914. How to Make the Eiruv of Courtyards

Eiruvin 1:15

Something prohibited like tevel (untithed produce) - even something that is considered tevel only rabbinically - first tithe from which terumah was taken improperly, or second tithe or consecrated produce that were not redeemed properly, may not be used to make an eiruv or a shittuf, though we may use demai (doubtfully-tithed produce) because demai may be eaten by needy people. Similarly, one may make an eiruv or shittuf using first tithe whose terumah has been taken, and second tithe or consecrated produce that were redeemed even if the additional fifth has not been paid, since the extra fifth does not pose an impediment. Second tithe may only be used to make an eiruv or shittuf in Jerusalem since it may only be eaten there.

Eiruvin 1:16

The eiruv of a courtyard is made as follows: we collect a whole loaf of bread from each house in the courtyard and place them all in a single container in one of those houses - even a granary, barn or storehouse. If the eiruv was placed in a gatehouse – even one that is privately owned – a portico, a porch or a house that is not four cubits by four cubits (about 6’x6’), it is not considered an eiruv at all. Once the eiruv has been collected, one recites the bracha that God has commanded us regarding the mitzvah of making an eiruv. One then states, “Through this eiruv, all the residents of this courtyard will be permitted to carry in and out from one house to another.” A minor may collect the bread for the eiruv of a courtyard. The house in which the eiruv is placed need not contribute a loaf of bread. If the residents usually place the eiruv in one particular house, it is proper not to change it in order not to make waves.