۱۴۰۵ فروردین ۱۰, دوشنبه

A fresh wave of controversy has erupted after televangelist and Trump ally Paula White-Cain urged followers to donate 10 percent of their income, linking the practice not only to faith, but also to support for projects connected to Israel.While tithing has long been promoted in religious circles as a spiritual obligation, critics say the framing of these donations — in the context of an ongoing war and humanitarian crisis — takes on a very different meaning.White-Cain, widely known as a spiritual advisor to Donald Trump, has built a large following through her ministry and political connections. But her latest message is now drawing attention far beyond religious audiences.At the center of the backlash is the timing. Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza has triggered global outrage, with human rights groups, UN voices, and critics worldwide pointing to mass civilian casualties, destruction, and what some describe as collective punishment or even genocide. Israel strongly rejects these accusations, but the scale of the crisis has made the issue impossible to ignore.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced growing calls for accountability, with critics increasingly labeling him a war criminal — a claim that remains politically contested, but widely discussed.Against this backdrop, the call to donate 10 percent of one’s income is being seen by some as deeply controversial. For critics, it raises a fundamental question: why should people financially support a foreign state involved in a devastating conflict, especially under the banner of religious duty?The controversy is further amplified by the economic reality facing many people today. Rising prices, inflation, and ongoing energy instability have already stretched household budgets. Critics argue that asking individuals to give away a fixed portion of their income in such conditions — while tying it to a conflict linked to global instability — feels disconnected at best, and hypocritical at worst.Some observers go even further, arguing that encouraging financial contributions in this context risks turning faith into a tool that indirectly supports geopolitical agendas. For them, the issue is no longer just about religion — it’s about influence, power, and accountability.Supporters, however, maintain that tithing is a voluntary act of faith that transcends politics and economic cycles. They argue that giving has always been part of spiritual practice, regardless of external circumstances.But as the lines between faith, finance, and global conflict continue to blur, one thing is clear — messages like this are no longer confined to churches. They are entering the wider political conversation, where they are being questioned, challenged, and increasingly scrutinized.