Generously Not Begrudgingly

Parshat תרומה is all about giving and generosity. When the campaign began to ask for donations in the construction of the Mishkan, there was one important requirement.

The Torah tells us that only individuals who אשר ידבנו ליבו, “who give of a generous heart,” shall be allowed to donate.

There are numerous stories that emphasize this idea. It is not the amount that’s given that counts in the eyes of Hashem, but HOW it’s given. The one thing that could cause an individual to lose all benefits in the giving of charity, is if it’s given begrudgingly. This is why the words, “generosity of the heart” is so important.

This is also why giving in a quiet and sincere manner is so important. If a person gives and wants everyone to notice by having his name on a building, or receiving all kinds of public praises, he pays a price. In Heaven, Hashem looks at this person and says, “That person is covered. His praises are his reward. But that other fellow who gives without anyone’s knowledge, will get his recognition from Me. I must reward him for his sincerity and kindness.”

It would certainly seem that we are far better off by getting our reward from Hashem and not from man. This is what comes from אשר ידבנו לבו, giving with a generous heart.