The Torah states, "This is what they shall give, all those who pass by the officers to be counted, – half a shekel…"(Shmot 30:13). Rashi quotes the Midrash that G-d showed Moshe a coin made of fire weighing half a shekel and told him, "This is how you shall give." The half shekel was made of silver, so why did G-d not show Moshe a silver coin?

 

The Baal Shem Tov explains that the reason why G-d displayed this fiery coin is because Moshe had wondered how money could possibly atone for sin and purify the soul (Shmot 30:15). Thus, G-d demonstrated that only if Tzedakah is given with fiery enthusiasm and passion, does it have this awesome power to atone, as symbolized by the fiery half shekel. However, this idea just begs the question. Why in fact does Tzedakah only when given with fiery passion grant atonement for sin? The answer may be "MIDAH K'NEGED MIDAH" (G-d rewards measure for measure). When we "BURN UP" our money for Tzedakah, G-d also "BURNS UP" our sins.

 

The Noam Elimelech gives another explanation of why G-d showed Moshe a coin made of fire. He explains that just as fire can be used for beneficial, constructive purposes as well as destructive purposes, so too money can be used for either good or evil. It all depends on how you spend your money. Money spent on Mitzvot and Maasim Tovim can ensure one's eternity. However, money spent on immorality and sin can be the root of all evil.  

 

Fire is also unique in the sense that no matter how much it gives, fire remains undiminished. When a person draws water from a well, there is less water left in the well than before. However, when a person lights many fires from an existing flame, the original flame continues to burn just as brightly and is not diminished at all.

 

The same concept is true of giving Tzedakah. One does not lose out, and his wealth is not diminished at all by giving to the poor. On the contrary, one only gains, as the Talmud states in Taanit 9, "ASER BISHVIL SHETITASHER" ("Tithe so that you will become wealthy").