#214: Sandboxes

1. We mentioned yesterday that children (or adults) may not dig holes in the ground on Shabbat. However, it is permitted for them to play in a sandbox on Shabbat provided the sandbox was designated as a play-area, as opposed to sand in an open area, which is muktzeh. (Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchatah 16:4).

2. If the sand is moist or clumpy and clings together, as sometimes occurs after a rainstorm, playing in it or digging might qualify as plowing. In such a case, children older than approximately age 3 should be instructed not to play in it (see The 39 Melochos, p. 253; Piskei Teshuvot 343:7).

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.