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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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