EXOD933 The word Tsedakah means something more than charity; it means to do right and in the best possible way. It is a basic principle of Social Ethics to provide for the welfare of all and to each according to his need. As one of the three pillars on which society rests, [Avot i.2], kindness can be regarded as a virtue only if it be practiced in secret [See B.B. 10b; Ps. xli.1] and not regarded as almsgiving to be dispensed grudgingly. In the Torah, giving to holy causes is dignified by the word Terumah [this verse] ("uplifting"). Since each of us needs the ennoblement which true kindness fosters, it is a virtue from which even he, who himself is dependent on charity, is not exempt [Gitt. 7b]. The Rabbis ruled it is better to give nothing rather than bring a blush to the recipient of alms. [Hag. 5a]. The word Tsedakah is comprehensive, including any deed leading to the alleviation of the afflicted and resulting in a sweetening of human relationships. True charity bestows as well as receives; "more than the householder does for the needy, the needy does for the householder" [Lev R. xxiv.8].