The Greek word dekatóō, represented by G1183, means to tithe, which is to give or take a tenth. It is derived from the word for "a tenth," δεκάτη (dekátē). Though it appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, its usage is concentrated in a passage of significant theological weight.
Both occurrences of G1183 are found in the book of Hebrews and are central to an argument about priesthood. The word is first used to describe a figure whose descent was not from the priestly line who nonetheless "received tithes" from Abraham Hebrews 7:6. This action establishes a precedent of tithing outside the later-established Levitical system. The second use illustrates that even Levi, the patriarch of the priestly tribe that would later receive tithes, symbolically "payed tithes" while still in the loins of his great-grandfather, Abraham Hebrews 7:9.
The context of G1183 is clarified by several key related terms:
- G1181 dekátē (a tenth, i.e. as a percentage or (technically) tithe): This is the noun form from which the verb G1183 is derived. It is used in the same passage to describe what Levi typically "receiveth" Hebrews 7:9.
- G11 Abraám (Abraham, the Hebrew patriarch): He is the one who gives the tithe, establishing the historical basis for the author's argument. The act of receiving tithes from Abraham is a sign of great honor and authority Hebrews 7:6.
- G3017 Leuḯ (Levi, the name of three Israelites): Levi is presented as the representative of the entire Levitical priesthood. The argument hinges on the fact that Levi himself, the receiver of tithes under the Law, paid tithes through Abraham Hebrews 7:9.
- G1075 genealogéō (to reckon by generations, i.e. trace in genealogy): This word highlights that the one who received tithes from Abraham did so despite his lineage not being counted from the Levitical patriarchs, setting his authority apart from the Aaronic priesthood Hebrews 7:6.
The theological significance of G1183 is precise and powerful within its context:
- Superiority of Priesthood: The act of paying and receiving tithes is used to establish a hierarchy. By receiving tithes from Abraham, Melchizedek is shown to be greater than the patriarch. Since Levi "payed tithes" in Abraham, Melchizedek's priesthood is also shown to be superior to the Levitical priesthood Hebrews 7:9.
- Ancestral Representation: The use of G1183 in Hebrews 7:9 demonstrates the principle of a patriarch acting on behalf of his descendants. Levi's action of paying a tithe "in Abraham" underscores Abraham's role as the head of his lineage.
- Foundation for Christ's Priesthood: This entire argument, built around the action of G1183, serves to validate the non-Levitical, eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, which is established after the order of Melchizedek, not Aaron.
In summary, G1183 is a specific verb that carries immense doctrinal weight. While appearing only twice, its role in Hebrews is critical for demonstrating the relationship between the lesser and the greater. It is used to prove that a priesthood exists which is superior to the one established under the Law, thereby laying a foundational argument for the priestly ministry of Christ.
TRV