What is tithing?
Tithing, in its basic sense, means setting apart a tenth of income or produce for purposes devoted to God. In the Old Testament, the practice is connected with Israel's worship, Levitical service, festival life, and care for the poor. For that reason, the tithe is not simply an…
Tithing, in its basic sense, means setting apart a tenth of income or produce for purposes devoted to God. In the Old Testament, the practice is connected with Israel's worship, Levitical service, festival life, and care for the poor. For that reason, the tithe is not simply an act of private generosity; it is part of an ordered way in which God's gifts are shared within the community.
Abraham's tithe to Melchizedek and Jacob's vow are early examples, but the more detailed regulations appear especially within the Law of Moses. In the New Testament, however, the emphasis shifts away from enforcing a mathematical ratio and toward giving that is willing, joyful, and responsible. Because of that, Christians often ask whether the tithe is still mandatory in exactly the same way today. There are real differences of opinion here. Some churches teach tithing as a binding principle. Others argue that it belongs to the Old Covenant setting, while still serving as a useful starting measure for regular and sacrificial giving.
In either approach, one warning matters. Giving is not a way to buy God's favor, guarantee material blessing, or display spiritual success. The biblical principle is deeper: people are not the true owners of what they possess, but stewards. Giving therefore belongs to faith, gratitude, justice, and love of neighbor. Supporting the ministry of the church, caring for those in need, and sustaining mission all make sense within that framework.
In short, tithing is the practice of setting apart a portion of what God has given for purposes devoted to him. Christians may differ on how exactly it should be applied, but generosity and responsible stewardship are a shared calling.