Rabbi's Message

Parashat Shoftim contains the well-known words Tzedek Tzedek Tirdof – “Justice, Justice, You Shall Pursue.”  The Hebrew word used here for ”justice,” Tzedek, can also mean “righteousness” or “fairness.”  This is why it is also the root of the word Tzedakah.  When we give tzedakah to support people in need or a cause or an organization that we believe in, it is more than act of charity. It is an expression of our values.  It is an act that helps balance the scales of justice by providing funds, food, time or talents to people and places that need them.  There is no shortage of need in our world, but this week I’d like for us to focus on the great need that exists in Hawaii.  We are all aware of the devastating fires in Maui that have taken lives and caused terrible damage.  We reached out to the Jewish Congregation of Maui to see what we could do to help.  Here is what they wrote back, “Thank you to the many who have called near and far and emailed asking about our well-being as a result from the wildfires we are experiencing on Maui. We are deeply touched by your kindness, concern and offers of support.  It's with much gratitude and humility to share that the Jewish Congregation of Maui and its grounds are safe.  However, many in our community have lost their homes, businesses and also a loved one from the devastation of the fires.  As part of our purpose here at the Jewish Congregation of Maui and being in the position to do so, we are here to support our fellow Maui community members any way we can.”  It goes on to ask for food and clothing donations for those who are local and provides a link to give tzedakah to help their Jewish community.  You can give directly to the Jewish Congregation of Maui by clicking here.  You can also click here to contribute to the Hawaii Wildfire Fund that set up in partnership with our South Jersey Jewish Federation.  I encourage you to give tzedakah to help the Jewish community and the people, of Maui during this challenging time.  May our tzedakah represent our larger commitment to this mitzvah to pursue justice.