About this episode
In this heart-opening conversation, Rabbi Bernath shares a powerful true story of a needy bride who felt ashamed to accept financial help, until she discovers that she is a partner, not a burden. Drawing on the Torah’s teaching of Yissachar and Zevulun, and Chassidic wisdom from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, he reveals the revolutionary idea that tzedakah is not a one-way act of charity but a sacred spiritual partnership. Through moving stories, including a dramatic tale of a Hatzalah medic and his unlikely agreement with a butcher afraid of blood the message becomes clear: the giver and receiver elevate and bless one another. Each act of kindness is a mutual exchange of soul-energy that strengthens Jewish unity and brings the world closer to redemption. Key Takeaways Receiving is also giving. The recipient grants the giver the opportunity to fulfill a supreme mitzvah and gain spiritual merit. Tzedakah is a partnership. Like Yissachar and Zevulun, both the supporter and the one supported share in the mitzvah. Spiritual reward is shared. Jewish law and Chassidic teachings affirm that those who enable mitzvot receive a full portion of the merit. Everyone has something to give. Whether materially or spiritually, we each fill in what others lack. Unity is our strength. Caring for one another is the secret of Jewish survival and the catalyst for redemption. Acts of kindness transform the world. When we give and receive with dignity, we illuminate each other’s lives and G-d’s world. End-of-Year Giving | Spread the Light With Us Every soul you help us reach is another candle blazing against the darkness. If this podcast has touched you, inspired you, or lifted your spirits even once, consider being part of this ripple of goodness. Together, let’s end the year shining a little brighter: https://www.charidy.com/NDG2025 #Charity #Judaism #Kabbalah #Tzedakah #chassidus #giving #receiving #Rebbe #chabad #chassidut #Torah #TorahPortion #yissachar #zevulun #jewishunity #actsofkindness #kindness Support the show Got your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.com Single? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone. Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donate Follow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernath Access Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi