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The Mitzvah of Tzedakah
The Torah teaches that each of us should donate money to assist those who are less fortunate as written in this Mitzvah derived from four Pesukim:
1. The primary verse is "Rrather you shall open your hand to him" (Devarim 15:8)- one should open one's hand to the less fortunate;
2. "You shall surely Give him" (ibid. v. 10)- one should give to a poor person in need;
3. "If your brother becomes impoverished in his means falter in your proximity, you shall streanthen him" (Vayikra 25:35)-you should offer support to a person in need;
4. "And let your brother live with you" (ibid. v. 36)-one who helps those in need fulfills a number of Torah commands.
God encourages us to develop the mitzvah of tzedkah to promote the trait of chesed, which is kindness, compassion, and mercy. When we give to those less fortunate than ourselves, we put ourselves in a position to receive God’s blessings. When we are merciful to others, God can show His mercy to us. Rambam, one of the most respected of the ancient rabbis wrote: “One who does not have clothing to wear one should give him clothing. One who does not have necessary furniture or household utensils should be given those items.”
In observing the mitzvah of tzedkah we should try and give to others what they most need.
