Question on Tithing Within Judaism

Email from Alex Bernstein: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’m familiar with the concept of tithing in Christianity. Does a similar practice exist in Judaism where members give a portion of their income?”

Response from Rabbi Joshua

Shalom Alex, your question regarding tithing touches on important aspects of charity and communal responsibility in Judaism. Let’s explore this practice.

Historical Tithing in Judaism

Historically, the Torah mandates several types of tithes. One of these is “Ma’aser Rishon,” where a tenth of one’s produce was given to the Levites, who served in the Temple and had no land of their own. Another, “Ma’aser Sheni,” involved setting aside a second tithe to be eaten in Jerusalem or converted to money used for food there during pilgrimage festivals. Every third and sixth year of the seven-year agricultural cycle, this second tithe was instead given as “Ma’aser Ani,” a tithe for the poor.

Modern Practice of Tzedakah

In contemporary Jewish practice, the concept of tithing is most closely associated with “Tzedakah,” which is often translated as charity but is more accurately understood as righteousness or justice. Tzedakah is a fundamental Jewish practice and is considered an obligation rather than a voluntary contribution. While there is no fixed percentage, the tradition encourages giving approximately ten to twenty percent of one’s income to charitable causes.

Tzedakah and Communal Responsibility

Tzedakah goes beyond mere giving; it is about fulfilling one’s ethical duty to assist those in need and to contribute to the well-being of the community. This can take many forms, including giving money to the poor, supporting educational institutions, or contributing to social welfare projects.

Varying Practices

Practices around tithing and Tzedakah can vary among different Jewish communities. Some may adhere closely to the tradition of giving a tenth, while others may focus on the spirit of the law, giving as they are able and according to the need they perceive.

Conclusion

Alex, tithing in its traditional form as described in the Torah is not commonly practiced in the same way today. However, the principles underlying the practice — supporting religious functions, helping the poor, and strengthening the community — continue through the practice of Tzedakah.

If you have more questions or are interested in the various ways Jews fulfill the commandment of Tzedakah, please feel free to reach out.

Kind regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Understanding the Ritual of Tearing Clothes in Judaism

Email from Elizabeth Miller: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I recently attended a Jewish funeral and noticed that the family members of the deceased tore their clothes. Could you explain the significance of this act?”

Response from Rabbi Joshua

Shalom Elizabeth, you are referring to a very poignant and meaningful Jewish mourning practice known as “Keriah,” which is Hebrew for tearing. Let’s delve into its significance.

The Meaning of Keriah

Keriah is the act of tearing one’s clothes, which mourners perform upon learning of the death of a close relative. This act is a powerful expression of grief and loss. It symbolizes the mourner’s inner pain and the irreparable loss caused by the death of a loved one.

Biblical Origins

The tradition of Keriah has its roots in the Hebrew Bible, where we see several instances of individuals tearing their garments as a sign of mourning or distress, such as Jacob when he believed his son Joseph was dead (Genesis 37:34), or Job upon hearing of the loss of his family (Job 1:20).

When and How Keriah Is Performed

Traditionally, Keriah is performed immediately upon receiving news of the death or at the beginning of the funeral service. The mourner makes a small tear in the garment over the heart, a symbolic expression of the heartbreak caused by the death. If the deceased is a parent, the tear is made on the left side, closer to the heart, and for other relatives, on the right side.

The Significance of the Garment

The torn garment is worn during the period of “Shiva,” the seven days of intense mourning following the burial. This practice is a public sign of mourning and reflects the Torah’s emphasis on expressing and confronting grief rather than suppressing it.

Contemporary Practices

In modern times, some mourners may opt to wear a torn black ribbon instead of tearing their actual clothes, which serves the same symbolic purpose and conforms to the spirit of the tradition.

Conclusion

Elizabeth, Keriah is a deeply symbolic act that connects the mourner to a long tradition of Jewish expressions of grief. It is a profound external manifestation of the internal sorrow and a step in the journey of coming to terms with the loss.

If you have any further questions about Jewish mourning customs or any other aspect of Jewish life, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you comfort and peace,

Rabbi Joshua