Tithes

Some priesthoods, the most powerful ones in a culture, are able to demand tithes of their followers. A tithe is an amount of money, often represented as a fraction of the money-earner's regular wage, which the follower is required to pay to the priesthood. Theoretically, it is used for upkeep of churches and temples, purchase of supplies and equipment for the priests, etc. Some priesthoods also use these moneys for influence with the government; a very few corrupt priests dip into it for personal gain.

In an AD&D® game campaign, only the religion of a monotheistic state, or the state religion, will be able legally to demand tithes of its followers. Such tithes will usually run from 5% to 15% of the character's income, with 10% being most common.

Priesthoods of other faiths will ask their followers to tithe a like amount. Naturally, not all their followers will tithe and so such religions bring in less tithed income than those who can demand it.

Player-character priests don't get to see that money; it is recorded by church accountants, stored in church treasures, and distributed or spent by superior priests.

Table of Contents