Talmud Chullin: Some science behind the text

Abstract

Every tractate in the Talmud has its own flavor, its own essence, and its own soul. The secular background needed to fully comprehend a tractate will depend on the overriding theme of that tractate. For example, one tractate may require a background in astronomy, a second may require a business mind, and yet a third tractate may require knowledge of mathematics. Without having the appropriate background, the talmid will just be reading words. This does not mean that the talmid should give up, but it just is a reality of the situation. Chullin is a tractate for which a solid background in zoology, veterinary science, and human physiology would be an asset. The intent of this article is to elucidate a few scientific topics or statements noted in Chullin, with the intent of making those aspects a bit more understandable or interesting.