TITHING: A SACRED ACT OF GRATITUDE THAT FUELS COMPASSION AND CARE
Akhil Gupta, Founder UEF
The Enduring Practice of Tithing: A Cross-Religious Exploration
Tithing, the act of regularly giving a specific portion of one’s income, is significant in many religions. While the concept may appear financially restrictive, its deeper meaning transcends mere money. Tithing not only fosters a connection between the giver, the recipient, and the divine, but also leads to profound spiritual growth and social responsibility.
In Judaism, the practice of tithing is explicitly commanded in the Torah. The Book of Leviticus states, “A tithe of everything from the land that the LORD produces belongs to the LORD” (Leviticus 27:30). This tithe was designated for the support of the Levite priesthood and the maintenance of the Temple, demonstrating the importance of sustaining the religious infrastructure.
Though not explicitly bound by the same laws, Christianity carries forward the spirit of tithing. The New Testament mentions Jesus referencing tithing, but with a focus on intention over obligation (Matthew 23:23). Tithing in Christianity is seen as an act of gratitude and a way to support the church’s mission, making believers feel connected and part of a larger purpose.
Islam also incorporates a similar concept known as Zakat. Zakat is a mandatory charitable contribution calculated as a percentage of one’s wealth. This obligatory charity is meant to purify one’s possessions and assist the less fortunate. The Quran states, “They ask you about intoxicants and gambling. Say, ‘In both is great sin and [yet, some] benefit to people. But the sin is greater than the benefit’” (Quran 2:219). Here, wealth is seen as a trust from God, and Zakat ensures its responsible distribution.
Beyond the specific amounts and beneficiaries, tithing fosters a sense of gratitude and dependence on a higher power. Believers practice humility and detachment from material wealth by acknowledging that all possessions ultimately come from a divine source. As author and motivational speaker Denis Waitley observes, “True wealth is not measured in money, but in the things money cannot buy — happiness, relationships, and peace of mind.” Tithing becomes a way to prioritize these values.
Furthermore, tithing strengthens communities by directing resources towards those in need. Religious institutions funded by tithes often provide social services, run educational programs, and offer disaster relief. This financial support creates a safety net for vulnerable members of society, exemplifying the core principles of many religions: compassion, charity, and social justice. It makes believers feel empathetic and responsible towards their community.
In conclusion, while the specifics of tithing may differ across religions, its core message remains consistent. Tithing is a practice that cultivates gratitude, fosters dependence on the divine, and strengthens communities through charitable giving. It is a testament to the enduring power of generosity and the belief that true wealth lies not just in material possessions but also in spiritual connection and social responsibility.
Nearly all civilizations have practised some form of philanthropy. Many ancient civilizations levied a tithe, or tax, for low-income people. The Egyptians and the people of Greece gave money to establish libraries and universities. By encouraging members to tithe, medieval churches supported hospitals and orphanages. Under the Mosaic law, a tenth part of all the increase of the flocks, of the land, and all income was to be given into the Lord’s treasury. Long before Moses’ day, however, Melchizedek, King of Salem, blessed Abraham, and Abraham gave to Melchizedek a tithe of all he possessed.
Insightful Quotes on Tithing
Christianity
“A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.”
– Leviticus 27:30
Judaism
“Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.”
– Deuteronomy 14:22
Islam
“O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth. And do not aim toward the defective therefrom, spending [from that] while you would not take it [yourself] except with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.”
— Quran 2:267
Hinduism
“The wealth of the generous never wastes away, while he who will not give finds none to comfort him.”
— Rigveda 10.117.6
Buddhism
“Conquer the angry man by love, conquer the ill-natured man by goodness, conquer the miser with generosity, and the liar with truth.”
– Dhammapada 223
Sikhism
“The tenth part of the earnings goes to charity. The Naam is in the heart, the master is over the head.”
– Guru Granth Sahib, Page 286
Baha’i
“The most despised of men before God is he who sits and begs. Lay not the burden of your existence upon others.”
— Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, Words of Wisdom