Ways to Contribute

At Congregation B’nai Israel, we strive to build a loving community by acts of tzedakah, G’milut Hasidim (deeds of loving kindness), contributions to the synagogue and efforts such as the Kantor Family Center for Justice.

But what is tzedakah really all about? Tzedakah, often translated as charity, means justice with compassion. It comes from the Hebrew word tzedek, which means justice. Therefore, unlike its English equivalent, charity, which implies a generous deed beyond the call of duty, tzedakah is more complex. According to Judaism, tzedakah is more than simply about being non-selfish, it is an act of justice and very much the call of duty. A Jew who does not give tzedakah has committed an act of injustice.

The Torah legislated tzedakah over three thousand years ago:

When you reap the harvest of your field, you shall not reap your field to its very edge, nor shall you gather the stray ears of corn. Likewise, you shall not pick your vineyard bare, nor gather up the grapes that have fallen. You shall leave these for the poor and the stranger. (Leviticus 19: 9-10)

What must be appreciated here is not merely the Bible's humaneness but the extent to which Judaism legislates goodness. It does not depend on our hearts to determine how much charity to give. The Jew is obligated by Jewish law to give to charity.

For more information on ways to contribute, click on the different categories:
Tribute Funds
Legacy Giving
Life Membership
Enhanced Membership

As Reform Jews we actively work for the improvement and welfare of all G-d's children. We seek to feed the hungry, lift up the downtrodden, comfort the mourner and heal the infirm...We do all this in observance of Judaism and our holy task-to bring nearer the day when G-d's presence will fill the world and reside in everyone's soul.
-Rabbi Robert Silvers