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Tithed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tithed

[taɪðd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

religious practice

To tithe means to give a tenth of one's income, typically to support religious institutions or charities. This practice has its roots in various religious traditions, especially within Christianity and Judaism, where it is seen as a way to acknowledge one's blessings and support the work of the church or community. Tithing is often regarded as a moral obligation for believers, representing both an act of faith and a commitment to stewardship. The practice can vary widely in terms of what is included in the calculation of 'income' and how the tithed amount is allocated within a religious institution.

Synonyms

contribute, donate, offer.

Examples of usage

  • Many congregants tithe to support their local church.
  • He decided to tithe his bonus to a charity.
  • Tithing is a common practice among many religious groups.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The practice of tithing dates back to ancient times, notably in biblical texts, where it was seen as a way to support religious leaders and the needy.
  • In the Middle Ages, European churches established formal tithing systems, which often became mandatory for all who lived in a parish.
  • The word 'tithe' comes from the Old English term 'teogotha', which means 'tenth', reflecting the common practice of giving ten percent of one's harvest or income.

Religious Significance

  • Many Christian denominations encourage tithing as a moral obligation, believing it fosters generosity and supports the church's mission.
  • In Judaism, tithing is known as 'ma'aser' and is an important part of charitable giving, highlighting the act of sharing one's blessings with others.
  • Muslims also practice a form of giving similar to tithing called 'Zakat', which requires a portion of wealth to be donated to those in need, promoting social equity.

Cultural Practices

  • In some cultures, tithing has evolved to include not just money, but also time and talents devoted to community service.
  • In certain communities, tithing is celebrated through communal events where members gather to share how their contributions have helped others.
  • Modern interpretations of tithing often encourage individuals to think beyond just monetary donations, suggesting gifts of time and skills can be equally valuable.

Economic Implications

  • Tithing can have significant economic impacts, as regular donations help sustain religious institutions that provide various social services.
  • During economic downturns, churches often rely on tithes to maintain operations and continue supporting outreach programs for those affected.
  • Some studies suggest that communities with higher tithing rates experience stronger social bonds and collective support systems.

Modern Applications

  • Many contemporary churches are embracing technology by allowing congregants to tithe through online platforms, making it easier to give.
  • The concept of tithing has also found its way into secular contexts, where some individuals choose to 'tithe' their time to volunteering or supporting causes they care about.
  • In personal finance, some people advocate for a 'tithing mindset' to encourage budgeting and intentional giving as part of financial planning.

Origin of 'tithed'

The word 'tithe' originates from the Old English 'teogotha', which literally means 'tenth part.' This term is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*tehunditho', which similarly connotes the idea of a tenth. In medieval Europe, tithing was established as a formal practice, primarily within the Christian faith, where it was mandated that congregants donate a tenth of their annual harvest or income to support the church. The practice can also be traced back to biblical sources, particularly in the Old Testament, where it is mentioned in the context of agricultural produce and livestock. Over the centuries, the specifics of tithing evolved, and while it remains a foundational element in some religions, its interpretation and implementation can vary widely. In modern contexts, tithing encompasses not just monetary contributions but also acts of service and support for community initiatives.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,516, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.