δεκατόω

I tithe, collect tithe from

Definition

The verb δεκατόω means 'to tithe' or 'to collect a tithe from.' It specifically refers to the practice of giving or taking one-tenth of something, typically agricultural produce or income, as an offering to God or as a levy. In the New Testament, it is used in Hebrews 7:6 to describe Abraham giving a tithe to Melchizedek, and in Hebrews 7:9 to depict Levi, in a sense, paying tithes through Abraham. The word emphasizes the action of tithing itself, whether giving or receiving.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in Hebrews 7. It is used in a theological argument about priesthood and covenant, contrasting the Levitical priesthood (which collects tithes) with the priesthood of Melchizedek (who received tithes from Abraham). The usage is not about practical tithing instructions but serves to illustrate the superiority of Melchizedek's order.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek adjective δέκατος (dekatos), meaning 'tenth.' The verb form δεκατόω literally means 'to take a tenth' or 'to treat as a tenth.' It is related to the noun δεκάτη (dekatē), 'a tenth' or 'tithe.' The concept is rooted in the widespread ancient practice of dedicating a tenth portion to a deity.

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding the argument in Hebrews 7 about the superiority of Christ's priesthood. By showing that Abraham (and thus Levi) tithed to Melchizedek, the author demonstrates that Melchizedek's priesthood is greater than the Levitical one. This supports the thesis that Jesus, as a priest in the order of Melchizedek, supersedes the old covenant system, including its tithing laws. Understanding this Greek term highlights that the tithing act itself becomes a theological symbol of submission and recognition of authority.

Tithing was a well-established religious and economic practice in the ancient Near East and Second Temple Judaism, involving giving a tenth of one's produce or livestock to support the temple and priesthood (Leviticus 27:30-33). The New Testament usage assumes this cultural background but applies it metaphorically to argue for Christ's superior priesthood, rather than prescribing a financial practice for the church.

ἀποδεκατόω (apodekatoō, G586) — to tithe or give a tenth, often with a sense of setting aside; used in contexts like tithing mint and herbs (Matthew 23:23, Luke 11:42).

Word Details

Scripture References