Shekalim-Three Torahs

This Shabbat is very unusual in that we read from three Torahs. The first is for the weekly Parsha, משפטים, the second for Rosh Chodesh, and the third for פרשת שקלים. This can only happen on Chanuka or on פרשת החודש for the month of Nissan.

Shekalim describes the annual obligation to participate in pay dues of a half shekel, that was used for Temple maintenance and the payment for public sacrifices.

This was always done in the month of Adar, where tables were set up all over Israel by Temple representatives to collect this מחצית השקל.

The גזבר, or Temple treasurer, played a major role in seeing that all בית המקדש activities run smoothly. He took care of repairs, donations, and payments to the staff.

He also needed to make sure that all Shekalim from the previous year were used up by Rosh Chodesh Nissan.

Parshat Shekalim is the symbol of the upcoming joyous holidays of Purim and Pesach. G-d willing, it should represent for us an end to the dark winter and an end to sickness and suffering. It is a sign that the Redemption is coming!