What is the first occurrence of tithing in the Bible?
The first occurrence of tithing in the Scriptures is found in Genesis 14:17-20. In this passage Abram (better known as Abraham, revered as father of the faith), has been victorious in battle. He is met and greeted by Melchizedek, who was king and priest of the ancient city of Salem (often identified with Jerusalem), who blesses Abraham. As an act of thanksgiving for his victory in battle and for the blessing of Melchizedek, Abram gave him one tenth of everything (vs. 20). What is significant about this passage is not simply the fact that it is the first recorded instance of tithing in Scripture, but the motivation and reason for this tithe. Abraham tithed as an act of thanksgiving and praise. The basis for tithing in the Old Testament is not the law, since the law had not yet been given, but thanksgiving and praise. Our tithing ought to be so motivated. We tithe because we are grateful for what God has already done and what God has already given. Reprinted from Less than Tipping: Quest
