by Ram ben Ze'ev
The concept of tzedakah (charity) in Judaism goes far beyond the simple act of giving. While often translated as "charity," tzedakah is more accurately understood as "justice" or "righteousness." It is seen not merely as an ethical obligation but as a powerful force with spiritual, physical, and communal implications. In Jewish thought, tzedakah is a pathway to atonement, a source of protection from misfortune, and an act that draws Divine blessings. It serves as a unique connection between the giver, the receiver, and G‑D, offering profound benefits for both body and soul.
Jewish tradition teaches that tzedakah has the capacity to atone for sins and protect a person from harm. The Talmud frequently emphasizes this, citing verses like Mishlei 10:2, which states, "Charity saves from death." This has been interpreted by the sages to mean that giving tzedakah can shield a person from both physical danger and divine punishment. The act of giving generates merit, which serves to counterbalance one's misdeeds, enabling atonement and potentially averting suffering that may arise from those missteps.
In his Mishneh Torah, Maimonides underscores that there is no greater mitzvah than tzedakah. For Maimonides, tzedakah is not only a mitzvah that helps the recipient but also a transformative act for the giver. By giving, one develops attributes such as compassion, humility, and a sense of responsibility for the well-being of others. These traits are essential to the refinement of the soul. This process of purification is how tzedakah serves as atonement, leading to both spiritual and emotional healing for the giver and creating a lasting impact on their character.
In addition to its power as an atonement, tzedakah is also viewed as a form of healing. The Talmud (Bava Batra 9b) teaches that “whoever gives tzedakah is saved from harm in this world and from judgment in the next.” This suggests that acts of charity have tangible effects, safeguarding a person from misfortune, illness, and calamity. In this sense, tzedakah is not just a remedy for the soul; it can also be seen as a safeguard for one’s physical well-being.
"The greatest blessings are bestowed on those who work for the support of Torah."
ליקוטי מכתבים ומאמרים - להח׳׳ח מכתב ס׳׳ב
Jewish mystical teachings, particularly those of Kabbalah, also affirm the idea that tzedakah opens the channels for divine blessing and protection. The act of giving aligns the individual with the divine attribute of chesed (loving-kindness), thereby tapping into the spiritual energy that sustains and protects life. By participating in tzedakah, one invites divine blessings into their life, creating a shield against both spiritual and physical harm. This highlights the profound interplay between giving and receiving: as one gives, they create space for divine blessings to enter their own life, benefiting both their body and soul.
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One of the most powerful ways tzedakah is framed in Jewish thought is as a “loan” to G‑D. This concept originates from the verse in Mishlei 19:17: “One who is kind to the poor lends to the L-RD, and He will repay him for his deed.” In this understanding, when a person gives charity, they are seen as extending a loan to G‑D, who in turn promises to repay it. The repayment is not only material but often includes spiritual and emotional blessings, strengthening the giver’s connection to both G‑D and the community.
The Midrash elaborates on this idea by affirming that G‑D is always faithful in repaying such “loans,” often in ways that exceed the giver’s expectations. This teaching highlights the deep relationship between the giver, the receiver, and G‑D. By helping those in need, the giver fulfills a divine mandate, and G‑D, in turn, protects and blesses the giver. Thus, tzedakah is not simply an act of human kindness; it is a profound spiritual transaction. The giver entrusts G‑D with their act of generosity, and G‑D responds with blessings that ripple through the giver’s life.
In Jewish tradition, tzedakah is far more than an act of charity—it is a pathway to personal and communal transformation. Through tzedakah, one not only assists those in need but also purifies their own soul and protects their physical well-being. It is a spiritual transaction in which the giver extends trust to G‑d, confident that their act of kindness will be met with divine blessings. The Talmudic and mystical teachings that emphasize tzedakah as atonement, protection, and healing affirm its central role in Jewish life.
By understanding tzedakah as a “loan” to G‑D, the act of giving is elevated from a simple charitable gesture to an expression of trust and faith in Divine justice. Through this sacred act, one invites divine blessings into their life and the lives of others, creating a ripple effect of kindness, protection, and healing that extends far beyond the initial act of giving.
However, the highest form of tzedakah is one that is done anonymously, without seeking recognition or praise. Jewish tradition teaches that true tzedakah is best given when neither the giver nor the receiver knows each other’s identity. This kind of tzedakah reflects the deepest trust in G‑D, knowing that the only One who truly matters is already aware of your kindness.
It is essential not to share your acts of charity with others or broadcast them on social media, as this diminishes the spiritual purity of the act. Publicizing tzedakah shifts the focus from the needs of others to the recognition of the self, detracting from the selfless nature of the mitzvah. When tzedakah is given quietly, without expectation of acknowledgment, it becomes a pure act of compassion, done for the sake of justice and love, not for the sake of personal gain or status.
G‑D sees every hidden act of kindness, and His rewards far surpass any recognition from others. Let your tzedakah be between you and G‑D, and in that privacy, you will invite the greatest blessings into your life.
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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews Limited, Mayside Partners Limited, MEADHANAN Agency, Kestrel Assets Limited, SpudsToGo Limited and Executive Director of Hebrew Synagogue