The Gemara in Masechet Sanhedrin says that before Mashiach comes, there will not be a single prutah in the purse. How should an Orthodox Jew understand this prophecy in relation to investing money in Torah versus investing in material possessions and secular causes?

Mashiach's arrival will reduce all material wealth (stocks, real estate, etc.) to zero; only Torah and mitzvot hold eternal value. Your primary investment must be in Torah: supporting scholars, kollelim, and kiruv. This is your true security and retirement plan, accumulating endless spiritual credit, unlike perishable assets. Giving tzedakah for Torah comes from a separate Divine account, not diminishing income but bringing blessings. Neglecting this eternal investment for fleeting material gain will lead to profound regret. If you believe Mashiach is coming, act like it: shift focus from financial portfolios to spiritual ones. If funds decrease, give more tzedakah to effective Torah causes, demonstrating emunah and receiving protection.