1. The Commandment of Aser Ta'aser
Today’s portion in Parshas Re’ei, specifically in Chamishi, opens with the words aser ta’aser—you shall tithe. This phrase introduces a section of the Torah that is deeply focused on social responsibility and justice. The Torah dedicates several psukim—verses—to instructing us how to care for others, beginning with the mitzvah of tithing. Although this passage is part of the regular Torah reading, it also appears in the readings for certain holidays, such as when Shabbos coincides with yom tov—a festival—and we start from aser ta’aser to ensure there are seven aliyahs.
The language itself is striking: aser means to tithe, and ta’aser means you shall tithe—a double expression. This repetition emphasizes the importance and obligation of tithing one’s produce or earnings.
2. The Shemitah Cycle and Types of Tithes
Tithing in Torah law is not uniform every year. It depends on where we are in the seven-year Shemitah cycle. For example, this year might be the sixth year, while next year will be Shemitah, the seventh year. Every year, a portion called mayser—tithe—is given to the Levi, but there are additional tithes as well: some years require mayser sheini, which must be brought to Yerushalayim and consumed there, while other years (such as the third) require mayser oni, which is given directly to the poor.
This system ensures that different segments of society are supported at different times: sometimes those who serve in spiritual roles (the Leviim), sometimes those who are less fortunate (the poor), and sometimes it is an opportunity for personal spiritual elevation by bringing produce to Yerushalayim.
3. The Promise of Wealth Through Tithing
The Gemara comments on the double language of aser ta’aser. It teaches: aser bishvil shetisasher—tithe so that you will become wealthy. People may feel reluctant to give away a portion of their hard-earned income, but the Torah assures us that giving tithes is not a loss. On the contrary, it is a source of blessing and increased prosperity.
If one fails to fulfill this mitzvah properly, another verse warns that all one will have left is just a tenth—a hint that withholding tzedakah can lead to financial loss rather than gain. Thus, giving generously opens up channels for Hashem’s blessings.
4. Social Justice Laws in Parshas Re'ei
The parsha continues with additional laws reflecting social justice values rooted in Torah: supporting the Levi who has no land inheritance, providing loans even as Shemitah approaches (without fear of not being repaid), and treating workers fairly when their employment ends.
A key halacha derived here is called hanakah—when letting go a worker who has served you, you must not send them away empty-handed. Instead, you should give them from your sheep, grain, wine—from all that Hashem has blessed you with. This parallels how Bnei Yisrael left Egypt with great wealth granted by Hashem.
The Torah thus establishes protections for workers and those in need long before these ideas became popularized as “social justice.” All true justice and compassion originate from Torah values.
5. Giving With Joy and an Open Heart
The Torah emphasizes not only giving but giving with a good heart: nosen titen loy v'lo yeira levavcha b'sitcha loy—“Give you shall give him, and let your heart not feel bad when you give.” It isn’t enough to fulfill your obligation begrudgingly; one must give with joy (simcha) and generosity.
The reason? “Kee biglal hadavar hazeh yevarechecha Hashem Elokecha b'chol maasecha u'vechol mishlach yadecha”—“Because of this matter Hashem your God will bless you in all your work and endeavors.” When we share our blessings willingly and happily, Hashem promises even greater success in all our undertakings.
6. The Ongoing Obligation to Give
The Torah uses repeated language throughout these passages: “Nosen titen... psoiach tiftach... noshim titen psoiach tiftach.” Rashi explains this teaches us that giving must be continuous—if you have given once, do so again whenever needed. If you have opened your hand or heart before, open it again without hesitation.
This ongoing generosity ensures there will always be support for those in need within our community.
7. A Story Illustrating Generosity From the Heart
A story is told about an elderly man who fell ill with heart pain. When his doctor arrived and checked his pulse by his hand, the man whispered that it was his heart hurting him—not his hand. The doctor replied: “From your hand I can tell what’s in your heart.”
This illustrates how our actions reflect our inner feelings: when we open our hands generously (nosen titen) instead of keeping them closed tight-fistedly, it shows true compassion and brings Hashem’s blessings upon us.
8. Preparing for Elul With Blessings and Generosity
As we approach Chodesh Elul and Shabbos Mevorchim—a time when we seek blessings for a new month and year—it is especially fitting to embrace these lessons of generosity and kindness toward others.
If we internalize these values from Parshas Re’ei—treating others fairly, sharing our blessings joyfully, supporting those less fortunate—we merit Hashem’s abundant brachos for a year filled with success and goodness for everyone.