Tzedakah vs Charity: The Key Differences : News

The Jewish practice of Tzedakah is often thought to be a religious form of charity. While in its effect Tzedakah does resemble the act of charity in a lot of ways, it is, in fact, different. Both charity and Tzedakah aims at helping the needy. However, the distinction between the two can be deciphered by anyone who knows the true meaning of the Hebrew word Tzedakah. The word originated from the Hebrew root Tzadei-Dalet-Qof, which means justice. While others view charity as an act of benevolence, Tzedakah in Judaism is merely described as doing what is righteous. This is one of many key differences between other charities and Tzedakah. To help you conceive the full depths of this wonderful practice, here’re 5 ways Tzedakah is different from charity.

There are no higher or lower forms of charity. From sparing a few dollars for the homeless to donating millions, all charitable work is considered noble without ranking any act above the other. Tzedakah, on the other hand, has 8 different levels based on how and what type of help is provided. Based on its societal impact, the act of Jewish giving can be categorized into one of the 8 levels of Tzedakah. For example, giving money with reluctance and grudge is considered the lowest form of Tzedakah while helping someone find a job and be self-reliant is deemed to be the highest. It’s the religious duty of a Jewish individual to thrive for the higher forms of Tzedakah.

Tzedakah is not just about donating a few dollars to charitable causes. The goal of Tzedakah is to make the recipient financially independent so that he or she can start helping others. This is exactly why providing jobs and opening joint-venture businesses with people in need are considered to be the highest form of Tzedakah. This approach helps better the financial future of entire communities and takes a step towards eradicating poverty.

Charities are voluntary contributions while Tzedakah is a religious duty. According to the Talmud, Tzedakah is as important as all the other commandments combined. The Jewish law describes the act of giving Tzedakah as Mitzvah, which means a religious duty to perform a good deed.

Philanthropists around the world donate to charitable causes out of love and compassion. Even though most Jewish individuals have love in their heart when donating to worthy causes, it’s not done out of pity or to feel good. Pious Jews truly believe that Tzedakah is the means to distribute fairly the resources of the world. This is why Tzedakah is all about doing what is right.

Unlike regular charity which is free of any rules, there are a few Tzedakah guidelines that need to be adhered to. Right from the total annual contribution towards Tzedakah to the 8 different levels, these guidelines helps bring structure and makes this practice even more effective in curbing poverty. By announcing it as a way of serving justice, it also ensures the donor remains humble and not boastful.