What does tithe mean in Hebrew? The Hebrew word for tithe is ma-aser. The term means one-tenth or a tenth part. It forms the basis of giving 10 percent of one’s possessions as a religious and social practice. The ancient Hebrew Israelites viewed tithing as a sacred obligation, an act of gratitude, and a means of sustaining communal welfare.
Tithing was significant throughout Hebrew history, starting with the biblical text. Today, Jewish society has a different perspective on what it means to tithe. This article examines the various forms of tithing, its biblical commandments, and its modern-day interpretations among followers of Judaism.
Early Origins of Tithing in the Hebrew Bible
The history of tithing in Hebrew culture dates back to the Old Testament. The Hebrew Bible refers to the first 39 books of the Bible. These books detail the formation, beliefs, and practices of the ancient Hebrew Israelites. And tithing is one of those practices that played a part in their religious activities.
Tithes in the Book of Genesis
The first mention of tithes appears in the Book of Genesis. Chapter 14:18-20 describes Abram offering a tithe to Melchizedek, the high priest of Salem. Abram gives a tenth of his victory spoils to Melchizedek. This event is significant in the biblical narrative as it represents an early instance of tithing in the Bible.
Why did Abram give a tithe? Abram’s tithe giving reflected the custom of the time. Abram resided in the ancient Near East. In this region, individuals offered a portion of their spoils or produce to priests as offerings to their deity.
The Scriptures describe Melchizedek as the “priest of God Most High” (Genesis 14:18). Abram’s tithe is a sign of respect and acknowledgment of Melchizedek’s spiritual authority and role as a priest of God. In the Old Testament, “Most High” refers to the God of Israel.
God’s Promise and the Birth of Israel
Keep in mind there was no ancient Hebrew Israelite nation. God promised Abraham to be the father of many nations (Genesis). Abraham’s grandson, Jacob, fulfilled this Abrahamic covenant. In Genesis 32:27, God changes Jacob’s name to Israel, which means “he who struggles or strives with God.” Jacob went on to become the patriarch of 12 sons. These sons and their families became what we know as the 12 tribes of Israel (Genesis 49:28).
Why bring that up? We’ll it reaffirms the position that Abram tithed according to social custom. He did tithe based on a command from God. A tithing commandment appears in Scripture in the Book of Leviticus. The Lord instructs the ancient Israelites to give a tenth of their crops and livestock (Leviticus 27:30). By this point, the Lord had entered into a covenant with Hebrew Israelites through Moses. The names for the covenant include the Mosaic Covenant or Law of Moses.
More Biblical References to Tithing
The Hebrew Bible, or Old Testament, contains numerous references to tithing. In addition to the Books of Genesis and Leviticus, the Books of Numbers, Deuteronomy, and Chronicles mention tithes. In these scriptures, we have more details of how giving a tenth was integrated into the lives of the Hebrew Israelites.
Book of Numbers
The Book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and is known as “Bamidbar” in Hebrew, which means “In the Wilderness.” It primarily focuses on the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. The book contains census data, laws, regulations, and stories about the challenges and rebellions faced by the Israelites during their wanderings. It also describes their preparation for entering the Promised Land.
The Book of Numbers mentions tithes to support the Levites, whom the Lord chose to serve in the Tabernacle and assist the priests. The Levites did not inherit land but were dedicated to religious service, so other tribes gave tithes to support them.
Numbers 18:21 (KJV):
“And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.”
In this verse, God instructs Moses to give the Levites the tenth (tithe) of the produce of the land of Israel as their inheritance in return for their service in the Tabernacle. This Scripture demonstrates the role of tithes in supporting the religious leadership and service of the Levites in the community during their time in the wilderness.
Book of Deuteronomy
The Book of Deuteronomy, often called Devarim in Hebrew, is the fifth book of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). It primarily consists of speeches and teachings from Moses to the Israelites as they stand on the verge of entering the Promised Land.
The book summarizes the Israelites’ journey from Egypt, reiterating important laws, commandments, and ethical principles essential for their life in Canaan. Deuteronomy emphasizes the covenant between God and the Israelites and the importance of faithfulness to God’s laws.
Role of Tithes in the Book of Deuteronomy
In the Book of Deuteronomy, there are references to the practice of tithing, particularly concerning the allocation of tithes and offerings. The primary focus is ensuring the tithe provides for the Levites and those in need.
Deuteronomy 14:22-29:
“Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.”
This passage specifies that the Israelites should tithe their agricultural produce, eat a portion of it in a designated place before the Lord, and allocate tithes to support the Levites, strangers, orphans, and widows. The role of tithes in Deuteronomy underscores their focus on providing for the religious community, looking after those in need, and fostering reverence for God.
Book of Chronicles
In the Bible, there are 1 Chronicles and 2 Chronicles. These books serve as a supplementary historical account, focusing on the genealogies, history, and religious traditions of the Israelites, particularly the tribe of Judah. Chronicles cover events from the world’s creation to the Babylonian exile, emphasizing the importance of faith, worship, and adherence to God’s commands in the history of the Hebrew Israelites.
Role of Tithes in the Book of Chronicles:
The Books of Chronicles discuss the collection and allocation of tithes, primarily focusing on tithes given to support the Levites and the maintenance of the Temple in Jerusalem.
1 Chronicles 26:20 (KJV):
“And of the Levites, Ahijah was over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things.”
This verse highlights the role of Levites in overseeing the treasures of the house of God, which would include the tithes and offerings given for the maintenance of the Temple. The Chronicles emphasize the importance of faithfully contributing tithes and offerings to ensure the Temple’s proper functioning and support the Levitical priesthood.
Book of Malachi
The Book of Malachi is the last in the Old Testament. Malachi is often considered one of the Minor Prophets. The book contains messages and prophecies the prophet Malachi delivers to the Israelites. The book addresses religious faithfulness, social justice, and the need for spiritual renewal among the people of Israel.
Malachi admonishes the Israelites for their spiritual indifference, unfaithfulness, and failure to honor God in their worship and daily lives. It also contains prophecies about the coming of a messenger and the Day of the Lord.
Role of Tithes in the Book of Malachi:
The Book of Malachi addresses the issue of tithes and offerings in the context of the people’s unfaithfulness to God. Specifically, it criticizes the Israelites for withholding tithes and contributions that were essential for the support of the priests and the upkeep of the Temple.
Malachi 3:8-10 (KJV):
“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”
In these verses, God rebukes the Israelites for failing to bring their tithes and offerings to the storehouse (the Temple). God challenges them to test His faithfulness by returning to Him what is rightfully His and promises blessings to those who obey this command.
As we see, tithing in Hebrew society was a religious obligation. The ancient Hebrew Israelites believed their land and resources came from the Lord. So, tithing was a sign of gratitude towards God. Additionally, the practice helped ensure enough food for the Levites. So, tithe had a spiritual and practical purpose under the Mosaic Law.
Different Types of Tithes in the Hebrew Bible
The Old Testament Scriptures identify different types of tithes. Each tithe served its unique purpose. Tithing in the Hebrew tradition is generally divided into three categories. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
The First Tithe
Maaser Rishon, or the first tithe, was a significant practice in ancient Israel. According to the Bible, this tithe involved giving a tenth (10%) of one’s agricultural produce to support the Levites, who assisted the priests in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. The primary purpose of Maaser Rishon was to ensure that the Levites, who did not receive a tribal inheritance of land, had the means to sustain themselves and carry out their religious duties (Numbers 18:21).
The Second Tithe
Maaser Sheni, or the second tithe, was a practice in ancient Israel where individuals were required to set aside a second tenth (10%) of their agricultural produce. Unlike the first tithe, Maaser Sheni was set aside for personal consumption in Jerusalem during specified years of the cycle.
What’s more the produce could be consumed in Jerusalem, specifically during the pilgrimage festivals, expressed gratitude to God for the blessings received (Deuteronomy 14:22-27). The observance of Maaser Sheni was tied to the agricultural cycle and the pilgrimage festivals, primarily Passover, Shavuot (Pentecost), and Sukkot (Tabernacles).
The Third Tithe
Maaser Ani, often called the “poor tithe” or “tithe for the poor,” was a practice designed to provide for those in need in ancient Israel. Under this system, Hebrews set aside a portion of their agricultural produce every third year to assist the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners living in their midst (Deuteronomy 14:28-29 ). It exemplified the principle of social justice and caring for the less fortunate within the community.
Again, we see a common thread with tithing in Hebrew society. There is an emphasis on obedience to God, faith, gratitude, and communal support.
The Day the Hebrew Israelites Stopped Tithing
Historical records and biblical texts lack a specific date or event marking when the ancient Hebrews stopped tithing. The cessation of agricultural tithes like Maaser Rishon and Maaser Sheni was likely influenced by multiple historical factors, including:
- Destruction of the Second Temple: The Romans’ destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 A.D. impacted Hebrew religious practices. With the Temple’s destruction, the central institution for receiving and distributing tithes was no longer operational.
- Diaspora Communities: Ancient Hebrew Israelites were dispersed worldwide following the Roman conquest. As a result, some Hebrew communities continued to tithe in modified forms.
- Rabbinic Judaism: Rabbinic Judaism’s development post-Second Temple altered Hebrew religious practices and biblical law interpretations. Rabbinic authorities guided adapting religious traditions without the Temple. More than likely, tithing evolved as a result.
- Economic and Agricultural Changes: Changes in the economy and agricultural practices over time also influenced how tithing was observed. As societies transitioned from agricultural economies to more diversified economies, the practical application of tithing evolved.
Tithing was a practice deeply rooted in ancient Israel’s religious and agricultural life and continued for centuries. However, the turning point was the Roman’s destruction of the Second Temple in 70 A.D., which altered the concept and practice of tithing in Hebrew society.
Tithing in Modern Jewish Society
Individuals who practice Judaism no longer tithe in the traditional sense. Contemporary Jewish perspectives on tithing can vary depending on religious denomination, cultural background, and individual beliefs. Some Jewish individuals and communities still observe diverse forms of tithing. Here are some common perspectives on tithes within Judaism today:
- Maaser Kesafim: In modern Jewish practice tithing has evolved into “Maaser Kesafim,” or “tithing of money.” However, many Jews donate 10% of their income to religious institutions, charities, and community needs.
- Support for Religious Institutions: Tithing or giving to support synagogues, schools, and other religious institutions remains a fundamental practice within Jewish communities.
- Charitable Giving: The concept of charity, known as “Tzedakah” in Hebrew, is central to Judaism. Tzedakah goes beyond tithing and encourages Jews to give to those in need and support social justice causes. Many Jews view charitable giving as a moral and religious obligation.
Traditional agricultural tithing system has evolved. However, supporting charitable causes within the Jewish community remains an integral aspect of Jewish life. Individual perspectives on tithing and charitable giving can vary widely, reflecting the diversity of contemporary Jewish beliefs and practices.
The Legacy of Tithing in Hebrew Culture
The significance and history of tithing in Hebrew culture are vast and complex, reflecting a deep commitment to communal welfare and social responsibility. Some form of tithing has been a fundamental part of Hebrew culture from biblical times to present-day Judaism.
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