Zecher Machatzit HaShekel
This page targets all common variants: Machatzit hashekel online, Machatzit hashekel value, how much for machatzis hashekel, Maasit hashekel, Mahatzit Hashekel, and Machzis hashekel.
Foundation
These terms are usually referring to the same Purim custom: Machatzit hashekel, Machatzis hashekel, Machzis hashekel, Mahatzit Hashekel, and Maasit hashekel. The standard expression in English is Zecher Machatzit HaShekel.
It is a pre-Purim donation custom done as a remembrance of the half-shekel contribution once given in the time of the Beit Hamikdash.
The source is the Torah commandment of the half-shekel for communal offerings. Today we perform a remembrance custom (zecher) before Purim.
Sources: Exodus 30:11-16 and The Laws of Giving a Half Shekel (Chabad.org).
It connects Purim observance to Temple-era communal responsibility and tzedakah. It prepares us spiritually for the days of Megillah, gifts, and charity.
The minimum is half of your main local coin. In U.S. currency, that is $0.50 per half-dollar.
A common custom is giving three half-dollars, for a total of $1.50. A regular half-dollar counts; silver half-dollars are a hidur (enhancement), but not required.
Local Mitzvah Action
Need a practical pre-Purim plan? We can guide timing, amount customs, and local Zecher Machatzit HaShekel execution.
Family Practice
Community practice differs: some start from bar/bat mitzvah age, others give for younger children, and some give for each family member. Follow your local rabbinic custom.
Reference Question
People often search "machatzis hashekel halachipedia" for summary notes. That can be useful for orientation. For practical action, align with your local rabbi and community standard, then execute before Purim.
Related Purim Pages
Get foundational context for meaning, history, and spiritual message.
Open Purim BasicsSee how community celebration fits alongside mitzvah execution.
Open Celebration GuidePre-Purim Action
If you want clear practical guidance before Purim day, we can help with timing, amount customs, and local execution in Givat Olga.