shorthand guides to what was significant in Judaism developed through a listing of the 613 commandments— both positive(248) and negative(365). In all of them taking care of the poor was listed under several headings.
Isaac of Narbonne’s code(1110-1179 CE.) contained a section entitled hilkhot tzedakah. It went into considerable detail about both the collection and distribution of tzedakah as well as decisions on the priorities of distribution.
The Mahzor Vitri(11th century) indicated that collections were made for the poor in the synagogue not only on Purim , but also during daily services that could be interrupted for this purpose (Mahzor Vitri, p. 7).
MORAL IMPERATIVES OF THE SEFER HASSIDIM
Aside from midrashim and numerous sermons, the popular Sefer Hassidim of Judah ben Samuel of Ratisbon (d. 1217), his sons and circle of disciples sought to move people beyond the strict requirements of the law.” This ranges over every aspect of Judaism , but often turns to the problems of the poor. Riches were seen as a temporary trust that must be shared with the poor(1345). Donations should not be used to gain social position(846, 851). Gifts to the poor were considered as repentance(112, 127) and would yield different rewards such as resurrection(880) or entrance to Paradise (879). Failure to be kind would bring punishment(1345, 1713). Furthermore, tzedakah can be used by the living to aid those already dead(273). Sefer Hassidim also pointed to communal punishment that faced those who did not at least give the minimum demanded by the community(911, 914, 915).