For the source text click/tap here: Sukkah 49
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Our daf cites a verse in Shir HaShirim that states mah yafu peomayich baneolim bas nadiv, how lovely are your steps in sandals, O daughter of the noble? The Gemara explains that this verse refers to the lovely steps of the Jewish People when they ascended to Jerusalem for the festival. The words bas nadiv refer to Avrohom Avinu who is referred to as the nadiv, the noble one.
Scripture likens the words of the Torah to the thigh, as just as the thigh is a private area, so too one should study Torah discreetly. Thus, one should not study at the high point of the city and one should not teach his students in the marketplace.
The Gemara expounds on the merits of giving charity, as one who gives charity is greater that one who offers sacrifices. Yet, one who performs kindness is greater than one who gives charity. Charity is only regarded according to the kindness that one exhibits when giving the charity.
We explore the notion of Chessed and Torash Chessed in contrast to modern ideas of philanthropy.