Have you been following the news lately? It’s been quite astonishing - there’s been rebellion and intrigue, outright sin and then forgiveness. The national treasure was destroyed and then a replacement was crafted. That’s right; this week’s Torah portion news is most fascinating and includes many important themes.
However, the first theme addressed in the portion is possibly the most important of all: The counting of the Jewish people, by way of each person giving a half a shekel donation.
You probably know by now that the Torah’s purpose is not to share a historical account, rather its purpose (and the meaning of the word itself) is teaching and guidance. So what could possibly be the relevance of sharing this report of a primitive method of population measurement?
Think about this for a second – the Torah is relating how we measure people, and it’s not by counting their body; it’s by counting what they give, in this case a half shekel. Each person is looked at through the lens of their ability to contribute to the world around them. The Torah’s message is clear and simple; you’re worth what you give, not what you have.
But if it was all about what you give, why limit the amount? Why not ask each person to give as much they could? Because it’s not about being able to give more or less, it’s about giving; and every single person has what to give. Every single person has what to contribute. The proof? The fact that you’re here, the fact that you woke up this morning, that’s proof that you still have what to give.
Every single person has what to give. Don’t forget that – get out and give what you have to the world!