תלמוד בבלי, סנהדרין לה
כדרבי אלעזר אמר רבי יצחק, דאמר רבי אלעזר אמר רבי יצחק: כל תענית שמלינין בו את הצדקה - כאילו שופך דמים, שנאמר מלאתי משפט צדק וגו'
Even as R. Eleazar said in the name of R. Isaac, "If on a fast day, the distribution of alms is postponed over night, it is just as though blood were shed, as it is written, 'She that was full of justice, charity, etc (Isaiah 1:21).'"
[Soncino Translation]
Suggested Discussion Questions:
1. Why might Rabbi Eleazar place such emphasis on not delaying the distribution of tzedakah on a fast day?
2. Should the poor or hungry be expected to participate in fast days?
3. How can we apply this teaching today?
Time Period: Rabbinic (Maccabees through the Talmud)