Yoash Renovates the Beit HaMikdash

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1. An Egalitarian Obligatory Contribution

   Haftarot: Shekalim

   Rabbi Mosheh Lichtenstein

   Yoash suggests that funds be collected for the Temple through the priests. Why does he think this is the best way, and why does the system later change, and the money collected in a box directly in the Temple? The system is reminiscent to the Half Shekel contribution, and the anonymity enables a degree of equality in the nation's participation in the Temple. This prevents donors to contribute only in order to enhance their social status.

2. The Wicked Queen and the Boy King - Atalya and Yoash

   Rabbi Alex Israel

   Despite the fact that the House of Ahav is in ruins after Yehu's rebellion, Atalya, driven like her mother Izevel by power, seizes the opportunity of her son Ahazyahu's death, killing her children and grandchildren and seizes the throne. Her rule marks the first break in the Davidic dynasty and is only overturned by a conspiracy in the highest circles of the kingdom. Yoash, her grandson, becomes the king at the age of seven and his heavily influenced by the Kohanim and the Beit HaMikdash. When he grows into a man he demands that the Kohanim raise money to repair the Beit HaMikdash. The initial method for raising funds - private initiatives by the Kohanim - fails and is not accountable. Only when a public and accountable system is initiated are the necessary funds raised.