### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻăsêr**, represented by `{{H4643}}`, defines **a tenth** or, more specifically, a **tithe**. It appears 32 times across 27 unique verses, establishing it as a key principle of worship and provision in the Old Testament. The term signifies a portion set apart for sacred purposes, belonging entirely to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical history, `{{H4643}}` first appears when Abraham gives **tithes** of all his spoils to Melchizedek [[Genesis 14:20]]. Later, under the Law, the concept is formalized. The **tithe** of all produce from the land, including seed and fruit, is declared to be "holy unto the LORD" [[Leviticus 27:30]]. These **tithes** were designated as an inheritance for the Levites to support their service in the tabernacle [[Numbers 18:21]]. The failure to bring the **tithe** was condemned by the prophet Malachi as robbing God, while obedience in this area was tied to a promise of immense blessing ([[Malachi 3:8]], [[Malachi 3:10]]). After the exile, the restoration of the **tithe** was essential to re-establishing temple worship and supporting the priests and Levites [[Nehemiah 10:37]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the practice and context of the tithe:
* `{{H6237}}` **ʻâsar** (to tithe): This is the root verb from which the noun is derived, meaning to take or give a tenth. It is used to command the action of **tithing** the increase of the fields [[Deuteronomy 14:22]].
* `{{H1715}}` **dâgân** (corn): As a primary agricultural product, **corn** was a common subject of the tithe, and Israel was commanded to bring the **tithe** of their **corn** to the designated place of worship [[Deuteronomy 14:23]].
* `{{H8492}}` **tîyrôwsh** ((new, sweet) wine): Alongside grain and oil, **wine** was a key component of the tithe, representing the land's produce that God had provided [[Nehemiah 13:12]].
* `{{H8641}}` **tᵉrûwmâh** (heave offering): This term for a gift or contribution is frequently mentioned alongside the **tithe**, forming a pair that represented the people's required giving to God and His ministers [[Malachi 3:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4643}}` is significant, highlighting several core principles of faith.
* **Divine Ownership:** The law specifies that "all the **tithe** of the land... is the LORD'S" [[Leviticus 27:30]]. Tithing is an act of acknowledging that God is the ultimate owner and provider of all things.
* **Sustaining the Priesthood:** God explicitly designated the **tenth** in Israel as the inheritance for the Levites in exchange for their service, creating a system of support for full-time ministry [[Numbers 18:21]].
* **A Measure of Faithfulness:** Withholding the **tithe** is presented as a serious offense against God [[Malachi 3:8]]. Conversely, bringing the full **tithe** is an act of trust and obedience that God invites His people to test Him on [[Malachi 3:10]].
* **Provision for the Community:** In the third year, the **tithe** was to be stored locally to provide for the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, demonstrating a principle of community care [[Deuteronomy 26:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4643}}` signifies more than a mere one-tenth portion. It is a foundational concept in the Bible's system of worship, economics, and social welfare. From a personal act of honor by Abraham to a national statute supporting the priesthood and caring for the vulnerable, the **tithe** served as a constant and tangible reminder of God's provision and the people's responsibility to respond with faithfulness and gratitude.
TRV