The power of philanthropy and tzedakah lies in both where it’s given and how evenly it’s distributed. If you’ve ever wondered to whom to give tzedakah first, we can help you find a worthy cause in this article. Here we will explain the principles behind prioritizing tzedakah recipients and offer guidance on how to make informed decisions about your charitable giving.
An Overview of Tzedakah
Tzedakah, or charity, is a Jewish principle focused on giving to those in need. The word “tzedakah” comes from the Hebrew interpretation of the words: righteousness (mishpat), justice, and fairness.
Unlike the English word “charity,” which suggests benevolence and generosity, tzedakah is seen as a moral obligation and an act of tzedek (justice). This concept is deeply ingrained in Jewish tradition and is considered a sanctification of G-d’s name that all Jews are expected to practice.
Tzedakah is not limited to monetary contributions, it can also include giving one’s time, resources, or skills to benefit others. Related Jewish values, such as chesed (loving-kindness), complement and reinforce such practices.
Are There Rules on Giving Tzedakah?
There are no ‘rules’ on to whom to give tzedakah first, per se. The Gemara’s interpretations of the Mishnah and its teachings reflect the opinions of hundreds of prominent rebbes throughout Jewish history who each had a slightly different perspective. But there are well-regarded frameworks worth considering when deciding to whom to give tzedakah first.
For example, Maimonides compiled the Eight Degrees of Giving to serve as a guide map for which causes and acts of charity and loving kindness warrant the most priority. Where unconditional and anonymous charity is highly regarded as particularly powerful. No matter how you give, though, the Talmud’s teachings are clear that every good deed is worth celebrating – Bava Batra 9b states, “Tzedakah is equal to all the other commandments combined”.
How to Prioritize to Whom to Give First
In modern charitable giving concepts, tzedakah can encompass a wide range of philanthropic initiatives, from supporting local community organizations to contributing to global humanitarian causes. While the principles of tzedakah are universal, the specific applications can vary based on individual circumstances and what specific communities need to thrive. It doesn’t necessarily matter how much you give, the power of philanthropy and tzedakah lies in both where it’s given and how evenly it’s distributed.
Some general guidelines for prioritizing tzedakah recipients include:
- Family members in need
- Local community members
- Institutions of Jewish learning
- Broader Jewish causes
- General humanitarian efforts
It’s important to note that priorities may shift depending on the context, needs, and resources at hand. For instance, supporting educational initiatives or organizations that promote self-sufficiency can create lasting change. According to the Maimonides teaching the highest form of tzedakah is helping someone become self-reliant. Charity in times of global crisis is also considered a priority because of its potential to do immediate good.
Indiscriminately Practicing Tzedakah and Other Jewish Values
It’s worth recognizing that tzedakah is only one aspect of tikkun olam (repairing the world). Chabad leaders invite us to build the world with kindness in the way we live life and treat others. Would someone whose mitzvot (good deeds) begin and end with protecting the poor be considered the picture of altruism?
While halacha (Jewish law) identifies that demographic among the top priorities in tzedakah, we shouldn’t deny anyone human dignity and respect. After all, every man and woman on Earth is made equal. A female Jewish philanthropist you meet today may have once been someone reliant on support groups for widows or assistance through children’s education programs. There is similarly nothing stopping yourself or someone you love from falling ill and needing the help of a non-profit healthcare group.
Why Tzedakah Is a Top Priority in the Jewish Community
The significance of community in Judaism is seen in countless religious scripts and teachings for a reason. Our local synagogues are places of worship but also places for art fundraisers, clothing drives, and food donations for organizations against hunger – that’s because we recognize life’s unpredictability and indiscrimination. And we know that health and peace in our homes are only achievable when we collectively embrace mutual responsibility.
Knowing Your Priorities in Tzedakah Is One Thing, Prioritizing Tzedakah Is Another
You don’t need to be a rich and famous Jewish philanthropist to make a meaningful impact. While there is a connection between one’s wealth and obligation to give, everyone is expected to perform philanthropic work and service in the community. You simply need to be in the right place at the right time and carry a willingness to put others first.
Luckily, traditions of giving create opportunities to do various forms of good throughout the Jewish calendar year. For instance, we can honor Passover with hachnasat orchim (hospitality) towards others in the form of a seder meal. Shavuot (the Feast of Weeks), which celebrates the giving of the Torah (the five books of Moses) to the Israelites, is often treated as a charitable holiday with donations to worthy causes. Music and festivals throughout the year serve as a platform to engage with fellow community members who may have trouble staying connected.
Ma’aser kesafim (tithing), prayers and blessings, participation in corporate giving programs, and plenty of other everyday actions help us not only remember priorities in tzedakah, but the fact that tzedakah is a life-long priority.
Colel Chabad: Honoring Tzedakah Made Easy
With priorities in tzedakah made clear, the question becomes how to effectively implement these principles in our daily lives. This is where historic Jewish organizations like Colel Chabad play a crucial role – as the oldest non-profit of its kind in Israel, with over two centuries of historic charitable work to show. Our approach aligns closely with the traditional Jewish priorities of tzedakah, as well as those of the Chabad movement.
Colel Chabad’s diverse array of charitable programs provides ample ways to give charity to the poor. But we aren’t just leaders in initiatives against poverty, in a modern Jewish diaspora fraught with crises, donations to us make a difference everywhere.
Household Groceries
Our Household Groceries Program delivers essential kitchen staples to over 8,500 impoverished families across Israel every month. Additionally, 26,130 families shop worry-free at major supermarkets using Colel Chabad Eshel credit cards, ensuring they have access to nutritious food and household necessities.
Mass Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
Each year, Colel Chabad sponsors a grand celebration for orphaned children who have lost a parent. This event brings together hundreds of young people for Mass Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremonies, allowing them to mark this important rite of passage surrounded by loved ones and community support.
Grabski Medical Center
Located in Safed, one of Israel’s poorest cities, the Colel Chabad Grabski Medical Center provides comprehensive primary care services to families in need. Our state-of-the-art facility includes a dedicated pediatric wing, addressing the healthcare needs of the area’s substantial youth population.
Donate Today
The decision of to whom to give Tzedakah first isn’t easy. If you want to ensure your contribution goes far in any case, choose Colel Chabad. With such a large network, we’re the best Israeli charity to support causes big and small. Get involved by signing up to volunteer or donating online today.
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