Three Mixtures

Not Plowing Together

Reason for the CommandmentTorah Speaks in Common LanguageMitzvah in ContextInner Reason of Separation of this IssurRosh: Any two, differing species. Leads to cross breading of speciesLearn to all particulars of the generalAction is important, synonymous to other laws of forbidden mixturesLevel of gevurah (ox) from chasadim (donkey)Rambam: Only a mixing of a tahor and a tameh animal. Leads to cruelty to animalsApply only to the general categoryOutcome is the main point, which is differing from other similar forbidden mixturesSeparate holy (ox) from kelipa (donkey)

לקוטי שיחות חלק כד

Shatnez – Wool & Linen

Understanding the Concept

RashiRabeinu TamRambamNeed all 3 activities of combing, spinning and weaving. One category of joining 2 entities to become a new single entity (totally mixed). Similar to the vineyardIssur only if woven together as one (regardless if combed or spun). Each item not mixed in its essence. External combination – similar to plowingAny one of 3 actions. Combed or spun or woven. Even if not combined into one entity. Intermediate comparison: similar to mixing species; requires joining but not to the extent of becoming one entity

לקוטי שיחות חלק לד

Three Mixtures

When Combined ResultShatnez Clothes צומח וחיVineyard Plant צומחNot Plowing (cross-breeding) Animal חיRemains distinct items. Min b’aino mino. Mitzvah & holiness. Leading to peaceProduces a strange result outside normal order & opposite to G-d’s will. Mixture of opposites. Leads to disagreement and arguments

לקוטי שיחות חלק כט