9.4 Tzedakah (Charity) and Gemilut Hasadim (Acts of Kindness)

Jewish tradition emphasizes tzedakah (charity) and gemilut hasadim (acts of kindness) as core practices. These concepts go beyond optional good deeds, representing moral and legal obligations rooted in justice and the belief that all wealth belongs to God.

Tzedakah and gemilut hasadim are central to Jewish life, with teachings stressing their importance. The Talmud equates tzedakah to all other commandments combined. These practices are seen as ways to emulate God's compassion and fulfill the biblical command to "walk in His ways."

Tzedakah and Gemilut Hasadim in Jewish Tradition

Defining Tzedakah and Gemilut Hasadim

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• Tzedakah refers to the Hebrew term for charity or righteousness, often denoting the religious obligation to allocate a portion of one's wealth to assist those in need
• Gemilut hasadim encompasses a wider range of altruistic deeds beyond financial assistance, including visiting the sick, comforting mourners, and offering hospitality
• Jewish tradition views tzedakah not as a voluntary act of benevolence but rather as a moral and legal obligation rooted in the principles of justice and fairness
• The practice of tzedakah and gemilut hasadim stems from the belief that all wealth ultimately belongs to God, and humans are entrusted with the responsibility to distribute it equitably among society
• Jewish sages emphasize that the highest form of tzedakah involves helping others achieve self-sufficiency through means such as providing employment opportunities or offering interest-free loans

The Importance and Centrality of Tzedakah

• Tzedakah holds a central role in Jewish religious life, with numerous teachings and commandments emphasizing its significance
• The Talmud states that tzedakah is equal in importance to all other commandments combined (Bava Batra 9a)
• The medieval sage Maimonides (Rambam) asserts that one who ignores the plight of the poor is considered as having worshipped idols (Mishneh Torah, Laws of Gifts to the Poor 10:3)
• Jewish tradition teaches that engaging in acts of tzedakah and gemilut hasadim has the power to avert divine decrees and bring redemption to the world
• The practice of tzedakah is seen as a means of emulating God's attributes of compassion and generosity, as well as fulfilling the biblical commandment to "walk in His ways" (Deuteronomy 28:9)

Biblical and Rabbinic Sources for Charity

Biblical Commandments and Narratives

• The Torah contains numerous commandments and exhortations to care for the poor and vulnerable, such as "you shall open your hand to your brother, to your poor and needy in your land" (Deuteronomy 15:11)
• The biblical tithe system (ma'aser) required setting aside a portion of agricultural produce for the Levites, strangers, orphans, and widows (Deuteronomy 14:28-29)
• The Torah instructs farmers to leave the corners of their fields (pe'ah) and the gleanings of their harvests (leket) for the poor to gather (Leviticus 19:9-10)
• Biblical narratives, such as the story of Boaz and Ruth, demonstrate acts of kindness and generosity towards the needy (Ruth 2)
• The prophetic books contain numerous admonitions to care for the disadvantaged and critique societal injustices that neglect the poor (Isaiah 58:6-7, Amos 5:11-12)

Rabbinic Literature and Codification

• The Talmud elaborates on the principles and practices of tzedakah, with tractate Bava Batra (8a-11a) dedicating significant attention to the topic
• Maimonides (Rambam) codified eight levels of tzedakah in his Mishneh Torah, with anonymous giving to unknown recipients being the highest level and reluctant giving being the lowest
• The Shulchan Aruch, a 16th-century codification of Jewish law, stipulates that individuals should allocate at least 10% (ma'aser) of their net income to tzedakah (Yoreh De'ah 249:1)
• Rabbinic literature discusses the priorities and distribution of tzedakah funds, emphasizing the importance of supporting local needs first before assisting distant communities (Bava Metzia 71a)
• The Talmud praises the virtues of those who engage in gemilut hasadim, stating that such acts of kindness are among the pillars upon which the world stands (Pirkei Avot 1:2)

Forms and Recipients of Tzedakah

Diverse Forms of Giving

• Tzedakah can be given in the form of money, goods, time, or expertise, depending on the needs of the recipient and the means of the giver
• Monetary donations, whether in cash or through online platforms, remain a common form of tzedakah in contemporary times
• Donating essential goods, such as food, clothing, or medical supplies, can provide immediate relief to those in need (food banks, clothing drives)
• Volunteering one's time and skills, such as mentoring, tutoring, or providing pro bono services, is considered a valuable form of tzedakah
• Supporting Jewish education, religious institutions, and communal infrastructure through financial contributions is another form of tzedakah that strengthens Jewish continuity

Traditional and Expanded Recipients

• Traditional recipients of tzedakah include the poor, orphans, widows, the elderly, the sick, and those in need of financial assistance for basic necessities or life-cycle events
• Jewish communities often establish communal tzedakah funds (kupat tzedakah) to collect and distribute donations to various causes and individuals in need
• In times of crisis or emergency, such as natural disasters (earthquakes, floods) or wars, Jewish communities mobilize to provide additional tzedakah and support to affected populations
• Contemporary tzedakah has expanded to include philanthropy, social responsibility, and tikkun olam initiatives addressing global issues such as poverty, hunger, and social injustice
• Jewish organizations and foundations, such as the American Jewish World Service and the Joint Distribution Committee, engage in international development and humanitarian aid projects as expressions of tzedakah and gemilut hasadim

Contemporary Applications of Tzedakah vs Gemilut Hasadim

Evolving Landscape and Challenges

• The rise of online giving platforms and crowdfunding has transformed the landscape of tzedakah, enabling individuals to support a wider range of causes and connect with recipients more directly
• The increasing wealth gap and the persistence of poverty within Jewish communities pose challenges in ensuring that tzedakah reaches those most in need and promotes long-term solutions to economic inequality
• Balancing the obligations of tzedakah with other financial responsibilities, such as providing for one's family and saving for the future, requires careful consideration and prioritization
• The professionalization of Jewish philanthropic organizations has led to debates about the effectiveness, accountability, and Jewish values guiding their work

Tzedakah and Gemilut Hasadim in Action

• Jewish youth movements and educational programs often incorporate tzedakah and gemilut hasadim projects to instill these values in the next generation (tikkun olam trips, service learning)
• Synagogues and community centers organize regular volunteer opportunities and donation drives to engage members in acts of kindness and charitable giving
• Jewish free loan societies provide interest-free loans to individuals and families facing financial hardship, embodying the highest form of tzedakah by promoting self-sufficiency
• Jewish organizations advocate for social justice causes and policy changes that address the root causes of poverty and inequality, recognizing the need for systemic solutions alongside individual acts of tzedakah
• Interfaith partnerships and collaborations enable Jewish communities to join forces with other faith-based and secular organizations in combating global challenges and promoting the shared values of compassion and justice