Forrest Mcilwain

*Philanthropy

*Tzedakah

*“Tzedakah” is a Hebrew word that is usually translated into English as “charity.”

*“Charity” suggests that the wealthy magnanimously give something to the poor. This does not capture, however, the depth of the concept of Tzedakah.

*Tzedakah implies that giving is an act of justice and fairness and righteousness.

* For more information, see: http://www.jewfaq.org/tzedakah.htm

*Philanthropy in other spiritual

practices

*We can turn to other spiritual practices to broaden our understanding of the deep meaning of giving to those in need. For example:

* In Buddhism, we come to understand that we are all connected, regardless of our level of wealth and power in society.

* In Christianity, we are taught to love others apart from self interest.

* In Hinduism, there is the observance to give generously without thought of reward and that 10 percent of your money is God’s money for those in need.

*Muslims are obliged every year to calculate their wealth and give to those less fortunate. This is known as zakat and is equal to prayer as an expression of faith.

*Giving is central to us

*Giving is beyond any sense of moral or religious obligation.

*The seed for giving is a central aspect of one’s human nature.

*Reaching out

*We all get help as we move through our lives.

*It is only right that we give back when we can.

*Cash. Our labor. Our knowledge. A smile.

*We all have something to give.

*Giving flows through the

universe

*Giving, like love and compassion, is a river that flows throughout the universe.

*Blessed are you if the spirit of giving flows through your Being.