Biblical Answer

The Precedent of Tithing in the Ancient Near East

In the biblical account, it is evident that Abraham, the forefather of the Israelites, had a precedent of tithing before the law was given to the Israelites. This is seen in Genesis 14:20, where Abraham gives a tithe to Melchizedek, the priest of God Most High. This act of tithing is a demonstration of Abraham's faith and commitment to God. The Israelites would have understood themselves to be following in Abraham's footsteps when they were commanded to tithe in Leviticus 27:30-33.

The Purpose of Tithing in the Law

The purpose of tithing in the law was not to introduce a new concept, but to clarify and formalize the existing practice of tithing. The law of the tithe, a tenth, was a long-standing precedent in the Ancient Near East, and it was already being practiced by the Israelites. The command to tithe in the law was not meant to nullify the promise made to Abraham, but rather to clarify the way in which the tithe was to be given and used. The tithe was to be given to the Levites, who in turn would give a tithe of the tithe to the priests.

The Relationship Between the Law and the Promise to Abraham

The law given to the Israelites 430 years after the promise made to Abraham did not nullify the promise or restrict its scope. As Paul points out in Galatians 3:17, the law was given for a different purpose, and it was not meant to be a means of initiation into God's family. Rather, the law was given to clarify and formalize the existing practices of the Israelites, including the practice of tithing. The promise made to Abraham was based on faith, and it was not dependent on the law. Abraham's faith was demonstrated by his act of tithing, which was a precedent for the Israelites to follow.