Tithing in the Old Testament

Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one's income or produce, is a significant biblical principle first introduced in the Old Testament. The concept is rooted in the Hebrew word "ma'aser," which means "a tenth." The practice is established in the Mosaic Law and is seen as an act of obedience and worship to God.

The first mention of tithing occurs in Genesis 14:18-20, where Abram gives a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. This act of giving predates the Mosaic Law and is seen as a voluntary expression of gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision.

The formalization of tithing is found in the Law given to Moses. 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 tithe was to be given from the produce of the land and livestock, signifying that everything belongs to God and that the Israelites were stewards of His provision.

The purpose of the tithe was multifaceted. It supported the Levitical priesthood, who had no inheritance of land (Numbers 18:21-24), and provided for the needs of the community, including the poor, the widow, and the orphan (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). The tithe was also a reminder of God's faithfulness and a test of the Israelites' trust in His provision.

Tithing in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the principle of tithing is not explicitly commanded, but the spirit of generosity and giving is emphasized. Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing in Matthew 23:23 , saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the more important matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former."

The New Testament shifts the focus from a legalistic obligation to a heart posture of generosity. In 2 Corinthians 9:7 , Paul writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." The emphasis is on the attitude of the giver rather than the specific amount.

Blessing Associated with Tithing

The Bible associates tithing with blessing, both spiritual and material. In Malachi 3:10 , God challenges the Israelites, "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this," says the LORD of Hosts. "See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure."

This passage is often cited to illustrate the principle that faithful giving results in divine blessing. The blessing is not necessarily material wealth but encompasses spiritual growth, provision, and the joy of participating in God's work.

Proverbs 3:9-10 further reinforces this idea: "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine." The principle here is that honoring God with one's resources leads to His provision and abundance.

The Role of Tithing Today

In contemporary Christian practice, tithing is viewed as a way to honor God, support the church, and participate in His mission. While the New Testament does not mandate a specific percentage, many Christians choose to follow the Old Testament model of giving a tenth as a guideline for their financial stewardship.

Tithing is seen as an act of faith, trusting that God will provide for one's needs. It is also a means of aligning one's priorities with God's kingdom, recognizing that all resources ultimately belong to Him. Through tithing, believers express gratitude, support the work of the church, and experience the joy of giving.