Tithe

A tithe is a one-tenth part of something.

Historically, it served as a compulsory tax paid to a government or a contribution to a religious organization. The word itself comes from the Old English word "teogoþa," which means tenth. While modern tithes are typically voluntary and paid using cash, checks, or online methods, ancient tithes were often paid "in kind." This means people gave actual goods, such as agricultural produce, instead of money. In some countries, church taxes are still linked to the national tax system to support a national church.

When people give more than the required tenth, these extra donations are called offerings. These offerings are often designated for specific purposes. For example, they might fund a building program, help retire a debt, or support mission work. Many Christian denominations believe that tithing should be done alongside a deep concern for justice, mercy, and faithfulness. This connection between giving and moral character is a central part of the practice for many followers.

In the Hebrew Bible, the Torah describes several distinct types of agricultural tithes. These include terumah, terumat hamaaser, the first tithe, the second tithe, the poor tithe, and the animal tithe. The specific proportions and requirements varied depending on the situation. For instance, terumah and terumat ma'aser were given to priests, known as kohanim. The first tithe was given to the Levites. Because priests and Levites did not own or inherit land, these tithes served as their primary means of support.

The timing of these gifts followed a seven-year cycle called shmita. During years one, two, four, and five of the cycle, people gave a second tithe. This second tithe was kept by the owner but had to be eaten at the site of the Temple. In years three and six, people gave a poor tithe instead. This poor tithe was distributed locally to support strangers, orphans, and widows. In the seventh year, private agriculture was prohibited, and no tithes were taken because all crops were considered ownerless.

Evidence suggests that tithing was a widespread practice in the ancient Near East, even if specific laws are not always preserved. In Mesopotamia, records show that the palace might take a tithe on garments. For example, one record mentions taking eight garments as a tithe on eighty-five. Other documents mention silver tithes for gods like Bel, Nabu, and Nergal. In ancient Carthage, which was founded by Tyrian colonists, people customarily sent one-tenth of all public revenue to the god Melqart.

Christianity has also maintained a long history of tithing through various councils and denominations. The Council of Tours in 567 and the Third Council of Mâcon in 585 both taught about the practice. In the past, the Council of Mâcon even prescribed excommunication for those who did not follow the law. Today, many groups view tithing as a core doctrine. For example, 86% of Evangelicals in a 2018 study by LifeWay Research believe tithing is a biblical commandment. This includes 87% of Baptists and 86% of Pentecostals.

Different traditions also emphasize how the tithe should be prioritized. Some Methodist traditions teach the concept of Storehouse Tithing. This idea suggests that tithes must be given to the local church before any offerings are made to charities or other groups. In Judaism, many Orthodox Jews practice ma'aser kesafim, which is tithing 10% of one's income to charity. In modern Israel, some religious Jews still follow laws regarding agricultural tithes, such as ma'aser rishon. These diverse practices show how a single concept of a "tenth" can shape different religious and social systems.