Brief Overview of δεκατόω (G1183: dekatóō)

Dékatóō (pronounced deh-kah-TOH-oh) is a Greek verb derived from the root δέκα (déka), meaning “ten.” This verb is used primarily in the context of a financial or ceremonial tithe. As a verb, δεκατόω generally denotes the action of giving or setting aside a tenth part of something, often related to offerings or tithes in religious or economic contexts.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: δέκα (déka), meaning “ten.”
• Part of Speech: Verb.

Primary Meanings:

• To Tithe: The main meaning of δεκατόω is to give or set aside a tenth part of something, typically as a contribution or offering.
• To Give a Tenth: In financial or ceremonial contexts, it denotes the action of allocating a tenth part, especially in religious tithing practices.

Scripture References

1. Matthew 23:23: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe (δεκατόω, dekatóō) of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.”

• Transliteration: dekatóō

1. Luke 11:42: “But woe to you Pharisees! For you pay tithe (δεκατόω, dekatóō) of mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.”

• Transliteration: dekatóō

1. Hebrews 7:5: “And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes (δεκατόω, dekatóō) of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham.”

• Transliteration: dekatóō

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Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Early Christian Literature) defines δεκατόω as “to take or give a tithe.” It focuses on the practice of setting aside a tenth part of one’s possessions as an offering or for religious purposes. BDAG highlights the term’s use in the context of Jewish tithing practices, where a tenth part was given to support the temple and its priests.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes δεκατόω as “to give or take a tenth part,” emphasizing its use in both religious and economic contexts. It notes that the term is applied in the New Testament to describe the practice of tithing as outlined in Jewish law.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary confirms that δεκατόω refers to the act of tithing or giving a tenth part. It provides insights into its application in the Old Testament law and its continuation into New Testament practice, where it is mentioned in relation to the Pharisees’ adherence to tithing laws.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance gives a straightforward definition of δεκατόω as “to tithe,” focusing on its function as a verb related to the act of giving a tenth part.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Aristotle’s “Politics”: Although δεκατόω is not explicitly used, Aristotle discusses various forms of taxation and contributions, including the practice of setting aside a tenth part of income, reflecting the general concept of tithing.
2. Plato’s “Laws”: Plato addresses practices related to financial contributions and offerings. While δεκατόω itself is not mentioned, the principles of tithing and setting aside a portion of one’s wealth are discussed.
3. Xenophon’s “Economics”: Xenophon explores financial management and contributions, including the concept of setting aside a portion of income. The concept of δεκατόω is reflected in his discussions of economic practices, though the term itself is not used.

Summary

Dékatóō (G1183) is a Greek verb meaning “to tithe” or “to give a tenth part.” Derived from the root δέκα (ten), it primarily refers to the practice of setting aside a tenth part of something, often in religious or economic contexts. The term is used in the New Testament to describe the practice of tithing as observed by the Pharisees and commanded in Jewish law. Classical Greek literature reflects the principles underlying this practice, though δεκατόω itself may not always be explicitly mentioned. The term plays a significant role in understanding the practices of tithing and financial contributions in both biblical and historical contexts.