Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'tithe of the land' mean in Leviticus 27:30?
A: The 'tithe of the land' refers to the biblical commandment (mitzvah) to separate 10% (ma'aser) of one's agricultural produce and give it to the Levites, who served in the Temple and had no land of their own. This is explained in the Torah (Numbers 18:21-24) and discussed in the Talmud (Tractate Ma'aserot).
Q: Why is the tithe called 'holy to the Lord'?
A: The tithe is called 'holy to the Lord' because it is designated for sacred purposes—either given to the Levites (ma'aser rishon) or eaten in Jerusalem (ma'aser sheni). The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aser 1:1) explains that holiness means it is set aside for a higher spiritual purpose and cannot be used for mundane matters.
Q: Does the commandment of tithing apply today?
A: While the biblical tithe primarily applied when the Temple stood, some aspects remain today. For example, in Israel, farmers still separate terumah and ma'aser from produce (though not given to Levites). The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 331) discusses modern agricultural tithes, and many follow the custom of giving 10% of income to charity (tzedakah) in the spirit of this mitzvah.
Q: What is the difference between 'seed of the land' and 'fruit of the tree' in this verse?
A: Rashi (on Leviticus 27:30) explains that 'seed of the land' refers to crops like wheat and barley, while 'fruit of the tree' refers to produce like grapes, olives, and figs. Both require tithing, but the Talmud (Bava Metzia 88a) details different laws for grains versus fruits, such as when they become obligated in tithes.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the mitzvah of tithing?
A: The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 34:6) teaches that tithing reminds us that everything we own ultimately belongs to Hashem, and we are merely stewards. By giving a portion back, we cultivate gratitude and humility. The Rambam (Hilchot Matnot Aniyim 10:2) also emphasizes that generosity brings blessing and refines our character.
The Concept of Ma'aser (Tithe) in Torah
The verse (Vayikra 27:30) establishes the fundamental obligation of separating ma'aser (tithe) from agricultural produce. According to Rambam (Hilchos Ma'aser 1:1), this mitzvah applies specifically to produce grown in Eretz Yisrael. The Torah emphasizes that this portion belongs to Hashem, as Rashi explains: "Kodesh la'Hashem" - it is sanctified for Divine service.
Types of Produce Subject to Ma'aser
The Holiness of Ma'aser
The repetition of "la'Hashem" teaches, as the Kli Yakar notes, that the tithe carries inherent sanctity. This holiness means:
Contemporary Application
While the full ma'aser system applies only when most Jews live in Eretz Yisrael, the Chazon Ish (Shevi'is 7:7) discusses how aspects remain relevant today for those farming in Israel. The concept also informs our general attitude toward charitable giving, as the Ramban explains that ma'aser teaches us that our possessions ultimately belong to Hashem.