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Why does the Gemara (גמרא) require specific positions for haseidah at the Seder, and how do these requirements differ for various activities? The Rambam (רמב"ם)'s restructuring reveals a two-tiered system: derech cheirut for sippur yetziat mitzrayim (requiring left-side reclining even for lefties) and zecher l'geulah for comfortable eating. This framework resolves apparent contradictions about when proper positioning versus mere relaxation takes priority.
This shiur provides an in-depth analysis of Pesachim 108a, focusing on the Gemara (גמרא)'s teaching regarding haseidah (reclining) during the Pesach (פסח) Seder. The central text discusses 'praktin lo shmei haseidah' and 'haseidis yemin lo shmei haseidah' - that reclining on one's stomach or right side does not constitute proper reclining, with an additional concern 'shema yagdem kono leveshet' - lest food get caught in the throat. The shiur examines a significant dispute between Rashi (רש"י) and Rashbam regarding the medical understanding of the danger mentioned in the Gemara. According to Rashi, the concern about food getting caught in the throat applies specifically to solid food (maichal), not liquids (mishta). Rashbam, however, argues that this danger applies to both food and drink, leading to different interpretations of which activities require which type of reclining.
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Pesachim 108a
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