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"Take the sum of the children of Israel according to their number, and every man shall
give a ransom for his soul." Exodus 30:12
The primary purpose of the half-shekel contribution
was to serve as a method for counting the people. In addition to this, the silver collected was used in the building of the
Tabernacle. This became an annual collection during the month of Adar. The money was specifically earmarked for the provision
of the sacrifices, thereby including all of Israel in this act of daily worship. In this manner, the shekel became a significant
symbol of an individual's membership.
In order for us to be numbered among the community
we must make a contribution to the community.
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