Maimonides' Eight Degrees of Charity
There are eight degrees in the giving of charity, one higher than the other:
He who gives grudgingly, reluctantly, or with regret.
He who gives less than he should, but gives graciously.
He who gives what he should, but only after he is asked.
He who gives before he is asked.
He who gives without knowing to whom he gives, although the recipient knows the identity of the donor.
He who gives without making his identity known.
He who gives without knowing to whom he gives, neither does the recipient know from whom he receives.
He who helps a fellowman to support himself by a gift, or a loan, or by finding employment for him,
thus helping him to become self~supporting.
Sabbath and Festival Prayer Book
The Rabbinical Assembly of America
The United Synagogue of America
Copyright, 1946~1959 Printing