ots@ohrtorahstone.org.il

Question:
What exactly is the scope of the mitzvah of tzedakah (charity)? Is one obligated to give tzedakah to every individual or organization that requests aid?

Answer:
If a beggar asks for money in order to buy himself food or medicine, one is obligated to give a donation - even just a nominal amount, since we do not know what the true extent of his need is. When an approach is made by an educational institution then one is certainly permitted to ask about the educational approach and to refuse support if one does not identify with its ideology and direction.

The distinction between these two types of giving is quite clear. If a person claims that he needs money in order to survive, then one is not permitted to go into too much detail; he must be given assistance immediately - even if only in the form of a small donation. In the case of an educational institution, everyone is entitled to support the educational ideology in which he or she believes and not to support those which he feels represent a negative influence.

It should be noted that aside from the donation that is or is not given, the attitude is very important. Our Sages teach that every person should be received with a pleasant facial expression - and especially those who are in difficult straits. A kindly word and a cool drink are often no less important than the donation itself. This is especially important for the education of one's children, who should observe and learn how to relate to those who knock on our doors for help.

If you have a question for Q & A, send it to ots@ohrtorahstone.org.il . We cannot guarantee that all questions received will be answered in this column.

Return to Ohr Torah Stone