Talking Talmud

On the writing of a mezuzah - in terms of the scribe's method of holding the parchment, leaving space at the top and the bottom, and so on. Including shifts in the application of varying views with regard to the writing of the text itself. How was that dispute resolved? The Gemara introduces the determinant of Eliyahu the Prophet -- in the non-mezuzah example of the halitzah shoe, and when even that determining voice would be accepted as law and when it would not: namely, as guided by the widespread practice of the Jewish people. Also, the sanctity of tefillin, mezuzot, and Torah scrolls - can tefillin parchment be "demoted" to be a mezuzah? It would seem yes, except for the requirement that the mezuzah parchment needs scoring. Plus, not sitting on a bed (couch?) that as a Sefer Torah on it.

More from Rabbi Shimon Shezuri - with a question of untithed produce that was mixed with a greater portion of tithed produce. Rabbi Tarfon gives him a solution - and the Gemara suggests several other solutions Rabbi Tarfon could have made (though the Gemara also then explains why he didn't make them). Also, going back to the scribal requirements - when a tear requires replacement, with recognition of worn parchments (vellum), and how they were protected. Plus, the requirements of writing out the text for a mezuzah.

On the last 8 verses of the Torah - who wrote them? That is, how could Moshe have written them when the text itself recounts his death at the beginning of them? Plus, what does it take to "get the mitzvah" of getting the Torah at Sinai? (Spoiler: Any writing of any letter of a Torah scroll). [Who's Who: Rabbi Shimon Shezuri] Plus, the case of the shechitah of a pregnant animal - what if the fetus survives (depending on how many months it is). Plus, checking out the rulings of R. Shimon Shezuri.

More on the menorah - and also a whole host of instructions for scribes, plus a powerful piece of aggadah: How did Moshe know what the menorah was supposed to look like? Diagrams and designs of fire - displaying the menorah - came in a vision from heaven, to show what it should look like. Was there a Tabernacle of fire too? (No) Plus, other items that need the visual. Also, the story of how Moshe discovered the identity and accomplishment and "reward" of Rabbi Akiva - and God's decisions that run the world in ways that are beyond humans' abilities, even Moshe, to understand.

A new mishnah: In the category of essential "Temple accoutrements" -- with a focus on the Menorah, in the company of tefillin and tzitzit and other. The 7 branches of the Menorah are all essential. Likewise, a block of gold. Also, other, less essential details about the Menorah: 1. Moshe's ritual items were to be used forever except for the trumpets. 2. Materials from which the Menorah can still be kosher (besides gold) - and which are not valid. Plus, a diagram of the Menorah - in words.