Re’eh

“There Shall Be No Poor Among You”

By ALON FERENCY

The Torah provides insights into how we can reduce burdens carried, unjustly, by the poor. Relating Parashat Re’eh to contemporary problems, it becomes apparent that formalizing property rights is vital to eliminating poverty worldwide. We must advocate for these humane policies.

Observing Mishpat (Legal Justice) While Hearing God’s Voice

By BRENT CHAIM SPODEK

We must look after our own needs, but also the needs of others. Mishpat creates a law-abiding society. It enables us to pursue our interests and rights as long as we don’t infringe on the rights and belief systems of others. But equally important, and in addition to the law, we must embody a society based on tzedek that is just and holy for all.

The Mitzvah of Urging Others to Give

By RABBI DAVID ROSENN

After you donate to tzedakah (philanthropy), you might not be done until you encourage others to do the same. After that, it will be time to donate again...

Liberation and Compassion

By ALIZA MAZOR

The biblical notion of a reprieve from debt and the right to a life free of poverty has not been carried over into modern times. There is no institutional relief for out-of-control debt burdening either the individual or country.

Between Animal Rights and Human Wrongs

By RABBI BRADLEY SHAVIT ARTSON

If you look for a traditional Jewish teaching that animals have equal rights to humans, you will look in vain. And nothing requires Jews to eat meat. In between those extremes, there is plenty of room for us to treat animals, to live, and to eat responsibly.