Nehemiah 13:12

KJV

Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then brought {H935} all Judah {H3063} the tithe {H4643} of the corn {H1715} and the new wine {H8492} and the oil {H3323} unto the treasuries {H214}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and then all Y'hudah brought the tenth of grain, wine and olive oil to the storerooms.

Berean Standard Bible

and all Judah brought a tenth of the grain, new wine, and oil into the storerooms.

American Standard Version

Then brought all Judah the tithe of the grain and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 13:12 records a pivotal moment of renewed covenant faithfulness among the people of Judah during Nehemiah's second term as governor in Jerusalem. Following a period of significant spiritual decline and neglect of the Temple and its ministers, this verse highlights the community's collective and obedient response to Nehemiah's reforms, as they diligently brought their agricultural tithes of grain, new wine, and oil to the Temple treasuries, thereby restoring vital support for the Levites and the sacred services.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the final chapter of Nehemiah, which details the governor's second return to Jerusalem after a period in Persia (likely 433 BC, per [Nehemiah 13:6](/nehemiah/13-6 "Nehemiah 13:6 - Nehemiah's Return to Persia")). Upon his return, Nehemiah discovered a widespread collapse of the covenant reforms he had previously instituted. The people had neglected their duties, specifically failing to provide for the Levites, who, consequently, had abandoned their Temple service to work their own fields ([Nehemiah 13:10](/nehemiah/13-10 "Nehemiah 13:10 - Neglect of the Levites")). Nehemiah's characteristic zeal and righteous indignation led him to confront the officials and the people directly, reminding them of their solemn obligations to God and His house. [Nehemiah 13:11](/nehemiah/13-11 "Nehemiah 13:11 - Nehemiah's Rebuke") records his forceful rebuke and immediate action to gather the Levites back to their posts. Verse 12 then marks the positive and immediate communal response to this strong leadership, demonstrating a collective willingness by "all Judah" to rectify their previous negligence and restore proper financial and material support for the house of God. This act of tithing is a direct outcome of Nehemiah's decisive intervention, underscoring the theme of restoration after spiritual lapse.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Nehemiah 13:12 unfold in post-exilic Jerusalem, a community striving to re-establish its identity and worship practices under Persian imperial oversight. The Temple, recently rebuilt, was the spiritual and social epicenter of Jewish life. The system of tithing was a foundational component of Mosaic Law, established to sustain the Levitical priesthood and ensure the continuous functioning of Temple sacrifices and services. Since the Levites were not allotted a tribal inheritance of land like the other tribes, their livelihood was entirely dependent on the tithes and offerings brought by the rest of Israel. The "corn," "new wine," and "oil" mentioned were the staple agricultural products of ancient Israel, representing the primary forms of wealth derived from the land. The act of bringing these specific commodities to the "treasuries" (storehouses within the Temple complex) reflects the agrarian economy of the time and the prescribed method for collecting and distributing these provisions to the Levites, priests, and for the Temple's operational needs. This system was not merely a financial transaction but a tangible expression of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh, acknowledging His sovereignty and provision over their land and harvests.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 13:12 powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the book of Nehemiah and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Covenant Fidelity and Obedience**. The people's act of bringing the tithes signifies a renewed commitment to their covenant obligations after a period of significant spiritual drift. Their obedience was a direct response to Nehemiah's call for repentance and reform, demonstrating the community's capacity for collective spiritual turning. Secondly, the verse underscores the critical importance of **Support for Ministry and the House of God**. The tithe was the divinely ordained means to provide for the Levites and priests, enabling them to dedicate themselves fully to their sacred duties without being burdened by secular labor. This reflects a timeless principle of ensuring that those who serve God's house are adequately sustained, as seen in [Numbers 18:21](/numbers/18-21 "Numbers 18:21 - God's Provision for Levites"). Thirdly, the passage speaks to **Righteous Leadership and Reform**. Nehemiah's unwavering commitment to God's law and his courageous confrontation of sin served as the catalyst for this widespread repentance and restoration of order. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the community back to faithfulness. Finally, the act of tithing itself embodies the theme of **Stewardship and Trust in God's Provision**. By bringing a tenth of their primary produce, the people acknowledged that all their blessings came from God and expressed their trust in His continued sustenance, reinforcing the idea that giving is an act of worship and dependence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tithe (Hebrew, _ma'aser'_):** This term refers to a "tenth part." In ancient Israel, the tithe was a mandatory offering, typically a tenth of agricultural produce (grain, new wine, oil) and livestock, commanded by Mosaic Law (e.g., [Leviticus 27:30-32](/leviticus/27-30 "Leviticus 27:30-32 - Laws of Tithing") and [Deuteronomy 14:22](/deuteronomy/14-22 "Deuteronomy 14:22 - Tithing Instructions")). Its primary purpose was to provide for the Levites and priests who served in the Temple, as they had no land inheritance, and to support the Temple's operational needs. The re-establishment of this practice in Nehemiah 13:12 signals a return to covenant obedience and proper support for divine worship.
* **Treasuries (Hebrew, _'otsar'_):** These were designated storehouses or chambers within the Temple complex where tithes, offerings, and other consecrated items were kept. Their function was crucial for the organized collection, storage, and distribution of provisions for the priests, Levites, and other Temple personnel. The act of bringing the tithes "unto the treasuries" indicates a proper, systematic, and communal restoration of the Temple's financial and material infrastructure, ensuring that the resources were managed and utilized for their intended sacred purpose.
* **Corn and the new wine and the oil:** These three agricultural products represent the primary staples of the Israelite diet and economy, derived directly from the land. "Corn" (or grain) refers to wheat or barley, "new wine" to freshly pressed grape juice, and "oil" to olive oil. Together, they symbolize the bounty of God's provision from the land and were the typical commodities used for agricultural tithes. Their specific mention emphasizes that the people were bringing the "firstfruits" and the best of their produce, signifying a genuine and substantial act of giving from their core livelihood.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then brought all Judah":** This phrase emphasizes the collective and unified nature of the response. It was not merely a few individuals, but "all Judah"—representing the entire community—who participated in this act of obedience. This highlights a widespread spiritual turning and communal commitment to restoring proper worship and support for the Temple, indicating the success of Nehemiah's reform efforts in galvanizing the people.
* **"the tithe":** This specifies the nature of the offering as the divinely mandated tenth portion. It was not a voluntary gift of any amount, but a specific, covenantal obligation. The restoration of the tithe signifies a return to the foundational principles of the Mosaic Law, acknowledging God's ownership of all things and the people's responsibility to honor Him with their firstfruits.
* **"of the corn and the new wine and the oil":** This details the specific agricultural commodities that constituted the tithe. These were the primary produce of the land, representing the fruits of their labor and God's blessing upon their harvests. The mention of these staples underscores the agrarian context of ancient Israel and the practical, tangible nature of their obedience in giving from their livelihood.
* **"unto the treasuries":** This indicates the designated destination for the tithes. The "treasuries" were the Temple storehouses, managed by appointed officials (as Nehemiah had arranged in [Nehemiah 13:13](/nehemiah/13-13 "Nehemiah 13:13 - Appointing Treasurers")). This detail signifies that the giving was not haphazard but organized, systematic, and directed towards the proper channels for the support of the Levites, priests, and the ongoing Temple services. It reflects a restoration of order and proper administration within the house of God.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 13:12 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message of renewed obedience and restoration. The phrase "corn and the new wine and the oil" serves as a **Synecdoche**, where specific parts (these three staple crops) represent the whole of agricultural produce and, by extension, all the blessings derived from the land. This emphasizes the comprehensive nature of their tithing. There is also an implicit **Contrast** with the preceding verses, particularly [Nehemiah 13:10](/nehemiah/13-10 "Nehemiah 13:10 - Neglect of the Levites"), which describes the neglect and abandonment of duties by the Levites due to a lack of support. Verse 12 directly reverses this situation, highlighting a dramatic turning point from spiritual decay to renewed faithfulness. The act of bringing the tithes to the "treasuries" can be seen as **Metonymy**, where the physical location (treasuries) stands for the entire system of Temple support and the re-establishment of proper religious order. Finally, the entire action described in the verse functions as **Symbolism**. The physical act of tithing is a powerful symbol of the people's renewed covenant fidelity, their trust in God's provision, and their collective commitment to honoring Him and sustaining His work in their midst.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 13:12 stands as a testament to the enduring biblical principles of covenant faithfulness, stewardship, and the communal responsibility to support God's work. The restoration of tithing in Judah was not merely a financial transaction but a profound spiritual act, signifying the people's return to obedience to God's law after a period of spiritual apathy. It underscores the divine design for sustaining those dedicated to ministry, ensuring that the work of God's kingdom can continue unhindered. This principle, established under the Mosaic Covenant, highlights God's expectation that His people would honor Him with their resources, acknowledging His ultimate ownership and provision. The act of giving a tenth was a tangible expression of worship, trust, and dependence on the Lord, reinforcing the idea that true devotion is expressed not only through ritual but also through practical obedience in all areas of life, including finances. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that the health and vitality of a spiritual community are directly linked to the faithfulness of its members in stewarding the resources God has entrusted to them.

* [Deuteronomy 14:22](/deuteronomy/14-22 "Laws of Tithing and Feasting")
* [Malachi 3:8](/malachi/3-8 "Robbing God and His Blessing")
* [Numbers 18:21](/numbers/18-21 "The Levites' Portion from Tithes")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 13:12 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, challenging us to examine our own commitment to faithful stewardship and communal responsibility in supporting the work of God. Just as the ancient Israelites were called to bring their tithes to the Temple treasuries to sustain the Levites and the sacred services, so too are believers today encouraged to contribute generously to their local churches and ministries. This support is not merely an obligation but a privilege, enabling those called to full-time ministry to dedicate themselves to teaching, preaching, and serving without being unduly burdened by secular employment. The verse reminds us that true spiritual revival often manifests in practical obedience, including how we manage and deploy our financial resources. Our giving should reflect a heart of gratitude for God's provision, a trust in His continued faithfulness, and a desire to see His kingdom advance. It calls us to move beyond mere compliance to a joyful participation in the financial health and mission of our spiritual communities, recognizing that our contributions directly impact the ability of the church to fulfill its divine mandate in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does our personal and communal giving reflect our trust in God's ultimate ownership and provision?**
* **In what ways can we ensure that those who serve in ministry today are adequately supported, enabling them to focus on their calling?**
* **What "treasuries" or ministries are we called to support in our current context, and how can we do so faithfully?**
* **What areas of neglect in our own lives or within our spiritual communities might require a "Nehemiah-like" commitment to reform and renewed obedience?**

### FAQ
**What was the primary purpose of the tithe in ancient Israel?**

Answer: The primary purpose of the tithe in ancient Israel, as mandated by the Mosaic Law, was multifaceted. Foremost, it was to provide for the Levites and priests who served in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Since the Levites did not receive a tribal land inheritance, the tithe was their designated livelihood, ensuring they could dedicate themselves fully to their sacred duties (as seen in [Numbers 18:21-24](/numbers/18-21 "Numbers 18:21-24 - The Levites' Portion")). Additionally, parts of the tithe were designated for the maintenance of the Temple, for communal feasts, and for the care of the poor, widows, and orphans (e.g., [Deuteronomy 14:28-29](/deuteronomy/14-28 "Deuteronomy 14:28-29 - The Third Year Tithe")). Ultimately, tithing was an act of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty over all creation and His provision for His people.

**Is tithing still a direct command for Christians today?**

Answer: While the specific legalistic requirements of the Old Testament tithe (e.g., bringing agricultural produce to the Temple treasuries) are not directly re-instituted for New Testament believers, the underlying principles of generous, systematic, and joyful giving are strongly affirmed. The New Testament emphasizes giving out of love, grace, and cheerfulness, rather than compulsion or legal obligation ([2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - Cheerful Giving")). Believers are encouraged to support those who minister the Gospel ([1 Corinthians 9:13-14](/1_corinthians/9-13 "1 Corinthians 9:13-14 - Support for Ministers")), to contribute to the needs of the poor, and to fund the spread of the Gospel. Many Christians adopt the tithe (10%) as a practical guideline or starting point for their giving, understanding it as a spiritual discipline and an act of worship that honors God with their "firstfruits" (Proverbs 3:9). The focus shifts from a legalistic percentage to a heart attitude of generous stewardship in response to God's abundant grace.

**What does "corn and new wine and oil" represent in this context?**

Answer: "Corn" (grain), "new wine," and "oil" were the primary agricultural staples and sources of wealth in ancient Israel. They represent the main produce of the land—the literal "fruits" of their labor and the bounty of God's provision. In the context of tithing, their mention signifies that the people were bringing a tenth of their most essential and valuable commodities. This highlights that their obedience was substantial and came from the core of their economic life, not merely from surplus or less valuable goods. These items were also easily stored in the Temple treasuries and distributed to sustain the Levites and priests.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah 13:12, with its emphasis on the people bringing their tithes to the treasuries, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Christ. While the Old Testament tithe was a shadow of things to come, a legal requirement to support the Levitical priesthood and the physical Temple, Jesus Christ fulfills the essence of all such offerings. He is the ultimate "firstfruits" from the dead ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as Firstfruits")), the perfect and final sacrifice who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). In Him, the need for a physical Temple and a Levitical priesthood to mediate between God and humanity is superseded, as He is the true Temple ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus, the True Temple")) and our great High Priest ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")). Our giving under the New Covenant is no longer a legalistic requirement of agricultural produce but a joyful, Spirit-empowered response to the immeasurable grace we have received in Christ ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty for Our Riches")). We now offer our lives as living sacrifices ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")), and our material resources are given not to physical treasuries for animal sacrifices, but to support the spread of the Gospel and the building up of the spiritual body of Christ, the Church, which is His dwelling place by the Spirit ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - The Church as God's Dwelling")). The "treasuries" of the New Covenant are the spiritual storehouses of God's grace, empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling the Church to fulfill its mission to make disciples of all nations ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Nehemiah 10:37

And [that] we should bring the firstfruits of our dough, and our offerings, and the fruit of all manner of trees, of wine and of oil, unto the priests, to the chambers of the house of our God; and the tithes of our ground unto the Levites, that the same Levites might have the tithes in all the cities of our tillage.

Nehemiah 10:39

For the children of Israel and the children of Levi shall bring the offering of the corn, of the new wine, and the oil, unto the chambers, where [are] the vessels of the sanctuary, and the priests that minister, and the porters, and the singers: and we will not forsake the house of our God.

Malachi 3:10

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that [there shall] not [be room] enough [to receive it].

Nehemiah 12:44

¶ And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.

Numbers 18:20

¶ And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I [am] thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.

Numbers 18:26

Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, [even] a tenth [part] of the tithe.

Deuteronomy 14:22

¶ Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year.