Chapter 4 · Muktzeh in depth

Graf shel re'i - removing a nuisance

Lesson 35 of 55 15 min

What about repulsive muktzeh inside the home? Chazal allowed removing a "graf shel re'i" - a repulsive item - for human dignity. Understand the limits.

Lesson goals

01Know the graf shel re'i allowance (Shabbat קכ״א ע״ב (121b))
02Understand the basis of human dignity
03Note one may not create the situation deliberately

The allowance

The Gemara permits removing a repulsive vessel or a foul item from the room where people sit - even if muktzeh. Reason: human dignity overrides a rabbinic prohibition (SA OC 308:34).

Kushya

Question: can this be used to move any muktzeh? Answer: no - one may not deliberately create the nuisance in order to remove it.

Practice

Think of a home case where this allowance is relevant.

Lesson wrap-up

Human dignity is a value halakha weighs even on Shabbat.

Check your understanding

Test yourself before marking the lesson complete.

Question 1 of 3

What allows removing graf shel re'i?

Previous lessonNolad and readiness (muchan)

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