Introduction The Melacha of Borer – sorting/separating is both complicated and unique. It is complicated as usually every Melacha is sanctioned by a single prohibition from the Torah. However, Borer can be sanctioned by up to 4 prohibitions. Despite that fact, it is probably the most neglected Melacha. Most people are estranged to even the basics of this prohibition. Interestingly, one would not dare to light a fire on Shabbos, thus the urgency to become familiar with the laws of Borer would not cross one’s mind, despite being more stringent than lighting a fire! Sorting is a daily occurrence a countless number of times to the point it became a second nature. This enhances the difficulty on assuring that it does not occur on Shabbos. There is almost no situation that does not involve Borer. It is the most performed action in one’s life. Since waking up in the morning, selecting a pair of socks, or a tie etc. till going to sleep our lives are overwhelmed by the constant need of choosing. It is so much so that it is done instinctively, making it difficult to regain awareness on Shabbos to act the proper way. So, beyond the scope of the Halacha there is a natural difficulty that can only be addressed with lots of training. One is required to have an in-depth understanding of these halachos to recognize those scenarios where sorting is taking place, and as a general rule, develop an awareness about anything the hands are doing on Shabbos. It is uniquely severe as it is a Melacha as the Mishna Brura states in his introduction to the laws of Shabbos; failing to master these laws ensure that one is surely transgressing Shabbos. I.E Removing an insect (whether alive or dead) from food or sorting candies amount to transgressing the Shabbos. One is therefore required to be fully versed in these laws and master the subject to assure that he keeps the Shabbos properly. Shiur 1 There are 3 ways to be liable of Borer [Sorting]:

1. Removing the bad from the good – which includes the removing of the refuse from the food and in some instances sorting a food mixed with other foods. 2. Separating with a utensil –One is liable even if he removed the food from the refuse. 3. For later use – separating and sorting for later use is also a classical method of Borer which is forbidden. This is true even when not using a utensil and when removing the food from the refuse. Hence, the permitted way to separate food is: 1. Removing the good from the bad – As it is no longer considered sorting but the way to eat. 2. Separating with the hands – Using cutlery is permitted as it is considered an extension of the hand. 3. For immediate consumption – It can only be prepared for the upcoming meal. Preparing for a later meal is forbidden. These 3 conditions must all be fulfilled to avoid the Isur of Borer. These 3 conditions must be present to avoid the prohibition of sorting. If even one condition is missing, it is considered Borer and a violation of the Shabbos. The acronym for the permitted way is G.H.I. Good from bad, by Hand, for Immediate consumption.

By Rabbi Fridmann * [email protected] * 305.985.3461

Have A Question? Ask The Rabbi and he will Answer

990 NE 171 Street  –  North Miami Beach, Florida 33162  –  (786) 405-9692  –  www.badatzmiami.com