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Lessons of the half shekel - then and now

02/03/2021 09:04:25 AM

Mar2

Dear Congregational Family,

This week's Parsha, Ki-Tisa, opens with the law of the half shekel. Interestingly, we read this same passage recently on Shabbat Shekalim.

The half shekel was a mandatory tax. The rich did not give more. The poor did not give less. The amount was used toward a census, toward maintaining the sanctuary, and more.

The symbolism of the "half" means that alone we are incomplete. We complete our purpose in life by being part of something larger than ourselves, be it the sanctuary thousands of years ago or the synagogue today.

In Hebrew, the word for half, "Machatzit," is noteworthy. The middle letter, Tzadi (for righteousness) is surrounded by the letters for "Chai" (life). The end letters form the word "Met" (death). When one lives a virtuous life, one leads a meaningful life and inspires others. When one is removed from a virtuous life, one leads a life dead of purpose and brings others down.

While the ritual of the half shekel is no longer operative, its lessons speak to us then and now.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison

Fri, 29 March 2024 19 Adar II 5784