Chullin 13: Kutim, Assumptions, and Continuity

Today's Mishna teaches us that when a non-Jew performs shechita, ritual slaughter, the animal is not kosher.  Are we permitted to use that meat for purposes other than consumption?  Are we assuming that a non-Jew is slaughtering animals for purposes of idolatry?  Usually we do not.  Although, we are taught, a min, Jewish heretic, is assumed to be slaughtering animals for purposes of idolatry.  

A baraita tell us that ritual slaughter performed by a min is assumed to be intended for idolatry.  His bread is the bread of Kutim, his wine is used for idolatrous purposes, his scrolls of the law are like the books of sorcerers and his fruit is untithed.  

Steinsaltz teaches us about the Kutim who were exiled to Israel by the kings of Assyria who wanted to repopulate the land.  Kutim were called gerei arayot, lion converts, because they were afraid of the lions who were attacking them.  They converted but they continued to worship idols.  As well, Because of this, the Kutim were treated with greater care than other non-Jews.  For example, their bread was treated as if it were pork even when Jews had difficulty making their own bread.

This is another example of the rabbis separating Jews and non-Jews.  The logic seems to be that social relationships will lead to romantic relationships which will be the downfall of our peoplehood.  We continue to struggle with fears about assimilation and continuity.  And yet we are still here.