For the source text click/tap here: Nazir 58
To download, click/tap here: PDF
One of the sources offered by the Gemara for the idea of aseh doheh lo ta’aseh is the commandment of tzitzit. Although the Torah forbids sha’atnez (a mixture of wool and linen fibers – see Devarim 22:11), immediately following we find the commandment to place gedilim (tzitzit) on one’s clothing (see verse 12).
This is understood by the Sages to permit sha’atnez when placing tzitzit on a garment.
The Shiṭṭah Meḳubbeẓet offers two explanations for this case. One is simply that wool tzitzit are placed on a linen garment, which is permitted for the mitzva even though the two fibers will be connected. The second suggestion is that the strand of tekhelet – the blue strand – which is always made of wool, can be combined with strands of linen when tying the tzitzit.
We explore the various opinions regarding the recently discovered murex shells and techeles.