Matnos Kehunah – The Gifts to the Kohen
1. The Torah’s System of Supporting the Kohanim
This week’s Parsha, Parshas Nosso, includes the section of Shlishi, which discusses the mitzvah of giving gifts to the Kohen—the priestly class. The Torah is always attentive to the needs of those who serve the community and those who are in need. In this case, the Kohanim serve in the Beis Hamikdash—the Holy Temple—and Hashem has designated specific gifts that must be given to them as their due.
The underlying principle is that those who dedicate themselves to spiritual service should be provided for by the rest of Klal Yisrael. This system ensures that the Kohanim can focus on their holy work without concern for their material needs.
2. Hashem as the Ultimate Provider
The Rebbe explains a profound idea about how sustenance is distributed in this world. Although it appears that we are giving from our own possessions to others, in truth, it is Hashem who provides for everyone. Sometimes Hashem gives directly, and sometimes He gives through intermediaries—one person becomes the channel through which another receives.
This perspective reframes our role: even when we give, we are merely fulfilling Hashem’s will and acting as His agents. The resources we distribute are not truly ours; they are entrusted to us by Hashem so that we can fulfill His purpose in creation.
3. Why Does Hashem Give Through People?
The Rebbe raises an important question: If everything comes from Hashem, why doesn’t He simply provide directly to each person? Why does He sometimes give to a wealthy person so that he can then give to someone else?
The answer is that Hashem wants there to be acts of kindness (chesed) in the world. If everyone received directly from Hashem, there would be no opportunity for people to help one another and express compassion and generosity. By creating a system where some must give and others receive, Hashem enables us to perform acts of kindness and build a more caring society.
Of course, someone might ask: “Why do I have to be on the receiving end? I’d rather be among those who give.” Yet this too is part of Hashem’s plan—each person has their unique role in facilitating kindness in the world.
4. The Meaning of ‘It Shall Be His’ in the Pasuk
The Torah uses an unusual phrase: “A man, the holy items which he has, shall be his.” On a simple level, this seems contradictory—if you have to give these gifts away, how can they still belong to you?
Rashi explains that although one is obligated to give these gifts to a Kohen, it remains within his discretion as to which Kohen he chooses. In this sense, “it shall be his” means he retains ownership over the decision-making process regarding whom he gives his gifts.
5. A Deeper Interpretation: Holding Back Brings Loss
Rashi also brings a drash—a homiletic interpretation—that if someone withholds what should be given as holy gifts and keeps it for himself, then ultimately all he will have left is that small portion he withheld. Instead of giving away only a fraction and retaining most of his wealth with blessing, by holding back he risks losing everything except for that fraction.
This teaches us that giving generously actually preserves and increases our own blessings. When we fulfill our obligation and share with others—especially with those whom Hashem has designated as recipients—we ensure continued abundance in our own lives.
6. Giving as an Investment with Divine Returns
The verse concludes by promising reward for those who give properly: one who gives gifts to the Kohanim, or supports those in need, will receive much more than what was given away. Just like an investment where you spend money now but gain far more later, so too when you give charity or fulfill these mitzvos you are assured of greater returns from Hashem.
This concept encourages us not only to fulfill our obligations but also to recognize that true wealth comes from sharing with others according to Hashem’s will. Our generosity opens channels for even greater blessing and prosperity.