Monday 10 February 2014

Sukka 8 a, b

Today's daf includes mathematical calculations, always difficult for me to follow.  Even more so because the calculations are at best approximations and at worst simply inaccurate.  The rabbis are attempting to determine the measurements of a fit round sukka.  How would we measure 4 by 4 cubits, the minimum, when we have no corners to use as reference points?  To do this, the rabbis imagine of a square surrounding a circle and they create markers (a diamond within the square).  However, the measurements that they discuss are incorrect, as we learn in a note.

The rabbis speak about a number of booths and whether or not they might be appropriate sukkot.  They consider related implications: is this a permanent structure or not?  should a mezuza be affixed on this structure?  Is the roof constructed specifically to allow more shade than sunlight?  As long as these booths are in accordance with halacha, they are considered fit.

One example of these booths is that of the Kutim, the Samaritans.  This community learned the mitzvot according to Torah law alone, though they were influenced by the larger Jewish community at one point in time.  A significant rift exists between Kutim and mainstream Jews because Kutim have not accepted rabbinical law.  Interestingly, when looking at rabbinical instruction on the construction of sukkot, we are taught that sukkot of Kutim are fit as long as their roofs allow more shade than sunlight.

At the end of our daf, the rabbis outline specifically which booths are permitted and which are considered unfit.  Booths for Gentiles, women, animals, Kutim (for those not obligated); shepherds, fig driers, guards of fields, guards of produce (impermanent booths), and booths "of any sort" are fit.  However, they must be built with shade in mind, have fit roofing, and have at least one handbreadth of roofing added.

Today's daf reminds me that our Sages are always looking for a balance between stringency and realistic practice.  If a pre-existing booth is sitting in someone's field, why would s/he build a sukka?  As long as the booth adheres to most of the halachot of sukkot, our Sages deem it fit.  The meaning of the sukka is of the greatest importance.  

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