Julian Ungar-Sargon

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Daf Ditty

A wide-ranging commentary on the daily page of Talmud.

Avodah Zarah 47: הוֹאִיל וְלַצּוּרָה הֵן עוֹבְדִין, נַתִּיר לָהֶן אֶת הָאִילָן

jyungar August 4, 2025

For the source text click/tap here: Avodah Zarah 47

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The question is regarding a tree that was planted (for regular purposes) and only later worshipped. The question is not according to Rabbi Yosi bar Yehudah, as he would hold it is certainly forbidden, even to a regular person.

The question is according to the Rabbis. Do we say that this lulav can no longer be used for a mitzvah as it is repulsive for the Highest, for it has been used as an idol, or not? When Rav Dimi came (to Bavel), he said: The question was asked regarding an asheirah tree (which was even forbidden for mundane purposes) that was nullified. Do we say that there is permanent rejection regarding mitzvos aside or not?

We continue our exploration of the Ashera prohibition and derivative laws thereof.

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Julian Ungar-Sargon

This is Julian Ungar-Sargon's personal website. It contains poems, essays, and podcasts for the spiritual seeker and interdisciplinary aficionado.​