Bechoros Daf 46
The Daf completes the discussion of Mumim in Kohanim. A left-handed Kohen is Pasul, while Rebbi and the Chachamim disagree about someone who is ambidextrous. The Mishnah also discusses extreme differences in complexion and body size, as well as a Cheresh, Shoteh and Shikor.
Some conditions are acceptable in a Kohen but disqualify an animal as a Korban, including a Treifah and an animal born by Caesarean. The Gemara also discusses Oso V’Es Beno and whether the prohibition can apply to a father and its offspring.
A Kohen living with a woman forbidden to him must make a strong commitment to separate before returning to the Avodah. This leads into the laws of Nedarim and Neder Al Daas Rabim. Such a Neder is particularly strong, although it can be annulled for a Dvar Mitzvah. The Gemara gives the memorable case of the extremely harsh Melamed who was removed from teaching but later reinstated because they could not find an equally effective teacher.
The new Perek introduces two separate definitions of Bechor: Bechor L’Nachalah, who receives a double inheritance, and Bechor L’Kohen, who requires Pidyon HaBen. They do not always coincide. Pidyon HaBen depends on being the mother’s Peter Rechem, while the double inheritance depends on the father’s firstborn status.
Previous miscarriages and unusual births can therefore produce different results. A child may receive double inheritance without Pidyon HaBen, or require Pidyon HaBen without receiving double inheritance. The Mishnah discusses numerous examples, including previous births, conversion and cases where the identity of the father is uncertain.
The Daf concludes by asking exactly when birth takes place Halachically. The emergence of the head or forehead can be decisive, with distinctions between a viable child and a Nefel. This also affects a woman who converts during childbirth.
Finally, the Gemara compares recognition of a Bechor with identifying a deceased husband for an Agunah. For an Agunah we can be lenient about who gives the testimony, but we must be careful about what was actually seen: reliable facial identification, including the nose, is required.
Iliui mishmas Imi morosi Ruth bas Harav Menachem Mendel
