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In-depth reading on Tzedakah — what it means, its Torah sources, parsha insights, and how to give today.

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13 articles

Chayye Sarah - Avraham’s Purchase of the Cave of Machpelah: The Foundation of Honest Tzedakah

Chayye Sarah - Avraham’s Purchase of the Cave of Machpelah: The Foundation of Honest Tzedakah

Avraham’s purchase of the Cave of Machpelah is more than a burial story—it is a lesson in honest tzedakah. By insisting on paying full price with transparency, Avraham teaches that true righteousness begins with integrity. Tzedakah is not only about giving, but about fairness and honesty in all we do.

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Tevet, the Siege of Jerusalem, and a Proactive Approach to Transform Darkness
Dec 25, 2025

Tevet, the Siege of Jerusalem, and a Proactive Approach to Transform Darkness

The month of Tevet is marked by darkness, cold, and historical tragedy, yet Jewish tradition teaches that tzedakah can bring light even in the hardest times. Through acts of charity and kindness, we counter sorrow with hope, sustain our communities, and invite Divine presence into the world. Giving during Tevet transforms a season of mourning into an opportunity for healing, compassion, and spiritual renewal.

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Opening Your Hand Today: Ancient Mandates for a Modern Tzedakah World
Dec 24, 2025

Opening Your Hand Today: Ancient Mandates for a Modern Tzedakah World

Tzedakah remains one of the most timeless mitzvot, guiding us to open our hearts and support others with compassion and foresight. From preventing hardship before it occurs to addressing individual needs with sensitivity, the Torah’s ancient mandates fit seamlessly into today’s digital world. Modern tools—automated donations, online campaigns, and targeted support—allow us to give consistently, thoughtfully, and with dignity, fulfilling the mitzvah of tzedakah in both spirit and action.

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3 Lessons on Proper Tzedakah Giving: The Story of Nakdimon ben Gurion
Sep 1, 2025

3 Lessons on Proper Tzedakah Giving: The Story of Nakdimon ben Gurion

Once a wealthy miracle rainmaker in Jerusalem, Nakdimon ben Gurion’s fall from honor teaches timeless lessons on giving Tzedakah.

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The City That Banned Tzedakah: Sodom’s Tragic Legacy
Aug 7, 2025

The City That Banned Tzedakah: Sodom’s Tragic Legacy

Sodom, the city that banned charity, wasn’t destroyed for immorality alone. Rabbeinu Bahya explains how criminalizing kindness led to divine judgment—and why it matters today.

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How to choose a cause

How to choose a cause

Choosing where to give tzedakah can be challenging. Learn how Jewish values can help guide your decision by balancing local needs, personal passions, and the impact an organization has on the people it serves.

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Embracing Education

Embracing Education

Learn how investing in Torah learning helps shape future generations, strengthen communities, and preserve the Jewish tradition.

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Supporting Your Neighbor With Dignity

Supporting Your Neighbor With Dignity

Learn how Jewish tradition teaches us to support others with dignity. Explore practical, Torah-based ways to give tzedakah that preserve self-respect, encourage independence, and strengthen people before hardship becomes a crisis.

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Funding Food Pantries

Funding Food Pantries

Learn why supporting food pantries is one of the clearest expressions of tzedakah. Drawing on Torah, Rashi, the Rambam, and Chazal, this article explores the Jewish obligation to prevent hunger and strengthen those in need before they fall into crisis.

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Sharing With Your Shul

Sharing With Your Shul

Discover why supporting your local shul is one of the most impactful forms of tzedakah. Learn how synagogues serve as centers of Torah, prayer, community, and chesed, strengthening Jewish life for generations.

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How Should You Divide Your Tzedakah

How Should You Divide Your Tzedakah

How should you divide your tzedakah? Explore a practical Torah-based approach to balancing support for poor families, Jewish education, synagogues, and meaningful causes while following Jewish priorities for giving.

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The Power of a Penny

The Power of a Penny

Discover how even a single penny can make a real difference through tzedakah. Learn how small donations, when combined, help feed families, clothe children, and support those in need.

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