Keilim 29:4-5

Keilim 29:4

The cord of the scales used by goldsmiths and those who weigh fine purple cloth is considered connected for up to three fingerbreadths. The handle of an adze behind where one grasps it is considered connected for up to three fingerbreadths. Rabbi Yosi says that a handbreadth (about three inches) is insusceptible to impurity (i.e., if the handle beyond where one grasps it is a handbreadth or more, then the entire handle is considered as if it’s not connected because it’s unwieldy).

Keilim 29:5

The cord of the scales used by shopkeepers and homeowners is considered connected up to a handbreadth. The handle of an adze in front of where one grasps it is considered connected for up to a handbreadth. The remnant of a compass’ handle (referring to the tool that draws a circle and not to the one that points north) must be at least a handbreadth. The handle of a stone mason’s chisel is considered connected up to one handbreadth.