By Rabbi Yisroel Shemtov
The literal meaning for the word Tzedakah is justice. However, it is more commonly translated as charity. Charity implies kindness performed out of the goodness of one’s heart, but which is by no means obligatory. Tzedakah means much more than that. Tzedakah means “doing right,” implying an obligation to help others — financially, materially, spiritually and in any way possible. Tzedakah is not limited to gifts of money. Sharing time, expertise, or even a kind smile are all forms of charity.
“Pushka” – Charity Box
A charity box is a Jewish tradition that dates back to the times of the Temple. Having a small box designated for charity in our home is a great way to help those less fortunate. Try to put a coin in everyday, and when it is full, give it to someone in need or an organization of your choice.
The reason for giving a coin to charity everyday, is the universal power of daily giving. Compassion and kindness are strengthened by consistency. Giving small amounts everyday will help “train” ourselves to become givers.
We are all concerned with the increased polarization in our society which leads to intolerance and division. To change the trajectory of the way things are going we need to give ourselves more opportunities to express compassion and kindness through consistent action.
Having a Pushka in our home elevates our living space as well “A charity box in a home or office,” the Lubavitcher Rebbe taught, “redefines the entire space. It is no longer just a home, just an office. It is a center of kindness and caring.”
Once, a charity collector once visited a wealthy man in the hopes of receiving a donation. The wealthy fellow politely explained how he would love to give but can’t, because he already gave his share of charity for the year. As evidence, he pointed to a pile of receipts on his desk.
The collector looked around the room, noticing his beautiful surroundings in the wealthy man’s home. Respectfully, he asked his host whether he could share a Torah insight. The wealthy man agreed.
“During the time of our Holy Temple in Jerusalem,” began the collector, “a Jewish livestock owner was obligated to tithe his flock. How was this done? He would pen the cattle in an enclosure and open up the door. As each animal exited the enclosure he would count: one, two, three, etc. When he counted the tenth, he would mark the animal with red dye. That animal would then be set aside to be brought to Jerusalem.
“A question,” continued the collector, “is asked regarding this prescribed process. Why make the rancher endure this whole process of penning the animals and then driving them out the exit? Why not just take ten percent off the top, add a few extra to ensure that no less than the required ten percent was tithed, and avoid this seemingly time-consuming and senseless exercise?
“The answer,” concluded the collector, “is that a very profound message is being conveyed to the rancher by virtue of this process. As each animal goes out the door, it is as if the Almighty is telling the person, ‘One is for you, two is for you, three is for you . . .’ After giving the owner nine, the Almighty then asks for only one. After getting to keep nine, the rancher is content, and realizes how all of his wealth comes from G‑d—and that though he is giving, he is getting much more.”
The point hit home. The wealthy man recognized his many blessings and happily gave a generous donation.
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Rabbi Yisroel Shemtov grew up in Brooklyn, NY. After finishing Yeshiva, Rabbi Shemtov went on to becoming ordained at the Rabbinical College of America in Morristown, New Jersey. Rabbi Shemtov has served as a student Rabbi in communities across the world. Including in Bulgaria, Wyoming, South Dakota and California where he has led educational and holiday programs. He has taught children through Torah Tutors, an online Jewish studies platform.
