### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apodekatóō**, represented by `{{G586}}`, means **to tithe** or to give or take a tenth. Its definition specifies it can be used for the one paying the tithe as a debtor or the one receiving it as a creditor. This word is not common, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, making each of its occurrences significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G586}}` is used in the context of Jesus's critique of religious leaders. He rebukes the **scribes** `{{G1122}}` and **Pharisees** `{{G5330}}`, who meticulously **pay tithe** of the smallest herbs like **mint** `{{G2238}}`, **anise** `{{G432}}`, and **cummin** `{{G2951}}`, while omitting the "weightier matters of the law" [[Matthew 23:23]]. Similarly, in Luke, a **Pharisee** `{{G5330}}` is condemned for tithing herbs while passing over "judgment and the love of God" [[Luke 11:42]]. This act is also presented as a point of pride for a self-righteous Pharisee who boasts, "I **give tithes** of all that I possess" [[Luke 18:12]]. In contrast, Hebrews uses the word to describe the legal function of the Levitical priesthood, which had a **commandment** `{{G1785}}` **to take tithes** from the people [[Hebrews 7:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of tithing:
* `{{G5330}}` **Pharisaîos** (Pharisee): This term identifies the religious sect known for their strict observance. They are portrayed as those who **tithe** meticulously but are called **hypocrites** `{{G5273}}` for neglecting more important principles ([[Matthew 23:23]], [[Luke 11:42]]).
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This is the foundation upon which the practice of tithing is based. The **sons** `{{G5207}}` of **Levi** `{{G3017}}` were commanded **to take tithes** according to the **law** [[Hebrews 7:5]], yet the Pharisees are criticized for omitting the "weightier matters of the **law**" [[Matthew 23:23]].
* `{{G3017}}` **Leuḯ** (Levi): This refers to the Israelite tribe from which the priests descended. The sons of **Levi** `{{G3017}}` held the **office of the priesthood** `{{G2405}}` and were designated to **receive** `{{G2983}}` tithes from their **brethren** `{{G80}}` [[Hebrews 7:5]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G586}}` carries significant theological weight, primarily by contrasting outward actions with inward character.
* **Meticulous Observance vs. Weightier Matters:** Jesus uses the Pharisees' practice of tithing even the smallest garden **herbs** `{{G3001}}` to illustrate a critical failure. They focused on the letter of the **law** `{{G3551}}` while neglecting its core principles: **judgment** `{{G2920}}`, **mercy** `{{G1656}}`, **faith** `{{G4102}}`, and the **love** `{{G26}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}` ([[Matthew 23:23]], [[Luke 11:42]]).
* **A Mark of Self-Righteousness:** Tithing is shown as an act that can fuel spiritual pride. A Pharisee in a parable uses his commitment to **give tithes** `{{G586}}` as evidence of his own righteousness, separating himself from others [[Luke 18:12]].
* **A Lawful Priesthood Prerogative:** The word also serves to define a legitimate, ordered practice. The book of Hebrews affirms that the sons of **Levi** `{{G3017}}` had a **commandment** `{{G1785}}` to **take tithes** from the **people** `{{G2992}}`, an instruction that came through the **law** `{{G3551}}` [[Hebrews 7:5]].
### Summary
In summary, **apodekatóō** `{{G586}}` defines the specific act of giving or taking a **tithe**. Though it appears only four times, its usage is powerful. It serves as a sharp tool in the Gospels to critique a hollow religious practice that ignores the heart of God's **law** `{{G3551}}`, namely **judgment** `{{G2920}}`, **mercy** `{{G1656}}`, and **faith** `{{G4102}}`. At the same time, its use in Hebrews establishes its formal role within the Levitical system, highlighting how a right action can be performed with a wrong heart.
TRV