Wealth is defined less by how much I hold and more by how freely I can let it flow. The open hand invites an open heaven.
Did you know that tithing is a Jewish concept?
In this week’s Torah portion, we read “aser te’aser,” literally translated as “Tithe you shall tithe” (Deuteronomy 14:22). This wordplay emphasizes the number ten, pronounced eser in Hebrew, as well as one-tenth, pronounced asirit.
The Talmud goes further into the nuances of this phrase, explaining that the word for “tithing,” aser, has the same root as “wealthy,” ashir. It is from this common root that the verse is interpreted to mean “You shall surely tithe… so that you become rich” (Taanit 9a).
This is not some fundraiser’s slogan. It’s Torah and our sages take it literally.
The prophet Malachi even quotes G-d as saying, “Test Me” in this. Bring your tithes and “see if I will not open the floodgates of heaven.” Normally, we don’t test G-d. Here we are told specifically to. Why?
Money is the result of living life; the hours, effort, and focus are the source of what we have in our bank accounts. When we separate a tenth for holiness, we’re not “losing” money; we’re elevating our livelihood at its root. That act forms a vessel for a flow of blessing in spiritual richness (clarity, calm, purpose) as well as in material sustenance (yes, actual dollars). The double phrase “aser te’aser” hints at a double blessing, spiritual and physical wealth.
Tzedakah doesn’t buy blessing; it uncaps it. Think of a well: the water is there, but you open the spout by giving.
It’s about actual money and more. The promise is literal: consistent maaser (tithing 10%) increases our income. At the same time, it expands our inner wealth: gratitude, trust in G-d, and a healthier relationship with what we have.
Here is a practical test:
1. Pick your percent. Classic maaser is 10% of net income; some choose 20% when able.
2. Make it first. Treat giving as a line item, not leftover. First fruits, first dollars.
3. Track it. Open a simple note or spreadsheet. Clarity breeds consistency.
4. Give locally & meaningfully. Support Torah, acts of kindness, and needs in our own community.
If you’d like guidance on eligible maaser causes, reply and we’ll help.
You can make it easy by joining the monthly chai club at Harford Chabad www.harfordchabad.org/donate (the fundraiser in me couldn't hold back) as well as other local causes.
May your week be rich in generosity, purpose, and sustenance.
If you’d like a simple maaser tracker template or have questions about what counts toward maaser, reply to this email and I’ll send it over.
Have an amazing Shabbos,
Rabbi Kushi Schusterman