Zecher L'Machtzis Hashekel

Q. When is the proper time to give the Zecher L’Machtzis Hashekel?

A. The Gemara (Megilla 13b) teaches us that the miraculous salvation of the Jewish people in the time of Purim was in the merit of the mitzvah of Machtzis Hashekel (the half shekel given each year for the communal sacrifices). Although we can no longer bring the sacrifices, as a remembrance for this mitzvah and the salvation, there is a custom to give a Zecher L’Machtzis Hashekel each year before we read about the evil decree of Haman. Maseches Sofrim (21:4) writes that the coins should be given before reading Parshas Zachor. However, the Rama (OC 694:1) writes that this is no longer the custom. Instead, the Zecher L’Machtzis Hashekel should be given on Taanis Esther before davening Mincha. Some explain that we specifically give the Zecher L’Machtzis Hashekel before Purim and not on Purim so as not to confuse these coins with Matanos L’evyonim. It is customary to give the coins as close to Purim as possible. When Purim is on Sunday, and the Zecher L’Machtzis Hashekel cannot be given right before Purim (because it is Shabbos), one should give the Zecher L’Machtzis Hashekel on Thursday (when Taanis Esther is observed). Sefer Divrei Yatziv (OC 293) writes that in such a case, it is best to give Zecher L’Machtzis Hashekel twice, on Thursday and again on Purim day before reading the Megillah.

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The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt"l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.