Rabbi Sternbuch Promises Great Wealth for Charity Donations This Year

As the Jewish year 5787 (Tashpa"z) begins, Rabbi Meir Sternbuch, a prominent rabbinic authority, has issued a blessing for significant financial prosperity to those who donate to the "Kupat Ha'ir" charity. He explicitly links the donation amount to the year itself, suggesting a contribution equivalent to 787 units of local currency (e.g., 787 shekels in Israel, 787 dollars in the US).

Rabbi Sternbuch's pronouncement is based on the Shulchan Aruch, a foundational code of Jewish law, which states that charity leads to wealth. He expressed confidence in this principle, citing the verse "You shall surely tithe, you shall tithe that you may become rich." This is presented as a unique instance where the Torah permits testing God's promise.

The rabbi also addressed potential skepticism, referencing the teachings of Rabbi Moses Sofer (the Chasam Sofer). The Chasam Sofer explained that even if individuals who give charity do not immediately see wealth, it does not negate the promise. Reasons could include other sins hindering the blessing, or that the wealth received might prevent greater physical suffering. Therefore, the blessing of wealth through charity remains valid, though its form of recompense may vary.

Kupat Ha'ir is described as an organization that distributes funds to families in need, widows, orphans, the sick, and the destitute. The article concludes by urging readers to seize the opportunity to donate the specified amount to Kupat Ha'ir to receive Rabbi Sternbuch's blessing for immense wealth throughout the year 5787.