thinking bible.

You asked

how does the old testament concept of tithing relate to this widow's offering?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Mark 12:41-44

Jesus sat down opposite the treasury, and he saw how the multitude cast money into the treasury. Many who were rich cast in much. A poor widow came, and she cast in two small brass coins, which make a quadrans. He called his disciples to himself, and said to them, "Most certainly I tell you, this poor widow gave more than all those who are casting money into the treasury, for they all gave out of their abundance, but she, out of her poverty, gave all that she had to live on."

This passage comes near the end of Jesus' public ministry, shortly before his crucifixion. He is teaching in the Temple in Jerusalem, observing people's contributions to the Temple treasury. He uses the actions of a poor widow to illustrate a profound spiritual truth to his disciples.

How does the value of generosity shift when measured by sacrifice rather than quantity?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Leviticus 27:30

    Describes the Old Testament requirement for tithing a tenth of the produce of the land or livestock.

  • Deuteronomy 14:22-29

    Outlines specific instructions for how tithes and offerings were to be used, including for the Levites, sojourners, orphans, and widows.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:12

    Paul speaks about giving generously according to what one has, not what one doesn't have, highlighting the willingness of the giver.

Ask your own follow-up