Biblical Answer

The Tithe Before the Law

The tithe, a tenth of one's income, has a long-standing precedent in the Ancient Near East. In Genesis 14:20, Abraham offered a tithe to Melchizedek, the priest-king of Salem. This act of devotion was voluntary, and God did not command it. Abraham's decision to tithe was a demonstration of his faith and trust in God's provision. Similarly, in Genesis 28:20-22, Jacob made a vow to God, promising to give a tenth of his income to God if God would be with him and protect him on his journey.

The tithe is mentioned again in Genesis 14:20, when Abraham offered a tithe to Melchizedek, and in Genesis 28:20-22, when Jacob made a vow to give a tenth of his income to God. These passages show that the concept of tithing was present in the lives of Abraham and Jacob before the Law was given. The tithe was a way for them to acknowledge God's provision and to demonstrate their faith and trust in Him. In Hebrews 7:6-10, the author notes that Melchizedek, who received the tithe from Abraham, was a priest of God Most High, and that Abraham's tithe was a recognition of Melchizedek's priestly role.

The command to tithe is first given in Leviticus 27:30-33, as part of the Mosaic covenant. However, the tithe was not a new concept, but rather a continuation of the practice that had been established by Abraham and Jacob. The tithe was a way for the Israelites to acknowledge God's provision and to provide for the needs of the priests and the poor. As Christians, we are no longer under the Sinai covenant, and the command to tithe does not automatically apply as stated here. However, the principle of tithing remains an important part of our faith, as it demonstrates our trust in God's provision and our commitment to giving back to Him.