δεκατόω (dekatoō)
dekatoō
to tithe
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb dekatōō means to take or pay a tenth part, specifically in the context of tithing. In the New Testament, it appears only twice, both within the book of Hebrews, where it functions as a technical term for this religious obligation rather than a general metaphor.
Its usage highlights a legal and historical framework. The author of Hebrews uses it to describe Abraham receiving tithes from Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:6) and Levi paying tithes through Abraham’s loins (Hebrews 7:9). This precise language anchors the argument in established Jewish practice, showing how the old covenant system operated before the introduction of a new priesthood.
Derived from the word for "tenth," the verb is straightforward in meaning. It does not carry the rich emotional or spiritual connotations found in other Greek words for giving or love. Instead, it serves as a factual descriptor of transactional religious duty, emphasizing the structural aspects of the law that the author of Hebrews goes on to explain are temporary and fulfilled in Christ.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dekatōō simply means to pay a tenth. It appears only twice in the New Testament, both in Hebrews chapter 7. The author uses this precise term to describe a historical transaction: Abraham gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek. This was not a metaphor for generosity but a factual record of an established practice under the old covenant.
Understanding this word helps us see how the writer of Hebrews builds his argument. By showing that Levi, the ancestor of the priests, effectively paid tithes through Abraham, he highlights the superiority of Melchizedek’s priesthood. This ancient duty points toward a new reality where Christ serves as our eternal high priest.
For your faith, this reminds us that God honors order and history. The old system was real and binding for its time, but it pointed forward to something greater. We can trust that Jesus fulfills what the law could only shadow. His priesthood is permanent, offering us rest and assurance that no longer depends on temporary rituals.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he has collected a tenth1×
- has paid the tithe.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δεδεκάτωται.1×
- δεδεκάτωκεν1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 7:6
but he whose genealogy is not counted from them has accepted tithes from Abraham, and has blessed him who has the promises.
This verse records Melchizedek accepting tithes from Abraham, establishing the historical precedence for a priesthood greater than Levi.
-
Hebrews 7:9
We can say that through Abraham even Levi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes,
Here the author argues that Levi paid tithes through Abraham’s loins, showing the inferiority of the Levitical priesthood in comparison to Melchizedek.