The Bible and the Tax Man

The Bible and the Taxman

by

Ogden Kraut

Taxes have existed since the establishment of the first government among men. But taxes can, like anything else, be just or unjust, beneficial or abusive—and the line between them is difficult to recognize. The Bible, as usual, is a textbook even for this interesting and sometimes controversial subject.

From the first book of the Bible, and almost its first chapter, we discover the words, “And thou shalt rule over him” as part of the issue of government between Cain and Abel. This was only a government between two young men; however, Cain was warned that if he did well, it would be acceptable; but if not, sin would come knocking at his door. This was to become a precedent for individuals and governments forever after. And in every succeeding generation, when men sought to develop a system of government, a revenue agent was usually there—either as a Dr. Jekyl or a Mr. Hyde.