Judaism Step-by-step

Conflict 1 - Charity

The work of Jewish charitable organisations within the Jewish community and beyond. For example, Jewish National Fund or Jewish Care

Charity is central to Judaism: in daily life (acts of kindness known as Gemilut Hasadim and donating money known as Tzedaka) and during Shabbat and festivals. For more information:

GCSE Bitesize's Concern for others and Poverty, wealth and charity
Judaism 101's Love and Brotherhood
Aish.com's Charity

This has never come up in an exam before, so that's a good reason to revise thoroughly! You could get asked any of the following:

(a) Describe and explain how Jewish beliefs about helping others are shown through observance of Shabbat and festivals. [8]

(b) Describe how the work of a Jewish charity such as Jewish National Fund or Jewish Care demonstrates Jewish beliefs about charity. [7]

(c) 'Homeless people should not be given handouts - they should be told to sort their own problems out!' Do you agree? etc. [5]

Have a go at answering these. Try to remember the distinction between financial aid and kind actions. You should time yourself: 30 minutes in total.

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