Contrary to the misconceptions of many, tithing was not initiated with the Laws of Moses. Though the tithe was a mandatory requirement after the giving of the Law, it was a financial principle which was observed by godly men long before the Laws of Moses came into effect. It traces its origin to the very beginning of history.
There is a definite indication that the tithing principle was first practiced when Cain and Abel brought the “first fruits” of their labors unto the Lord (Gen. 4:3,4). This lends support to the fact that God originally created this divine principle and imparted it to Adam.
The patriarchs of Israel also observed this principle hundreds of years before the institution of the Law. Abraham gave “tithes of all” to Melchizedek, King of Salem (Gen. 14:20, K.J.V.). Jacob made an oath unto the Lord concerning his commitment to the tithe:”…all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee” (Gen. 28:22, K.J.V.).
These references prove the existence of the tithe principle long before the legal requirements of the Laws of Moses.
