“If your brother becomes impoverished and sells some of his hereditary land a close relative can come and redeem what his kinsman has sold” (Vayikra 25:25).
Says the Midrash: “Happy is he who is thoughtful of the impoverished.” (Tehillim 41:2).
Rav Yona adds: “It does not say ‘Happy is he who gives to the impoverished’ but rather ‘Happy is he who is thoughtful of the impoverished’ who considers and contemplates what will truly improve his lot.” (Tanchuma Behar Midrash Rabbah Behar 34:1)
Support of an impoverished person has to be done wholeheartedly and intelligently. The more intelligent thought that goes into giving the greater and more lasting its effect. We must become involved in the pain of the poor person — to taste the bitterness of his heart to become part of him. This is the most important encouragement we can offer him as Rashi says [on Parshas Mishpatim Shemos 22:24]: “Regarding the impoverished among you; look at yourself as if you yourself are impoverished.” (Rav Chaim Zaitchik Mayanei HaChaim Parshas Behar 247)
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