No community start suggestion yet.
Why does the Gemara (גמרא) permit retrieving a partially fallen object in some domain combinations but not others? The shiur develops two competing understandings of the underlying gezeira: preventing actual slippage versus preventing confusion about similar activities. This distinction reshapes how we understand the different rules for karmelis versus reshus harabim.
This shiur provides an extensive analysis of Gemara (גמרא) Shabbos (שבת) 5b, focusing on the complex laws governing when one may retrieve an object that has partially fallen from one domain to another on Shabbos. The Gemara discusses various scenarios: objects falling from reshus hayachid to reshus harabim, from a karmelis to other domains, and the special case of an iskufa (threshold area). Rashi (רש"י)'s interpretation is examined in detail, particularly his view that the prohibition exists because we fear the object might slip entirely from one's grasp, leading to a situation where retrieving it would constitute a biblical violation of carrying. The shiur contrasts this with Rabbeinu Kiveger's understanding, which suggests the concern is not about the object slipping, but rather about creating confusion regarding what types of carrying are permitted.
Looking for the full summary?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
Dedicate a Shiur in Gemara
L'ilui nishmas a loved one. In honor of a simcha or yahrzeit. As a zechus for a refuah sheleimah. Your dedication helps carry Rabbi Zweig's Torah to learners around the world.
Up Next in this Series
How can Shabbos observance atone for the idolatry of Enosh's generation? The Rambam's reading shows that generation sought God through physical intermediaries rather than direct connection. Proper Shabbos observance creates authentic divine experience that naturally displaces attraction to spiritual substitutes - like tasting real coffee exposes ersatz as meaningless.
Why does halacha forbid entering dangerous places if everything happens by Divine decree? The shiur examines the debate between Rashi and Tosfos on traveling at night, developing a fundamental distinction: Rashi holds one must avoid even deserved punishments that Hashem delays through mercy, while Tosfos holds the prohibition addresses self-inflicted harm through free will. This framework reveals how people rationalize self-destructive behavior as "hashgacha."
Why does the Gemara praise hospitality to scholars as a unique mitzvah rather than ordinary hachnasas orchim? The shiur distinguishes two mitzvahs: hachnasas orchim (providing for those in need) and connecting to talmidei chachamim (cleaving to God through scholars). Yisro's meal for the Jewish leaders wasn't charity—it was his way of bonding with those transformed by Torah, teaching that learning must fundamentally change who we are.
Shabbos 5b
Looking for the full transcript?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
Why does the Gemara say one Shabbos protects from Amalek while two Shabboses bring redemption? The shiur applies a principle from Kiddushin about repetition changing psychology: the first time doing anything is experimental, but the second demonstrates genuine desire. True Shabbos connection with Hashem requires moving beyond spiritual curiosity to authentic internalization.
