#215: Dragging Objects
1. One may not drag a heavy object on a dirt surface if it will definitely cause a hole or furrow in the ground, as this is considered a pesik reisha (unintended consequence of one’s action that definitely will cause a melachah to be violated) of the melachah of plowing. Otherwise, it is permitted. (Shulchan Aruch, O.C. 337:1, Magen Avraham 337:1) One may drag a heavy object on a tiled or wooden floor, as there is no concern of creating a hole or furrow in this case (Orchot Shabbat 18:52).
2. It is permissible to push a baby stroller on a dirt surface, such as a grassy area or dirt path, since it presses down on the earth, which is permitted, as opposed to creating a hole or furrow (Yechaveh Daat 2:52, Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchatah 28:48). The same is true for walking on soft soil where a footprint is made in the soil (Shulchan Aruch, O.C. 312:9), including with high heels. Some suggest walking slowly when walking with high heels in the dirt to ensure that soil is not inevitably kicked up when walking (The 39 Melochos, p. 258, based on Bi’ur Halachah 301:17).
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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.
