The Half-Shekel

A short insight from the teachings of our father and teacher
Rav Yoram Abergel, Z"tl, on the mitzvah

The Torah commands to give a half-shekel, as it is written: "This shall they give, everyone who passes among those who are counted, half a shekel of the sacred shekel" (Shemot 30:13).

It is well known that the commentators ask: Why did the Torah command to give specifically a half-shekel and not a full shekel or any other amount?

Many explanations have been given for this. In addition to all of them, it can be said that the Torah specifically commanded to give a half-shekel because the word "מחצית" (Machatzit – half) contains a wonderful hint to the spiritual work of every Jew.

At the center of the word "מחצית" stands the letter "צ", and adjacent to it on both sides are the letters "חי" (which spell "life"), while further away from it on both sides are the letters "מת" (which spell "death").

The letter "צ" alludes to the mitzvah of tzedakah (charity), which in our times is the main essence of the mitzvah of giving the half-shekel.

The idea here is that one who merits being close to the mitzvah of tzedakah and gives generously to anyone in need, with an open hand, a radiant countenance, and a joyful heart, saves himself and his household from all harm and damage, as it is written: "And charity saves from death" (Mishlei 10:2).

He also draws upon himself and them an abundance of good and long life, as it is written: "He who pursues charity and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor" (Mishlei 21:21), thus placing him in the category of "חי" (life).

However, one who, G-d forbid, distances himself from charity and turns a blind eye to the poor separates himself from the source of life and draws upon himself harsh and bitter suffering.

And it was not for nothing that our ancestors would say: A house whose door is open to the poor will not be open to illness or bad news, G-d forbid.