DEUT682 In describing the verse instructing the Jew to give ten percent of produce to the poor, the Torah repeats in the verse the verb for tithing: "Aser Ta'aser" [this verse]. The Talmud often gives a deeper explanation when any addition or repetition of a word occurs in a verse. On this verse, the Talmud states that one should tithe to the poor for the purpose of becoming rich (Ta'anit 9a). Since the letters of tithing and wealth are identical (Ayin, Shin/Shin, Resh), the verse can then be read, "Tithe so that you can attain wealth." This seems to imply that one's motivation in giving charity in Judaism is not to please God or follow His commands, but rather, in order that God reward monetarily the person for filling this commandment, and he receive back from God much more than was donated. This notion seems to contradict the overarching attitude towards serving God and performing commandments: a person should act as a servant (to God) without expectation of reward (Mishnah Avot 1:3). And yet, the Talmud clearly says that one's motivation in giving Tzedakah can be for material gain and expected wealth.