Chalom uVracha
We have had a discussion in the beith midrasch regarding someone who when called to the Torah promised (with or without neder) a certain sum to tzedakah. The question is: what does tzedakah means? is it only anyim? or can this money be used for other purposes, like for the shul, etc….
BeBirkat Hatorah
Kol Tuv
Answer:
In this case, it is permitted to give the donation to the shul or other charitable cause.
The reason for this is that the neder a person makes is interpreted according to the manner of speech that people use under the specific circumstances. In the circumstances of a shul donation, the word tzedakah is not used only for a formal charity donation, but in particular for donations to the shul, and sometimes for other causes.
Best wishes.
