What is the ideal age for a leader?
At a recent conference for leaders of major Jewish organizations, I had the privilege of representing Colel Chabad, Israel’s oldest and largest food security organization. While speaking on a panel about the challenges and opportunities facing “legacy” institutions, I noticed that I was by far the youngest person onstage — which was interesting because Colel…
Unpacking the Rabbinical Analyses of the Gemara
Jewish law (halacha) is thousands of years old, so it makes sense that there are many records about it. The Talmud comprises a comprehensive collection of the most important. Its two parts, the Mishnah and the Gemara, detail prominent rebbes and Jewish leaders’ interpretations of religious values relating to household peace, protecting the poor, and…
The Mishnah: Jewish Oral Traditions in Writing
Protecting the poor and engaging in charity has psychological benefits, but that’s far from the first reason why Jews give tzedakah (charity). It’s a mitzvah (a commandment from G-d) and a cornerstone of Jewish ethics. The Mishnah teaches that tzedakah is not just about giving money, but about actively participating in tikkun olam – the…
Nevidut and the Virtue of Generosity Explained
Anyone familiar with Jewish values or the teachings of Chabad rebbes knows our faith places a deep emphasis on altruism. However, some have a surface-level understanding of that religious maxim. Simply donating to a good Jewish charity every few months is commendable, but short of the full meaning of compassionate giving. We all have the…
Generosity and Charity as Taught By the Torah
Life doesn’t come with an instruction manual – it comes with something better. The Torah is every Jew’s unequivocal guide to fulfillment, peace at home, and a saved soul. Its teachings on generosity are similarly the basis for philanthropic initiatives both in local community synagogues and across the Jewish diaspora. This article spotlights the Torah’s…
Justice and Righteousness: Understanding the Meaning of Mishpat
No human is perfect. We’re broken by nature, which is a large reason why the world needs repair (tikkun olam). Jewish beliefs promote justice, fairness, and righteousness as a way to build the world with kindness (olam chesed yibaneh) and for the better. In practice, it’s known as mishpat. This article explains its interpretation of…
Why Anonymous Giving Is the Most Meaningful Kind in Jewish Philanthropy
For some people, simply donating to a good Jewish charity and knowing they’ve made an impact through giving is enough. Others want to be the ones to deliver their contributions to recipients. All acts of altruism and amounts of tzedakah are valuable in either case. Those who want to fully embrace the meaning of tzedek,…
Integrating Jewish Values Into Corporate Giving
Businesses exist for the main purpose of making money. People, however, are on this earth for a higher purpose. What if we were to combine the two? What if businesses could use their resources and influence to make a positive impact on the world while still turning a profit? Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and strategic…
How the Jewish Community Benefits From Charity
Every act of loving kindness makes a difference. The magnitude of that positive change, however, depends on where and how charitable efforts are focused. Jewish community organizations know this well. Our combined efforts make a sizable impact in supporting and protecting the poor, needy, and vulnerable. But even on an individual level, adopting a philanthropic…
Al Tifrosh Min Hatzibur Is More Relevant Than Ever in 2024
Jewish philanthropists and influential religious leaders have long recognized the importance of staying connected and supporting one another, especially during challenging times. The Talmud teaches us, ‘al tifrosh min hatzibur’ which translates to, ‘do not separate yourself from the community’. This principle is more relevant than ever in our modern age. Keep reading to learn…