The benefits of giving to charities that help the poor aren’t limited to recipients. Philanthropy is a two-way street with the potential to enrich donors’ lives as well. This is something Jews know as a fact of life. Generosity and giving are fundamental values in the Jewish tradition, with countless teachings on the importance of tzedakah and chesed (acts of kindness). Keep reading to learn how giving back through Jewish charity can have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being.
The Psychological Benefits of Giving to Others
The mental benefits of giving to others are well-documented and extensive. Scientists believe that acts of kindness and generosity can have a positive impact on our mental well-being, including reducing stress levels and promoting feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
One explanation for this is the release of dopamine in the brain when we engage in altruistic actions. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in our brain’s reward system, and it is often referred to as the “feel-good” chemical. When we give to others, whether through acts of kindness or charitable donations, dopamine levels increase, leading to a sense of pleasure and fulfillment.
How the Benefits of Giving Ground Us
Beyond the individual benefits of giving lies a deeper impact on our mental well-being – a sense of purpose and connection to something greater than ourselves.
When we give to others, we are reminded that we are part of a larger community and have the power to make a positive impact. This can be especially meaningful for individuals struggling with feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Giving to others can also help us gain perspective on our own problems and challenges. By focusing on the needs of others, we are able to step outside of our own thoughts and gain a greater sense of gratitude for what we have.
How Giving Traditions are a Part of the Jewish Community
The important Chabad figures behind the teachings of the Chabad movement were wise in both faith and psychology. Their emphasis on the value of tzedakah and philanthropy was not just based on religious doctrine but also on the positive effects it has on individuals and communities.
The concept of tzedakah, which is derived from the Hebrew word for righteousness or justice, means to give charity in pursuit of a just world. Tzedakah is not just about giving to those in need, but it is also a spiritual obligation for Jews. It is seen as a way of fulfilling God’s commandment to help others and make the world a better place.
The Eight Degrees of Giving prescribe several capacities by which Jews can fulfill their religious obligation to give back. Our values see generosity as a year-round and lifelong commitment rather than a seasonal act. Donations for orphaned children, support groups for widows, and non-profit efforts against hunger are all equally as important as Hanukkah gelt and Purim traditions of giving. We must recognize the need for philanthropy every single day, treating it as the self-sustaining, world-changing force it is.
Promote Your Own Psychological Well Being By Getting Involved With Jewish Non-Profits
Jewish non-profit organizations offer an easy way to give back to the community while also promoting your own psychological well-being. These organizations focus on various aspects of Jewish life, such as education, social services, and advocacy. Getting started is straightforward – it starts with choosing an organization that aligns with your values and interests.
Why Donate to Israeli Charities Like Colel Chabad?
Israel is full of prominent Jewish charities to donate to. So many, that you may be unsure where or which way is best to give. Colel Chabad is the best charity to give to by virtue of being the most well-established. Over its 200-year history, our organization has played a meaningful role in supporting the Jewish community’s sustenance and growth.
We aren’t just a charity for children’s education, a charity for widows, or a charity for healthcare – rather, a non-profit dedicated to addressing the full breadth of issues Jewish people face today. Donations to these causes are now more important than ever as Israel’s current state of affairs drags on. We consider our work critical to sustaining Jewish values and promoting the longevity of our history as a people.
The impact of donating to Jewish non-profits like Colel Chabad is massive. We make it easy to give in a way that suits your budget and preferences. You can donate online, through the Pushka app, and even set up monthly recurring donations to ensure a consistent impact over time. Every dollar goes towards providing necessities like food, shelter, education, and other essential services to those in need.
Give Back and Feel Good In More Ways Than One
In Judaism, the act of giving does not simply end with donating money. It also encompasses actions and words that show kindness to others. This includes offering help, volunteering time and resources, or even just being there for someone in need. Colel Chabad currently operates several non-profit programs throughout Israel that you can sign up to volunteer for, such as delivering meals to the elderly or helping with childcare for single-parent families.
The psychological benefits of giving are yours to reap – experience them today by signing up for donations and getting involved with Colel Chabad. You’ll not only be making a positive impact on those in need, but you’ll also feel good about yourself knowing that you are part of something bigger than yourself.