Introduction to the laws of Maaser Sheni

Introduction to Masechet Demai.

Some of the laws of Gifts to the Kohanim, Leviim, and the poor.

"Terumah Gedolah" - the first 2% goes to the Kohen

"Maaser Rishon" the next 10% goes to the levi

"Maaser Sheni" - the next 10% on years 1,2,4,5 of the 7-year shemitah cycle - gets taken to Jerusalem and eaten there or redeemed for money which is spent in Jerusalem.

"Maaser Ani" - instead of Maaser Sheni in years 3 and 6 - goes to the poor

This Mishnah concludes Masechet Peah.

It discusses the beautiful blessings that are bestowed on poor people who refuse to take charity and on righteous judges who refuse to take bribes.

A fitting ending to a Masechet dealing with gifts to the poor, charity and discretion.

Who is considered poor enough to take Leket, Shichehah, Peah and Ma'asser Ani?

Interesting material!

Introduction to the Jewish law of charity.

The communal charity.

How the Rabbis tried to mitigating fraud risk in collecting and distributing charity funds.

More revolutionary legislation dealing with taking care of the poor, the hungry, the disadvantaged in society. The beauty of Judaism that changed the world thousands of years ago.

In years 3 and 6 of the 7 year Shemitah cycle, we replace Ma'aser Sheni with Maaser Ani.

The Tithe for the Poor.

This Mishnah discusses the amount we are requited to give to each poor person when they come for their tithes in these years.

This Mishnah discusses the case where the entire vineyard is completely made up of tiny clusters that are called "Ollelot" which normally must be left for the poor and not gleaned by the landlord. In this case, does the landlord forfeit his entire vineyard?

This Mishnah provides the introduction to the special Misvah of "Kerem Rebai" - otherwise known as "Neta Rebai" - the fruits in the fourth year of the tree and the related laws.

What do we consider the poor that are entitled to our "Peah" and other gifts we are required to leave them?

Do they have the legal status of our "partners" or are they legally similar to "purchasers" who buy the products from us (albeit for free)?

This argument has wide-ranging ramifications as this Mishnah will discuss and highlight.