Philanthropy Through a Jewish Lens

What does it mean to “give Jewishly”? That was the question at the heart of our recent workshop led by Rabbanit Ahava Schachter Zarembski. Through a deep dive into Jewish texts, we explored how Jewish teachings provide both a spiritual and practical framework for how we relate to money, giving, and justice.

Here are some of the key insights Rabbanit Ahava emphasized:

• Our Tradition Gives Us a Framework The Torah is a legal and economic blueprint. It sets up systems to address poverty, redistribute resources, and ensure that no one is left behind. From the Torah’s perspective, systemic poverty is manmade. Our tradition insists on a different kind of society, one that is aware of and takes care of those who have less.
• We Are in Relationship with the Divine God is hidden in this world, but our actions can reveal holiness. This includes how we act with money. Every act of giving is an opportunity to partner with the Divine and help repair the world. Ultimately, the Jewish people are meant to be a friend of God. We strengthen this friendship every time we engage in sanctified giving.
• Giving is Spiritual In Jewish tradition, giving is a spiritual practice. All resources ultimately belong to God; we are simply vessels for blessing. When we deploy our wealth in service of others, we channel godliness into the world.
• Tzedakah and Terumah: Two Distinct Lenses One of the most significant takeaways was the distinction between tzedakah  and  philanthropy. Tzedakah  is a mitzvah, a legal and moral obligation that rebalances economic injustice. It is a commandment not to turn away from someone in need, not to harden our hearts. In contrast, terumah — meaning “to lift up”—is an offering that connects us to something greater than ourselves. It expresses belonging, support for community, and voluntary generosity. This is the form of giving where we pursue the passions and causes that we hold dear.
• Money Must Be in Sacred Circulation The Torah describes money like blood in the body, it must continue to circulate. When wealth becomes stagnant, it stops serving its sacred purpose. Our task is to let it flow: to give when we are blessed, and to receive when we are in need. Giving and receiving among the Jewish people should be as natural as breathing.

Hungry for more learning opportunities? Keep an eye on your inboxes and our events page for learning events this fall!