Deuteronomy 15:4 - Charity prevents poverty's grip

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Devarim 15:4) states that there will be no poor among the Jewish people if they properly observe the mitzvot, as Hashem will bless them abundantly in the Land of Israel. This promise is conditional upon the nation's adherence to Torah and mitzvot, particularly in matters of tzedakah (charity) and social justice.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi explains that the phrase "אֶפֶס כִּי לֹא יִהְיֶה־בְּךָ אֶבְיוֹן" ("there shall be practically no poor among you") is not an absolute guarantee, but rather a statement of what should be the case if the Jewish people fulfill their obligations. He cites the Sifrei, which clarifies that poverty will only be absent if the people keep the mitzvot related to the Sabbatical year (Shemitah) and other commandments. If they neglect these laws, poverty will arise.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Matnot Aniyim 10:1) emphasizes that this verse highlights the ideal state of society when the Jewish people act righteously. He teaches that tzedakah is not merely an act of kindness but a chiyuv (obligation) to uphold the needy so that poverty is alleviated. The blessing of Hashem is contingent upon the people's collective commitment to justice and compassion.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash Tanchuma (Re'eh 9) connects this verse to the broader theme of divine reward and punishment. It teaches that when the Jewish people are generous and uphold the laws of tzedakah, Hashem ensures their prosperity in Eretz Yisrael. Conversely, neglect of these mitzvot leads to economic hardship, as seen later in the parsha (Devarim 15:11), where it states, "כִּי לֹא־יֶחְדַּל אֶבְיוֹן מִקֶּרֶב הָאָרֶץ" ("for the poor will never cease from the land").

Halachic Implications

• The verse underscores the importance of preventing poverty through proactive measures, such as fair wages and loans (Gemara Bava Metzia 62a).
• The Kli Yakar notes that the phrase "בָּאָרֶץ אֲשֶׁר יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ נֹתֵן־לְךָ" ("in the land that Hashem gives you") teaches that this blessing is uniquely tied to Eretz Yisrael, where the mitzvot are most fully observed.
• The Sforno explains that the blessing is not merely material but also spiritual—prosperity in the Land enables greater Torah study and divine service.