Answer:
A tithe comes from the Hebrew word ma`aser (mah-as-ayr’) which literally means a tenth. That is where we get the 10%.
There were many types of offerings in the Bible. Some were given above and beyond the ma`aser or tithe, and other offerings were given at different times by themselves as a special tribute to God. There were also alms which was money given to help the poor.
Tithes and offerings are two different things as demonstrated in Malachi. Malachi 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
In the New Testament, the people gave very liberally and it far exceeded a tithe. Some sold all they had and gave generously.
The most important thing is to give with a loving and generous heart. Everything belongs to God, we only hold it for a short time while we are on this earth. We are simply stewards over the things He entrusts to us.
Above all, give joyfully.
Thanks,
Pastor Brad