Shabbat Shekalim

This Shabbat is known as Shabbat Shekalim (literally - the Shabbat of Shekels). It is the first of the Arbah Parshiyot, four special Shabbats that precede the observance of Passover. These special Shabbats are observed by additional reading from a second Torah to mark the occasion. Shabbat Shekalim is always observed on the Shabbat that immediately precedes Rosh Chodesh (the new month) of Adar, or when Rosh Chodesh Adar and Shabbat are observed on the same day, as they are this year. Adar is the month in which Purim is observed. The additional reading for this Shabbat is taken from the 30th chapter of the Book of Shmot (Exodus) and its subject is the machzit hashekel, the half shekel that every Jew was commanded to bring each year for the maintenance of the Temple. This practice continued for hundreds of years, even during the time of the Roman occupation of Israel. This special Torah reading is read at this time of the year because it was during the month of Adar that emissaries would travel throughout Israel and Jewish Diaspora to collect these funds so that the Temple would be able to meet the needs of the many pilgrims who would soon arrive to celebrate Passover. Shabbat Shekalim reminds us each year of our responsibility for the maintenance of our synagogues and religious institutions. That responsibility must be maintained, especially during this challenging time.

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