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:
Sholom Rav.
I don't know anything about the location of the Shuk ha'Elyon. However, the Rishonim give various explanations as to why any spit that was found there was Tamei.
1. Because some Nochrim - whom Chazal declared Zavim (whose spit is Tamei) lived there - Me'iri;
2. Because, since not many people frequented it, Zavim and Nidos used to gather there - Rashi and Rosh (citing Pesachim, 19a);
3. Nochri laundry-men used to go there to wash clothes - Rosh (citing the Yerushalmi in Shekalim).
Wishing you a Chag Kasher ve'Same'ach,
Be'Virchas Kol Tuv
Eliezer Chrysler