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The College of William and Mary Department of Religion released this Hebrew-English annotated translation of Moses Maimonides' treatise on philanthropy, Gifts for the Poor by Rabbi Joseph Meszler. This part of Maimonides' law code, the Mishneh Torah, describes the philosophy and history of Jewish giving. Beginning with legislation found in the Torah, Maimonides traces the origins of Jewish philanthropy from the individual Israelite farmer in biblical times to Maimonides' contemporary scene where charity had become a communal obligation. Rabbi Meszler's introduction to the treatise explains Maimonides' understanding of the reason for giving. Rather than see tzedakah (philanthropy) as a commandment to be fulfilled for a divine reward, Maimonides views giving tzedakah as a way of ennobling the giver on a path of virtue.
Joseph B Meszler
Rabbi Joseph B. Meszler is a noted spiritual leader and educator, recognized for his ability to connect the importance of Jewish tradition with everyday life. He is coauthor of The JGuy's Guide: The GPS for Jewish Teen Guys and author of A Man's Responsibility: A Jewish Guide to Being a Son, a Partner in Marriage, a Father and a Community Leader; Witnesses to the One: The Spiritual History of the Sh'ma and Facing Illness, Finding God: How Judaism Can Help You and Caregivers Cope When Body or Spirit Fails (all Jewish Lights). He is the rabbi at Temple Sinai in Sharon, Massachusetts, and an instructor at the Kehillah Schechter Academy.
Rabbi Joseph B. Meszler is available to speak on the following topics:
- The Spiritual History of the Sh'ma: What "God Is One" Might Mean
- Not Your Father's Brotherhood: What Being a Jewish Man Meant Then and Now
- How Judaism Can Help You Cope with Illness
Click here to contact the author.
More by Joseph B Meszler
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