LEV1047 It is a positive commandment to give alms to the poor of Israel, according to what is fitting for them, if the giver can forward it, as it is said, "You shall surely open your hand into him" (Deuteronomy 15:8), and again, "Then shall you uphold him; as a stranger and a settler shall he live with you… That your brother may live with you" (this and following verses). He who sees a poor man begging and turns his eyes away from him and fails to give him alms, transgresses a negative commandment, as it is said, "You shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your needy brother" (Deuteronomy 15:7). You are commanded to give the poor man according to what he lacks. ... "Sufficient for his need in that which he needs" (Deuteronomy 15:8).