Biblical Answer

The question of whether Abraham tithe before the Law is a significant one, as it relates to the understanding of the Mosaic Law and its relationship to the covenant with Abraham. The biblical account of Abraham's tithe is found in Genesis 14:20, where it is recorded that he gave a tithe of the spoils of war to Melchizedek, a priest of God Most High. This event predates the giving of the Law by many centuries, and it serves as a precedent for the later institution of the tithe in Leviticus 27:30-33. The fact that Abraham tithe before the Law demonstrates that the principle of giving a portion of one's income to God was not a new concept introduced by the Mosaic Law, but rather a long-standing tradition that was established by Abraham himself.

The significance of Abraham's tithe is also highlighted by the fact that it was given as a response to God's blessing and provision in his life. In Genesis 14:20, it is written that Abraham gave a tithe of the spoils of war to Melchizedek, saying, "I have sworn an oath to the Lord, the God Most High, maker of heaven and earth." This demonstrates that Abraham's tithe was a response of gratitude and worship to God's provision and blessing in his life. This understanding of the tithe as a response to God's blessing and provision is consistent with the later biblical teaching on the tithe, which emphasizes its importance as a way of expressing gratitude and worship to God (Leviticus 27:30-33).

In conclusion, the biblical account of Abraham's tithe demonstrates that the principle of giving a portion of one's income to God was not a new concept introduced by the Mosaic Law, but rather a long-standing tradition that was established by Abraham himself. This understanding of the tithe as a response to God's blessing and provision is consistent with the later biblical teaching on the tithe, and it highlights the significance of Abraham's example as a model for believers throughout history. As Paul writes in Galatians 3:6-7, "Just as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham." The tithe, therefore, is not just a matter of obeying a commandment, but rather a way of expressing faith and trust in God's provision and blessing in our lives.