Zecher L’Machatzit HaShekel – 5786 - HAMITBACH: Cooking for Soldiers

Zecher L’Machatzit HaShekel – Half-Shekel Remembrance (2026) Dear Friends and Supporters, As we approach the month of Adar and the joyous holiday of Purim, we once again have the special opportunity to fulfill the ancient custom of Zecher L’Machatzit HaShekel — giving in remembrance of the half-shekel that was donated by every Jew at the time of the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple). The Torah commands this remembrance so that “the rich shall not give more and the poor shall not give less” — a unifying expression of equal participation in the community. What is it?In Temple times, every Jewish man above the age of obligation contributed a half-shekel toward the communal needs of the Temple, including the public offerings. Today, although the Temple no longer stands, we honor this mitzvah by giving a charitable gift “in memory” of that half-shekel. Suggested Donation Amount (2026)According to widely accepted custom and contemporary guidance, the value of the original half-shekel in today’s terms is approximately: ~$22 USD per person — reflecting the equivalent worth of a half-shekel of pure silver today.(Some communities have a custom of giving three U.S. half-dollar coins — symbolically representing the custom of giving three coins as explained in traditional sources — or simply a donation of any amount in remembrance.) For Whom to DonateMany choose to give this donation on behalf of: • Each adult (Jewish men and women) • Children and other family members There are differing customs, but all are valid as long as the intention is to fulfill the remembrance of the half-shekel. When to GiveThe custom is to give the contribution around Ta’anit Esther (the Fast of Esther, before Purim) or during the month of Adar. PurposeYour generous gift today supports ongoing community programs and helps strengthen Jewish life, Torah study, and acts of kindness — carrying forward the spirit of shared responsibility that this ancient mitzvah embodies. Thank you for your continued dedication and generosity. With gratitude and blessings for a joyful Purim, Rav Maor Meir Ohana Chabad Of Katamon Hamitbach Jerusalem