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During Temple times, not only did the members of the tribe of Levi (priests and Levites) serve in the Temple and the justice system, they also filled many functions associated today with the rabbinate (teaching Torah, deciding halakha, and spiritual counseling). They were supported by Torah-mandated gifts from the nation, including tithes of produce, firstborn animals, and designated parts of the sacrifices. Other tribes generated impressive educators as well, who dedicated themselves to teaching without the support system. Sometimes they had rich family members who contributed to their sustenance, modeled on the partnership of Issachar and Zebulun. (The members of the tribe of Zebulun, who were often rich, supported the Torah scholars of the tribe of Issachar. They were considered equal partners, and reaped equal reward in heaven for the Torah study.)
With the destruction of the Temple and the subsequent exile, the priests and Levites no longer dedicated their lives to serving the public and teaching Torah. At the same time, the tithing obligations were minimized, and many Jews began to support themselves in ways other than agriculture. To ensure Torah study would continue, the Sages directed everyone to give ten percent of their earnings to support those of any tribe who were studying and teaching Torah. This charity is referred to as ma’aser kesafim (the monetary tithe) and still applies today. Those who wish to be more generous give twenty percent. Ma’aser money should also be devoted to providing basic necessities for the poor and needy (6:13 above).
Nowadays, the primary way in which we support Torah scholars is by contributing to yeshivot (religious academies) that train teachers, scholars, and community rabbis. In the past, individuals were entitled to decide on the recipients of their tithes. This policy motivated the priests and Levites to provide good service; those who did not make the effort, simply received less. Today as well, everyone can choose where to direct their charity. It makes sense to donate to yeshivot that reflect one’s values, and thus increase their communal impact.
