The Holy Beggars of Safed
Like any small town, Safed has a few professional beggars. None of them are drunkards, thank G‑d, or homeless, G‑d forbid. They just beg for a living. It’s their job, and they work hard at it. They keep regular hours, and each has his own territory. Some of them work for religious organizations, like the fat guy who limps and carries a pushka (collection can), or the spry, skinny, little guy on the midrahov, our cobblestoned main street. He sings Yiddish and Hebrew folk songs, and even dances around waltz-like on a good day, gentle and grateful, giving a berachah (blessing) and a sweet smile to every generous soul. Then we have a few others who are self-employed. They put out their hand, or an unlabeled plastic jar. Most of our beggars are clean, although I’m sure that some of them believe that they will have a more successful day if they look a bit down in the collar. But every day, there they are. Read more here: The Holy Beggars of Safed
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