Mishpatim Shekalim The Perspective of a Half

In these turbulent times—marked by tragedies in Eretz Yisrael and natural disasters like recent earthquakes—we are reminded that Hashem is speaking to us. We cannot simply go on with our routines; we are called to grow stronger in our emunah, to take upon ourselves kabbalot, and to bring light into the world in their merit.

This week we find ourselves between two meaningful Torah portions: Parashat Mishpatim and Parshat Shekalim. Mishpatim teaches the social and legal mitzvot given after Matan Torah, and Shekalim introduces the mitzvah of Machatzit HaShekel—the half-shekel offering—as we prepare for Rosh Chodesh Adar. Even in times of uncertainty, we are taught: “Mishenichnas Adar, marbim b’simcha”—When Adar arrives, we increase our joy. This is the perfect moment to reflect on the lessons of Machatzit HaShekel and the "perspective of a half."

Understanding the Hidden Half

Why does the Torah ask us to give only a half-shekel? The message is deep: In life, we often see only "half" of the story. Events unfold that we cannot fully comprehend—tragic losses, unusual coincidences. We ask: Why did this happen? What is Hashem’s plan?

The answer: there is always an unseen half. The full picture is hidden in the realm of Torat HaNistar—the hidden Torah that will only be fully revealed with the coming of Moshiach. In the meantime, we are asked to strengthen our emunah, trusting that Hashem’s plan is perfect even when we don’t understand it.

Two Halves of the Torah: Between Man and Man, and Man and Hashem

The Aseret HaDibrot—the Ten Commandments—are divided into two halves: bein adam l’Makom (between us and Hashem) and bein adam l’chaveiro (between us and others). After the awe of Matan Torah, Hashem immediately teaches us Mishpatim—the mitzvot between man and man.

Why? Because Hashem desires not only our connection with Him, but also our harmonious relationships with others. The Torah begins with laws about an Eved Ivri—a Hebrew servant. In Jewish law, this is not about degrading someone, but rather about dignity and rehabilitation. We do not imprison or shame, but uplift, teach, and model kindness.

This reflects a central value: consideration for others. Whether we’re careful not to harm another’s property, or even help the donkey of an enemy (Ki tira chamor sonacha), we are taught to act with compassion and responsibility. The downfall of the generation of Noach was not idolatry, but gezel—a lack of respect for others.

The Covenant of Halves: Body and Soul in Harmony

Before Matan Torah, Moshe Rabbeinu performed the brit bein habetarim—a covenant sealed by dividing offerings in half. Blood was sprinkled half on the mizbeach (altar), and half on the people.

This teaches that a Jew must live in harmony between the guf (body) and neshama (soul). Neither should dominate; both must be guided by Torah, and both must be used to serve Hashem.

The Half Shekel: Becoming Whole Through Giving

When Moshe questioned why the mitzvah requires giving only a half-shekel, Hashem showed him a half-shekel of fire and said: “Zeh yitnu”—this they shall give. The message: it’s not the amount, but the passion, warmth, and heart behind the gift.

Why give only a half? Because no person is complete on their own. We are all “halves”—we become whole when we give, when we connect, when we create achdut with others.

The Torah says: “Im talveh et ami”—“If you lend money to My people.” Though it is an obligation, the wording is if—because we are meant to give willingly, with love, not just because we must.

Unity and the Power of Giving

There is another beautiful reason we read Parshat Shekalim before Purim. The Midrash explains: Haman offered 10,000 shekalim to annihilate the Jews. But the giving of Machatzit HaShekel by Am Yisrael preceded and countered his plan.

Haman’s strategy was based on the disunity he observed among Jews—sinat chinam (baseless hatred). The antidote? Ahavat chinam—baseless love. Each Jew is a “half” that must unite with another. By giving Machatzit HaShekel with the right heart and intent, we strengthen the fabric of unity in Klal Yisrael.

A Hidden Meaning: A Story of Divine Providence

A wealthy man once prepared for his son’s upsherin. He bought a beautiful silver becher and asked for his son’s name—Chaim—to be engraved. The engraver mistakenly added a second name: Yosef Chaim. Upset, the man almost refused to take the cup. But he relented.

Shortly after, the boy fell dangerously ill. The Rabbi advised adding a second name to strengthen the child’s mazal. The father now realized: Hashem had already prepared the salvation. The engraved name, added in error, was no mistake at all.

This story reminds us: everything in life has a hidden side. Even when events seem random, Hashem is orchestrating the outcomes with love and precision.

A Blessing for the New Month

As we usher in Rosh Chodesh Adar, may we all internalize this message:

• That life’s unseen halves are guided by Hashem’s perfect plan.

• That our giving and acts of chesed make us whole.

• That through unity, love, and strengthening our emunah, we will merit yeshuot and nechamot—salvation and comfort.

Wishing you a month of joy, strength, and blessings.A gebentshed Chodesh and a beautiful Shabbos.