#294: Borer with Non-Food Items
1. Most authorities hold that borer applies not only to mixtures of food items, but also to mixtures of non-food items. (Taz 319:12, 319:15). However, some hold that it does not apply to mixtures of relatively large items, such as books, clothes, and utensils, which are easily distinct and recognizable from each other (Aruch Hashulchan 319:7-9, Rav Ovadia Yosef in Yabia Omer 5:31, Tzitz Eliezer). It is generally accepted to follow the stricter opinion lechatchilah (Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchata 3:77), though those who are lenient certainly have a basis upon which to rely, as we have seen.
2. Even those who are strict may move one piece out of the way to get to another that is behind it, if they need it for immediate use (miyad). For example, one may move one piece of clothing out of the way in the closet to get to another one underneath or behind it in order to wear it at that time. (Mishna Berura 319:15, Shemirat Shabbat K'hilchata 3:47)
3. In the next few postings, we will go through a number of practical examples of Borer with non-food items, including silverware, clothing, books, and games.
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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.
