I want us to observe the linguistic connection between "rich" (עָשִׁיר - ah-sheer) and "tithe" (מַעֲשֵׂר - mah-ah-ser) in Hebrew. While not directly related etymologically in the sense of one word deriving from the other, their proximity in sound and the concept of a numerical portion within מַעֲשֵׂר (mah-ah-ser) might lead one to ponder the potential for blessing and increase associated with the act of tithing. Some interpretations suggest that by faithfully giving a tenth, one positions themselves to receive God's abundant provision, thus potentially leading to becoming "rich" in various aspects. However, it's crucial to understand that this is an interpretive connection and not a direct linguistic derivation.
The concept of tithing carries a rich history within the narrative of God's relationship with humanity, extending far beyond the formal establishment of the Law of Moses. A pivotal example is found in Genesis 14:18-20:
"And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said: “Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, Who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” And Abram gave him a tithe of all."
Here, long before the Mosaic Law was given on Mount Sinai, we witness Abraham, a patriarch esteemed for his faith, offering a tithe of the spoils of his victory to Melchizedek, the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High. This act demonstrates that the principle of giving a portion back to God was not a novel concept introduced by the Law, but rather a practice rooted in a recognition of God's sovereignty and provision. Abraham's giving was a voluntary act of honour and worship, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of his blessings and victory.
It's important to note that the biblical text does not record any explicit instruction from Melchizedek to Abraham regarding tithing. We simply see Abraham acting upon what appears to be an internal prompting or understanding. This highlights a crucial aspect of giving: it should ideally stem from a personal revelation and a willing heart, rather than from a sense of obligation or legalistic compulsion. While the example of Abraham is powerful, the text doesn't suggest that he received a direct commandment from Melchizedek to tithe.
The narrative continues through the generations. While the Bible doesn't explicitly detail Abraham teaching Isaac about tithing, Isaac's life of faith and obedience to God's ways would naturally lead him to understand and potentially continue the practices of his father. Similarly, Jacob's vow in Genesis 28:20-22 further illustrates this principle:
"Then Jacob made a vow, saying, 'If God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I am going, and give me bread to eat and clothing to put on, so that I come back to my father’s house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God. And this stone which I have set as a pillar shall be God’s house, and of all that You give me I will surely give a tenth to You.'"
Jacob's vow to give a tenth of all that God would give him echoes the spirit of Abraham's giving. It's a response of gratitude and a recognition of God's provision in his life. Again, there's no explicit mention of Isaac directly instructing Jacob on tithing, but the continuity of this practice within the patriarchal lineage suggests a transmission of values and understanding regarding honouring God with a portion of one's increase.
The New Testament also sheds light on the significance of tithing, particularly in the book of Hebrews, which explores the superiority of Christ's priesthood over the Levitical priesthood. Hebrews 7:8 speaks of the enduring nature of this principle through the figure of Melchizedek:
"Here mortal men receive tithes, but there he receives them, of whom it is witnessed that he lives."
This verse, in the context of the preceding verses discussing Melchizedek's encounter with Abraham, highlights the unique nature of Melchizedek's priesthood, which transcends the limitations of earthly priests. The fact that Abraham, the father of the Levitical priesthood, paid tithes to Melchizedek signifies Melchizedek's superiority. Furthermore, the phrase "of whom it is witnessed that he lives" is often interpreted in light of Melchizedek's mysterious appearance and disappearance in the Old Testament narrative, suggesting a timeless or even eternal aspect to his priesthood, which finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
The act of tithing, in this context, becomes more than just a financial transaction. It serves as a "witness that He lives." When believers give a portion of their increase back to God, it's an acknowledgment of His ongoing provision and their faith in His continued faithfulness. It's a tangible expression of the belief that God is not a distant, inactive deity, but a living God who sustains and blesses His people. This act of giving becomes a spiritual discipline that connects the giver to the eternal reality of God's presence and power.
Therefore, while the historical precedent of Abraham's tithing predates the Law, and the continuity of this practice seems to have been passed down through the patriarchs, the motivation behind giving should not be mere obligation. Abraham did not tithe because he was commanded by Melchizedek; his act was a response of faith and recognition. Similarly, our giving today should flow from a heart that has been touched by God's grace and provision, a personal revelation of His goodness and a desire to honour Him with the firstfruits of what He has entrusted to us.
Whether a believer chooses to give a tithe or any other form of generous offering is ultimately a matter of personal conviction and revelation. The New Testament emphasises giving cheerfully and willingly in 2 Corinthians 9:7: "So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver." While the Old Testament provides a framework and historical examples, the emphasis in the New Covenant is on a heart transformed by grace, leading to acts of generosity that reflect God's own giving nature.
The connection between "rich" and "tithe" in Hebrew, though not a direct etymological link, can serve as a reminder of the potential blessings associated with faithful giving. However, the true wealth that comes from tithing extends beyond material possessions. It encompasses spiritual growth, a deeper connection with God, and the knowledge that we are participating in His work in the earth. The act of tithing, when done out of a heart of love and revelation, becomes a powerful testament to the reality of a living God who continues to provide for and bless His people.
Stay in health and favour
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