Man's Yearlong Coin Collection Buys Rare 'Four Species' Set

A Jerusalem vendor of the "Four Species" used for the Sukkot holiday recounts a deeply moving experience from five years prior. Two hours before the holiday began, a man approached his stall, appearing hesitant and unsure. The vendor, accustomed to all types of customers, noticed the man's uncertain demeanor but was struck when the man pointed to a particularly fine set of the Four Species and asked the price.

Expecting a lengthy negotiation, the vendor casually stated a price of 378 shekels, an amount he pulled from thin air to expedite the sale. To his surprise, the man readily agreed and left to have the items checked by a nearby rabbi, who confirmed their high quality. The man returned, determined to purchase the set.

The vendor then realized the set, primarily due to its rare etrog, was worth at least 1,500 shekels. He was internally conflicted, regretting the low price he'd quoted, but his personal principle of honoring his word, regardless of financial loss, prevailed.

The man then produced a heavy, worn plastic bag and stated, "Here, there are exactly 378 shekels." He explained that he and his wife had spent the entire past year saving every spare coin, even small change from basic purchases, specifically for this mitzvah. Upon counting the accumulated coins the previous night, they found it totaled precisely 378 shekels, the exact amount the vendor had quoted.

Overwhelmed, the vendor recognized the profound devotion and sacrifice represented by the bag of coins. He understood that the man's faith and yearlong effort had been met with divine providence, resulting in the exact price being quoted. The experience taught the vendor the true value lies not in market price but in dedication and the importance of looking beyond outward appearances.