Q. I was told that we’re not supposed to give tzedaka to a Gentile. Those that include any type of money, food, clothes, other help, etc.? What is the source?

A. On question 1955 regarding how could Yaakov who kept the whole Torah send a gift to Eisav, is that not prohibited because of Lo Techanem?

To what we answered: “See question 234 in regards to sending gifts to customers or business acquaintances as the holiday season approaches we wrote: The Talmud (Avoda Zarah 20a) instructs that there are different interpretations to the biblical proscription of “Lo Techonem” (Devarim 7:2) one is; “not to give them free gifts”.

Who exactly qualifies as “them” and what is a “free gift”, is open to Halachik discussion. Shulchan Aruch (Y.D. 151: 11) rules: It is prohibited to give a free gift to an idol worshiper you do not know. Taz (ibid. 8) explains that if you know him, it is not considered a “free gift”, as you would expect a favor in return. As such, gifts to customers or business acquaintances, even if they were to qualify as idol worshipers are not prohibited. (However, Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit”a opinion is indeed to avoid sending gifts that would reach a Gentile on the day of the celebration. It is better to shun the prior day also).

Additionally, Yaakov’s gifts to Eisav were given as an act of survival, since he feared for his life and therefore allowed.”

On question 3594 we were asked “Should someone donate to an institution that collects for the victims of Ukraine and brings them to Israel. The venue is managed by the Israeli (Leftist government) and the help goes to help mostly Gentile victims?

To what we answered: “Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that such an institution should not be supported as the moneys donated, not only contravene the Laws of the Torah, but also the Laws of the Land, that rule that regarding aid and support to immigrants, Jews have priority. (Chok Hashevut).

Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Dovid Pam, Horav Aharon Miller, Horav Chanoch Ehrentreu Shlit’a and Horav Kalman Ochs Shlit’a.