זֶה יִתְּנוּ כָּל הָעבֵר עַל הַפְּקֻדִים מַחֲצִית הַשֶּׁקֶל בְּשֶׁקֶל הַקּדֶשׁ
This they should give, everyone who passes among the counted, Machatzis Hashekel (the Half Shekel) of the Holy Shekel (30:13)
Instead of counting people to determine the census, each person gave a Machtzitz HaShekel — Half Shekel — which was counted and then used towards the expenses of the Mishkan.[1] Why did the coin specifically need to be a half coin? If the purpose was merely to serve as a means of counting the Jewish People, any coin should have been sufficient!
Perhaps the message is that when a group comes together, especially when it is contributing towards the spiritual upkeep and development of their community, each member must approach their role with humility, knowing that however great they may personally be, their strengths and talents are not completed without the strengths and talents of others. Even a wealthy person, notes the Malbim, should be humbled by the fact that he cannot fulfil the mitzvah of tzedakah without there being a poor person there to receive his charity.[2] As such, everyone has an equal role to play, because being the provider or the recipient is still only a 50% role.
If we take this message to heart, it will no doubt help us appreciate those around us in a greater way and increase our sense of unity. Which, as the Malbim writes, will serve as a tremendous merit for our protection and success.[3]
SHORT VORT, Rabbi Moshe Kormornick. Published by Adir Press. $9.99 in stores worldwide and online here
Whether you are looking for something meaningful on the Parsha, an uplifting thought for Yom Tov, or have been asked to speak at a Simcha – “Short Vort” is the book for you! With over 140 incredible short vorts packed with stories and valuable life messages, you will never be lost for something inspiring to say.
Rabbi Moshe Kormornick is a popular writer whose words are enjoyed by thousands of readers every week.
