Directives from Jewish Torah Leaders
Rav Elazar Menachem Shach (B'nei B'rak):
The leader of the Torah world of the last generation, Rabbi Shach zt"l, was quoted as saying that the exquisite sweet reward of Talmud Torah (learning Torah) is rewarded equally to those who support Torah financially, as to those who actually do the learning.
The Gedolei HaDor (leaders of the Torah world):
Since there is a great under-appreciation and lack of funding for Torah-learning in the Jewish world, the Gedolei HaDor strongly encourage Jews to use their ma'aser and/or tzedakka (charity) money to support Torah-learning.
Rav Moshe Shternbuch (Har Nof, Jerusalem):
Rabbi Moshe Shternbuch, one of leading authorities of halacha (Jewish law) in this generation, was quoted as saying that ma'aser money (the 10% of income that is supposed to be given to charity) should be given to poor people, and especially struggling Talmidei Chachomim (Torah scholars). Ma'aser money should not be used for other mitzvoth. Therefore, if one needs to give money to build a Synagogue [or support another cause], it should be given from money other than ma'aser (over and above 10%) and poor people should not lose out.
The Shulchan Aruch [R' Yosef Karo] in Yore Deah (Chap. 246, Paragraph 1) says:
Someone who finds it impossible to study on his own, either because he is incapable or because he is loaded with too many other commitments should financially support those who have dedicated themselves to studying Torah.
The Rema [R' Moshe Isserles] notes:
The person who is supporting the scholar is regarded as if he himself had studied Torah.
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