dates

Let us consider that wonderful sign [of the resurrection] which takes place in eastern lands, that is, in Arabia and the countries round about. There is a certain bird which is called a phœnix. This is the only one of its kind, and lives five hundred years. And when the time of its dissolution draws near that it must die, it builds itself a nest of frankincense, and myrrh, and other spices, into which, when the time is fulfilled, it enters and dies. But as the flesh decays a certain kind of worm is produced, which, being nourished by the juices of the dead bird, brings forth feathers. Then, when it has acquired strength, it takes up that nest in which are the bones of its parent, and bearing these it passes from the land of Arabia into Egypt, to the city called Heliopolis. And, in open day, flying in the sight of all men, it places them on the altar of the sun, and having done this, hastens back to its former abode. The priests then inspect the registers of the dates, and find that it has returned exactly as the five hundredth year was completed.

And amongst them was a tree such as I had never yet smelt, neither was any amongst them nor were others like it: it had a fragrance beyond all fragrance, and its leaves and blooms and wood wither not for ever: and its fruit is beautiful, and its fruit resembles the dates of a palm.

And he sent to his father Isaac of all his substance, clothing, and food, and meat, and drink, and milk, and butter, and cheese, and some dates of the valley.

And under the stones which had been arranged to represent eggs the artists made a crown containing all kinds of fruits, having at its top clusters of grapes and ears of corn, dates also and apples, and pomegranates and the like, conspicuously arranged.

Other kinds of fruit trees and dates do not count compared with these.

And Pentephres and his wife rejoiced over their daughter Asenath with exceeding great joy, for that they beheld her adorned and embellished as the bride of God; and they brought forth all the good things which they had brought from the possession of their inheritance and gave them to their daughter; and Asenath rejoiced over all the good things, over the late summer fruit and the grapes and the dates and over the doves, and over the mulberries and the figs, because they were all fair and pleasant to taste.

Now Daniel and his kinsmen had resolved to use a severe diet, and to abstain from those kinds of food which came from the king's table, and entirely to forbear to eat of all living creatures. So he came to Ashpenaz, who was that eunuch to whom the care of them was committed, and desired him to take and spend what was brought for them from the king, but to give them pulse and dates for their food, and any thing else, besides the flesh of living creatures, that he pleased, for that their inclinations were to that sort of food, and that they despised the other. He replied, that he was ready to serve them in what they desired, but he suspected that they would be discovered by the king, from their meagre bodies, and the alteration of their countenances, because it could not be avoided but their bodies and colors must be changed with their diet, especially while they would be clearly discovered by the finer appearance of the other children, who would fare better, and thus they should bring him into danger, and occasion him to be punished; yet did they persuade Arioch, who was thus fearful, to give them what food they desired for ten days, by way of trial; and in case the habit of their bodies were not altered, to go on in the same way, as expecting that they should not be hurt thereby afterwards; but if he saw them look meagre, and worse than the rest, he should reduce them to their former diet. Now when it appeared that they were so far from becoming worse by the use of this food, that they grew plumper and fuller in body than the rest, insomuch that he thought those who fed on what came from the king's table seemed less plump and full, while those that were with Daniel looked as if they had lived in plenty, and in all sorts of luxury. Arioch, from that time, securely took himself what the king sent every day from his supper, according to custom, to the children, but gave them the forementioned diet, while they had their souls in some measure more pure, and less burdened, and so fitter for learning, and had their bodies in better tune for hard labor; for they neither had the former oppressed and heavy with variety of meats, nor were the other effeminate on the same account; so they readily understood all the learning that was among the Hebrews, and among the Chaldeans, as especially did Daniel, who being already sufficiently skillful in wisdom, was very busy about the interpretation of dreams; and God manifested himself to him.

As for the furniture that was within this fortress, it was still more wonderful on account of its splendor and long continuance; for here was laid up corn in large quantities, and such as would subsist men for a long time; here was also wine and oil in abundance, with all kinds of pulse and dates heaped up together; all which Eleazar found there, when he and his Sicarii got possession of the fortress by treachery. These fruits were also fresh and full ripe, and no way inferior to such fruits newly laid in, although they were little short of a hundred years from the laying in these provisions [by Herod], till the place was taken by the Romans; nay, indeed, when the Romans got possession of those fruits that were left, they found them not corrupted all that while; nor should we be mistaken, if we supposed that the air was here the cause of their enduring so long; this fortress being so high, and so free from the mixture of all terrain and muddy particles of matter. There was also found here a large quantity of all sorts of weapons of war, which had been treasured up by that king, and were sufficient for ten thousand men; there was cast iron, and brass, and tin, which show that he had taken much pains to have all things here ready for the greatest occasions; for the report goes how Herod thus prepared this fortress on his own account, as a refuge against two kinds of danger; the one for fear of the multitude of the Jews, lest they should depose him, and restore their former kings to the government; the other danger was greater and more terrible, which arose from Cleopatra queen of Egypt, who did not conceal her intentions, but spoke often to Antony, and desired him to cut off Herod, and entreated him to bestow the kingdom of Judea upon her. And certainly it is a great wonder that Antony did never comply with her commands in this point, as he was so miserably enslaved to his passion for her; nor should any one have been surprised if she had been gratified in such her request. So the fear of these dangers made Herod rebuild Masada, and thereby leave it for the finishing stroke of the Romans in this Jewish war.

The [following] are treated leniently in regard to [the rules of] demai: unripe figs, wild jujuba, azarolus, wild white figs, young sycamore figs, fallen dates, fennel and capers. In Judea also sumac, Judean vinegar, and coriander. Rabbi Judah says: all unripe figs are exempt, except for those from a tree that bears fruit twice a year. All wild jujuba are exempt, except the wild jujuba of Shikmonah. All young sycamore figs are exempt, except those that have been scarified.

The following things must be tithed as demai in all places: pressed figs, dates, carobs, rice, and cumin. As to rice from outside the land [of Israel], whoever uses it is exempt from tithing it.

One who buys from a poor man, and similarly a poor man to whom they given slices of bread or pieces of fig-cake, he must tithe every piece. But in the case of dates and dried figs he may mix them together and take [the tithes from the mixture]. Rabbi Judah said: When is this so? When the amount [of dates or dried figs] given to the poor man was large; but when the amount was small, he must tithe each separately.

One who buys from a poor man, and similarly a poor man to whom they given slices of bread or pieces of fig-cake, he must tithe every piece. But in the case of dates and dried figs he may mix them together and take [the tithes from the mixture]. Rabbi Judah said: When is this so? When the amount [of dates or dried figs] given to the poor man was large; but when the amount was small, he must tithe each separately.

[A non-priest drank] honey of dates, wine of apples, vinegar from winter grapes, and all other kinds of fruit juice of terumah: Rabbi Eliezer makes him liable to repay their value and the fifth; But Rabbi Joshua exempts from the fifth. Rabbi Eliezer declares [these] susceptible to uncleanness as liquids. Rabbi Joshua says: the sages have not enumerated seven liquids as those that count spices, but rather they stated: seven liquids make things susceptible to uncleaness, whereas all other liquids do not make susceptible.

One must not make dates into honey, apples into wine, winter-grapes into vinegar, or change any other kind of fruit that is terumah or second tithe from their natural state, except olives and grapes. One does not receive forty lashes on account of orlah except with that which comes from olives and grapes. Liquids cannot be brought as first fruits, except with that which comes from olives and grapes. And no fruit juice is susceptible to uncleanness as liquids except with that which comes from olives and grapes. And nothing [that is derived from fruit] can be offered on the altar except with that which comes from olives and grapes.

When do fruits become liable for tithes? Figs from the time they begin to ripe. Grapes and wild grapes in the early stages of ripening. Sumac and mulberries after they become red; [similarly] all red fruits, after they become red. Pomegranates, when the insides become soft. Dates when they begin to swell. Peaches when [red] veins begin to show. Walnuts when the nuts are separate from the shell. Rabbi Judah says: walnuts and almonds, after their inner skins have been formed.

Bikkurim are brought only from the seven species. Not from dates grown on hills, nor from [the other species] grown in the valley, nor from olives that are not choice. Bikkurim are not to be brought before Shavuot. The people from Mt. Zevoim brought bikkurim prior to Atzeret (Shavuot), but they did not accept from them, on for it is written in the Torah: “And the festival of the harvest, the first-fruits of your labors, which you have sown in the field” (Exodus 23:16).

These bring and recite: [One who brings bikkurim] from Atzeret until the Festival [of Sukkot], from the seven species, from fruit grown on the mountains, or dates grown in the valleys, from oil-olives, and from [produce] from the other side of the Jordan. Rabbi Yose the Galilean says: one does not bring [bikkurim] from transjordania, since that is not a land flowing with milk and honey.

It once happened that they brought a dish to Rabbi Yohanan ben Zakkai to taste, and two dates and a pail of water to Rabban Gamaliel and they said, “Bring them up to the sukkah.” And when they gave Rabbi Zadok food less than the bulk of an egg, he took it in a napkin, ate it outside the sukkah and did not say a blessing after it.

On account of two months they profane Shabbat: on account of Nissan and Tishri, for on those months messengers go forth to Syria and in them the dates of the festivals are fixed. When the Temple stood they used to profane Shabbat for all the months, in order that the sacrifice might be offered on the right day.

He who vows abstinence from dates is permitted date honey; from winter grapes, is permitted winter-grape vinegar. Rabbi Judah ben Bathyra said: if it bears the name of its origin, and he vows to abstain from it, he is forbidden [to benefit] from what comes from it. But the Sages permit it.

A laborer may eat cucumbers even to a denar’s worth, and dates even to a denar’s worth. Rabbi Elazar ben Hisma says: “A laborer may not eat more than the value of his wages. But the Sages permit it, but they teach a man not to be gluttonous as to close the door against himself.

If yen nesekh fell upon grapes, one may rinse them and they are permitted, but if they were split they are prohibited. If it fell upon figs or upon dates, should there be in them [sufficient wine] to impart a flavor, they are prohibited. It happened with Boethus ben Zpnin that he carried dried figs in a ship and a cask of yen nesekh was broken and it fell upon them; and he consulted the Sages who declared them permitted. This is the general rule: whatever derives advantage [from yen nesekh by its] imparting a flavor is prohibited, but whatever does not derive advantage [from yen nesekh by its] imparting a flavor is permitted, as, for example vinegar which fell upon split beans.

A basket [for figs] is susceptible to uncleanness but a basket for wheat is clean. Small baskets made of leaves are clean, but those made of branches are susceptible to uncleanness. The palm wrapping [in which dates are left] and into which they can be easily put and from which they can easily be taken out is susceptible to uncleanness, but if this cannot be done without tearing it or undoing it, it is clean.

A clean person who chewed food and it fell on his garments and on a loaf of terumah, it [the loaf] is not susceptible to uncleanness. If he ate crushed olives or moist dates, [or] if his intention was to suck out the pit, and it fell on his garments and on a loaf of terumah, it is susceptible to uncleanness. If he ate dried olives, or dried figs or it was not his intention to suck out the pit, and they fell on his garments and on a loaf of terumah, it is not susceptible to uncleanness. This is the case irrespective of whether it was a clean person or a tevul yom [who was eating]. Rabbi Meir says: in either case it becomes susceptible to uncleanness in the case of a tevul yom, since liquids issuing from unclean persons render anything susceptible whether it was to his liking or not. But the sages say: a tevul yom is not regarded as an unclean person.

Stalks of all foods that have been threshed on the threshing-floor are clean. Rabbi Yose declares them unclean. A sprig of a vine when stripped of its grapes is clean, but if one grape alone is left on it, it is unclean. A twig of a date-tree stripped of its dates is clean, but if one date remains on it, it is unclean. Similarly, with beans, if the pods were stripped from the stem it is clean, but if even one pod alone remains, it is unclean. Rabbi Elazar ben Azariah declares [the stalk] of the broad bean clean, but declares unclean the stalk of other beans, since it is of use when [the pulse] is handled.

All kinds of pits can be defiled and defile but do not join together. The pits of fresh dates, even when detached [from the edible part], do join together; but those of dried dates do not join together. Accordingly, the stems of dried dates do join together, but that of fresh dates do not join together. If only part of a pit is detached, then only that part near the edible portion joins together. [Similarly] with a bone on which there is flesh, only that part that is close to the edible part joins together. [If a bone] has flesh only upon one of its sides: Rabbi Ishmael says: we take it as though [the flesh] encompasses it like a ring; But the sages say: [only] that part close to the edible part is included [as is the case] for example with savory, hyssop and thyme.

All kinds of pits can be defiled and defile but do not join together. The pits of fresh dates, even when detached [from the edible part], do join together; but those of dried dates do not join together. Accordingly, the stems of dried dates do join together, but that of fresh dates do not join together. If only part of a pit is detached, then only that part near the edible portion joins together. [Similarly] with a bone on which there is flesh, only that part that is close to the edible part joins together. [If a bone] has flesh only upon one of its sides: Rabbi Ishmael says: we take it as though [the flesh] encompasses it like a ring; But the sages say: [only] that part close to the edible part is included [as is the case] for example with savory, hyssop and thyme.

All kinds of pits can be defiled and defile but do not join together. The pits of fresh dates, even when detached [from the edible part], do join together; but those of dried dates do not join together. Accordingly, the stems of dried dates do join together, but that of fresh dates do not join together. If only part of a pit is detached, then only that part near the edible portion joins together. [Similarly] with a bone on which there is flesh, only that part that is close to the edible part joins together. [If a bone] has flesh only upon one of its sides: Rabbi Ishmael says: we take it as though [the flesh] encompasses it like a ring; But the sages say: [only] that part close to the edible part is included [as is the case] for example with savory, hyssop and thyme.

All kinds of pits can be defiled and defile but do not join together. The pits of fresh dates, even when detached [from the edible part], do join together; but those of dried dates do not join together. Accordingly, the stems of dried dates do join together, but that of fresh dates do not join together. If only part of a pit is detached, then only that part near the edible portion joins together. [Similarly] with a bone on which there is flesh, only that part that is close to the edible part joins together. [If a bone] has flesh only upon one of its sides: Rabbi Ishmael says: we take it as though [the flesh] encompasses it like a ring; But the sages say: [only] that part close to the edible part is included [as is the case] for example with savory, hyssop and thyme.

The heart of a palm is like wood in every respect, except that it may be bought for [second] tithe money. Unripened dates are considered food, but are exempt from tithes.

From the Patriarch they sent Nicolaus dates to Rebbi Ḥanina bar Sisai. He left them for dessert after his meal and recited a benediction over them before and after. Rav Ḥuna ate dates with his bread. Rav Ḥiyya bar Ashi said to him, are you disagreeing with your teacher? Leave them for dessert after your meal and you may recite a benediction over them before and after. He said to him, they are the main thing my teeth get to bite. Rebbi Jonah and Rebbi Yose went to the marriage feast of Rebbi Ḥanina Eyntanaya. They brought before them kisnīn bread after the meal. They said, let us leave our learning and let us bring a baraita: Rebbi Mana stated in the name of Rebbi Yehudah, who said in the name of Rebbi Yose the Galilean: Bread that comes kisnīn after the meal needs a benediction before and after. They said, since they are the minority and the rabbis disagree with them, let us act following the rabbis.

From the Patriarch they sent Nicolaus dates to Rebbi Ḥanina bar Sisai. He left them for dessert after his meal and recited a benediction over them before and after. Rav Ḥuna ate dates with his bread. Rav Ḥiyya bar Ashi said to him, are you disagreeing with your teacher? Leave them for dessert after your meal and you may recite a benediction over them before and after. He said to him, they are the main thing my teeth get to bite. Rebbi Jonah and Rebbi Yose went to the marriage feast of Rebbi Ḥanina Eyntanaya. They brought before them kisnīn bread after the meal. They said, let us leave our learning and let us bring a baraita: Rebbi Mana stated in the name of Rebbi Yehudah, who said in the name of Rebbi Yose the Galilean: Bread that comes kisnīn after the meal needs a benediction before and after. They said, since they are the minority and the rabbis disagree with them, let us act following the rabbis.

It was stated (Tosephta Peah 1:7): “Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Jehudah says, moist dates are free from peah because the first among them does not wait for the last one. “Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Jehudah seems to say what is correct, what is the reason of the rabbis? Rebbi Zeïra said, because they all need moisture at the same time.

Some want to understand it from the verse (Lev. 19:10, 23:22) “abandon,” put before them grain in its straw, fenugreek in bundles, dates in brooms. I might think that this also includes climbing vine and date palms, but the verse says “them.” What argument do you have to include these and to exclude those? After the verse included, it excluded. I include those that are not dangerous and exclude those that are dangerous.

MISHNAH: The easy ones for demay are shitin, lotus fruit, the fruit of the service tree, white figs, and sycamore figs, fallen dates, fennel, and capers. Also in Judea sumac, vinegar, and coriander. Rebbi Jehudah says, all shitin are free except those from a tree bearing fruit twice a year, all lotus fruit are free except lotus fruit from Shiqmanah, and all sycamore fruits are free except those cracked open.

It was stated: “Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Jehudah says, fallen dates sold with regular dates are free.” Is it about two boxes, one beside the other or one on top of the other? No, here we deal with a mixed bunch. Did they start to ferment or did they not start to ferment? Rebbi Mana said, we deal with fermenting ones. If they started to ferment, they should be obligated for themselves! You cannot say that, since Rebbi Joḥanan said, the Sages detailed them because the majority of these kinds are collected only from abandoned property. Rebbi Ḥanina said, we deal with nonfermenting ones. If we deal with nonfermenting ones they should be free even when mixed. You cannot say that, since it was stated: “Rebbi Ismael ben Rebbi Yose said in his father’s name that a bunch of grapes of which one berry ripened, is all connected for tithes.” Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Abun said, Rebbi Zeïra and Rebbi Illaï, one adopted the first opinion, the other the second opinion. But the Sages say one does not follow either of them; those fermenting are obligated, those not fermenting are free.

It was stated: “Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Jehudah says, fallen dates sold with regular dates are free.” Is it about two boxes, one beside the other or one on top of the other? No, here we deal with a mixed bunch. Did they start to ferment or did they not start to ferment? Rebbi Mana said, we deal with fermenting ones. If they started to ferment, they should be obligated for themselves! You cannot say that, since Rebbi Joḥanan said, the Sages detailed them because the majority of these kinds are collected only from abandoned property. Rebbi Ḥanina said, we deal with nonfermenting ones. If we deal with nonfermenting ones they should be free even when mixed. You cannot say that, since it was stated: “Rebbi Ismael ben Rebbi Yose said in his father’s name that a bunch of grapes of which one berry ripened, is all connected for tithes.” Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Abun said, Rebbi Zeïra and Rebbi Illaï, one adopted the first opinion, the other the second opinion. But the Sages say one does not follow either of them; those fermenting are obligated, those not fermenting are free.

MISHNAH: The following must be tithed as demay everywhere: Fig cakes, dates, carobs, rice, and cumin. Rice from outside the Land is free for everybody who uses it.

HALAKHAH: There, we have stated: “Garlic from Baalbek, onions from Rikhpah, split beans from Cilicia, and Egyptian lentils.” Because these kinds also grow in the Land of Israel, the Sages had to attach marks to them. “But filberts, pistachios, and pine nuts, since these kinds do not grow in the Land of Israel, the Sages did not have to attach marks to them.” Rebbi Abun said, the Mishnah is the opposite regarding the obligation of these kinds; since these kinds do not grow outside of the Land, the Sages had to enumerate them. But is there not fig cake from Bosra? It is pounded. But dates from Alexandria? They are thin. But carob from Kiari? It is cut. But rice from the Ḥolata? It has more numerous kernels and is reddish. But cumin from Cyprus? It is curved.

Moreover from the following: Rebbi Zeïra sent to ask Rebbi Alexander from Ẓedoqa, those Nicolaus dates from here, what you estimate about them, mostly from Gentiles or mostly from Jews? He said to him, we are not able to estimate about them.

Rebbi Mana said, I went to Caesarea and I saw them using fig cake as free. I asked Rebbi Isaac bar Eleazar; he said to me that Zeugos used to permit it. Rebbi Isaac bar Eleazar in the name of Zeugos of Caesarea: All that sees the water is free. Some want to say, up to the salt tower, some want to say, up to the Telamon cave. Rebbi Abba Mari said, the words of the rabbis imply that all kinds are forbidden in Caesarea. “Wheat, bread, oil, dates, rice, and cumin.” Fig cakes are not included? It is in the Mishnah. But we have also mentioned rice and cumin; these are in the Mishnah and we have spelled them out! Those are the ones which are left out. “These are permitted in the Sabbatical year, in all other years of the Sabbatical cycle they are demay.” These are permitted in the Sabbatical year; why are they not Sabbatical fruits in the Sabbatical year? The Jews treat them as Sabbatical, the Gentiles are free, Jews and Gentiles outnumber Samaritans. In all other years of the Sabbatical cycle they are demay, the Judean Jews put them in order, Gentiles are free, Jews and Gentiles outnumber Samaritans. How far? The inn of the pillars, the inn at Tayibeh, as far as Kefar Saba. Their juices are certain in Caesarea.

Rebbi Yose of Kefar Dan in the name of Rebbi from Meadiah, the kinds forbidden in Beth Shean: Nigella, sesame, mustard, garlic, bulbs, black peas, commercial onions, local ones that are sold by weight, Egyptian beans bound with bast, mint bundled separately, carrot always, leeks from Pentecost to Ḥanukkah. Rebbi Zeïra said, from Pentecost to Ḥanukkah the forbidden ones outnumber the permitted ones, from Ḥanukkah to Pentecost the permitted ones outnumber the forbidden ones. In the matter of aftergrowth, from New Year’s Day to Ḥanukkah prohibition of aftergrowth, from Ḥanukkah to Pentecost permission of aftergrowth, from Pentecost to New Year’s Day questionable. Zucchini, squash, water melon, apple melon, wine, oil, Ephesian dates, somebody also says lupines. Bread always requires hallah. These are Sabbatical in a Sabbatical year. In the other years of the cycle? Rebbi Jonah said, demay; Rebbi Yose said, certain. They have no disagreement over tithes; Rebbi Jonah said demay for him who buys from a person making house calls, Rebbi Yose said certain for him who bought from the garden.

MISHNAH: He who buys from a poor person, and similarly, the poor to whom bread slices or pieces of fig cake were given, tithe from each piece separately. But he mixes together dates and dried figs and then gives. Rebbi Jehudah said, when is that? If the gift is large. But if the gift is small, he tithes from each single one. He who buys from the grain wholesaler and later buys from him a second time should not tithe from one batch for any other, not even if they are from the same crate, not even if they are the same kind. But the grain wholesaler is trustworthy to say that they are from the same source.

HALAKHAH: Rebbi Yose in the name of Rebbi Pedaiah, Rebbi Jonah in the name of Ḥizqiah, there is no mixing except for wine and oil. Rebbi Joḥanan says, they can be mixed up to the size of olives. Our Mishnah disagrees with Rebbi Joḥanan: “But he mixes together dates and dried figs and then gives.” He explains it up to olive-sized bits.

Rebbi Assi said, if it was one-third ripe before the New Year’s Day of the World it is tithed for the past, after the New Year’s Day of the World it is tithed for the future. Rebbi Zeїra objected before Rebbi Assi: Some years are late and dates start to have sap after the New Year’s Day of the World but they are tithed for the past! Rebbi Zeїra said, Rebbi Assi did not say this on his own but following Rebbi Joḥanan, Rebbi Simeon ben Laqish. Rebbi Jacob bar Aḥa in the name of Samuel bar Abba: “If it was one-third ripe before the Fifteenth of Ševaṭ it is tithed for the past, after the Fifteenth of Ševaṭ for the future.” Rebbi Zeїra said, that is correct; for an etrog, did one not eliminate its budding but not its year; but here did one eliminate its year but not its budding?

The leaves removed from vegetables one puts on the roof and they dry up by themselves. Rebbi Joḥanan in the name of Rebbi Simeon ben Yoẓadaq: Wine until Passover, oil until Pentecost, dried figs until Purim. Rebbi Bibi in the name of Rebbi Ḥanina: Dates until Ḥanukkah.

MISHNAH: There are three regions for removals, Judea, Transjordan, and Galilee. Each of them has three subregions: Upper Galilee, Lower Galilee, and the Valley. From Kefar Ḥananiah upwards, everywhere no sycamores can grow, is Upper Galilee. From Kefar Ḥananiah downwards, everwhere sycamores do grow, is Lower Galilee. And the district of Tiberias and the Valley. In Jehudah the hills, the lowland, and the Southland. The lowlands of Lydda are like the Southern lowlands, its hills are like King’s Mountain. From Bet Ḥoron to the Sea is one domain. Why did they mention three regions? That in each one may eat until the last produce has vanished. Rebbi Simeon says, they mentioned three regions only for Judea; all other regions follow King’s Mountain. All regions are one for olives and dates.

It was stated: “Rabban Simeon ben Gamliel says, a sign for mountains are ash trees, for valleys dates, for brooks reeds, for the lowland sycamores. Even if it is no proof, there is a sign (1K. 10:27, 2Chr. 1:19, 9:27)): ‘Cedars he [Solomon] gave as many as sycamores in the lowland.’ ” Some people want to say it was said as a legal term, others say it refers to the calf whose neck is to be broken.

“All regions are one for olives and dates.” It was stated: “Also for carobs.” It was stated: “One eats dates until they disappear from Jericho, one eats olives until they disappear from Meron and Giscala.”

“All regions are one for olives and dates.” It was stated: “Also for carobs.” It was stated: “One eats dates until they disappear from Jericho, one eats olives until they disappear from Meron and Giscala.”

Rebbi Vivian said, Rebbi Assi instructed regarding qwndsy’ that their proceeds should be thrown into the Dead Sea. Rebbi Mana asked Rebbi Ḥizqiah, may one eat kafan-dates of Ascalon? He said, it is forbidden. Rebbi Ḥizqiah stood in the market place of Caesarea when he saw a person carrying forbidden produce. He turned away his face in order not to see him and stated: take down! Why all that? That his place should be one of rebuke. Rebbi Jacob bar Aḥa heard and said, the mother of this one gave birth to a son!

HALAKHAH: How is this? If he ate vegetable and repaid a dried fig, a dried fig and repaid dates, a blessing should come to him. If he ate first fruits, what can he repay? If he ate grapes, he repays wine, olives he repays oil. If he ate ḥallah, may he repay with produce not yet one-third ripe since produce not yet one-third ripe is subject to ḥallah? If he ate first fruits, may he repay with what is still connected to the ground since first fruits acquire their status while connected to the ground?

Rebbi Jonah said, Rebbi Hoshaiah asked: What is the difference between this and worms in peas, squash bugs in sweet vetch, worms in dates and dried figs? There, they are in their bodies; here it is not in its body.

Rebbi Eliezer agrees that if he tithed the dates, their honey is permitted even in Spain. This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to the dates. “Rebbi Eliezer subjects date honey to tithes.” We have stated: “Rebbi Nathan says, not that Rebbi Eliezer subjects it to tithes but Rebbi Eliezer says he should not eat from the tithes until he also tithed the honey.” This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to honey and dates.

Rebbi Eliezer agrees that if he tithed the dates, their honey is permitted even in Spain. This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to the dates. “Rebbi Eliezer subjects date honey to tithes.” We have stated: “Rebbi Nathan says, not that Rebbi Eliezer subjects it to tithes but Rebbi Eliezer says he should not eat from the tithes until he also tithed the honey.” This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to honey and dates.

Rebbi Eliezer agrees that if he tithed the dates, their honey is permitted even in Spain. This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to the dates. “Rebbi Eliezer subjects date honey to tithes.” We have stated: “Rebbi Nathan says, not that Rebbi Eliezer subjects it to tithes but Rebbi Eliezer says he should not eat from the tithes until he also tithed the honey.” This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to honey and dates.

Rebbi Eliezer agrees that if he tithed the dates, their honey is permitted even in Spain. This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to the dates. “Rebbi Eliezer subjects date honey to tithes.” We have stated: “Rebbi Nathan says, not that Rebbi Eliezer subjects it to tithes but Rebbi Eliezer says he should not eat from the tithes until he also tithed the honey.” This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to honey and dates.

Rebbi Eliezer agrees that if he tithed the dates, their honey is permitted even in Spain. This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to the dates. “Rebbi Eliezer subjects date honey to tithes.” We have stated: “Rebbi Nathan says, not that Rebbi Eliezer subjects it to tithes but Rebbi Eliezer says he should not eat from the tithes until he also tithed the honey.” This implies that he tithes dates including honey proportional to honey and dates.

MISHNAH: One does not make honey from dates, or wine from apples, or vinegar from winter grapes, nor does one change any fruit of heave or second tithe from the way it grew except olives and grapes. Nobody endures the forty because of ‘orlah, except for produce of olives and grapes; one does not bring First Fruits as drinks except for products from olives and grapes. Nothing makes impure as a drink except what comes from olives and grapes. Nothing is presented on the altar except what comes from olives and grapes. The stalks of fresh figs, dried figs, kelisin, and carobs are forbidden to laymen.

HALAKHAH: Rebbi Joḥanan, the Mishnah deals with seeds of pears and paradise pears. Rebbi Eleazar said, you can even say the pit of unripe dates if they have not been sucked. But did we not state, “and so bones of sacrifices;” can you say if they have not been sucked? No, about cartilage in wings. Rebbi Abbahu came in the name of Rebbi Joḥanan: The Mishnah speaks of cartilage in wings.

MISHNAH: From when are fruits subject to tithes? Figs from the moment they start to ripen, grapes and wild grapes when they start to produce sap. Sumac and mulberries when they start to become red, and all red fruits when they start to become red. Pomegranates when they become soft, dates when they start to become bloated. Peaches when they get stripes, walnuts when they form a container. Rebbi Jehudah says, walnuts and almonds when they develop a shell. Carobs from when they become spotted, and all black ones when they become spotted. Pears, golden apples, quince, and sorbs, when they get bald, and all white ones when they get bald. Fenugreek so that a new plant grows. And olives when they contain a third.

Samuel said, if a pumpkin was punctured, all that grows in that depression is forbidden. The same holds for bunches of dates. “ Rebbi Yose said, Jonathan ben Ḥarasha from Genezareth asked Rabban Gamliel and the Sages at Jabneh: What is the status of punctured soft dates on their tree? They said to him, that entire date palm is forbidden.” Rebbi Yose said, that statement is needed if all [dates] are punctured; you should not say, since a snake does not usually do this, a cloud of birds rested on them and pecked at them. Rebbi Jonah in the name of Rebbi Simeon the Pious: Punctured soft dates on their tree are forbidden, but people behave as if they were permitted and they are not hurt.

Samuel said, if a pumpkin was punctured, all that grows in that depression is forbidden. The same holds for bunches of dates. “ Rebbi Yose said, Jonathan ben Ḥarasha from Genezareth asked Rabban Gamliel and the Sages at Jabneh: What is the status of punctured soft dates on their tree? They said to him, that entire date palm is forbidden.” Rebbi Yose said, that statement is needed if all [dates] are punctured; you should not say, since a snake does not usually do this, a cloud of birds rested on them and pecked at them. Rebbi Jonah in the name of Rebbi Simeon the Pious: Punctured soft dates on their tree are forbidden, but people behave as if they were permitted and they are not hurt.

Samuel said, if a pumpkin was punctured, all that grows in that depression is forbidden. The same holds for bunches of dates. “ Rebbi Yose said, Jonathan ben Ḥarasha from Genezareth asked Rabban Gamliel and the Sages at Jabneh: What is the status of punctured soft dates on their tree? They said to him, that entire date palm is forbidden.” Rebbi Yose said, that statement is needed if all [dates] are punctured; you should not say, since a snake does not usually do this, a cloud of birds rested on them and pecked at them. Rebbi Jonah in the name of Rebbi Simeon the Pious: Punctured soft dates on their tree are forbidden, but people behave as if they were permitted and they are not hurt.

Samuel said, if a pumpkin was punctured, all that grows in that depression is forbidden. The same holds for bunches of dates. “ Rebbi Yose said, Jonathan ben Ḥarasha from Genezareth asked Rabban Gamliel and the Sages at Jabneh: What is the status of punctured soft dates on their tree? They said to him, that entire date palm is forbidden.” Rebbi Yose said, that statement is needed if all [dates] are punctured; you should not say, since a snake does not usually do this, a cloud of birds rested on them and pecked at them. Rebbi Jonah in the name of Rebbi Simeon the Pious: Punctured soft dates on their tree are forbidden, but people behave as if they were permitted and they are not hurt.

“Dates when they start to become bloated.” Rebbi Ḥiyya bar Abba said, when the indentation is straightened out. Rebbi Jonah asked: How do we hold? If the indentation is straightened out, it is wind-fall! If the pit can be separated, it is fully ripe! The rabbis from Caesarea say, when they are ready to be eaten.

Rebbi said to his son Rebbi Simeon, climb up and bring us dried figs from the barrel. He said to him, is it not forbidden because of muqzeh? He retorted, are you still holding that? Nothing but figs and grapes can be forbidden because of muqzeh! Rebbi Samuel bar Sisarta: Because they stink in between. Rebbi Zeїra asked before Rebbi Assi: Is it not reasonable to hold that the case involved split dates? He said to him, that is my opinion also. Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Abun, Rebbi Isaac bar Bisna in the name of Rebbi Joḥanan: The case involved split dates.

Rebbi said to his son Rebbi Simeon, climb up and bring us dried figs from the barrel. He said to him, is it not forbidden because of muqzeh? He retorted, are you still holding that? Nothing but figs and grapes can be forbidden because of muqzeh! Rebbi Samuel bar Sisarta: Because they stink in between. Rebbi Zeїra asked before Rebbi Assi: Is it not reasonable to hold that the case involved split dates? He said to him, that is my opinion also. Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Abun, Rebbi Isaac bar Bisna in the name of Rebbi Joḥanan: The case involved split dates.

HALAKHAH: Where do we hold? If about a harvesting-basket of figs, everybody agrees that it is forbidden. If about oil olives and wine grapes, everybody agrees that it is permitted. But we deal with dates intended for pressing, dried figs intended for pressing. Rebbi Eliezer says, heave creates ṭevel of fruits not completely processed but the Sages say, heave does not create ṭevel of fruits not completely processed.

Can First Tithe induce ṭevel? Where do we hold? If about a grain heap that was smoothed, everybody holds that it is forbidden. If First Tithe was given from ears, everybody agrees that it is permitted. But we deal with dates intended for pressing, large figs intended for pounding, of which he gave the Great Heave and then changed his mind to store them as they were. Then he transgressed and gave First Tithe. If you say that ṭevel was created retroactively, the heave induces ṭevel. If you say that ṭevel is created from there onwards, the First Tithe induces ṭevel.

“ If somebody buys dates to press them, dried figs to pound them, he may not eat a snack from them and must tithe as demay, the words of Rebbi Meїr. But the Sages say, he may eat a snack from them and must give tithes as certain, the words of Rebbi Yose.” Rebbi Hilai, Rebbi Lazar in the name of Hilfai; Rebbi Jonah said, it was found on the writing tablet of Hilfai: He may eat a snack from them and gives tithes as certain. This is difficult! If he may eat a snack from them, he should give certain tithes. If he tithes as demay, he should be forbidden to eat them as a snack! Rebbi Yose in the name of Rebbi Hila: He may eat them as snack because their processing is not finished; he gives certain tithes since he [the seller] knows that his house induces ṭevel, he will separate heave from the start.

There, we have stated: “If he worked with his hands but not with his feet, with his feet but not with his hands, even on his shoulder, he eats.” We have stated about this, with his hands he makes bundles, with his feet he creates support, even on his shoulder he carries. “Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Jehudah says, only if he works with his hands, feet, and body,” as in threshing where he works with his hands, feet, and body, so for anything he works with his hands, feet, and body. Threshing, just as threshing is particular in that it applies to plucked [grain], so for anything plucked. This excludes him who thins among garlic and onions, makes supports for vines, and weeds under an olive tree. Threshing, just as threshing is particular in that it applies to growth from the earth, so for anything growing from the earth. This excludes him who milks, makes cheese, or churns milk. Threshing, just as threshing is particular in that it does not apply after processing, so for anything not after processing. This excludes him who separates dates or dried figs, wine after it is fermented and olive oil when it descends into the vat. Threshing, just as threshing is particular in that it applies before the obligation of tithes, so for anything before the obligation of tithes. This excludes him who kneads dough, separates, or bakes.

Palm-leaf baskets of dates, plates of dates became profane. Some Tannaїm state that boxes of dates did become, some Tannaïm state that they did not become. Rav Ḥisda said, he who said they did become, when they were pressed. He who said they did not become, [meant] when not pressed.

Palm-leaf baskets of dates, plates of dates became profane. Some Tannaїm state that boxes of dates did become, some Tannaïm state that they did not become. Rav Ḥisda said, he who said they did become, when they were pressed. He who said they did not become, [meant] when not pressed.

Palm-leaf baskets of dates, plates of dates became profane. Some Tannaїm state that boxes of dates did become, some Tannaïm state that they did not become. Rav Ḥisda said, he who said they did become, when they were pressed. He who said they did not become, [meant] when not pressed.

It was stated: “Abba Ḥilfai the small-town man said, when has this been said? For certain [produce], but for demay whether it was expensive and became cheap or was cheap and became expensive, he may sell it cheaply.” Why? Is it because it always may be sold cheaply or because it may not be returned to its place? What is the difference? If later it rose in price again at its place. If you say, because it may not be returned to its place, did it not increase in value? If you say, because it always may be sold cheaply also in this case it can be sold cheaply. Like this: Rebbi Ḥiyya bar Abba was in Rome and he saw them redeem there Nicolaos dates from here at the price here. He said, who taught them? Ḥilfai the small-town man taught them.

It was stated: You redeem fruit; you do not redeem either unripe grapes or unripe figs. Rebbi Zavida instructed about unripe dates that they should be buried. Rebbi Jonah asked: If he transgressed and redeemed them, is it not redeemed? And you want to say, it needs to be buried!

MISHNAH: One does not bring First Fruits except from the Seven Kinds, nor from mountain dates, nor from valley fruits, nor from oil olives which are not best quality. One may not bring First Fruits before Pentecost. The people from Hyena Mountain brought their First Fruits before Pentecost but they did not accept from them because of the verse in the Torah: (Ex. 23:16) “The pilgrimage holiday of harvest, the First Fruits of your work from sowing the field.”

“And honey”. This refers to dates. Rebbi Tanḥuma in the name of Rebbi Isaac ben Rebbi Eleazar: It is written (2Chr. 31:5) “When the thing expanded, the Children of Israel did increase the first gifts of grain, cider, oil, and honey.” Is honey subject to tithes? But this refers to dates which are subject to tithes.

“And honey”. This refers to dates. Rebbi Tanḥuma in the name of Rebbi Isaac ben Rebbi Eleazar: It is written (2Chr. 31:5) “When the thing expanded, the Children of Israel did increase the first gifts of grain, cider, oil, and honey.” Is honey subject to tithes? But this refers to dates which are subject to tithes.

The following is obvious: If somebody dedicated First Fruits not from the Seven Kinds it was not sanctified. Where is there a disagreement? About mountain dates and valley fruits. Rebbi Zeïra, Rebbi Assi in the name of Rebbi Eleazar: They were not sanctified. Rebbi Hila in the name of Rebbi Immi: Rebbi Joḥanan and Rebbi Simeon ben Laqish disagree. Rebbi Joḥanan said they were not sanctified, Rebbi Simeon ben Laqish said they were sanctified. Rebbi Jonah said, the reason of Rebbi Simeon ben Laqish is that if somebody transgressed and gave heave from bad for good produce, his heave is heave. Rebbi Yose said, we have heard that bad produce is subject to tithes; did we hear that bad produce is subject to First Fruits? A baraita supports Rebbi Yose: “One does not bring [fruits] from Sepphoris and Bet Shean, and if he brought they are not sanctified.” Rebbi Zeïra said, but there it is stated: “Figs pierced on the branch and grapes dusted and smoked one does not bring. But one brings bat šeba figs and white grapes.” The latter are highest quality. What can you say? But Rebbi Abba Mari said, one should not say that one should not bring these because they are late.

It was stated: Rabban Simeon ben Gamliel says, one brings dates only from Jericho and one makes the declaration only for dry ones. Rebbi Simeon ben Eleazar says, one may bring valley pomegranates and make the declaration.

MISHNAH: For the following one makes the declaration, one brings and makes the declaration between Pentecost and Tabernacles: From the Seven Kinds, from produce of the hills, from dates in the valleys, from oil olives, and from Transjordan. Rebbi Yose the Galilean says, one does not bring from Transjordan since it is not a Land flowing with milk and honey.

A student of [Rebbi] Simai went to Antipatris; they brought him Morocco-plums and he ate. A student of Rebbi Joshua ben Levi went there; they brought him Morocco-plums and he did not eat. He came and told it to his teacher who said to him, this one follows the argument of Rebbi Simai, as Rebbi Simai said, a Gentile does not need preparation. Rebbi Abbahu in the name of Rebbi Joshua ben Levi: The red grapes in a vineyard are forbidden. Rav Huna in the name of Rav: The hard dates on palm leaves are permitted.

HALAKHAH: “With what may a woman go out,” etc. Rav Naḥman bar Jacob said, because she loosens them because they separate for her period and she forgets and walks with them for four cubits. Rebbi Mana said, earlier we were saying because she opens what is sewn but we were not saying anything, as Rebbi Hoshaia stated, a basket of palm leaves for dates one may tear and open but only one may not tie. There, we have stated: “The following separate on a human: threads of wool or of linen and the ribbons on the head of girls.” Samuel said, there is no hair here; in the opinion of Rebbi Jehudah, but only wool. Therefore hair does not separate in the opinion of everybody. Rebbi Abba in the name of Rav Jehudah; Rebbi Zeˋira in the name of the rabbis: One hair separates, two are in doubt, three do not separate.

Rebbi Hoshaia stated, a basket of palm leaves for dates or a plate of palm leaves one may tear and open, only one may not tie.

Rebbi Abbahu in the name of Rebbi Joḥanan. Scurvy is dangerous. Rebbi Joḥanan had it; he was treated by the daughter of Domitianus of Tiberias. Friday evening he went up to her and asked her, will I need anything tomorrow? She said no, but if you need anything take date pits split and heated, some say of Nicolaus dates, skin of barley grain, and dry excrement of a baby, grind it and apply it; do not tell this to anybody. The next day he went up and preached it in public. She heard it and strangled herself; but some say that she converted. You understand from this three things. You understand that scurvy is dangerous. You understand that anything inside of the lips one heals. You understand what Rebbi Jacob bar Aḥa said in the name of Rebbi Joḥanan: If he was a professional healer it is permitted.

Rebbi Hoshaia stated, a basket of palm leaves for dates or a plate of palm leaves one may tear and open, only one may not tie.

MISHNAH: It happened that one brought Rabban Joḥanan ben Zakkai a dish to taste, and Rabban Gamliel two dates and a pail of water and they said, bring them to the sukkah. But when one gave Rebbi Ṣadoq food in the volume of less than an egg he took it with a napkin, ate it outside of the sukkah, and did not recite a benediction afterwards.

A student of Rebbi Simai went to Antipatris; they brought him Morocco-plums and he ate. A student of Rebbi Joshua ben Levi went there; they brought him Morocco-plums and he did not eat. He came and told it to his teacher who said to him, this one follows the argument of Rebbi Simai, as Rebbi Simai said, a Gentile does not need preparation. Rebbi Abbahu in the name of Rebbi Joshua ben Levi: The red grapes in a vineyard are forbidden. Rav Huna in the name of Rav: The hard dates on palm leaves are permitted.

Rebbi said to his son Rebbi Simeon, climb up and bring us dried figs from the upper floor. He said to him, is it not forbidden because of muqṣeh? He retorted, are you still holding that? Nothing but figs and grapes can be forbidden because of muqzeh! Rebbi Samuel bar Sosartai: Because they stink in between. Rebbi Ze`ira asked before Rebbi Yasa: Is it not reasonable to hold that the case involved split dates? He said to him, that is my opinion also. Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Abun, Rebbi Isaac bar Bisna in the name of Rebbi Joḥanan: The case involved split dates.

Rebbi said to his son Rebbi Simeon, climb up and bring us dried figs from the upper floor. He said to him, is it not forbidden because of muqṣeh? He retorted, are you still holding that? Nothing but figs and grapes can be forbidden because of muqzeh! Rebbi Samuel bar Sosartai: Because they stink in between. Rebbi Ze`ira asked before Rebbi Yasa: Is it not reasonable to hold that the case involved split dates? He said to him, that is my opinion also. Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Abun, Rebbi Isaac bar Bisna in the name of Rebbi Joḥanan: The case involved split dates.

It was stated: “Branches of a fig tree and on them figs, broomsticks {from a date palm} and on them dates, which he collected for food, he eats from them on the holiday. If he collected them as wood, he may not eat from them on the holiday.”

HALAKHAH: “If somebody invests in his wife’s properties,” etc. Rebbi Abba in the name of Rav Ḥiyya bar Ashi: Even if he ate only one basket of dates. Assi said, that is, if the investment is greater than the increase in value. But if the increase in value is greater than the investment, one gives him the increase in value. A baraita disagrees with Assi: “In all cases one evaluates it as for a sharecropper.” The baraita disagrees about planting; what Assi said was about a building. The baraita disagrees about planting, is that what Rebbi Abba said in the name of Rav Ḥiyya bar Ashi: Even if he ate only one basket of dates. He said to him, in one case if he ate, in the other if he did not eat.

HALAKHAH: “If somebody invests in his wife’s properties,” etc. Rebbi Abba in the name of Rav Ḥiyya bar Ashi: Even if he ate only one basket of dates. Assi said, that is, if the investment is greater than the increase in value. But if the increase in value is greater than the investment, one gives him the increase in value. A baraita disagrees with Assi: “In all cases one evaluates it as for a sharecropper.” The baraita disagrees about planting; what Assi said was about a building. The baraita disagrees about planting, is that what Rebbi Abba said in the name of Rav Ḥiyya bar Ashi: Even if he ate only one basket of dates. He said to him, in one case if he ate, in the other if he did not eat.

MISHNAH: If somebody vows not to eat dates, he is permitted date honey; from winter grapes, he is permitted winter grape vinegar. Rebbi Jehudah ben Bathyra says, if he vowed to forbid to himself anything which is called by the name of its derivative, he also is forbidden the derivative, but the Sages permit it.

HALAKHAH: “If somebody vows not to eat dates,” etc. What is the reason of Rebbi Yose? The name of its father is called over it. What is the reason of Rebbi Jehudah ben Bathyra? The name of its descendant is called over it. It is reasonable that Rebbi Jehudah ben Bathyra should agree with Rebbi Yose but Rebbi Yose would not agree with Rebbi Jehudah ben Bathyra. Rebbi Jehudah ben Bathyra should agree with Rebbi Yose: The name of its descendant, so certainly also the name of its father. Rebbi Yose would not agree with Rebbi Jehudah ben Bathyra: He says only, the name of its father. This implies: not the name of its descendant.

A person stole a hard date. The case came before Samuel who said to him, go and estimate for him at the top of the date palm. Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Abun said, it was a preserve of unripe dates.

“Rebbi Yose ben Rebbi Jehudah says, threshing. Since threshing is special in that it refers to something grown from the earth, this excludes the one who milks, makes cheese with rennet or with mold, which is not something grown from the earth. Since threshing is special in that it refers to something not completely processed; this excludes wine after it was fermented, [olive oil] after it descended into the vat, one who isolates dates or separates dried figs, done after complete processing. Since threshing comes before the obligation of tithes, this excludes him who kneads dough, separates into cakes, or bakes, which comes after it became obligated for tithes.”

MISHNAH: A worker may eat zucchini even for a denar’s worth, or dates even for a denar’s worth. Rebbi Eleazar Ḥasma said, a worker may not eat more than his wages and the Sages permit it, but one instructs a man not to be voracious lest he close the door before him. A person may contract for himself, for his adult son or daughter, for his adult male and female slaves, for his wife, because they have understanding. But he may not contract for his underage son or daughter, nor for his underage male and female slaves, nor for his animal, because they have no understanding.