Introduction to Tithes and Offerings

The topic of kashrut has always been crucial for every Jew, to be studied deeply and comprehensively. In this section, we aim to summarize the main laws, rules, and customs in practice so that every reader can be well-versed in the details relevant to each individual.

We begin with the topic of tithes and offerings. This field pertains to the laws of forbidden foods on one hand, and on the other - to mitzvot dependent on the land. Since this mitzvah does not apply in the Diaspora, despite the severity of the prohibition linked to separating tithes and offerings, many households are unaware of these mitzvot and err in their observance. To properly explain the subject, it is necessary to clarify two concepts that will accompany us:

Tevel – the term for grain or produce from which tithes and offerings haven't been separated. The word 'Tevel' is a contraction of 'Tev – Lo,' meaning – not good, not tithed.

Demai – the term for grain where it is unknown if tithes and offerings have been separated. This word is derived from the Aramaic words 'da mai' ('what is this?'), meaning – there is doubt about this grain. Originally, 'Demai' referred to the fruits of common people during the time of Yochanan the High Priest when everyone would contribute large offerings and most would tithe. For this purpose, the decree of 'Demai' was established, and many leniencies were practiced with 'Demai'. However, today, every 'doubtful Tevel' is called 'Demai', even though not all original leniencies are applied. A. According to Torah law, there is no obligation to separate tithes and offerings except from produce grown in the land. The prophets instituted separation of tithes and offerings also in the land of Babylon, and the sages added that this should also be done in places near the Land of Israel.

B. Fruits grown outside of Israel are not obligated in tithes and offerings unless their processing was completed in the Land of Israel. Similarly, fruits from Israel exported abroad, if their processing was completed in Israel and then decided to market them abroad, must have tithes and offerings separated from them. If their processing was completed outside Israel, the fruits are exempt from separating tithes and offerings. If the processing was completed in Israel, but the intention at the time was for them to be exported, a dispute exists among the authorities on whether tithes and offerings must be separated. 

C. Nowadays, when most Jews are not in Israel, the obligation of tithes and offerings is only rabbinic, not from the Torah.

D. All crops are forbidden to be eaten before tithes and offerings have been separated. Three conditions are required to obligate a crop in tithes and offerings: A. It must be human food (animal food is exempt from tithes and offerings). B. It must grow from the ground (excluding mushrooms and truffles). C. It must have owners and be guarded by them (excluding ownerless property exempt from tithes and offerings).

E. Spices that are not consumed as they are, and are only used as seasoning (such as tea leaves, shiba, and the like) are exempt from separating tithes and offerings. However, mint is obligated in tithes and offerings, as it is also used as edible greens.

F. Leaves from trees like grape leaves are exempt from separating tithes and offerings, but one must be very cautious about insects in them.