Rabbi's Desk

In the beginning of this week's Torah portion, we learn about the first census that was taken.  Each individual was counted by means of a half shekel.  Each member of the community, regardless of status, wealth, background, pedigree or occupation was required to donate a 1/2 shekel to the community pot and thereby be counted.

הֶעָשִׁיר לֹא-יַרְבֶּה, וְהַדַּל לֹא יַמְעִיט, מִמַּחֲצִית, הַשָּׁקֶל

"A rich person may not give more and a poor person may not give less than half a shekel" (30:15)

But why a half shekel each? Why only a half and not a whole?  Why a shekel at all - couldn't we simply count heads?

I believe it teaches us about the worth of the individual. Since every person is worth the same amount, it teaches us about humility and equality.  No matter one's blood line, color, gender, vocation, or status, no one is worth more or less than the other.  The High Priest is worth exactly as much as the commoner.

Each one of us has been created with a soul - something hashuv, important and valuable.  Therefore, it must be represented by something of value. However, individual value seems minute in comparison to a collective group. A half Shekel doesn't buy much - even in those days.  But when combined with many other 1/2 shekels, it soon becomes a fortune.  When we all contribute and become a unified voice, then we are a force to be reckoned with.

In the time of the Bible, the monetary system was based purely on weight, not on prescribed value to coins and bills.  Thus, a half shekel weighed exactly half as much as a full shekel. When we combine our efforts and collaborate with others, we become complete, effective and efficient.

Alone, we cannot possibly better ourselves or our community.  We need the help and counsel of others to advance as individuals and as a collective.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Steve Suson