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Avodah Zarah 2:3-4

Avodah Zara 2:3

The following things belonging to idolators are prohibited to Jews, including any benefit from them: wine, vinegar that used to be wine in the possession of the idolator, shards of clay soaked in wine in the style of Emperor Hadrian, and animal skins with holes cut near the heart. Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel prohibits these skins when the hole is round but he permits them when it is long. Meat that was brought to a place of idolatry (but not offered) is permitted but meat coming out of such a place is prohibited since it is like it was already offered to the idol; this is the opinion of Rabbi Akiva. It is prohibited to do business with idolators on their way to a place of idolatry (because they will thank their idol for it upon their arrival) but it is permitted with those who are returning.

Avodah Zara 2:4

If wineskins and jugs belonging to idolators have been filled with wine belonging to Jews, Rabbi Meir says they are prohibited and one may not derive any benefit from them; the Sages do not extend the prohibition to deriving benefit in this case. Rabbi Meir says that grape seeds and skins belonging to idolators are prohibited and one may not derive any benefit from them; the Sages prohibit moist ones but permit dry ones. Rabbi Meir says that idolator-owned fish brine and cheese from Beis Unyaki (a place of idolatry) are prohibited and one may not derive any benefit from them; the Sages do not extend the prohibition to deriving benefit in these cases.

Author: Rabbi Jack Abramowitz