Biblical Answer

The Tithe in the Ancient Near East and the Mosaic Covenant

The tithe as a form of devotion to God has a long-standing precedent in the Ancient Near East. In Genesis 14:20, Abraham tithe to Melchizedek, the King of Salem, after his victory over the kings of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela. Similarly, in Genesis 28:22, Jacob vows to give a tithe to God after a dream. This practice of tithing is also reflected in the Mosaic covenant, where the Israelites are commanded to give a tithe to the Levites, who in turn give a tithe of the tithe to the priests (Leviticus 27:30-33).

Abraham's Tithe and the Law

Abraham's tithe predates the Law, and it is clear that he gave a tithe to Melchizedek before the Mosaic covenant was given. This is significant because it shows that the practice of tithing was not instituted by the Law, but rather was a part of the Abrahamic covenant. In fact, Paul argues that the Law was given 430 years after the promise to Abraham, and therefore could not nullify or restrict its scope (Galatians 3:17). This means that Abraham's tithe was not a result of the Law, but rather was a demonstration of his faith and devotion to God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Abraham tithe before the Law was given. This is evident from Genesis 14:20 and 28:22, where Abraham and Jacob give tithes to Melchizedek and God respectively. The practice of tithing was not instituted by the Law, but rather was a part of the Abrahamic covenant. This highlights the importance of faith and devotion to God, rather than mere obedience to the Law. As Paul argues, the Law was given 430 years after the promise to Abraham, and therefore could not nullify or restrict its scope. This means that Abraham's tithe was a demonstration of his faith and devotion to God, and not a result of the Law.