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Tithe

Culture & Society

What is the meaning of Tithe in the Bible?

The practice of contributing one-tenth of agricultural yield or livestock was a widespread ancient custom, notably codified within the Mosaic Law found in Leviticus 27, Numbers 18, and Deuteronomy 12-14. These texts established specific regulations regarding the collection and distribution of tithes to support the Levites and maintain the sanctuary.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding tithing clarifies the economic structure of ancient Israelite society, revealing how the community sustained the religious leadership and temple services through a systematic, legally mandated contribution system.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Tithe. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Tithe in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Tithe clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Tithe." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/tithe/
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