Talking Talmud

A new chapter, and a new mishnah! The mitzvah of gifts from slaughtered animals that went to the kohanim - leg, jaw, and maw (the 4th stomach of the cow). Even not during the time of the Temple. Specifically about non-consecrated animals, and not about sacrifices, which have their own set of laws regarding the kohanim. And the many details surrounding these gifts. Also, delving into the gifts, and the specifics of the gifts to the kohanim. Including Rav Hisda's exemption for paying those gifts if they were lost, for example.

When something that is made of food is not being used for the purposes of food -- and then is not subject to the rules that pertain to food, such as those of impurity, for example. Thus, what a thing is used for has impact on its status and other areas of halakhah, and not just what it was originally designed to be. Also, a new mishnah! More on a dangling limb, and when it is considered to be attached to a dead body, to investigate for impurity, while it can be kept from being considered a dangling limb, whether from a living animal or not.

When a dangling limb might become susceptible to impurity. Plus, cases that conclude "Teiku" -- the conclusion is not known with surety. Does the whole body function as a "handle" for the dangling limb? It's a machloket. And several other cases that are not resolved, but conclude "teiku." Plus, flesh that is severed and becomes susceptible to impurity, with attention to the difference between a limb from a live animal in contrast to a limb from a carcass. Note the careful interpretation of the biblical texts here.

A list of the creeping-crawlies... which diverts us to the fire that a salamander can generate, and the glory of God's creations, including animals that grow on land vs. those from sea vs. those from fire, and the wonder of Rabbi Akiva. Plus, the corruption of the people of Neresh, and various different strengths (or weaknesses) of various locations. Also, a new mishnah! The impurity of partially severed limbs.

The question of impure marrow from bone - if closed, it doesn't matter, but if punctured, it will impart impurity. Thus, bones become a whole discussion unto themselves, as exceptional cases. Also, the eggs of creepy crawlies - when would they render a person impure? (Begin with the perforation of the egg -- much as the hole in the bone to access the marrow makes a difference too). Note: Ahistorical scientific assumptions included. Also, consider the pervasiveness of impurity and the implications of that for society - much like our own.