שולחן ערוך יורה דעה הלכות צדקה סימן רמט סעיף טז
יש מי שאומר שמצות בית הכנסת עדיפא ממצות צדקה, ומצות צדקה לנערים ללמוד תורה או לחולים עניים, עדיף ממצות בית הכנסת
There are those who say that the commandment to build a synagogue supersedes the commandment of charity, and charity to teach young children Torah or to heal the poor sick people supersedes the commandment to build a synagogue. [Translation by Uri L’Tzedek]
Suggested Discussion Questions:
1. What is the difference between general charity and charity to teach Torah or heal the poor sick? Why is the latter more important?
2. What is the significance of a synagogue? Why might it supersede the commandment of charity?
3. How does this text envision the hierarchy of a community’s needs? Do you agree?
Time Period: Modern (Spinoza through post-WWII)