Cosmology
Transmissions of power and authority at the communal level are usually symbolized by tithing and anointing. Tithing is a transmission of matter and power from below, in which portions of material resources are offered up to support the head. Anointing is a transmission of meaning and authority from above. Oil resembles golden light and makes what it covers glossy and reflective. Oil was also fuel for lamps, so like breath, it serves as a vehicle of light/meaning.
(The Language of Creation: Cosmic Symbolism in Genesis - A Commentary by Matthieu Pageau, 2018. Pages 85-87)
The Story of Tithing
After Chedorlaomer and the kings with him were defeated in the War of Nine Kings, the king of Sodom met Abram at the Valley of Shaveh (the King's Valley). And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He blessed Abram, saying, "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, / Possessor of heaven and earth; / and blessed be God Most High, / who has delivered your enemies into your hand!"