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Although the Torah defends the right of ownership and does not mandate individuals to divide the fruits of their labors equally, it does command us to help the poor with charity. This charity involves an element of justice as well. Farmers who work hard and see the fruits of their labor, must remember that the land and the rain come from God, as does their skill and their health. Additionally, the fact their crops escaped damage is thanks to God. The justice system, transportation system, and educational system also play a role in their success. They too are thanks to divine mercy and societal support. Therefore, it is only just for a person to take some of the blessings God granted and give them to others who have been less blessed. This is why there are many commandments relating to charity, which will be explained in the next chapter.
At the same time, since the wealth people earn belongs to them, they have the right to choose to which poor people and charitable institutions they want to donate. When necessary, if the charity people voluntarily give is not enough to meet the critical needs of the impoverished, communal leaders must obligate the entire community to donate. In the State of Israel, tax revenue contributes greatly towards meeting the critical needs of the poor.
