In today’s daf (Shabbat 123a), reference is made to the previous Mishna (Shabbat 17:1-2, 122b) beginning with the words כל הכלים (‘these are all the utensils that may be moved on Shabbat’) which states that while a needle’s normal usage should mean that it is categorized as ‘Mukzeh’ (set aside from Shabbat usage since sewing…
DetailsToday’s daf (Shabbat 122b) returns to the topic of ‘Mukzeh’, i.e. objects that are ‘set’ aside as having no purposeful use on Shabbat which therefore may not be moved on Shabbat. However, what we are not told is why the laws of Mukzeh exist.Addressing this question, Rambam (Shabbat 24:12) writes that, ‘the Sages forbade the…
DetailsFor many years I have worked in the field of curriculum development, and around 12 years ago I was invited to suggest learning topics and reading references for a soon-to-be-launched MA in Jewish Education study programme that was to be run by the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS).Having already taught Judaic Studies for over…
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