Rabbi Howard Morrison

This Shabbat is called Shabbat Shekalim. It is the first of four special Sabbaths surrounding Purim and Pesach. The Sabbath of the half Shekel harkens back to periods of antiquity which recall raising funds to unify our people, enter a census, repair breaches in the Temple and more. In later periods of Jewish history, the traditions of the half Shekel reminded our people to provide funds for the needy at Purim and Pesach time.

I am writing this message while studying with colleagues during a one month sabbatical. I will return just prior to Purim. 

As we enter the season of the four special Sabbaths - Shekalim, Zachor, Parah, and Ha'Chodesh - we celebrate Semachot, lifecycle joys, this coming Shabbat. 

 After a Bar Mitzvah on Shabbat, we extend a special Mazel Tov to our executive director, Candace Vogel, on the wedding of her daughter and future son in law.

On this Shabbat, the end of Parshat Mishpatim culminates the narrative of the marriage union between God and Israel at Sinai.

Our tradition teaches us that the two tablets of the Ten Commandments are analogous to a groom and a bride coming together in marriage.

Shabbat Shalom and Mazel Tov to lifecycle celebrants this weekend.

Rabbi Howard Morrison