No community start suggestion yet.
Why does the Torah (תורה) promise wealth for giving tzedakah when mitzvos should be done lishma? The shiur explains that Hashem (ה׳) designed tzedakah so the giver benefits more than the recipient. This transforms the dynamic from charity to investment, preserving the recipient's dignity.
The shiur addresses a fundamental paradox in the mitzvah (מצוה) of tzedakah found in Parshas Re'eh. The Torah (תורה) uses the double language "Aser te'aser" to promise that those who tithe will become wealthy, yet the general principle is that mitzvos should be performed lishma (for their own sake), not for reward. This seems to contradict the ideal of serving Hashem (ה׳) without expectation of benefit. Rabbi Zweig explains that tzedakah presents a unique psychological challenge that distinguishes it from other mitzvos. Unlike other commandments, tzedakah involves a recipient who experiences devastation and embarrassment from receiving charity. As we pray in bentching, "I don't want any gifts of others," receiving tzedakah diminishes one's self-respect and self-esteem. This creates a painful dynamic where the giver feels good about performing the mitzvah while the recipient suffers emotionally.
Looking for the full summary?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
Dedicate a Shiur in Parsha
L'ilui nishmas a loved one. In honor of a simcha or yahrzeit. As a zechus for a refuah sheleimah. Your dedication helps carry Rabbi Zweig's Torah to learners around the world.
Up Next in this Series
Why does Rashi give conflicting descriptions of Israel's leaders in Egypt? The shiur explores how two different leadership styles emerged: those who pushed people to work harder while taking beatings, versus those who simply absorbed punishment to spare their people. The Torah prioritizes the first type - leaders who accomplish things even when unpopular.
Why does the Torah repeat that Rivka came from a family of manipulators and wicked people? The shiur argues that this is not "despite" her background but rather her yichus—she inherited their extraordinary sensitivity to others' needs but channeled it toward chesed rather than manipulation. True kindness requires understanding what the recipient actually needs, not just what the giver wants to give.
Why did Avrohom ask for visible signs of old age when people were already growing old? The shiur develops the principle that Avrohom requested that aging reflect not just physical decline but accumulated wisdom and compassion. This dignity of age is the foundation for transmitting values across generations—and its absence explains both the sin of the spies and the breakdown of contemporary families.
Parshas Re'eh - Aser te'aser
Looking for the full transcript?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
Why didn't Noach daven for his generation while Avrohom advocated for Sedom? Noach viewed each person as an independent island responsible only for their own teshuvah. Avrohom understood that all humanity is interconnected through shared perspective and values, making prayer for others both possible and necessary.
