The Sanctity of the Seventh Year in Figs
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Question
We have several ornamental trees in our yard, and under one of them, we placed a pool. We noticed that bats are likely picking figs from the neighbors and eating them on our tree. Occasionally, half-eaten figs fall into the pool, and we have to remove them when cleaning the pool. Do they have the sanctity of the seventh year? And what should we do with them?
Answer
If the figs are eaten by a person or an animal, they certainly have the sanctity of the seventh year. If the figs have become unfit for human consumption but are still suitable for animal feed, which is likely your situation, rabbinic opinions differ on whether they have the sanctity of the seventh year. However, in this case, it is possible that these figs were intended only for animal feed, and then, according to all opinions, it is forbidden.
In any case, it is very easy to handle figs with the sanctity of the seventh year: you need to place them in a bag until they rot and then dispose of them, or alternatively, leave them in a public place, such as on a fence, etc.
In any case, it is very easy to handle figs with the sanctity of the seventh year: you need to place them in a bag until they rot and then dispose of them, or alternatively, leave them in a public place, such as on a fence, etc.
Source
Chazon Ish (Shevi'it, Siman 10, Se'if 10; Ma'asrot, Siman 1, Se'if 30), Shevet HaLevi (Part 2, Siman 199).
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