half shekel

“Judaism and the Principle of the Sanctity of Human Life”

The principle of the sanctity of life, a foremost principle in Judaism, is highlighted on multiple occasions in parashat Shoftim.

"Making Each Person Count"

The Torah in parashat Ki Tisah calls upon each adult male Jew to donate a half shekel to the Tabernacle. Ostensibly, the purpose is to count the number of soldiers who were available for service in the army. However, the half shekel has many symbolic meanings that are remarkably relevant even today.