Shaylah of the Week - Yeshurun - Rabbi Zev Cohen · Rabbi Zev Cohen

Can a Yid be a Shutif (Partner) with a Goy?

·32 min·3 clips

Rabbi Cohen explores whether a Jew can be a partner with a non-Jew, diving into ancient Halachic laws.

This episode of Shaylah of the Week with Rabbi Zev Cohen examines the Halachic permissibility of a Jew forming a business partnership with a non-Jew. Rabbi Cohen, a respected authority, explores this through the lens of Hilchot Shotfos, the laws governing joint ownership. He frames the discussion around a specific query and relevant Talmudic concepts introduced in the weekly Torah portion. The analysis centers on the laws found in Choshen Mishpat concerning partners, or *shotfos*. Rabbi Cohen references Rashi's commentary from Parshas Vayikra, which establishes that two people can be partners in an asset like a car. He recounts a dissenting viewpoint presented by a guest, Rabbi Grossman from Silver Spring, during a previous session. Rabbi Grossman argued that the concept of *shotfos* is not a novel legal innovation itself but merely a grouping of existing laws like *kinyanim* (acquisitions) and *gezela* (theft). A core question is whether the prohibition against partnerships with non-Jews is an independent decree or stems from other specific legal concerns like interest or idolatry. The discussion likely probes if a partnership structured to avoid those specific issues could be permissible. Rabbi Cohen indicates he personally disagrees with Rabbi Grossman's minimization of *shotfos* as a distinct concept. The episode presumably delves into practical applications and potential leniencies within this complex area of monetary law. One interesting insight is the presentation of a minority scholarly opinion that challenges the foundational status of partnership law. The episode highlights the nuanced debate over whether the restriction is an overarching rabbinic fence or a consequence of other prohibitions. Rabbi Cohen's approach of presenting a disagreement to clarify the mainstream Halachic position is a key methodological insight. The tone is educational and analytical, typical of a Shiur or Torah class, dissecting legal principles with reference to classic commentaries. The style is conversational, as Rabbi Cohen recounts a prior discussion to build his lesson. This episode is ideal for listeners interested in the intricacies of Jewish business law and applied Halacha. Those seeking narrative-driven content or discussions on non-legal topics might find it too technical.

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