After I watched the entire episode, I became interested in
the fact that never once did he refer to giving as a “tithe.” He kept referring
to it as “giving to charity.”
Another thing I noticed was a reference to how much to give.
Most Christian discussions advise that we give 10% off the “top” - the gross.
However, Rabbi Wyne seemed to be saying it should be the “net.” In one case, he
said that if we get $4000 a month and after taxes, have $3500 a month, we
should give away $350.
I then took it a step further and did an online search
regarding the difference in Christian and Jewish concepts in tithing. I
especially found these two links of great help in understanding those
differences, and to me they make sense.
I had been trying to focus on the “gross” method because
Jesus advised that we give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God, what is
God’s, and I felt that the gross was what I got and needed to give the Lord 10%
off of that.
However, I now realize that today’s life is different than
it was in the days when Jesus walked our world. Back then, they received their
income - money for crops, for services rendered, for wages. They gave taxes
“after” they received their funds.
Today, we have no choice in most cases. Our taxes come out
before we even see the funds, and we do not have a choice in that amount. That
changes the picture somewhat.
Also, having checked the two discussions in the links above,
I also have a slightly different impression of what is expected of me. So I
come away with a mixed decision.
I will still attempt to tithe, but off the “net.” And I will
deal with tangible income, not intangible “gifts” which was beginning to make
me crazy in the head trying to figure that out.
I also give in other ways - the little group of seniors who I organized five years ago in our mobile home park who lovingly crochet and knit things for our local needy, and I split some of my food pantry blessings with a neighbor who has great difficulty getting out to go shopping, and so on.
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