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.
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.
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.
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.
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