Alms - Judaism

Judaism

In Judaism, tzedakah - a Hebrew term literally meaning righteousness but commonly used to signify charity - refers to the religious obligation to do what is right and just. Contemporary tzedakah is regarded as a continuation of the Biblical Maaser Ani, or poor-tithe, as well as Biblical practices including permitting the poor to glean the corners of a field, harvest during the Shmita (Sabbatical year), and other practices. Tzedakah, along with prayer and repentance, is regarded as ameliorating the consequences of bad acts.

In Judaism, Tzedakah (charity) is seen as one of the greatest deeds that man can do. The bible states that Jews must give at least 10% of their income to the poor. Jewish farmers are also commanded to leave the conners of their fields for the starving to harvest for food and are forbidden to pick up any grain that has been dropped during harvesting, as such food shall be left for the starving as well.

Famous Jewish scholar and sage Maimonides has been noted for creating a list of charity, with the most righteous form being allowing an individual to become self-sustaining and capable of giving others charity.

1) Giving begrudgingly

2) Giving less that you should, but giving it cheerfully.

3) Giving after being asked

4) Giving before being asked

5) Giving when you do not know the recipient's identity, but the recipient knows your identity

6) Giving when you know the recipient's identity, but the recipient doesn't know your identity

7) Giving when neither party knows the other's identity

8) Enabling the recipient to become self-reliant