Kelayim

Описание: In this shiur (Kelayim 2:10–3:1), Rabbi Marks continues exploring the practical layout of fields and gardens in the laws of kilayim — focusing on spacing requirements and how many crops can fit in a defined area without appearing mixed.

Perek 2 — Spacing & Overlap

The Mishnah clarifies that when a beis rova (minimum required empty space) is needed between crops, certain natural features count toward that measurement, including:

The working area around a grapevine

A grave

A large rock

Any unplantable space

Different Spacing for Different Crops

Grain next to grain requires a larger separation (beis rova).

Vegetable next to vegetable requires only six tefachim (approximately 18 inches).

Grain next to vegetables is subject to a dispute:

One opinion requires the larger spacing.

Another allows the smaller six-tefach spacing.

What If the Plants Overlap?

If crops were planted properly spaced, and later their leaves or stalks grow over each other, it is generally permitted — since the roots remain separated.

An exception is the Greek squash, which spreads so aggressively that it appears as though it was planted directly inside the neighboring crop. Rabbi Meir initially extends this concern to other spreading plants, but ultimately concedes that the stricter view applies primarily to the Greek squash.

Beginning of Perek 3 — The 6×6 Garden Bed

The Mishnah introduces a fascinating case:

If you have a small 6×6 ama garden bed, how many different species can you plant?

The first opinion allows five species: one on each of the four sides and one planted diagonally in the center.

If the bed has a raised border one tefach high and one ama wide, you may plant thirteen species — three along each side and one in the center.

Certain spreading vegetables (like turnips) may not be planted on the border because they fill the area and eliminate visible distinction.

Rabbi Yehudah permits planting six species in the center, arranged carefully to maintain required spacing and avoid the appearance of mixture.

The guiding principle remains consistent:
Kilayim depends not only on technical separation, but on visible distinction and how the planting appears to an observer.

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