Tzedakah

Tzedakah

Charity v.s. Tzedakah
Most people think charity and tzedakah are the same thing, but they have similarities and differences. Charity means “from the heart”, which is true but people only give from their heart when they want to. So if someone is not in a good mood they probably won’t want to give money. Tzedakah
comes from the Hebrew word tzedek, meaning “justice”. As a Jew you have an obligation to perform deeds of justice.

Levels of Tzedakah
There are eight levels of tzedakah. The two I think are most important are giving before being asked and giving anonymously. I think giving before you are asked is a really good thing. It shows that you really want to do it from you not someone asking you to do it.

Can kids perform Tzedakah?
Yes, kids can perform tzedakah. Although kids might not be able to give as much money as adults, tzedakah isn’t only giving money. Tzedakah is also giving your time, such as helping at a food bank or soup kitchen.

What does Tzedakah have to do with Judaism?
Tzedakah has to do with Judaism because it comes from the Torah. It was written that Jews had to give 10% of their earnings to the poor. Also when you give tzedakah you are acting justly.

How should Tzedakah be given?
Tzedakah can be given however you choose. Whatever or however you decide to help such as giving money or giving time, you should do it all from your heart.


By: Sari Pullan 6B