacred purpose. In Hebrew, "kodesh" conveys the idea of separation from the ordinary for divine use. The tithe was considered holy because it was dedicated to God and His service. This holiness was not inherent in the produce itself but was conferred by its dedication to the LORD. The act of setting apart the tithe was a spiritual discipline that cultivated a heart of worship and reverence, reminding the Israelites of their covenant relationship with God and their call to live in holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The recipients of the laws, including the commandment regarding tithes, as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. The Promised Land
The land given to the Israelites by God, from which they were to offer tithes of their produce.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, to whom the tithes are dedicated as holy.

5. Tithing
The act of giving a tenth of one's produce or earnings, which is a central theme in this verse.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Ownership
Recognize that everything we have belongs to God. The tithe is a reminder of His ownership and our stewardship.

Holiness of the Tithe
Understand that the tithe is set apart as holy. It is not merely a financial transaction but an act of worship and obedience.

Faith and Trust in Provision
Tithing is an act of faith, trusting that God will provide for our needs as we honor Him with our resources.

Generosity and Community Support
The tithe supports the work of the ministry and the needs of the community, reflecting God's heart for generosity and care.

Consistency in Practice
Encourage regular and consistent tithing as a spiritual discipline that aligns our hearts with God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that the tithe is "holy to the LORD" influence your perspective on giving?

2. In what ways can the principle of tithing be applied in modern-day financial stewardship?

3. How does the practice of tithing demonstrate faith and trust in God's provision?

4. What are some practical ways to ensure that our giving supports the work of the ministry and the needs of the community?

5. How can we balance the practice of tithing with the call to justice, mercy, and faithfulness as emphasized by Jesus in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 14:20
Abraham gives a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, establishing an early example of tithing.

Malachi 3:10
God challenges the Israelites to bring the full tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings in return.

Matthew 23:23
Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing but emphasizes justice, mercy, and faithfulness as more important.

Hebrews 7:1-10
Discusses the significance of Melchizedek and Abraham's tithe, connecting it to the priesthood of Christ.