As the Spring season approaches, it is a time for the special four Parshiot between Purim and Passover. During this period, Jewish communities around the world look forward to these Shabbats. This blog post will explore why these Shabbats are so important in Jewish tradition and what makes them unique. We will examine their Talmudic origin, how taking out two Torahs is part of the custom, as well as the special Piyutim for each Parshah. Finally, we will take a closer look at each individual Shabbat: Shekalim, Zakhor, Parah and HacHodesh. Through this journey into our ancient past we can gain insight into how these special Shabbats are relevant today.
A Look at the Special Four Parshiot Between Purim and Passover
The origin of the four special Shabbats between Purin and Passover can be found in the Babylonian Talmud. According to tractate Megillah 31a, it is customary for Jewish communities during this time period to take out two Torah scrolls from the ark on each of these occasions. One scroll is used for the regular scheduled weekly Torah portion while the other is used for the special Maftir Aliyah of that Shabbat. Additionally, special Piyutim (liturgical poems) are recited during this period to commemorate each respective event.
Shabbat Shekalim
The Origin of the Shabbat Shekalim
The first of the four Parshiot is Shekalim. The origin of this special Shabbat is in Parshat Shekalim, which is read on the first of Adar. Exodus 30:11-16 says that after the Israelites left Egypt and settled in their own land, they were commanded to give a half shekel each year for the upkeep of the Tabernacle. This collection is “the atonement money” (Korban Chatat) and one of the most important aspects of worshio as a community.
The Significance Of The Half Shekel
The importance of giving a half shekel is not merely about collecting money but also served as a spiritual preparation for Pesach. During this time, it was customary to cleanse oneself spiritually before participating in any religious festivals such as Pesach. The half shekel donation reminds Jews to repent and cleanse themselves before celebrating Pesach with purity and joy.
Shabbat Zakhor
Shabbat Zachor is the second of the four special Shabbats between Purim and Passover. The name “Zachor” means to remember. It refers to a specific commandment in Deuteronomy 25:17-19 which states that we must “remember what Amalek did to you”. This passage commands us to remember our enemies and our past.
History and Meaning of Shabbat Zakhor
The tradition of observing Shabbat Zachor dates back to Talmudic times (Mishnah Megillah 4:4). According to the Talmud, this mitzvah was given on a Friday – hence why we observe this special Shabbat before Purim. In addition, some have suggested that because Haman was descended from Amalek, this is why we observe Shabbat Zachor before Purim.
Observance
In general, observance of Shabbat Zachor follows all traditional laws regarding keeping Shabbat with two exceptions; 1) an extra Torah reading is added during services for the Maftir Aliyah and 2) some communities read the Maftir again at the end of services for people who couldn’t make the early reading.
Shabbat Parah
Shabbat Parah is the third special Shabbat that occurs between Purim and Passover. It takes place on the Shabbat before Shabbat Mevarchim of Rosh Chodesh Nissan. It marks the beginning of Spring and also reminds us to start Pesach preperations. The name “Parah” comes from the portion in Numbers 19:1-22, which describes how to bring a red heifer as an offering to cleanse oneself from impurity due to contact with death.
Meaning Behind Shabbat Parah
The rabbis explain that just as people must prepare a Parah Adumah (red heifer) during this time of year, they must also spiritually purify themselves in preparation for Pesach. In addition, we are reminded that it is not enough to perform rituals; rather, we should strive towards spiritual growth as well.
Shabbat Hachodesh
Shabbat HaChodesh is the fourth special Shabbat and it is read before Rosh Chodesh Nissan. It has its roots in a commandment from the Torah, which states that “on the tenth day of this month [the first month of Nisan] you shall take for yourselves a lamb” (Exodus 12:3). This is why it is called Shabbat HaChodesh—literally, “the Sabbath of the Month.”
History and Significance of Shabbat Hachodesh
The history and significance of Shabbat HaChodesh started in ancient times when it was celebrated as an agricultural festival. During this time, it was customary to bring offerings from one’s flock or herd to commemorate the beginning of a new month on Rosh Chodesh.
