Custom, ordinance or commandment? The evolution of the medieval monetary-tithe in Ashkenaz

Abstract

In this study the author describes the evolution of the medieval monetary-tithe ( ma‘sar kesafim ) in Germany from the late twelfth century until the fifteenth century. He traces the references to the practice found in rabbinic literature and describes the developments that occurred in terms of its practice and with regard to its perception. The monetary-tithe first appears in rabbinic sources in the late twelfth century and early thirteenth century as an established practice, but one whose character is that of a pious custom. Later on, during the late thirteenth century, there is evidence that in certain communities the tithe became part of public policy, as part of an initiative to organize communal charity. And finally during the fifteenth century, again at least in certain areas, the practice is described as a rabbinic commandment incumbent upon all segments of society.