ונתנו איש כופר נפשו (כי תשא ל:יב)

From this pasuk stems the Chassidic custom—instituted by the disciples of the holy Baal Shem Tov—to give a pidyon nefesh (literally, “redemption of the soul”) in the form of a donation. The money was handed to the Rebbe together with a kvittel, a written note containing a personal request for a brachah.

Tzaddikim would use these funds for holy purposes and, in turn, bestow their blessings. The amount given depended on each individual’s means and circumstances.

Two Yidden once came to theTzemach Tzedek of Vizhnitzwith their pidyon. After they left, the Rebbe instructed his gabbai:

“With the money from the first Yid, purchase straw for the horses. With the money from the second Yid, buy fish for Shabbos.”

Noticing his gabbai’s puzzled expression, the Rebbe explained:

Although both gave the same amount, they differ. The first Yid left home with ten reinesh. He planned to use one for travel, one for lodging, and the remaining eight as his pidyon. However, along the way, he indulged himself and dipped into the pidyon money, reducing the amount he ultimately gave.

“The second Yid left home with even less than ten reinesh. Yet through careful planning and self-restraint, he managed to give as much as possible for his pidyon. Therefore, his money is fitting for fish in honor of Shabbos.”