To give charity

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 479) explains that giving tzedakah expresses belief that wealth is entrusted by Hashem. By sharing with the poor, one demonstrates trust that blessing and sustenance ultimately come from G-d, not personal possession.

Charity – צְדָקָה

• Rambam (Hilchot Matanot Aniyim 7:1) rules that tzedakah is a Torah obligation binding on every Jew, even the poor. His eight levels of tzedakah place greatest value on enabling independence, making charity into structured justice rather than optional generosity.

Compassion – רַחֲמִים

• Talmud (Ketubot 67b) teaches that the needy should be supported according to their dignity — even providing comforts they were accustomed to. This reflects compassion that preserves self-respect alongside provision.

Justice – צֶדֶק

• Rambam (Hilchot Matanot Aniyim 10:1) emphasizes that tzedakah is not mercy alone but justice, as the poor are entitled to a share in the community’s resources. The mitzvah ensures fairness in distributing Hashem’s blessings.

Kindness – חֶסֶד

• Beyond obligation, tzedakah cultivates acts of lovingkindness. The Talmud (Bava Batra 9a) states that tzedakah and chesed together sustain the world, balancing duty with heartfelt generosity.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• Sefer HaChinuch notes that widespread giving creates a community bound by mutual responsibility. The mitzvah ensures that no one is abandoned, strengthening social cohesion.

Gratitude – הוֹדָיָה

• Giving charity reminds us that all possessions are gifts from Hashem. By sharing them, we express gratitude for what we have and acknowledge His providence.

Humility – עֲנָוָה

• Rambam (Hilchot Matanot Aniyim 10:4) stresses giving with dignity, so the recipient is not shamed. This cultivates humility in the giver, reminding us that wealth is not a source of pride but a means of serving Hashem and others.

Bein Adam L’Chavero – בֵּין אָדָם לַחֲבֵרוֹ

• Tzedakah is one of the clearest expressions of obligations between people. It refines character, prevents cruelty, and ensures justice and compassion in interpersonal relationships.