Leading Rabbi Urges Charity to Unlock Prayers for Fertility on Tisha B'Av

Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a prominent halachic authority, has revealed a spiritual key for couples struggling with infertility, linking prayer acceptance to acts of charity. Ahead of the Jewish holiday of Tu B'Av, traditionally regarded as a day of divine mercy since the time of Moses, Rabbi Sternbuch emphasized that prayer alone is insufficient; it requires a partner, which he identifies as charity. He explained that giving charity invokes divine compassion, as God responds favorably when a person shows mercy to others, especially in times of personal suffering.

Rabbi Sternbuch specified a precise donation amount of 689 shekels, corresponding to the gematria of the phrase "Refuah VeYeshuah" (Healing and Salvation). He instructed that donations be made to a special fund established at Kuppat Ha'Ir, a Jerusalem-based charity, to support those seeking healing or fertility. Donors are encouraged to submit their names and those of loved ones in need, which will be included in a special prayer on Tu B'Av. The rabbi recorded his message to ensure wide dissemination and urged participation before the holiday, which this year falls on Wednesday.

The fund operates on a standing order basis of 96 shekels monthly for 36 months, culminating in the total sum of 689 shekels. Rabbi Sternbuch highlighted that this act of charity can transform judgment into mercy, offering hope to those awaiting miraculous healing or children. The initiative reflects a longstanding Jewish tradition that combines spiritual devotion with ethical deeds to invoke divine favor.