Judaism & Care for others (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Religious Studies): Revision Note

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

• 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

• 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

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

• 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

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

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

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

• 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