Where in the Bible Does It Say to Tithe Ten Percent?

Tithing, the practice of giving a portion of one’s income or produce, is a concept with deep biblical roots. Many inquire about its origins and the frequently mentioned ten percent figure. Understanding the biblical narrative provides insight into its evolution and varying applications. This exploration clarifies where the concept of a tenth is presented in scripture and its historical context.

The Earliest Mentions of Tithing

The concept of tithing appears in biblical accounts long before formal legal requirements were established. One early instance involves Abraham, who, after a military victory, gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High. This act is recorded in Genesis 14:20, stating Abraham gave Melchizedek “a tithe of all.” This spontaneous offering signified a recognition of divine authority and blessing.

Another early mention is in Genesis 28, where Jacob, Abraham’s grandson, made a vow to God. After a profound dream, Jacob promised to give back a tenth of everything God gave him if God protected and provided for him. These examples demonstrate tithing was practiced as a voluntary act of worship and gratitude, predating the detailed laws given to the Israelite nation.

Tithing in the Mosaic Law

The most explicit commands regarding the ten percent tithe are found within the Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites. Under this covenant, tithing became a structured, mandatory system with distinct purposes. The primary tithe, often called the “first tithe,” was a tenth of agricultural produce and livestock. This tithe supported the Levites, who had no territorial inheritance and were dedicated to religious service. Numbers 18 details this arrangement, instructing Israelites to give a tenth to the Levites, who then presented a tenth of that tithe to the priests.

A “second tithe” was prescribed annually for consumption by the tither and their household during religious festivals in Jerusalem. If the journey was too far, the tithe could be converted into money to purchase food and drink for celebration. This allowed families to participate fully in communal feasts.

The Mosaic Law also included a “poor tithe,” collected every third and sixth year of a seven-year cycle. This tithe was stored locally and distributed to those in need, including Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows. These tithes established the ten percent as a standard for financial and social responsibilities within the Israelite community, supporting religious infrastructure, communal celebration, and welfare.

Tithing in the Prophets

The prophetic books of the Old Testament reinforce the importance of faithfulness to tithing commands established under the Mosaic Law. One direct passage addressing tithing is found in Malachi 3. Here, the prophet Malachi conveys a message from God, accusing the people of “robbing” Him by withholding their tithes and offerings. This highlights the seriousness with which God viewed the failure to fulfill these financial obligations.

The passage in Malachi also includes a promise of blessing for those who faithfully bring their full tithes into the “storehouse.” It describes an outpouring of abundance, so much so that there would not be room enough to receive it. This prophetic message underscores the connection between obedience in tithing and divine provision, linking material prosperity to spiritual faithfulness.

New Testament Discussions on Giving

The New Testament approaches giving with a shift from a legal percentage to principles of generous, voluntary contributions. While Jesus acknowledged tithing, His comments often addressed the Pharisees’ meticulous adherence to the law’s letter while neglecting its spirit. In Matthew 23 and Luke 11, Jesus criticized the Pharisees for tithing small garden herbs yet overlooking “the weightier matters of the law” like justice, mercy, and faithfulness. His words suggested tithing should not overshadow fundamental ethical and moral duties.

The apostles’ teachings further develop giving principles for believers. The New Testament does not explicitly command a specific percentage like the Old Testament tithe as a legal requirement for Christians. Instead, it promotes a spirit of generous, cheerful, and proportionate giving. For instance, 2 Corinthians 9 encourages believers to give “as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This highlights that the amount given should be a personal decision, motivated by joy rather than obligation.

1 Corinthians 16 advises believers to set aside a portion of their income “as he may prosper” on the first day of the week. This principle suggests regular, systematic giving proportional to one’s financial capacity. The New Testament focuses on the heart behind the giving, emphasizing willing sacrifice and generosity stemming from love and gratitude, rather than a fixed percentage.