The medieval Jewish scholar Maimonides said, “Giving is most blessed and most acceptable when the donor remains completely anonymous.” Why is anonymous charity so special? What is the value in giving without regard to a reward or recognition?
Meet Judah Touro, the subject of Judah Touro Didn’t Want to Be Famous, a picture book biography that introduces readers to a 19th-century philanthropist who firmly believed in the value of tzedakah, which means justice, but often is used to describe charitable giving.
Born to Sephardic Jews who fled Spain and Portugal seeking religious freedom, Judah made his fortune in New Orleans as a merchant. After a near-death experience during the War of 1812, he felt compelled to devote his life to philanthropy, and his donations helped free enslaved people, build hospitals and schools, and more. His only request: that his efforts remain anonymous.
The idea of secret acts of charity - considered one of the highest rungs on Maimonides’s ladder of tzedakah - caught the Book Selection Committee’s attention, and we hope that Judah’s story, told by author Audrey Ades, will inspire young readers to help others, anonymously or not!
There are many ways your family can support charitable organizations, including volunteering your time, collecting food or clothing, or donating money. Share your service project ideas on the PJ Library Facebook page.
March 25, 2020