Cpmpassion

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

As is my custom, I set aside two days a week to concentrate on writing and studying. Occasionally I come across something that hits me and inspires me to sit down at the computer and begin writing. Today (Sunday, January 9th) was such a day. And the lesson involves compassion.

It occurred to me that usually during this time of the year we commemorate a particular tradition called Gemilut Hesed – acts of loving kindness demonstrated by charitable expressions. At this time a section of the Torah (Bible) that is read at Sabbath Services is referred to as Mishpatim (Exodus 21). Loosely translated the word means rules and within this chapter we find rules that enabled us to create a livable society.

For example it specifically mentions that we are prohibited from charging interest with loans intended to alleviate financial hardships. The need for assistance should not be compromised with additional debt. It is a noble idea and well before its time in understanding the responsibilities we have toward people who find themselves unable to meet everyday requirements such as food or shelter.

One of the very first things we did, as a people, when we settled into new surroundings was to establish Benevolent Societies which were designed to prevent people from becoming burdens on society. However, just as important was the concept of giving those in need the ability to survive with dignity. The Talmud emphasizes that to embarrass an individual is tantamount to the spilling of blood; in other words, the taking of a life.

The Jewish Free Loan Associations were established to provide help by lending what was needed, without interest thus enabling communities to benefit from collective renewal. These loans enabled people to become self-sufficient in a way that was beneficial to them and everyone around them. In essence the needy were taught to lift their heads high because these were not hand-outs.

And there is a benefit to those who contribute to this effort: the funds donated are never gone because they are loaned over and over again and as the loans are repaid they are lent again. There is no social service program in existence that can make that claim.

Monies that remain after all have been served are invested so that the income from these funds defray the cost of operating this Society dedicated to relieving human suffering by offering the impetus for self-determination.

This is the essence of Gemilut Hesed – of benevolence that is not charity. And those who contribute to this action are the true heroes by saving the world one person at a time.