Biblical Answer

The Israelites were required to pay a tithe, which is 10 percent of their annual earnings, as a way to acknowledge that the Lord was their King and had provided for their material needs. This tithe was used to provide for the needs of the priests and the Levites, who were responsible for leading the people and serving in the tabernacle. The tithe was also used to demonstrate the Lord's care for the needy, and was required to be given every third year to provide for those who were in need.

The tithe was established on a level playing field, where everyone was required to pay the same percentage, regardless of their wealth or income. This was not a progressive income tax, where the wealthy were required to pay a higher percentage of their income. Instead, everyone was required to give 10 percent of their earnings, including the wealthy. The tithe was also not just a financial obligation, but a way for the Israelites to demonstrate their commitment to the Lord and to provide for the needs of the community.

The tithe was used to provide for the needs of the priests and the Levites, who were responsible for leading the people and serving in the tabernacle. It was also used to demonstrate the Lord's care for the needy, and was required to be given every third year to provide for those who were in need. The tithe was a way for the Israelites to acknowledge that the Lord was their King and had provided for their material needs, and to demonstrate their commitment to Him. By giving a tithe, the Israelites were showing that they trusted in the Lord to provide for their needs, and that they were willing to give back to Him a portion of what He had given them.