Dear Rabbi Simon,
Shalom. I have a question. Does accepting money or other benefits from the [Israeli] government, in regards to making Aliyah, reduce my portion in the World to Come? Also does accepting tzedakah in general, when I have no money, reduce my portion, if I don’t actually need the tzedakah because my essential needs are provided by the yeshiva (and my savings)? Should I accept it from an individual to allow him to do a mitzvah? Would that idea apply to the government too?
I don’t want my heavenly portion to be reduced by accepting charity. Though my means are very limited, there is a possibility I can just go on a work visa and get a job and sustain myself. Yet, the benefits from the government are tempting.
Please advise.
Thank you
Ali
Thank you for your question.
A detailed reply would require a better understanding of your particular circumstances, but I am happy to share some general thoughts with you.
Fundamentally, accepting financial assistance from the government in making Aliyah (for example) should not be seen as imperiling or diminishing your portion in the World to Come. The Israeli government seeks to encourage and facilitate Aliyah, and financial incentives are part of this. If you accept the money in good faith (as one who would like to settle in Israel), that’s fine.
With regard to tzedakah, if one is in need (temporarily), he is entitled to accept financial assistance, to the extent that his circumstances compel him to do so. Accepting tzedakah to bring merit to the donor, however, is not recommended. The donor can no doubt find other worthy causes to support. Rather, one should endeavour to earn a livelihood to become self-supporting and so that he may be in a position to give to others.
I hope this is helpful.
I wish you much success in your Aliyah and your parnasah.
עם ישראל חי
Rabbi Rashi Simon