The Jewish Wisdom Database

Charity outweighs all other commandments.

Who gives charity in secret is greater than Moses.

To him that is eager to give, the Lord provides the means.

Great is charity because it brings Redemption nearer!

Do not bar your door to borrowers!

To perish by the sword is worse than a natural death, to die of hunger worse still, and captivity worst of all.

Nobody mocks on his deathbed.

A gate once widened stays wide.

Who makes others do good transcends the doers.

There used to be a very good custom in Jerusalem: a table-cloth was spread at the door - - - so long as it was in place, guests would enter the house. When it was removed, they would not.

To break the barrel and keep its wine. [You cannot eat your cake and have it.]

The air of Israel lends wisdom.

Where a mistake has crept in, it stays.

To ransom prisoners is a splendid act of piety.

One is not held responsible when in distress, for words uttered in grief.

When scholars vie, wisdom mounts.

When you whitewash your home, leave a small patch bare to remind you of the Temple's destruction! [Tisha B'Av]

Wine tops the list of all medicines.

Great is charity, for it brings near the redemption.

The air of the Land of Israel makes one wise.

Charity equals all the other commandments.

What you do not give in charity voluntarily, the heathen will take from you forcibly.

A charity pledge may be taken even on Sabbath eve.

Applicants for clothes are investigated, not applicants for food.

Whoever gives the poor money is blessed sixfold; whoever does it with a kind word is blessed sevenfold.