In the first post of our charitable giving series, we explored why giving isn’t just generous, it’s strategic. Charitable giving can help reduce your tax burden, support causes you care about and strengthen your long-term legacy. More than that, it can clarify your values and bring greater purpose to your financial decisions. When done intentionally, giving becomes a powerful tool for both impact and alignment.

Now, in part 2, we’re delving deeper into one of the most ancient, and powerful, financial principles: tithing.

What is tithing?

Tithing is the act of giving a portion of your income – traditionally 10% – to causes that matter. In Jewish tradition (and echoed in other faiths), that 10% isn’t just a suggestion, it’s a spiritual blueprint for generosity, blessing, and financial flow.

But here’s the part most people don’t expect:

You don’t have to start at 10%.
Start at 2%. Then 3%. Watch what happens. Track the flow. Notice what changes and not just in your finances, but in your thinking.

Tithing isn’t a switch you flip. It’s a practice you grow into.

How tithing works

When clients ask, “How can I make more money?” or “How can I save more in taxes?”, they always expect a technical answer. And while there are many, often the most powerful answers don’t come from spreadsheets, they come from alignment. And tithing is a form of alignment. Giving releases control, and in doing so, it opens space.

Think of it this way; when you grip too tightly to wealth, it can become a source of stress. When you release even a small portion, you enter a mindset of abundance, not scarcity.

This is why tithing is so powerful.

It’s not just a financial move. It’s a trust move. And according to Malachi 3:10, it’s the only spiritual practice where we’re invited to “test” the outcome.

You don’t have to understand it all. You just have to start.

It’s the act of giving before having all the answers that creates space for unexpected return.
Call it surrender. Call it alignment. Call it planting. The result is the same: growth.

How to begin

Start where you can.
2%. 3%. Watch. Reflect.
Then slowly build. Maybe within a year, you’ll reach that 10% mark, maybe it will take longer. but the key here is movement, not perfection.

And yes, your giving can be tax-deductible. At SJ Gorowitz, we can help you structure charitable contributions in a way that supports both your financial goals and the impact you want to create.

Final thought

Tithing isn’t about subtraction.
It’s about participation – in something bigger than yourself.

Whether you’re donating to your synagogue, a non-profit, a family foundation, or a cause close to your heart… giving changes things. It changes the world, and it changes you.

Stay tuned for Part 3 of this series, where we’ll explore how to choose the right causes, and how to build a giving strategy that aligns with your finances, your values, and your long-term legacy.

Watch the full video here.