Aryeh Rosen asks:
In Perek 8 Mishna 1 it refers to a Shuk haElyon. Where was this located and what exactly was it?
Thnx.
Aryeh Rosen, Baltimore MD. USA
The Kollel replies:
We are unsure about the location location of the Shuk ha'Elyon. However, the Rishonim give various explanations as to why any spit that was found there was Tamei:
1. The Me'iri says it is because there were some Nochrim, whom the Rabanan declared to be Zavim (whose spit is Tamei), lived there.
2. Rashi and the Rosh (citing Pesachim 19a) say that since not many people frequented it, Zavim and Nidos used to gather there.
3. The Rosh (citing the Yerushalmi in Shekalim) says that Nochri launderers used to go there to wash clothes.
Wishing you a Chag Kasher v'Same'ach,
Eliezer Chrysler