During Old Testament times, the Israelites were required to give 3 different tithes. They were the Levites Tithe, the Festive Tithe, and the Charity Tithe. They amounted to 23% per year, which is significantly more than the 10% common tithing practice in church (which is not commanded in the Bible) we have today. Levites Tithe: Paid to the Levite priests. Equivalent to paying for the livelihood of Christian ministers. 10% monthly. Festive Tithe: Used to host the annual Feast of the Tabernacles in commemoration of God bringing the Israelites out of Egypt. Equivalent to paying for an annual party for the community. 10% annually. Charity Tithe: Given to the poor, the widows, the foreigners, or any groups in need. Equivalent to charity. 10% every 3rd and 6th year of each 7 year cycles. There are other offerings in the Old Testament, but these are the three "tithes" that each is commanded to give by law. Source: The book God and Money