### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dekátē**, represented by `{{G1181}}`, refers to a **tenth** or a **tithe**. It appears 4 times in 4 unique verses. The word's definition is a **tenth part**, used either as a percentage or, more technically, as a **tithe**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{G1181}}` are in the book of Hebrews and are foundational to an argument comparing the priesthoods of Melchizedek and Levi. The patriarch{G3966} Abraham{G11} is recorded as having given a **tenth part**{G1181} of all his spoils to Melchizedek ([[Hebrews 7:2]], [[Hebrews 7:4]]). The word is also used to draw a contrast between the Levitical priests, who are described as **men**{G444} that **die**{G599} and **receive**{G2983} **tithes**{G1181}, and Melchizedek, of whom it is witnessed that he **liveth**{G2198} [[Hebrews 7:8]]. The argument culminates by stating that Levi{G3017}, whose descendants **receive**{G2983} **tithes**{G1181}, can be said to have paid tithes through Abraham [[Hebrews 7:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the act of tithing:
* `{{G1183}}` **dekatóō** (to tithe): This is the verb form of `{{G1181}}`, meaning to give or take a tenth. It is used to describe how Levi "payed tithes"{G1183} while in Abraham [[Hebrews 7:9]].
* `{{G11}}` **Abraám** (Abraham): As the Hebrew patriarch, his action of giving a **tenth**{G1181} is central to the entire passage, establishing a precedent of honoring a greater priestly figure [[Hebrews 7:4]].
* `{{G3017}}` **Leuḯ** (Levi): Levi represents the entire Levitical priesthood. The sons of Levi were commanded to take **tithes** from the people, yet Levi himself is shown to have paid a **tithe**{G1181} through his ancestor, Abraham [[Hebrews 7:9]].
* `{{G205}}` **akrothínion** (spoils): This word clarifies what Abraham tithed from, specifically the "best of the booty." Abraham **gave**{G1325} the **tenth**{G1181} of the **spoils**{G205} [[Hebrews 7:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1181}}` is demonstrated in its specific use in Hebrews:
* **Establishing Priestly Superiority:** By giving a **tenth part**{G1181} to Melchizedek, Abraham{G11} the **patriarch**{G3966} acknowledged a higher authority, thus establishing the greatness of Melchizedek's priesthood over the one that would descend from Abraham [[Hebrews 7:4]].
* **A Contrast of Life and Death:** The receiving of **tithes**{G1181} is used to contrast mortal men who **die**{G599} with Melchizedek, of whom it is **witnessed**{G3140} that he **liveth**{G2198} [[Hebrews 7:8]]. This highlights the temporary nature of the Levitical system.
* **The Principle of Representation:** The argument that Levi{G3017} paid **tithes**{G1181} "in Abraham" [[Hebrews 7:9]] uses the tithe to illustrate the concept of generational headship, where the actions of an ancestor apply to his descendants.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1181}}` is not merely a fractional term but a word with significant theological importance within the book of Hebrews. It serves as the primary evidence in the argument for the superiority of Melchizedek's priesthood over the Levitical one. The act of giving a **tenth**{G1181} by Abraham is the lynchpin that demonstrates a priesthood that is greater and more enduring than the one established under the Law.
TRV