The Three Important Practices in Hebrew Culture: Tzedakah, Tefilla and Teshuva

 

The Three Important Practices in Hebrew Culture: Tzedakah, Tefila and Teshuva

Romans 15:4 (KJV)

"For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."

1 Corinthians 10:11 (KJV)

"Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come."

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV)

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."

Hebrews 10:1 (KJV)

"For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect."

Galatians 3:24 (KJV)

"Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith."

The three important practices in Hebrew culture—Tzedakah, Teshuva and Tefila, — are deeply significant in the Hebraic worldview, particularly in their emphasis on spiritual transformation, relationship with God, and ethical conduct. Here is an exegesis of these terms:

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1. Tzedakah (צְדָקָה)

Meaning: Righteousness or charity.

Exegesis:

• Root Meaning: Derived from the root צדק (tsedek), meaning "justice" or "righteousness." In the Hebraic sense, Tzedakah implies both ethical behavior and acts of kindness, particularly giving to the needy.
• Theological Concept: While often translated as "charity," Tzedakah is not merely voluntary generosity but a fundamental duty rooted in justice and covenantal obligation.
  • Proverbs 21:3 (KJV): “To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.” This reflects the Hebraic emphasis on ethical living over ritual observance.
  • Deuteronomy 15:7-8 (KJV): “If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother: But thou shalt open thine hand wide unto him, and shalt surely lend him sufficient for his need.” This passage underscores Tzedakah as a divine mandate.

Key Aspects in the Hebraic Mind:

1. Justice in Action: Reflecting God's justice in one's interactions with others.
2. Covenantal Responsibility: Caring for the poor and vulnerable as a duty, not an option.
3. Reflection of God’s Character: Imitating God’s mercy and justice through acts of righteousness.

New Testament Magnification: Salt and Light Theology

Days of Reckoning:

High Holy Days:

• During the Days of Awe, Jews emphasize giving Tzedakah as a way to temper God's judgment. It is a tangible expression of repentance and righteousness.
• Based on the teaching in the Unetaneh Tokef prayer, Tzedakah, along with Teshuva and Tefilla, is believed to "avert the severe decree" and bring mercy.

Year-Round Obligation:

• Tzedakah is a fundamental mitzvah (commandment) in Judaism. It is practiced throughout the year by giving to the poor, supporting community institutions, and engaging in acts of justice.
• The obligation is enshrined in Torah commandments, such as leaving the corners of fields for the poor (Leviticus 19:9–10).

Tzedakah in the Light of Christ Teaching

Tzedakah (Charity or Righteousness)

Jesus' Teaching on Tzedakah

• Heart-Centered Giving: Jesus emphasized the attitude of the heart in giving. In the Sermon on the Mount, He said:

  "Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 6:1, KJV)
  This shifts Tzedakah from external compliance to a heart-centered act of worship.

• Love as the Fulfillment of the Law: Jesus expanded Tzedakah to encompass love for one's neighbor and enemy:

  "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." (Matthew 22:39, KJV)
  This aligns with the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), where Jesus illustrated that true charity transcends cultural and religious boundaries.

• Sacrificial Giving: Jesus pointed to sacrificial generosity, as in the example of the widow’s mite:

  "This poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had." (Luke 21:3–4, KJV)

Fulfillment in Christ

Jesus Himself embodies Tzedakah as the ultimate act of righteousness and generosity:

"For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich." (2 Corinthians 8:9, KJV)

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2. Tefillah (תְּפִלָּה)

Meaning: Prayer or intercession.

Exegesis:

• Root Meaning: Derived from the root פלל (palal), which means "to judge" or "to intercede." Tefila involves introspection, self-evaluation, and petition before God.
• Theological Concept: Prayer in the Hebraic sense is more than reciting words; it is communion with God, an expression of dependence, gratitude, and alignment with His will.
  • 1 Kings 8:28 (KJV): “Yet have thou respect unto the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O LORD my God, to hearken unto the cry and to the prayer, which thy servant prayeth before thee today.” This highlights the earnest and personal nature of prayer.
  • Psalm 141:2 (KJV): “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.” This verse illustrates the idea of prayer as an offering to God.

Key Aspects in the Hebraic Mind:

1. Introspection: Prayer is a time for self-examination and aligning one's life with God's will.
2. Intercession: Advocating for others, reflecting a communal focus.
3. Relational Connection: Building an intimate relationship with God.

New Testament Magnification: The Lord's Prayer

Days of Reckoning:

High Holy Days:

• During the High Holy Days, special prayers like Avinu Malkeinu ("Our Father, Our King") emphasize humility, seeking God's mercy, and aligning one's heart with God's will.
• On Yom Kippur, the prayers are focused on confession (Vidui) and seeking atonement. This includes reciting the Amidah and Al Chet (confession of sins).

Daily Practice:

• Tefilla is a daily commandment, with set prayers like the Shacharit (morning), Mincha (afternoon), and Ma'ariv (evening) services.
• The Shema and the Amidah (the "Standing Prayer") are core parts of Jewish liturgy, reflecting the practice of prayer as a constant connection with God.

Tefillah (Prayer) in the Light of Christ Teaching

In Jewish practice, Tefila is a dialogue with God, encompassing praise, petition, and thanksgiving. It is an expression of faith and relationship with the Creator.

Jesus' Teaching on Tefila

• Simplicity and Sincerity: Jesus taught His disciples to pray with simplicity and sincerity:

  "But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret." (Matthew 6:6, KJV)

• The Lord's Prayer: Jesus gave His disciples a model prayer, the Our Father (Matthew 6:9–13), which reflects Jewish prayer traditions while emphasizing intimacy with God as "Our Father."

• Faith and Persistence: Jesus encouraged faith-filled and persistent prayer:

  "And whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." (Matthew 21:22, KJV)
  "Men ought always to pray, and not to faint." (Luke 18:1, KJV)

• Intercession: Jesus Himself intercedes for humanity:

  "I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine." (John 17:9, KJV)

Fulfillment in Christ

Through Jesus, prayer is transformed into direct access to God:

"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." (1 Timothy 2:5, KJV)

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3. Teshuva (תְּשׁוּבָה)

Meaning: Repentance or return.

Exegesis:

• Root Meaning: The word Teshuva comes from the root שׁוּב (shuv), meaning "to return." In a Hebraic sense, it refers to returning to God, realigning oneself with His will and covenant.
• Theological Concept: In the Hebraic mind, Teshuva is not merely feeling remorse for sin but a holistic process involving acknowledgment of wrongdoing, heartfelt repentance, and active steps to restore the broken relationship with God and others.
  • Psalm 51:10 (KJV): “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” This verse reflects the spirit of Teshuva—seeking inner transformation and restoration.
  • Hosea 14:1-2 (KJV): “O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the LORD.” This call to return encapsulates the essence of Teshuva.

New Testament Magnification

• Parable of the Prodigal Son

Key Aspects in the Hebraic Mind:

1. Turning from Sin: Acknowledging and abandoning sinful ways.
2. Returning to God: Re-establishing covenantal faithfulness.
3. Holistic Transformation: Beyond actions, it is a transformation of the heart and mind.

Days of Reckoning:

Primary Season: The Month of Elul and the Days of Awe (Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur):

• Teshuva is central to the Jewish preparation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
• The month of Elul, preceding Rosh Hashanah, is a time for self-reflection and returning to God through repentance.
• During the Ten Days of Repentance (Aseret Yemei Teshuva), from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur, Jews engage in deep self-examination, seeking forgiveness from both God and others they may have wronged.

Daily and Lifelong Practice:

• Teshuva is not limited to the High Holy Days. Jews are encouraged to practice repentance daily, turning back to God whenever they stray from His commandments.

Teshuva (Repentance) in the Light of Christ Teaching

In Jewish thought, Teshuva involves returning to God through acknowledgment of sin, genuine remorse, and commitment to change.

Jesus' Teaching on Teshuva

• Call to Repentance: Jesus began His ministry with a call to Teshuva:

  "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:17, KJV)

• Transformation of the Heart: Jesus emphasized internal repentance rather than mere external acts:

  "Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." (Luke 13:5, KJV)
  He illustrated this in the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32), which reflects the heart of Teshuva—a return to the Father.

• Forgiveness and Restoration: Jesus highlighted God’s readiness to forgive:

  "I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance." (Luke 15:7, KJV)

Fulfillment in Christ

Jesus’ sacrifice enables complete and eternal Teshuva:

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9, KJV)

 Through Christ, repentance is not only turning away from sin but also receiving new life: "If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV)

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Synthesis of the Three Terms:

These three concepts form a triad of spiritual practice in the Hebraic worldview:

1. Tzedakah manifests that relationship outwardly through righteous and just actions.
2. Tefila deepens that relationship through prayerful communion and self-reflection.
3. Teshuva emphasizes the need to restore and renew one's relationship with God.

Together, they represent the holistic approach to living a life aligned with God's will, encompassing personal transformation, relational intimacy, and ethical responsibility.

Liturgical Connection:

The prayer Unetaneh Tokef, recited on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, explicitly connects these three concepts:

"But repentance (Teshuva), prayer (Tefilla), and charity (Tzedakah) remove the severity of the decree."

In Summary:

• Teshuva is most prominent during the High Holy Days but is a daily spiritual practice of returning to God.
• Tefilla is central to both daily worship and special moments of atonement, particularly on Yom Kippur.
• Tzedakah is a year-round obligation but gains heightened importance during times of judgment and repentance, emphasizing the practical expression of righteousness.

These three pillars represent the pathway to spiritual renewal, aligning one's actions, heart, and relationship with both God and humanity.

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Micah 6:8 

“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”

Explanation in a Hebraic Mindset:

1. "Do justly" (asot mishpat): עֲשׂ֤וֹת מִשְׁפָּט֙

   • This refers to living with fairness and righteousness in all dealings, reflecting God's justice. It includes ensuring equity and protecting the vulnerable.

2. "Love mercy" (ahavat chesed): וְאַ֣הֲבַת חֶ֔סֶד

   • Chesed means steadfast love, kindness, and covenant loyalty. Loving mercy involves both showing compassion to others and being faithful in relationships.

3. "Walk humbly with thy God" (hatznea lechet im Eloheicha):  וְהַצְנֵ֥עַ לֶ֖כֶת עִם־ אֱלֹהֶֽיךָ׃

   • To walk humbly means to live in submission and reverence to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and aligning one's life with His will.

This verse encapsulates God’s desire for a life that mirrors His character—justice, mercy, and humility—through both inward devotion and outward action.

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Exposition:

1.   Tzedakah (Charity) and Doing Justly

• Micah 6:8: "To do justly"

• Tzedakah Insight:

  • The term Tzedakah (צְדָקָה) H6666, commonly translated as "charity" in modern usage, originates from the Hebrew root צָדַק (tzadak) H6663- to be righteous, to justify, to declare innocent, also mean "righteousness" or "justice." In its biblical context, Tzedakah conveys the idea of doing what is right and just, particularly in relation to caring for others, especially the poor and marginalized.
  • Tzedakah, often translated as "charity," literally means "justice" or "righteousness" in Hebrew. It emphasizes the responsibility to give and to ensure fairness in society.
  • Doing justly reflects an active commitment to righting wrongs, uplifting the oppressed, and meeting the needs of the poor through Tzedakah.
  • The act of Tzedakah embodies justice in action, fulfilling the biblical mandate to care for others and live out God’s justice.

  Scripture Connection:

• Righteousness as Justice:

  • “Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.” (Psalm 89:14, KJV)
    (Tzedakah here reflects God's justice as a foundation of His rule.)

  • “But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.” (Amos 5:24, KJV)
    (Tzedakah signifies societal justice and fairness.)

• Charity as an Act of Righteousness:
• “He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth forever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.” (Psalm 112:9, KJV)

• Tzedakah is seen as generosity to the poor, which reflects enduring righteousness.
• “Break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquility.” (Daniel 4:27, KJV)

• Tzedakah involves acts of mercy and justice toward those in need.
• “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” (Proverbs 19:17, KJV)
• “Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9, KJV)

• Righteousness as a Covenant Responsibility:

  • “And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.” (Deuteronomy 6:25, KJV)
    (Tzedakah is covenantal righteousness, fulfilling God's commands, including caring for the vulnerable.)
  
  
• Significance of Tzedakah in the Biblical Context:

1. Righteousness Equals Justice:

   • Tzedakah is not merely charity as an optional good deed; it is justice—a moral obligation to create equity in society.

2. Support for the Poor and Marginalized:

   • Biblical commands like leaving gleanings for the poor (Leviticus 19:9–10) reflect the principle of Tzedakah as communal responsibility.

3. Reflection of God's Character:

   • God is described as righteous and just, and Tzedakah mirrors His attributes in human action.

4. Link Between Righteousness and Mercy:

• Acts of Tzedakah often combine justice with mercy, exemplifying the divine balance of these two attributes.

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2.   Tefillah (Prayer) and Loving Mercy

• Micah 6:8: "To love mercy"
• Tefillah Insight:
  • The Hebrew word for Tefillah (תְּפִלָּה), meaning "prayer," is used directly in the Hebrew Bible. It is derived from the root פָּלַל (palal) H8605, which means "to intercede, to judge, to mediate, or to pray." The concept of Tefilla involves heartfelt communication with God, whether in petition, thanksgiving, or praise.
  • Prayer is an expression of God’s mercy as it creates a bridge between the human and the divine. It is through prayer that we seek God’s compassion for ourselves and others.
  • Loving mercy extends beyond receiving it; it means becoming a channel of God’s mercy through intercession and acts of kindness inspired by prayer.
  • Tefilla transforms the heart, enabling us to love mercy by developing empathy and a deeper connection with others.
  Scripture Connection:
• “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16, KJV)

• Direct Mention of Tefilla (H8605):

  • “Hearken therefore unto the supplications of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, which they shall make toward this place: hear thou from thy dwelling place, even from heaven; and when thou hearest, forgive.” (2 Chronicles 6:21, KJV)

  • “The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.” (Psalm 6:9, KJV)

• Root Word Palal (H6419) in Action:

  • “And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked?” (Genesis 18:23, KJV)
    (Here, Abraham’s intercession reflects the act of palal, though the word "prayer" is not explicitly used.)

  • “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.” (Psalm 122:6, KJV)

• Tefilla as a Spiritual Practice:

• “Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.” (Psalm 55:17, KJV)

• “The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.” (Proverbs 15:8, KJV)

"Tefillah" (תפילה 525) - Prayer

• Tav (ת) = 400
• Peh (פ) = 80
• Yod (י) = 10
• Lamed (ל) = 30
• Hey (ה) = 5

Calculation: 400 + 80 + 10 + 30 + 5 = 525

Spiritual Insight:

The word "Tefillah" means prayer, which represents communication with God. The number 525 reflects the power of prayer to transform and connect us with the divine. Prayer in Jewish thought is not just a request but a dialogue with God, reflecting a person's relationship with Him. The number 525 emphasizes that prayer should come from the heart, and it can lead to spiritual growth and inner peace.

Significance of Tefilla:

• As Communication with God: Tefilla is not merely recitation but an intimate connection with God. It involves the heart (kavanah), aligning the soul with the divine.

• Intercessory Prayer: Rooted in palal, Tefilla often takes the form of interceding for others, as seen in the prayers of Abraham (Genesis 18) and Moses (Exodus 32).

• Praising God: Tefilla is also used for praise and thanksgiving, exemplified in the Psalms, which are rich with prayers of adoration and gratitude.

• A Plea for Mercy: Tefilla often expresses a cry for God’s compassion and intervention in times of need.

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3.  Teshuva (Repentance) and Walking Humbly with God

• Micah 6:8: "Walk humbly with thy God"
• Teshuva Insight:
  • The term "Teshuva" (תְּשׁוּבָה) is derived from the Hebrew root שׁוּב (shuv) H7725, meaning "to return" or "to turn back." This root is found extensively throughout the Hebrew Bible and conveys the idea of repentance as a turning back to God. The specific form "Teshuva" (as a noun) is not directly used in the Hebrew Bible, but its concept is woven throughout the scriptures.
  • Teshuva involves turning back to God in humility, acknowledging one’s sins, and seeking forgiveness.
  • Walking humbly implies recognizing our dependence on God, submitting to His will, and aligning our lives with His righteousness.
  • The act of Teshuva reflects a transformation of the heart and a renewal of the relationship with God, fulfilling the call to humility.
  
  
  Scripture Connection:

  • Turning Back to God (Repentance):

    • “Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Turn ye unto me, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will turn unto you, saith the LORD of hosts.” (Zechariah 1:3, KJV)

  • Repentance and Renewal:

    • “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” (Isaiah 55:7, KJV)

  • Restoration and Forgiveness:

    • “If they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and turn and pray unto thee in the land of their captivity, saying, We have sinned, we have done amiss, and have dealt wickedly;” (2 Chronicles 6:37, KJV)

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Synthesis: Teshuva, Tefilla, and Tzedakah in Micah 6:8

• Micah’s Call:

  • Tzedakah (charity) manifests in doing justly, making righteousness tangible in the world through acts of kindness and fairness.
  • Tefilla (prayer) fosters a heart that loves mercy, connecting us to God’s compassion and inspiring us to share it.
  • Teshuva (repentance) aligns us with walking humbly with God.

• The Hebraic Perspective:

  • Micah 6:8 is a call to covenant faithfulness. Teshuva, Tefilla, and Tzedakah are practical expressions of this covenant, integrating inward transformation (Teshuva), upward devotion (Tefilla), and outward action (Tzedakah).

• New Testament Echo:

  • Jesus affirmed this triad when He taught that love for God and neighbor fulfills the law (Matthew 22:37–40).
  • Teshuva, Tefilla, and Tzedakah can be seen in Christian practice through repentance, prayer, and charity as acts of faith and love.

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