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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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10 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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When and How Charity Can Be Reallocated According to the Talmud
Sep 2, 2025

When and How Charity Can Be Reallocated According to the Talmud

Explore the Talmud in Arakhin 6a–6b on tzedakah flexibility—how charity can be reallocated while honoring the donor, fulfilling vows, and serving the community.

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Tzedakah’s Mystical Power in the Tanya: The Cosmic Chainmail
Sep 2, 2025

Tzedakah’s Mystical Power in the Tanya: The Cosmic Chainmail

Explore Tzedakah's Mystical Power as taught by the Baal HaTanya—each coin a scale of cosmic chainmail, shielding us and drawing divine light and blessing.

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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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Tzedakah Stronger Than Death: Rabbi Yehuda on the Power of Giving
Aug 7, 2025

Tzedakah Stronger Than Death: Rabbi Yehuda on the Power of Giving

“And death is stronger than them all—but charity saves from death.” Discover Rabbi Yehuda’s teaching on the spiritual power of 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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Tzedakah: The Transformative Power of Charity in Jewish Tradition
Sep 2, 2025

Tzedakah: The Transformative Power of Charity in Jewish Tradition

Explore the spiritual and communal impact of tzedakah—how the transformative power of charity elevates the giver, protects the community, and channels the Divine light.

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The Eight Levels of Tzedakah, black and white picture of the Rambam
Aug 27, 2025

The Eight Levels of Tzedakah — Guide to Giving with Compassion

Not all giving is equal. Rambam’s eight levels of Tzedakah show how to give in ways that preserve dignity, empower independence, and make a lasting difference.

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