#228: Walking Through Grass

1. One may walk on and through, grass or other vegetation on Shabbat even if some get detached from the ground since this was not one’s intent (davar she’eino mitkavein) and it is not an absolutely certain outcome (pesik reisha). (Shulchan Aruch 336:3)

2. One should not walk through tall grass or vegetation very quickly, in a manner in which some will certainly be detached, as this does qualify as pesik reisha, which is forbidden (Mishnah Berurah 336:25; Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchatah 26:19). However, some argue that this is permitted and not defined as pesik reisha, as one does not know precisely which branch or piece of grass will be uprooted (Aruch Hashulchan 336:21). [for further discussion of this topic and the explanation of these sources, see Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchata, 26:19, n. 67, and Piskei Teshuvot 336:7. The issue is relevant as well to brushing hair on Shabbat, which will be discussed in a future post]

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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.