Judaism & Care for others (Cambridge International IGCSE Religious Studies)

Teachings of the Torah on kindness

What does the Torah say about kindness?

• Chesed is Hebrew for “loving kindness”, a core Jewish value

  • This goes beyond simple acts of kindness and involves selfless love, compassion and care for others

• There are many sections of the Torah that mention the importance of kindness

blockquote “Love your neighbour as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18)

• This is an important quote for Jews and encourages everyone to treat others with respect and kindness

  • It also encourages empathy and moral responsibility

• The Torah highlights the importance of helping those in need

blockquote “Open your hand to the poor and needy” (Deuteronomy 15:11)

• This shows the importance of charity(tzedakah) and social justice

• Jewish law requires giving to help the vulnerable

  • The Torah also promotes forgiveness and peaceful relationships

blockquote “You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge... but love your fellow as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18)

• The Torah teaches that it is not just friends and family or even just fellow Jews who should receive kindness

blockquote “You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Deuteronomy 10:19)

• This teaches showing kindness to outsiders and foreigners as well

  • It acts as a reminder of the Jewish experience of slavery, which should influence attitudes towards others

• The Torah also teaches that Jews should help those who may be in danger

blockquote “Do not stand by while your neighbour’s blood is shed” (Leviticus 19:16)

• This means that kindness should extend to defending others and preventing harm

What are tzedakah, pushkes and gemilut hasadim?

Why are tzedakah, pushkes and gemilut hasadim important within Judaism?

• Tzedakah, pushkes and gemilut hasadim are very important within Judaism because they relate to the values of justice, compassion and kindness
• These concepts are not just optional good deeds but core religious obligations that reflect a commitment to tikkun olam*

Tzedakah

• Tzedakah means “justice” or “righteousness”, not just charity

  • This is a mitzvah that Jews must follow

  • Tzedakah helps create a fairer society and supports those in need

    • It is the Jewish response to the belief in justice and equality

  • This belief is based upon Scripture, which teaches that Jews should help those in need

blockquote “Happy is he who considers the poor; the Lord will deliver him in the day of trouble” (Psalms 41:1)

Pushkes

• Pushkes are small charity boxes, often kept at home or in synagogues

  • They encourage regular small acts of giving

    • They are used by all Jews, including children, who are taught the value of tzedakah from a young age

  • They are a symbol of daily responsibility and help Jewish people remember the needs of others

  • They are used before Shabbat, festivals and during daily life to support the community and the poor

Gemilut hasadim

• Gemilut hasadim means selfless acts of kindness

  • These could be acts such as visiting the sick, helping the elderly or comforting mourners

Unlike tzedakah, gemilut hasahim cannot be done with money alone because it involves time, care and presence

blockquote “The world rests on three things: Torah, worship, and acts of loving-kindness” (Pirkei Avot 1:2)

• There are many ways in which gemilut hasadim and tzedakah are demonstrated in the community

  • Synagogues and community centers organise regular volunteer opportunities and donation drives to engage members in acts of kindness
  • Jewish free loan societies provide interest-free loans to individuals and families facing financial hardship
  • Jewish organisations advocate for social justice causes and policy changes that address the root causes of poverty and inequality

Worked Example State two things that Jews can do to demonstrate gemilut hasidim

[2 marks]

Final answer: Answer:

They could visit a care home and spend time with elderly people who are lonely [1]

They could help out at a homeless shelter for those who are in desperate need [1]

Exam Hint Try to refer to quotes from Scripture to support your writing

There are many examples you can give when responding to questions within this section

The main quotes relating to kindness (and their meaning) are below

1. “You shall love your neighbour as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18)

• Emphasises empathy and moral responsibility

• Often seen as a summary of the Torah’s ethical teachings

1. “You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Deuteronomy 10:19)

• Teaches kindness to outsiders and vulnerable people

• Encourages compassion based on shared human experience

1. “Do not stand by while your neighbour’s blood is shed” (Leviticus 19:16)

• Promotes taking action to help others

• Includes showing kindness through intervention and protection

1. “The world stands on three things: Torah, worship, and acts of loving-kindness” (Pirkei Avot 1:2)

• Gemilut hasadim (acts of kindness) are as vital as study and prayer

• Kindness is a pillar of Jewish life

1. “Happy is he who considers the poor; the Lord will deliver him in the day of trouble” (Psalms 41:1)

• Shows that G-d values kindness to the poor
• Ties charity to spiritual reward