Final answer:
Tzedakah in Judaism represents righteousness through charitable giving as a moral imperative, while tithe (maaser) refers to the historical practice of giving one-tenth of one's produce or earnings to support the Temple and the needy. While tzedakah is a broader, ongoing obligation to help others, tithe was a specific, mandatory donation of a set percentage for religious and social welfare purposes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asked about the difference between tzedakah and tithe in Judaism. Tzedakah is a Hebrew word that means 'righteousness' but is commonly associated with charitable giving. This concept is fundamental in Judaism, emphasizing that giving to those in need is not just an act of kindness but a requirement to achieve justice and righteousness.
Charity in Judaism is seen as a moral obligation to maintain the welfare of the community, not just a benevolent, voluntary act.
On the other hand, a tithe, known in Hebrew as 'maaser,' refers to the practice of giving one-tenth of one's agricultural produce or earnings to the Temple in Jerusalem as a commandment. In ancient times, this was a form of compulsory tax to support the religious establishment, the priests, and the needy.
It served religious purposes and functioned as a social welfare system for the less fortunate.
While both tzedakah and tithe have the overarching goal of supporting the community and upholding social justice, tzedakah is a broader concept of charity that extends beyond the confines of a set percentage. It signifies an ethical and spiritual component of helping those in need regardless of how much one gives. The tithe, however, was a specific, legally mandated portion meant to fund religious functions and provide for those in poverty.