Topical Encyclopedia The term "tenth-portion" is commonly understood as the "tithe," a concept deeply rooted in biblical tradition and practice. The tithe, or tenth-portion, refers to the act of giving one-tenth of one's income or produce as an offering to God. This practice is first introduced in the Old Testament and is a significant aspect of the covenantal relationship between God and His people.Old Testament Foundations The principle of the tenth-portion is established early in the Scriptures. In Genesis 14:20, Abram (later Abraham) gives a tenth of everything to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High: "Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything" . This act of giving a tenth is seen as an acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision. The Mosaic Law further institutionalizes the tithe as a requirement for the Israelites. Leviticus 27:30 states, "Thus any tithe of the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD" . The tithe was intended to support the Levitical priesthood, who had no inheritance of land, as well as to provide for the needs of the community, including the poor, the widow, and the orphan (Numbers 18:21-24; Deuteronomy 14:28-29). Purpose and Significance The tenth-portion served multiple purposes in the life of Israel. It was a tangible expression of gratitude and dependence on God, recognizing Him as the ultimate provider. The tithe also functioned as a means of sustaining the religious and social structures of the nation, ensuring that the priests and Levites could perform their duties and that the vulnerable members of society were cared for. Malachi 3:10 underscores the importance of the tithe, presenting it as a test of faithfulness and a channel for divine blessing: "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this," says the LORD of Hosts. "See if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure" . New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, the concept of the tenth-portion is not explicitly commanded, but the principles of generosity and stewardship are emphasized. Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing in Matthew 23:23, where He criticizes the Pharisees for their legalistic approach: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former" . The early church, as described in the Acts of the Apostles, practiced a form of communal sharing and generosity that went beyond the tithe, as believers sold possessions and distributed the proceeds to those in need (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35). The Apostle Paul also encourages believers to give generously and cheerfully, as each has decided in their heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7). Contemporary Application While the specific mandate of the tenth-portion is not reiterated in the New Testament, the underlying principles of stewardship, generosity, and support for the ministry and the needy remain relevant for Christians today. The practice of tithing continues to be a spiritual discipline for many believers, serving as a reminder of God's provision and a means of participating in His work through the church and beyond. Strong's Hebrew 6224. asiri -- tenth... tenth. Word Origin from the same as eser Definition tenth NASB Word Usage one-tenth (1), tenth (27), tenth portion (1). tenth part. ... /hebrew/6224.htm - 6k Thesaurus Tenth-portion (1 Occurrence)Tenth-portion. Tenth-parts, Tenth-portion. Tenths . Multi-Version Concordance Tenth-portion (1 Occurrence). Exodus 29 ... /t/tenth-portion.htm - 6k Tenth-parts (11 Occurrences) Tenths (22 Occurrences) Interpreted (19 Occurrences) Portion (227 Occurrences) Resources What is a heave offering? | GotQuestions.orgWhat time was Jesus crucified? What time did Jesus die on the cross? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to say that God is my portion? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tenth-portion (1 Occurrence)Exodus 29:40 Subtopics Related Terms |
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