Parshat R’eih’s exploration of poverty and obligation
contains an odd contradiction: “There
shall be no needy among you,” and “if, however, there is a needy person among
you” (15:7 and 14, respectively). If no
one is in need, how can it be that someone is needy? Rabbi Jill Jacobs presents a compelling
reading that illuminates two approaches to helping.
Some people respond to pressing need, such as feeding the
hungry tonight. This is called
Social Action. Others recommend Social
Justice – making structural changes to the way society is organized so that
fewer people are hungry in the first place.
Which is more important? “The
Deuteronomic response to this debate is a refusal to take sides,” Jacobs writes
(Righteous Indignation, Jewish Lights, page
150). Both approaches are required – to
meet pressing need and to prevent need as well.
How can I determine the right way for me to help? Later in the parshah, when discussing the
offerings we make to God at the pilgrimage festivals, the Torah shares some
wisdom that might apply here: “Each with
his own gift, according to the blessing that your God has bestowed upon you”
(16:17). Each of us should bring our
special blend of abilities to bear. If
you’re particularly personable, perhaps you could volunteer at the food pantry
and make visiting more pleasant. Good
organizers can run food drives; those of strong bodies can glean citrus
trees. Everyone can give tzedakah of
some amount. To find your way to feed
locals in need, visit UnitedFoodBank.org or call them at 480-926-4897.
There is much we can to do help, but we cannot stand idly
by. We do not have the luxury of being
overwhelmed into inaction. Our brothers
and sisters are relying on us, and we cannot harden our hearts.
No comments:
Post a Comment