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đź’” A Personal Appeal to the Community
My beloved friends, brothers, and companions—dear to me as my own soul—I am deeply aware of the hardship of our times. Livelihood has become strained, and I know of individuals among you whose financial situation has deteriorated severely. They are left without any support or assistance, borrowing just to eat. May God have mercy on them and grant them relief soon.
🤲 The Moral Obligation to Give
Despite these challenges, it appears that some are not acting in the best interest of their own souls. I’ve heard that many have withheld their previously generous hands and have not continued to give with an open heart and generous spirit toward the essential needs of the dignified poor—those whose eyes are turned toward us in hope. If we do not show compassion, God forbid, who will?
📖 Torah’s Perspective on Priorities
The Torah teaches, “Your brother shall live with you.” The principle of “your life takes precedence” only applies in a case where one person possesses a single jug of water, and both lives are equally at risk. In such a case, the water is equally necessary for both to survive.
🍞 Necessity Over Comfort
However, if the poor person needs bread for his children, wood for heating, or clothing for the cold—these basic necessities take precedence over luxuries such as fine garments, festive meals, meat, fish, and other delicacies enjoyed by oneself and one’s household. In these cases, the rule of “your life takes precedence” does not apply, because these comforts are not true necessities. The poor person’s needs are essential for survival and are equal in urgency. This is clearly taught in Tractate Nedarim, page 80.