Tzedakah, which literally translated from Hebrew means “justice,” is a primary tenet and practice of Judaism. Jews are commanded to contribute to the tzedakah cause from the earliest possible age, being even pre-Biblical in origin. Tzedakah is a term that covers most, if not all of the activities usually thought of as charity. This includes providing support for those in material need and taking on responsibilities towards those in need of help. While charity is often thought of as a voluntary act, in Judaism, tzedakah is a divine mandate which is a biblical term for justice and compassion. It might be thought of as a parallel to the idea of karma in some Eastern faiths, or to the Christian concept of works.
This giving of charity is part of a larger set of commandments known as “chesed” that define much of Jewish life. By performing these acts of kindness, one is fulfilling their mitzvah or God’s commandments, and serving their fellow man. Jewish tradition puts particular emphasis on taking and giving tzedakah. Jews are actually mandated to give at least 10 percent of their income (in some interpretations it’s 20 percent) to charity, and not to assume anonymous donations for it. This practice of giving is not restricted to financial giving but can also include volunteering in general and assistance in kind. In any case, tzedakah binds Jewish people together, connoting the linkage of a person’s spiritual fortune to the rest of humanity through a continuous process of giving. It serves the purpose of making each individual’s fortune dependent, in part, upon the collective wellbeing of the community.
Tzedakah is not about just giving money to a good cause. It is about dedication to a greater purpose. Jews who observe this mandate often do so in the spirit of solidarity and compassion with others, as a reminder to help those most in need. The word “charity” implies some degree of pity or condescension, while the word “tzedakah” has humardoctor, social, and ethical implications. It is part of the responsibility of good deeds, and an expression of compassion and justice.The giving of charity is seen as an obligation that all Jews must do, and one that is of utmost religious and moral importance.
There are several various types of tzedakah, ranging from ongoing annual contributions to one-time donations. An important aspect is that there is no legal way to exempt oneself from this mandate. Each Jew, regardless of income level, must give for more than just tax reasons. There is no upper limit to the amount of charity that a Jew may provide. Donations may be made bequests (will), which allow for future donations that go beyond the lifetime of the donor.
Though the idea of donating to the tzedakah cause according to Jewish tradition is based on charity, there are other important motivations for the giver. Charity is seen as a divine mandatory, necessary to give order and peace to an otherwise chaotic world and when one donates, they will receive reward both in this world and in Olam Haba (the world to come). According to the Torah, charity should be given with a full heart—not with the attitude of pity or ostentation. Generosity and charity should be done without expecting a reward of any kind.
Transparency and Accountability
In Jewish tradition, one should always be aware of where their money is going and make sure that the organization that receives their donation has remained transparent and accountable. It is also important to give money to organizations that will use the money in a wise, efficient and responsible manner, with the goal of improving the plight of the recipients. Lastly, charity should be given in a respectful manner, devoid of any judgment or criticism of those in need.
Charity Dispel Poverty
Giving to charity is seen as an effective way to help those in need and to tackle poverty. In Judaism, it is believed that when one gives charity, they are actively contributing to reducing poverty and leading to a better world. A combination of money, expertise and supportive resources can be used to help those in need and to reduce poverty and suffering. Offering material aid and emotional support is also a form of charity. It is the idea that individuals, communities and society can work together to create a better future for everyone by providing support and resources to those who are in need.
Prayer in Tzedakah
Judaism holds a special place for prayer in tzedakah. Prayer is seen as one of the most powerful ways in which one can show their commitment and understanding of charity. Through prayer, one can express feelings of compassion, awareness and compassion for others, express gratitude for blessings, seek divine support and guidance, and perform acts of kindness. Prayer helps individuals to focus on the source of their blessings and to become aware of their spiritual connection with G-d. Prayer also has the ability to bring people closer together and encourages people to give of themselves.
Interconnectivity of Tzedakah
One of the main values of tzedakah is that it highlights the interconnectedness of all things. The notion of justice and righteousness implies an obligation to look for solutions for those in need. By participating in tzedakah, the giver is contributing to the common good and the wellbeing of their community. This can also extend beyond a local community to the world at large, emphasizing not only what is ethically right, but also what benefits the whole of humanity.
Balancing the Spiritual Dimension
When engaging in tzedakah, it is also important to consider the spiritual needs of those in need. Donating money is important, but it is also important to understand that there are many intangible forms of spiritual or emotional help that can be given to others. One way to provide support beyond financial means is to provide emotional and spiritual support to those in need by providing advice, listening and offering comfort.
Judgement of the Giver
In addition to giving to charity, it is also important to consider the judgement of oneself when evaluating the amount given. It is believed in Judaism that while it is important to give generously and consistently, it is equally important to evaluate oneself by considering one’s own level of comfort when making donations to ensure that one is not depriving oneself in order to give.
Circumstances to Lowered Giving
Another important concept to consider when giving tzedakah is that of lowered giving, which allows for individuals to lower the amount of charity given if they are in difficult financial circumstances. This is not seen as a sign of dishonesty or as shirking from charitable obligations, but instead as a recognition of one’s subjective financial, social and emotional circumstances.
Overcoming Youth Apathy
The participation of youth in the giving of tzedakah is also a significant issue in Jewish tradition. Studies have shown that the current generation of young people are less likely to give or participate in philanthropic activities than previous generations. Cultural and educational efforts can be made to counter this trend, such as teaching the importance of tzedakah in school, providing guidance on smart giving, or connecting youth to meaningful charities.
Continuing the Legacy
The giving of tzedakah is a powerful concept that is embedded in the core of Judaism and continues to hold importance to this day. It has the power to improve the life of individuals in need and can bring about lasting change for communities and societies at large. It is an important part of the Jewish tradition that continues to stand the test of time and is passed from generation to generation.
