Halacha
הלכה א
יַיִן שֶׁנִּתְנַסֵּךְ לְעַכּוּ''ם אָסוּר בַּהֲנָיָה. וְהַשּׁוֹתֶה מִמֶּנּוּ כָּל שֶׁהוּא לוֹקֶה מִן הַתּוֹרָה. וְכֵן הָאוֹכֵל כָּל שֶׁהוּא מִתִּקְרֹבֶת עַכּוּ''ם מִבָּשָׂר אוֹ מִפֵּרוֹת אֲפִלּוּ מַיִם וּמֶלַח הָאוֹכֵל מֵהֶן כָּל שֶׁהוּא לוֹקֶה שֶׁנֶּאֱמַר (דברים לב לח) "אֲשֶׁר חֵלֶב זְבָחֵימוֹ יֹאכֵלוּ יִשְׁתּוּ יֵין נְסִיכָם יָקוּמוּ" וְגוֹ':
כסף משנה
1.
When wine has been poured as a libation to a false divinity,1As explained in Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 3:3, pouring a libation and sacrificing are among the four acts of service for which one is liable to any false deity, even if this is not its mode of service. it is forbidden to benefit from it. A person who drinks even the smallest quantity2See the following halachah. of [such wine] is liable for lashes according to Scriptural Law. Similarly, anyone who partakes of the smallest quantity of something offered to a false deity, e.g., meat or fruit, even water or salt, is worthy of lashes, as [implied by Deuteronomy 32:38]: "The fat of whose offerings they would eat; they would drink the wine of their libations. Let them stand."3Sefer HaMitzvot (negative commandment 194) includes this prohibition among the 613 mitzvot of the Torah. According to the Rambam, it is actually the last of the mitzvot which the Torah mentions.Although the verse does not specifically mention a prohibition, the Rambam derives the prohibition as follows: As stated in Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 7:2, we are forbidden to derive benefit from anything offered to a false deity. Since the prooftext quoted establishes an equation between a libation and an offering, we conclude that just as an offering is forbidden by a negative commandment; so, too, there is a negative commandment involving a libation (see Avodah Zarah 29b).
The Ramban (in his Hasagot to Sefer HaMitzvot) and the Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 111) maintain that both are included in a single prohibition. They should not be counted as separate negative commandments. They all agree, however, that the prohibition against such wine is Scriptural in origin. As the Rambam explains in Sefer HaMitzvot, loc. cit., there are statements of our Sages that appear to imply that the prohibition is Rabbinic in origin. Those statements, however, apply to wine handled by gentiles (see Halachah 3) and not to wine that was actually used for a libation.
הלכה ב
יַיִן שֶׁנִּתְנַסֵּךְ לָהּ כְּזֶבַח שֶׁקָּרֵב לָהּ וְכֵיוָן שֶׁאִסּוּר זֶה מִשּׁוּם עַכּוּ''ם הוּא אֵין לוֹ שִׁעוּר שֶׁנֶּאֱמַר בַּעֲבוֹדַת כּוֹכָבִים וּמַזָּלוֹת (דברים יג יח) "וְלֹא יִדְבַּק בְּיָדְךָ מְאוּמָה מִן הַחֵרֶם":
כסף משנה
2.
Wine poured as a libation to a false deity is like a sacrifice offered to it. Since this prohibition stems from [the prohibition against] the worship of false deities, there is no minimum measure involved, as stated with regard to the worship of false deities [ibid. 13:18]: "Let no trace of the condemned [entity] cling to your hand."4This verse is most particularly related to the prohibition against benefiting from the property of a city who were drawn after idol worship (ir hanidachat). Nevertheless, since all false deities can be considered as "condemned," the verse applies to them as well (Megillat Esther, Sefer HaMitzvot, negative commandment 25). The expression "any trace" implies even the slightest amount of benefit is prohibited.הלכה ג
יֵין הָעַכּוּ''ם שֶׁאֵין אָנוּ יוֹדְעִין אִם נִתְנַסֵּךְ אוֹ לֹא נִתְנַסֵּךְ וְהוּא הַנִּקְרָא סְתַם יֵינָם אָסוּר בַּהֲנָאָה כְּמוֹ יַיִן שֶׁנִּתְנַסֵּךְ. וְדָבָר זֶה מִגְּזֵרוֹת סוֹפְרִים הוּא. וְהַשּׁוֹתֶה מִסְּתַם יֵינָם רְבִיעִית מַכִּין אוֹתוֹ מַכַּת מַרְדּוּת:
כסף משנה
3.
When we do not know whether wine belonging to a gentile was used for a libation or not, it is called "ordinary [gentile] wine." It is forbidden to benefit from it, as it is forbidden to benefit from wine used as a libation. [This matter] is a Rabbinic decree.5We find an allusion to this decree in Scripture itself for Daniel 1:8 speaks of how Daniel refrained from drinking the king's wine. Avodah Zarah 36b states that the decree against drinking wine handled by gentiles was instituted lest this lead to familiarity and ultimately, to intermarriage. From the Rambam's wording in the following halachah, however, it would appear that the prohibition was instituted as a safeguard against benefiting from idolatry (Ma'aseh Rokeach; see also Halachah 7 and notes). When a person drinks a revi'it6One fourth of a log, 86 cc. According to Shiurei Torah and 150 cc. According to Chazon Ish. This is the standard liquid measure involved in ritual matters. of "ordinary [gentile] wine," he is liable for "stripes for rebellious conduct."7It is forbidden to drink even the slightest amount, but one is liable only for drinking a revi'it (Lechem Mishneh).הלכה ד
וְכָל יַיִן שֶׁיִּגַּע בּוֹ הָעַכּוּ''ם הֲרֵי זֶה אָסוּר שֶׁמָּא נִסֵּךְ אוֹתוֹ שֶׁמַּחְשֶׁבֶת הָעַכּוּ''ם לַעֲבוֹדַת כּוֹכָבִים. הָא לָמַדְתָּ שֶׁיֵּין יִשְׂרָאֵל שֶׁנָּגַע בּוֹ הָעַכּוּ''ם דִּינוֹ כִּסְתַם יֵינָם שֶׁהוּא אָסוּר בַּהֲנָיָה:
כסף משנה
4.
It is forbidden [to benefit from] any wine that a gentile touches;8See Chapter 12, Halachot 1-2, which define what is meant by a gentile touching wine. As implied by the contrast to the following halachah, for it to be forbidden to benefit from the wine, the gentile must touch it intentionally. Similarly, he must know that it is wine (Radbaz). for perhaps he poured it as a libation. For the thought of a gentile is focused on the worship of false deities.9Therefore even if there is no false deity present, it is possible that the gentile intended to use it as a libation. See Halachah 7 and notes which discuss which gentiles we are referring to. From this, we learn that it is forbidden to benefit [even from] wine belonging to a Jew which was touched by a gentile; it is governed by the laws that apply to ordinary gentile wine.הלכה ה
עַכּוּ''ם שֶׁנָּגַע בְּיַיִן שֶׁלֹּא בְּכַוָּנָה וְכֵן תִּינוֹק עַכּוּ''ם שֶׁנָּגַע בְּיַיִן אָסוּר בִּשְׁתִיָּה וּמֻתָּר בַּהֲנָיָה. הַלּוֹקֵחַ עֲבָדִים מִן הָעַכּוּ''ם וּמָלוּ וְטָבְלוּ מִיָּד אֵין מְנַסְּכִין וְיַיִן שֶׁנָּגְעוּ בּוֹ מֻתָּר בִּשְׁתִיָּה וְאַף עַל פִּי שֶׁעֲדַיִן לֹא נָהֲגוּ בְּדָתֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל וְלֹא פָּסְקָה עַכּוּ''ם מִפִּיהֶם:
כסף משנה
5.
When a gentile touches wine unintentionally10See Chapter 12, Halachah 5. and similarly, when a gentile child11Here the term child is not defined chronologically, but in terms of his relation to idolatry. Does he praise the name of a false deity or not? [Avodah Zarah 57a; Tur, Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 124:1)]. touches wine, it is forbidden to drink it,12In both instances, we cannot say that the person had the intent to use the wine as a libation. In the first instance, he did not intend to touch the wine and in the second, the child does not know about idolatrous worship. Nevertheless, the wine is still forbidden as a safeguard. See Chapter 12, Halachah 5. See also the Rama (Yoreh De'ah 124:24) who states that in the present era, most gentiles are not idolaters. Even so, if they touch wine unintentionally, although there are authorities who say there is room for leniency, the prevailing custom is to be stringent unless a significant loss is involved. See Siftei Cohen 124:71. but it is permitted to benefit from it.When one purchases servants from a gentile and they were circumcised and immersed [in the mikveh] immediately,13Thus reaching the intermediate stage of Jewish servants, as Hilchot Issurei Bi'ah 12:11 states, they "have departed from the category of gentiles, but have yet to enter the category of Jews." they no longer pour libations to false deities.14Their "conversion" to Judaism will prevent them from offering such a libation. See the Tur who also mentions the opinion of Rabbenu Chananel who maintains that a gentile servant causes wine to be forbidden for twelve months.
The Tur clarifies that the debate concerns only a servant, because his acceptance of Judaism is forced. All agree that no such strictures apply to a convert who willingly accepts Judaism. It is permitted to drink wine which they touch even though they have yet to conduct themselves according to the Jewish faith and they still speak of idolatry.
הלכה ו
בְּנֵי הַשְּׁפָחוֹת הָעַכּוּ''ם שֶׁנּוֹלְדוּ בִּרְשׁוּת יִשְׂרָאֵל וּמָלוּ וַעֲדַיִן לֹא טָבְלוּ הַגְּדוֹלִים אוֹסְרִין הַיַּיִן כְּשֶׁיִּגְּעוּ בּוֹ וְהַקְּטַנִּים אֵינָן אוֹסְרִין:
כסף משנה
6.
[With regard to] the children of gentile maidservants that were born in a Jewish domain15If they were not born in a Jewish domain, the circumcision alone is of no consequence and even minors cause wine to become forbidden to drink (Kessef Mishneh). and circumcised, but were not immersed yet:16If they were not immersed yet, even young children cause wine they touch to become forbidden to drink (the Kessef Mishneh's interpretation of the Rambam's opinion). The Rashba, however, differs and maintains even if these children were neither circumcised or immersed, they do not cause wine to be forbidden. The Turei Zahav124:3 and the Siftei Cohen 124:9 differ and maintain that even the Rambam would accept the Rashba's approach. The older ones cause wine that they touch to become forbidden. The younger ones17Here the term child is not defined chronologically, but in terms of his relation to idolatry. Does he praise the name of a false deity or not? [Avodah Zarah 57a; Tur, Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 124:1)]. do not cause it to become forbidden.18I.e., it is permitted entirely, even to drink it.הלכה ז
גֵּר תּוֹשָׁב וְהוּא שֶׁקִּבֵּל עָלָיו שֶׁבַע מִצְוֹת כְּמוֹ שֶׁבֵּאַרְנוּ יֵינוֹ אָסוּר בִּשְׁתִיָּה וּמֻתָּר בַּהֲנָיָה. וּמְיַחֲדִין אֶצְלוֹ יַיִן וְאֵין מַפְקִידִין אֶצְלוֹ יַיִן. וְכֵן כָּל עַכּוּ''ם שֶׁאֵינוֹ עוֹבֵד עַכּוּ''ם כְּגוֹן אֵלּוּ הַיִּשְׁמְעֵאלִים יֵינָן אָסוּר בִּשְׁתִיָּה וּמֻתָּר בַּהֲנָיָה. וְכֵן הוֹרוּ כָּל הַגְּאוֹנִים. אֲבָל אוֹתָם הָעוֹבְדִים עַכּוּ''ם סְתַם יֵינָם אָסוּר בַּהֲנָיָה:
כסף משנה
7.
With regard to a resident alien, i.e., one who accepted the observance of the seven universal laws [commanded to Noah and his descendants],19The prohibitions against the worship of false deities, blasphemy, murder, theft, incest and adultery, eating the flesh of a living animal, and the obligation to establish courts. See Hilchot Melachim 8:10. as we explained:20See Hilchot Issurei Bi'ah 14:7. It is forbidden to drink his wine, but it is permitted to benefit from it.21The Kessef Mishneh explains that there are two dimensions to the prohibition against drinking the wine of gentiles:a) The desire to limit familiarity with gentiles, lest it lead to intermarriage. This applies to resident aliens as well. Therefore there is a prohibition against drinking their wine.
b) A safeguard against benefiting from wine used as libations. This does not apply with regard to resident aliens. Therefore there is no prohibition against deriving benefit from their wine. We may deposit wine in his possession for a short time, but may not entrust it to him for a lengthy period.22Since we do not suspect that he will use the wine for a libation - or allow other gentiles to do so - we do not forbid one to leave it there for a short while. Nevertheless, if it is left there for a long time, we fear that the gentile will exchange it with his own wine and as stated above, it is forbidden for Jews to drink his own wine (see Rashi, Avodah Zarah 64b).
With regard to any gentile who does not serve false deities, e.g., the Arabs:23The Rambam's wording has attracted the attention of the commentaries, for from the beginning of the halachah, it appears that the gentile must accept all seven mitzvot, while this clause appears to imply that it is sufficient for him to accept only the prohibition against idolatry. The Kessef Mishneh explains that when the entire nation does not worship false deities, then we do not fear that wine will be used as a libation. When, however, that is not the case, a gentile must accept all seven mitzvot for his wine to be permitted. It is forbidden to drink his wine, but it is permitted to benefit from it. The Geonim rule in this manner. With regard to those who worship false deities,24Our translation follows the standard version of the Mishneh Torah. The uncensored text reads: "Christians, by contrast, are idolaters. It is forbidden to benefit...." The Rama (Orach Chayim 155:1) rules that Christianity violates only the prohibition against shituf, worshipping another entity together with God, and gentiles are not prohibited against such worship. It must be emphasized that today, though many gentiles are nominally Christian, their observance is minimal and they have an awareness of monotheism.
See also the statements of the Rama (Yoreh De'ah 123:1, 124:24) who quotes opinions that maintain that in the present age, it is not customary for gentiles to pour wine as libations to false deities. Nevertheless, the prohibition against drinking such wine, however, remains intact. by contrast, it is forbidden to benefit from their ordinary wine.
הלכה ח
כָּל מָקוֹם שֶׁנֶּאֱמַר בְּעִנְיָן זֶה שֶׁהַיַּיִן אָסוּר אִם הָיָה עַכּוּ''ם שֶׁנֶּאֱסַר הַיַּיִן בִּגְלָלוֹ עוֹבֵד עַכּוּ''ם הֲרֵי הוּא אָסוּר בַּהֲנָיָה. וְאִם אֵינוֹ עוֹבֵד עַכּוּ''ם הֲרֵי הוּא אָסוּר בִּשְׁתִיָּה בִּלְבַד. וְכָל מָקוֹם שֶׁנֶּאֱמַר עַכּוּ''ם סְתָם הֲרֵי זֶה עוֹבֵד עַכּוּ''ם:
כסף משנה
8.
Whenever it is stated that wine is forbidden in this context, if the gentile who causes the wine to be forbidden worships false deities, it is forbidden to benefit from it. If he does not worship false deities, it is merely forbidden to drink it. Whenever we refer to a gentile without any further description, we mean one who worships false deities.25For in the Rambam's age, most gentiles were idolaters. The Rabbinic authorities question whether one can make such an assumption in the present age. For many gentiles do not worship according to any religious rites at all and others, like the Arabs, have a conception of monotheism.הלכה ט
אֵין מִתְנַסֵּךְ לְעַכּוּ''ם אֶלָּא יַיִן שֶׁרָאוּי לְהַקְרִיב עַל גַּבֵּי הַמִּזְבֵּחַ וּמִפְּנֵי זֶה כְּשֶׁגָּזְרוּ עַל סְתַם יֵינָם וְגָזְרוּ עַל כָּל יַיִן שֶׁיִּגַּע בּוֹ שֶׁיִּהְיֶה אָסוּר בַּהֲנָיָה לֹא גָּזְרוּ אֶלָּא עַל הַיַּיִן הָרָאוּי לְהִתְנַסֵּךְ. לְפִיכָךְ יַיִן מְבֻשָּׁל שֶׁל יִשְׂרָאֵל שֶׁנָּגַע בּוֹ הָעַכּוּ''ם אֵינוֹ אָסוּר וּמֻתָּר לִשְׁתּוֹת עִם הָעַכּוּ''ם בְּכוֹס אֶחָד. אֲבָל יַיִן מָזוּג וְיַיִן שֶׁהִתְחִיל לְהַחֲמִיץ וְאֶפְשָׁר שֶׁיִּשְׁתֶּה אִם נָגַע בּוֹ נֶאֱסַר:
כסף משנה
9.
Only wine that is fit to be offered on the altar is used for libations for false deities. Therefore when [our Sages] decreed against ordinary gentile wine, ordaining that it is forbidden to benefit from any wine touched by a gentile, their decree involved only wine that is fit to be used as a libation. Accordingly, wine that was boiled26Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 6:9 states that wine that was cooked to the extent that its taste changed is forbidden to be used as a libation on the altar. To put the concept in contemporary terms, wine that was pasteurized is included in this category. that was touched by a gentile is not forbidden. It is permitted to drink it together with a gentile27Avodah Zarah 30b relates that the Sage Shmuel actually drank boiled wine together with a gentile.The Kessef Mishneh quotes Rabbenu Asher who asks: If the decree against wine touched by a gentile was instituted to prevent intermarriage, what difference does it make if it was boiled or not? Will boiling the wine prevent familiarity from arising with gentiles?
In resolution, he explains that perhaps since boiled wine is uncommon, our Sages did not apply their decree in such a situation. Even though today, it has become common to drink boiled - i.e., pasteurized wine - our Sages decree has not been expanded. It must be emphasized that this leniency applies to wine belonging to a Jew that was boiled. Wine belonging to a gentile becomes forbidden before it is boiled and thus cannot be drunken. in one cup. If, however, [a gentile] touches wine blended [with water] and wine that began to turn into vinegar,28Although they are unfit to be used for a libation. but can still be drunken it is forbidden.
הלכה י
הוֹרוּ גְּאוֹנֵי הַמַּעֲרָב שֶׁאִם נִתְעָרֵב בְּיֵין יִשְׂרָאֵל מְעַט דְּבַשׁ אוֹ מְעַט שְׂאוֹר הוֹאִיל וְאֵינוֹ רָאוּי לַמִּזְבֵּחַ הֲרֵי הוּא כִּמְבֻשָּׁל אוֹ כְּשֵׁכָר וְאֵינוֹ מִתְנַסֵּךְ וּמֻתָּר לִשְׁתּוֹתוֹ עִם הָעַכּוּ''ם:
כסף משנה
10.
The Geonim of the west ruled that if a small amount of a sweetener29This includes any wine to which sugar was added. or yeast became mixed with Jewish wine, since it is no longer fit for the altar,30Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 6:9. it is considered as if were boiled or as if it were beer and will not be used as a libation. It is permitted to drink it together with a gentile.הלכה יא
מֵאֵימָתַי יֵאָסֵר יֵין הָעַכּוּ''ם מִשֶּׁיִּדְרֹךְ וְיִמָּשֵׁךְ הַיַּיִן אַף עַל פִּי שֶׁלֹּא יָרַד לַבּוֹר אֶלָּא עֲדַיִן הוּא בַּגַּת הֲרֵי זֶה אָסוּר. לְפִיכָךְ אֵין דּוֹרְכִין עִם הָעַכּוּ''ם בַּגַּת שֶׁמָּא יִגַּע בְּיָדוֹ וִינַסֵּךְ. וַאֲפִלּוּ הָיָה כָּפוּת. וְאֵין לוֹקְחִין מִמֶּנּוּ גַּת דְּרוּכָה וְאַף עַל פִּי שֶׁעֲדַיִן הַיַּיִן מְעֹרָב עִם הַחַרְצַנִּים וְזַגִּין וְלֹא יָרַד לַבּוֹר:
כסף משנה
11.
When does wine belonging to a gentile become forbidden? When the grapes have been crushed and the wine begins to flow,31In their days, grape presses were built on an incline, so that after the grapes were pressed, the juice would flow naturally toward a cistern. even though it has not descended into the cistern and is still in the wine press, it is forbidden. For this reason, we do not crush grapes together with a gentile in a wine press,32The Turei Zahav 123:14 states that some interpret the Rambam as speaking only about a winepress that is open. If it is plugged close, there is room to say that the prohibition does not apply. Nevertheless, the Turei Zahav quotes other views that maintain that the prohibition applies even in such an instance. lest he touch it with his hand33Implied is that a libation cannot be offered with one's feet (Kessef Mishneh based on Avodah Zarah 56b; the Siftei Cohen 123:43, however, maintains that this is not the correct understanding of the Rambam's words). The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 124:11), however, rules that a gentile who touches the wine with his feet causes it to be come forbidden. The Rama, however, rules leniently and maintains that the prohibition applies only to drinking such wine. and offer it as a libation. [This applies] even if he is bound. [Similarly,] we do not purchase a wine press [filled with] crushed [grapes] even if the wine is still mixed with the seeds and peels and has not descended into the cistern.הלכה יב
עַכּוּ''ם שֶׁדָּרַךְ הַיַּיִן וְלֹא נָגַע בּוֹ וַהֲרֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל עוֹמֵד עַל גַּבָּיו וְיִשְׂרָאֵל הוּא שֶׁכְּנָסוֹ בֶּחָבִית הֲרֵי זֶה אָסוּר בִּשְׁתִיָּה:
כסף משנה
12.
When a gentile crushes [grapes for] wine without touching it34The Turei Zahav 124:17 interprets this as referring to an instance where he does not touch the wine at all, not even with his feet. The Kessef Mishneh, however, explains that this is referring to a situation where the gentile touches the wine with his feet, but not with his hands. and a Jew is standing over him,35And watching that the gentile does not touch it. and a Jew is the one who collects it in jugs, it is forbidden [only] to be drunken.36It is, however, permitted to benefit from it.הלכה יג
הַחֹמֶץ שֶׁל עַכּוּ''ם אָסוּר בַּהֲנָיָה מִפְּנֵי שֶׁנַּעֲשָׂה יֵין נֶסֶךְ קֹדֶם שֶׁיַּחְמִיץ. עַכּוּ''ם שֶׁהָיָה דּוֹרֵס עֲנָבִים בְּחָבִית אַף עַל פִּי שֶׁהַיַּיִן צָף עַל גַּבֵּי יָדָיו אֵין חוֹשְׁשִׁין מִשּׁוּם יֵין נֶסֶךְ. הָיָה אוֹכֵל מִן הַסַּלִּים וְהוֹתִיר כִּסְאָה וּכְסָאתַיִם וּזְרָקָן בַּגַּת אַף עַל פִּי שֶׁהַיַּיִן מִגִּתּוֹ עַל הָעֲנָבִים אֵין עוֹשֶׂה יֵין נֶסֶךְ:
כסף משנה
13.
It is forbidden to benefit from vinegar belonging to a gentile, because it became [forbidden like] wine offered as a libation before it became vinegar.37The fact that it becomes vinegar afterwards does not cause it to become permitted.The Radbaz states that one can conclude from the Rambam's wording that if a gentile touches vinegar belonging to a Jew, it is permitted, for it is no longer wine.When a gentile is crushing grapes in a barrel, we are not concerned that the wine [becomes forbidden] as wine used for a libation. If a gentile was eating from the baskets [of grapes brought to a winepress] and left over, a se'ah or two and threw them into the winepress, he does not cause the wine [to become forbidden] as wine used for a libation, even though it spatters over the grapes.38Our translation is based on authoritative manuscripts and early printings of the Mishneh Torah. The standard published text is difficult to understand. As the Radbaz and the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 125:6) state, the Rambam is referring to a situation where a certain amount of grape juice collects in the bottom of the baskets. Even though that juice spatters of the grapes, it does not cause the wine to be considered forbidden, for this prohibition does not apply until the wine begins to flow, as stated in Halachah 11 (Radbaz).
הלכה יד
הַחַרְצַנִּים וְהַזַּגִּין שֶׁל עַכּוּ''ם אֲסוּרִים כָּל י''ב חֹדֶשׁ. וּלְאַחַר י''ב חֹדֶשׁ כְּבָר יָבְשׁוּ וְלֹא נִשְׁאֲרָה בָּהֶן לַחְלוּחִית וּמֻתָּרִין בַּאֲכִילָה. וְכֵן שְׁמָרִים שֶׁל יַיִן שֶׁיָּבְשׁוּ לְאַחַר שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר חֹדֶשׁ מֻתָּרִין שֶׁהֲרֵי לֹא נִשְׁאַר בָּהֶן רֵיחַ יַיִן וַהֲרֵי הֵן כֶּעָפָר וְכַאֲדָמָה:
כסף משנה
14.
Grape seeds and peels belonging to a gentile are forbidden39Even to benefit from them [Kessef Mishneh; Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 123:14)]. See also the Rama who states that the prohibition applies only when the peels were in contact with gentile wine. If the gentiles had merely crushed the grapes, but the wine had not begun flowing from the winepress, the peels are not forbidden. for twelve months. After twelve months, they have already dried out; they contain no moisture and they are permitted to be eaten. Similarly, the dregs of wine that have dried out are permitted to be eaten after twelve months.40See the Shulchan Aruch (ibid. ) which quotes more stringent views in certain circumstances. [The rationale is that] no trace of wine remains; they are just like dust or earth.הלכה טו
נֹאדוֹת הָעַכּוּ''ם וְקַנְקְנֵיהֶן שֶׁהִכְנִיסוּ בָּהֶן הָעַכּוּ''ם יֵינָם אָסוּר לִתֵּן לְתוֹכָן יַיִן עַד שֶׁיְּיַשְּׁנָן שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר חֹדֶשׁ אוֹ עַד שֶׁיַּחֲזִירָן לָאוּר עַד שֶׁיִּתְרַפֶּה הַזֶּפֶת שֶׁעֲלֵיהֶן אוֹ שֶׁיֵּחַמּוּ אוֹ עַד שֶׁיִּתֵּן לְתוֹכָן מַיִם שְׁלֹשָׁה יָמִים מֵעֵת לְעֵת וּמְעָרֶה הַמַּיִם וּמַחֲלִיף מַיִם אֲחֵרִים כָּל מֵעֵת לְעֵת שָׁלֹשׁ פְּעָמִים בִּשְׁלֹשֶׁת הַיָּמִים. בֵּין שֶׁהָיוּ הַכֵּלִים שֶׁלָּהֶן בֵּין שֶׁהָיוּ שֶׁל יִשְׂרָאֵל וְשָׁאֲלוּ אוֹתָן וְהִכְנִיסוּ בָּהֶן יֵינָם. וְאִם נָתַן לְתוֹכָם יַיִן קֹדֶם שֶׁיְּטַהֵר אוֹתָן הֲרֵי זֶה אָסוּר בִּשְׁתִיָּה:
כסף משנה
15.
It is forbidden to put wine in wineskins or barrels in which gentiles had kept wine41For a certain quantity of wine is absorbed in the container. Afterwards, when the kosher wine is placed in the container, it will be soaked into the container and the wine in the container will be released into it. until:a) they are allowed to dry for twelve months;42See the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 135:16) which explains that even if one used the containers for water during this period, this does not prevent the containers from becoming permitted.
b) they are placed in a fire until their pitch becomes soft or they become hot;43I.e., if they are not covered with tar (Kessef Mishneh). By heating them, one will achieve the results of libbun and purge any absorbed wine through heat.
See also the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 135:15) which state that hagalah, filling the containers with boiling water is also acceptable.
c) water is placed in them for three days for a full 24 hour period; [one places water in them], pours it out after 24 hours, and puts other water in. [This should be done] three times, [once a day] for three days.
[This applies] whether the containers belong to [the non-Jews] or they belonged to a Jew from whom [the non-Jews] borrowed them and then placed their wine into them. If one put wine in them before purifying them, it is forbidden to drink [that wine].44It is, however, permitted to benefit from this wine (Kessef Mishneh).
הלכה טז
וּמֻתָּר לִתֵּן לְתוֹכָן שֵׁכָר אוֹ צִיר אוֹ מוּרְיָס מִיָּד וְאֵין צָרִיךְ לִכְלוּם. וּמֻתָּר לִתֵּן הַיַּיִן לְתוֹכָן אַחַר שֶׁנּוֹתֵן הַצִּיר אוֹ הַמּוּרְיָס שֶׁהַמֶּלַח שׂוֹרְפָן:
כסף משנה
16.
It is permitted to place beer, fish brine, or fish oil in these containers immediately.45For these substances nullify the taste of wine (Rashi, Avodah Zarah 33b). None of these [purging processes] are necessary. After one placed fish brine or fish oil in them, one may place wine in them, for the salt [in the fish brine or fat] will burn out [any residue of wine].הלכה יז
הַלּוֹקֵחַ כֵּלִים חֲדָשִׁים שֶׁאֵינָם מְזֻפָּתִים מִן הָעַכּוּ''ם נוֹתֵן לְתוֹכָן יַיִן מִיָּד וְאֵינוֹ חוֹשֵׁשׁ שֶׁמָּא נָתְנוּ בָּהֶן יֵין נֶסֶךְ. וְאִם הָיוּ מְזֻפָּתִין מְדִיחָן וְאַף עַל פִּי שֶׁהֵן חֲדָשִׁים. וְכֵן כְּלִי שֶׁנָּתְנוּ בּוֹ יֵין נֶסֶךְ וְאֵין מַכְנִיסוֹ לְקִיּוּם כְּגוֹן כְּלִי שֶׁחוֹשֵׂף בּוֹ אוֹ הַמַּשְׁפֵּךְ וְכַיּוֹצֵא בָּהּ מְשַׁכְשְׁכוֹ בְּמַיִם וְדַיּוֹ:
כסף משנה
17.
When a person purchases new utensils that were not covered with pitch from a gentile, he may place wine in them immediately, he need not worry that gentile wine had been placed in them. If they were covered with pitch, he should wash them thoroughly even though they are new.46I.e., even though they appear new, we suspect that a gentile used them to store wine. Hence they must be washed. Nevertheless, the fact that they appear new indicates that they were not used for a long time. Hence, washing them is sufficient.This stringency applies only with regard to containers covered with pitch. Since they are dark black, it is not evident whether they were used previously or not. With regard to other containers, it is much more clearly apparent whether or not they were used. Hence there is no need for this stringency (Kessef Mishneh).
Similarly, [any] utensil in which gentile wine was placed, but was not stored there for an extensive period, e.g., a bucket used to draw wine from a cistern, a funnel, or the like, should have water swished in them. That is sufficient for it.47The Kessef Mishneh notes that Avodah Zarah 74b appears to require that such utensils be dried. He questions why the Rambam does not mention this point. As a possible resolution, he suggests that perhaps the Talmud is speaking about utensils belonging to a gentile, while the Rambam is speaking about those belonging to a Jew.
הלכה יח
וְכֵן כּוֹס שֶׁל חֶרֶס שֶׁשָּׁתָה בּוֹ הָעַכּוּ''ם אָסוּר לִשְׁתּוֹת בּוֹ. הֱדִיחוֹ פַּעַם רִאשׁוֹנָה וּשְׁנִיָּה וּשְׁלִישִׁית מֻתָּר שֶׁכְּבָר הָלְכוּ צִחְצוּחֵי הַיַּיִן שֶׁבּוֹ. וְהוּא שֶׁהָיָה מְצֻפֶּה בַּאֲבָר כְּדֶרֶךְ שֶׁהַיּוֹצְרִין עוֹשִׂין אוֹ שֶׁהָיָה מְזֻפָּת. אֲבָל שֶׁל חֶרֶס צָרִיךְ הֲדָחָה:
כסף משנה
18.
Similarly, it is forbidden to drink from an earthenware cup that a gentile had drunk from. If one washed it thoroughly three times, it is permitted, for all traces of wine have been washed away.48The Rambam's ruling is dependent on his interpretation of Avodah Zarah 33b. Other authorities including Rashi and the Ra'avad have a different understanding of the passage. Their view is cited by the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 135:4). This applies provided it is glazed with lead as potters do or covered with pitch. If, however, it is of earthenware, washing it thoroughly [once] is [all that is] required.49The Kessef Mishneh explains that we are speaking of an instance where the glazing of the lead or the pitch was not completed in a thorough manner and the surface of the utensil is not smooth. Therefore such a utensil will absorb wine more easily than an ordinary earthenware utensil. Hence, three washings are required. The following halachah, by contrast, is speaking about a utensil that is glazed in a more thorough manner, producing a smooth surface. Hence it is less likely to absorb the wine than an ordinary earthenware utensil.הלכה יט
כְּלֵי חֶרֶס הַשּׁוֹעִים בַּאֲבָר שֶׁנִּשְׁתַּמְּשׁוּ בָּהֶן בְּיֵין נֶסֶךְ אִם הָיוּ לְבָנִים אוֹ אֲדֻמִּים אוֹ שְׁחוֹרִים מֻתָּרִין. וְאִם הָיוּ יְרֻקִּין אֲסוּרִין מִפְּנֵי שֶׁהֵן בּוֹלְעִים. וְאִם יֵשׁ בָּהֶם מָקוֹם מְגֻלֶּה שֶׁל חֶרֶס בֵּין לְבָנִים בֵּין יְרֻקִּים אֲסוּרִים מִפְּנֵי שֶׁהֵם בּוֹלְעִין. וְיֵרָאֶה לִי שֶׁאֵין הַדָּבָר אֶלָּא בְּשֶׁכָּנְסוּ בָּהֶם לְקִיּוּם. אֲבָל לֹא כָּנְסוּ בָּהֶם לְקִיּוּם מְדִיחָן וּמֻתָּרִין וַאֲפִלּוּ הֵם שֶׁל חֶרֶס:
כסף משנה
19.
When earthenware utensils that are glazed with lead50As mentioned above, the Kessef Mishneh interprets this to mean that they were glazed in a manner that produced a smooth surface. Hence they do not absorb the wine easily. are used for gentile wine, they are permitted51After being washed alone. if they are white, red, or black. If they are green, they are forbidden, because they absorb.52In order to produce a green color, a substance called netar, alum crystals [Rama (Yoreh De'ah 135:5)], is mixed into the glazing. This substance is very absorbent. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah, loc. cit.) states that utensils made from this substance can never be purified. If they have a portion where the earthenware is revealed,53I.e., the glazing does not cover the entire utensil. they are forbidden54Until the wine is purged as mentioned in Halachah 15. whether they are white or green, because they absorb.It appears to me that this ruling applies only when wine was placed in them for long term storage.55The Kessef Mishneh quotes the Rashba as stating that from the fact that these statements are made about earthenware utensils, one can conclude that metal utensils do not absorb even when gentile wine was placed in them for an extended period of time. They will absorb only when liquids are heated. If, however, it was not placed in them for long term storage, [it is necessary merely to] wash them.56For even if the wine was not placed in them for an extended period, it is possible that there will be a certain amount of residue left in the container. They are then permitted, even if they are earthenware.57For over a short period of time, they will not absorb.
הלכה כ
גַּת שֶׁל אֶבֶן וְשֶׁל עֵץ שֶׁדָּרַךְ בָּהֶן הָעַכּוּ''ם אוֹ גַּת שֶׁל אֶבֶן שֶׁזִּפְּתָהּ הָעַכּוּ''ם אַף עַל פִּי שֶׁלֹּא דָּרַךְ בָּהּ מְדִיחָן בְּמַיִם וּבְאֵפֶר אַרְבַּע פְּעָמִים וְדוֹרֵךְ בָּהֶן. וְאִם הָיְתָה בָּהֶם לַחְלוּחִית מַקְדִּים הָאֵפֶר לַמַּיִם. וְאִם לָאו מַקְדִּים הַמַּיִם:
כסף משנה
20.
When a gentile treads on grapes in a winepress of stone or of wood58That is not covered with pitch (Kessef Mishneh) . or a gentile applied pitch to a winepress of stone59Rashi (Avodah Zarah 74b) and the Tur and the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 138:1) explain that after pitch is applied to a vat, a small amount of wine is placed in the vat to remove the unfavorable odor of the pitch. even though he did not tread the grapes there, one must wash [the press] thoroughly with water and ashes60I.e., rubbing the walls with ashes and then washing them (Kessef Mishneh). four times. Afterwards, one may tread grapes there. If [the press] is still moist, one should place the ashes in before the water. If it is not moist, one should place the water in first.הלכה כא
גַּת שֶׁל אֶבֶן מְזֻפֶּפֶת שֶׁדָּרַךְ בָּהּ הָעַכּוּ''ם. אוֹ גַּת שֶׁל עֵץ זְפוּתָה אַף עַל פִּי שֶׁלֹּא דָּרַךְ בָּהּ צָרִיךְ לִקְלֹף אֶת הַזֶּפֶת. וְאִם יִשְּׁנָהּ שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר חֹדֶשׁ אוֹ נָתַן בָּהּ מַיִם שְׁלֹשָׁה יָמִים מֵעֵת לְעֵת אֵינוֹ צָרִיךְ לִקְלֹף. לֹא תִּהְיֶה הַגַּת חֲמוּרָה יֶתֶר מִן הַקַּנְקַנִּים. לֹא נֶאֱמַר יִקְלֹף אֶלָּא לְהַתִּירָהּ מִיָּד:
כסף משנה
21.
When a gentile treaded [grapes] in a stone winepress covered with pitch or [applied] pitch to a wooden winepress61Since a larger amount of pitch is necessary, it will absorb more. even though he did not tread grapes there, one must peel the pitch.62The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 138:1) follows the position of other Rishonim who maintains that even after peeling the outer layer of the pitch, one must apply ashes and water, as stated in the previous halachah. If one left it for twelve months or placed water in it for three days, it is not necessary to peel [the pitch off].63As stated with regard to barrels in Halachah 15. The Ra'avad and most other Rishonim differ with regard to this ruling and require the barrel to be pealed. [The laws applying to] a winepress need not be more stringent than those applying to barrels.64Indeed, one would suspect the laws governing barrels to be more stringent, for wine is stored there for long periods. It remains in a winepress, by contrast, for only a short time. [The option of] peeling was given only to allow [the winepress to be used] immediately.65Without having to wait any time at all.הלכה כב
גַּת שֶׁל חֶרֶס אַף עַל פִּי שֶׁקָּלַף אֶת הַזֶּפֶת אָסוּר לִדְרֹךְ בָּהּ מִיָּד עַד שֶׁיָּחֵם אוֹתָהּ בְּאֵשׁ עַד שֶׁיִּרְפֶּה הַזֶּפֶת. וְאִם יִשְּׁנָהּ שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר חֹדֶשׁ אוֹ נָתַן בָּהּ מַיִם שְׁלֹשָׁה יָמִים מֻתֶּרֶת כְּמוֹ שֶׁבֵּאַרְנוּ:
כסף משנה
22.
An earthenware winepress [is governed by more stringent rules].66For earthenware absorbs more readily than other substances. In the previous halachah, we assume that the winepress itself did not absorb any wine. In this case, we assume that it did (Kessef Mishneh). Even if one peels the pitch, it is forbidden to tread grapes in it immediately. [Instead, one must] heat it with fire until the pitch softens. If, however, one leaves it for twelve months or places water in it for three successive days, it is permitted,67Without peeling off the pitch as stated in the previous halachah. Here also the Ra'avad differs and rules that the pitch must be peeled off. The Shulchan Aruch (loc. cit.) follows the Rambam's ruling. as we explained.68In Halachah 15.הלכה כג
מְשַׁמֶּרֶת שֶׁל יַיִן שֶׁל עַכּוּ''ם אִם הָיְתָה שֶׁל שֵׂעָר מְדִיחָהּ וּמְשַׁמֵּר בָּהּ. וְאִם הָיְתָה שֶׁל צֶמֶר מְדִיחָהּ בְּמַיִם וּבְאֵפֶר אַרְבַּע פְּעָמִים וּמְדִיחָהּ עַד שֶׁתִּנָּגֵב וּמְשַׁמֵּר בָּהּ. וְאִם הָיְתָה שֶׁל שֵׁשׁ מְיַשְּׁנָהּ י''ב חֹדֶשׁ. וְאִם יֵשׁ בָּהֶן קְשָׁרִים מַתִּירָן. וְכֵן כְּלֵי חֵלֶף וְהוּצִים וְכַיּוֹצֵא בָּהֶן מִכְּפִיפוֹת שֶׁדּוֹרְכִין בָּהֶן יַיִן אִם הָיוּ תְּפוּרִין בַּחֲבָלִים מְדִיחָן. וְאִם הָיוּ אֲחוּזוֹת זוֹ בְּסִבּוּךְ קָשֶׁה מְדִיחָן בְּאֵפֶר וּבְמַיִם אַרְבַּע פְּעָמִים וּמְנַגְּבָן וּמִשְׁתַּמֵּשׁ בָּהֶן. וְאִם הָיוּ תְּפוּרוֹת בְּפִשְׁתָּן מְיַשְּׁנָן שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר חֹדֶשׁ. וְאִם יֵשׁ בָּהֶן קְשָׁרִים מַתִּירָן:
כסף משנה
23.
[The following laws apply to] a filter that had been used for wine belonging to a gentile. If it is made of hair, it should be washed thoroughly69Hair does not absorb liquid at all. Hence, it need only be washed to remove the wine that may be sticking to its surface. and then it may be used as a filter. If it is made from wool, it should be washed thoroughly four times with water and ashes and then left70Our translation follows the authoritative manuscripts and early printings of the Mishneh Torah. The standard printed text differs slightly. until it dries. If it was from flax,71Which is more absorbant. it should be left for twelve months. If it has knots, they should be untied [before the filter is washed out].72So that the residue will not collect there.Similar [laws apply with regard to] utensils from reeds,73Our translation is based on the Rama (Yoreh De'ah 135:8). from date bast, or similar utensils like wicker baskets that are used to tread grapes. If they were sewed with ropes, they should be washed thoroughly. If they are tangled together with snarls that are difficult to undo, they should be washed four times with ashes and with water. [After] they are dried, they may be used. If they are sewed with flax, they should be left unused for twelve months. If they have knots, they should be untied.74When citing this law in his Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 138:7, 9), Rav Yosef Caro does not mention the need to untie the knots in this instance. As evident from his Kessef Mishneh, he follows the approach of the Rashba who maintains that when an object is left for twelve months, there is no need to untie the knots. The Siftei Cohen 138:8 differs and states that the Rambam's ruling should be followed.
הלכה כד
כְּלֵי הַגַּת שֶׁדָּרַךְ בָּהֶן הָעַכּוּ''ם יֵין נֶסֶךְ כֵּיצַד מְטַהֲרִין אוֹתָן כְּדֵי שֶׁיִּדְרֹךְ בָּהֶן הַיִּשְׂרָאֵל. הַדַּפִּין וְהָעֲדָשִׁים וְהַלּוּלָבִין מְדִיחָן. הָעֲקָלִין. שֶׁל נְסָרִין וְשֶׁל בִּצְבּוּץ מְנַגְּבָן. שֶׁל שִׁיפָה וְשֶׁל גֶּמִי מְיַשְּׁנָן שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר חֹדֶשׁ. וְאִם רָצָה לְטַהֲרָן מִיָּד מַגְעִילָן בְּרוֹתְחִין אוֹ חוֹלְטָן בְּמֵי זֵיתִים אוֹ מַנִּיחָן תַּחַת צִנּוֹר שֶׁמֵּימָיו מְקֻלָּחִין אוֹ בְּמַעְיָן שֶׁמֵּימָיו רוֹדְפִין שְׁתֵּים עֶשְׂרֵה שָׁעוֹת וְאַחַר כָּךְ יֻתְּרוּ:
כסף משנה
24.
How can the utensils of a winepress used by a gentile for gentile wine be purified so that a Jew may use them? The boards,75Upon which the grapes are placed. the balls of clay,76Used to crush the grapes (see the conclusion of the gloss of the Lechem Mishneh to Halachah 17). and the palm branches77Which are used as brooms to collect the grapes (Rashi, Avodah Zarah 75a). should be washed thoroughly. The restraints78In his Commentary to the Mishneh, Taharot 10:8, the Rambam states that this refers to the restraints placed around olives (and grapes) when they are being squeezed to gather them together. of wood and of canvas should be dried out.79This term refers to the process of applying ashes and water mentioned above. Those from water grasses and from bullrushes should be left unused for twelve months.If one desires to purify them immediately, he should place them in boiling water,80To purge the wine absorbed in this fashion. seal them with water used to cook olives,81Cooking them in such water will cause whatever wine that was absorbed to be sealed in its place and never to be released. or place them under a drain through which water flows continually or in a stream of running water for twelve hours.82This will also purge the absorbed wine. See Hilchot Tumat Ochalin 11:17 which mentions these same processes in a different context. Afterwards, they are permitted.
הלכה כה
בִּזְמַן שֶׁהָיְתָה אֶרֶץ יִשְׂרָאֵל כֻּלָּהּ לְיִשְׂרָאֵל הָיוּ לוֹקְחִין הַיַּיִן מִכָּל אָדָם מִיִּשְׂרָאֵל וְאֵין חוֹשְׁשִׁין לוֹ. וּבְחוּצָה לָאָרֶץ לֹא הָיוּ לוֹקְחִין אֶלָּא מֵאָדָם שֶׁהֻחְזַק בְּכַשְׁרוּת. וּבַזְּמַן הַזֶּה אֵין לוֹקְחִין יַיִן בְּכָל מָקוֹם אֶלָּא מֵאָדָם שֶׁהֻחְזַק בְּכַשְׁרוּת. וְכֵן הַבָּשָׂר וְהַגְּבִינָה וַחֲתִיכַת דָּג שֶׁאֵין בָּהּ סִימָן כְּמוֹ שֶׁבֵּאַרְנוּ:
כסף משנה
25.
In the era when the land of Israel was entirely within the possession of the Jewish people, it was permitted to purchase wine from any Jewish person without holding anyone in suspicion.83A Jew who worships false divinities, does not observe the Sabbath, or denies the Torah and its mitzvot is considered equivalent to a gentile and his wine is forbidden just as a gentile's is (see Hilchot Shabbat 30:15). When Eretz Yisrael was populated solely by Jews, our Sages maintained that there was no need to suspect that a person fell into the above categories. In the Diaspora, they would only purchase [wine] from a person whose reputation [for observance] has been established. In the present age, in every place, we only purchase wine from a person whose reputation for observance has been established.84The Ra'avad objects to the Rambam's ruling, stating that a common person will not necessarily cause another to transgress. The Radbaz states that even if the common people will not necessarily transgress themselves, they will not be careful about protecting another person's observance and may sell him forbidden articles. This view is cited by the Rama (Yoreh De'ah 119:1). These laws also apply to meat, cheese, and a cut of fish that does not have a sign as we explained.85Chapter 3, Halachah 21; Chapter 8, Halachah 7.הלכה כו
הַמִּתְאָרֵחַ אֵצֶל בַּעַל הַבַּיִת בְּכָל מָקוֹם וּבְכָל זְמַן וְהֵבִיא לוֹ יַיִן אוֹ בָּשָׂר אוֹ גְּבִינָה וַחֲתִיכַת דָּג הֲרֵי זֶה מֻתָּר וְאֵינוֹ צָרִיךְ לִשְׁאל עָלָיו אַף עַל פִּי שֶׁאֵינוֹ מַכִּירוֹ אֶלָּא יוֹדֵעַ שֶׁהוּא יְהוּדִי בִּלְבַד. וְאִם הֻחְזַק שֶׁאֵינוֹ כָּשֵׁר וְלֹא מְדַקְדֵּק בִּדְבָרִים אֵלּוּ אָסוּר לְהִתְאָרֵחַ אֶצְלוֹ. וְאִם עָבַר וְנִתְאָרֵחַ אֶצְלוֹ אֵינוֹ אוֹכֵל בָּשָׂר וְלֹא שׁוֹתֶה יַיִן עַל פִּיו עַד שֶׁיָּעִיד לוֹ אָדָם כָּשֵׁר עֲלֵיהֶם:
כסף משנה
26.
When a person enjoys the hospitality of a homeowner in any place and at any time and that homeowner brings him wine, meat, cheese, or a piece of fish, it is permitted. There is no need to inquire concerning it.86We assume that the host is observant and that he is giving his guest the same food that he eats himself (Radbaz). [This law applies] even if he does not know him at all; all that he knows is that he is Jewish.If [the host] has an established reputation for non-observance and for not paying attention to these matters, it is forbidden to accept his hospitality. If one transgresses and accepts his hospitality, it is forbidden to eat meat and drink wine [despite] his assurances unless a person who has an established reputation for observance testifies [to their acceptability].