Tzedakah :צדקה For the Jewish people it means neither charity nor philanthropy, both of which are positive deeds that allow the donor to feel good about themselves. Tzedakah is different because it is a way of life rather than occasional act of benevolence. Tzedakah is not about bricks and mortar, nor is it about the building of institutions no matter how worthy. Tzedakah is something Jews do on a daily basis in order to alleviate immediate hunger and suffering among the less fortunate. Tzedakah bolsters the local Jewish community and one’s personal sense of belonging. Tzedakah maintains the powerful connection between individual Jews everywhere and the Land of Israel. And, through this connection to the Holy Land, Tzedakah fosters and fortifies global Jewish life and connectivity. Israel is the hub while each spoke represents – and interconnects – a different community. As such, Tzedakah is a benefit to both the giver and the beneficiary. Indeed, it is the single common denominator shared by all Jews everywhere, regardless of their affiliation, manner of religious observance, or personal lifestyle.