Why Synagogues Are Exempt from Mezuzah: Kodesh vs. Beisecha

From: Rabbi Moshe Sofer

To: Rabbi Avraham

Description

The Chasam Sofer reconciles the Rambam's statement that a synagogue is exempt from mezuzah because it is kodesh with the Gemara Yoma's reasoning that it is not called beisecha. He explains that kodesh in the Rambam means a dwelling of the Shechinah rather than of a private individual, making it inherently not beisecha — not that the building possesses formal sanctity. He also rejects the theory that saleability determines a village synagogue's obligation, affirming instead that the presence of a residential dwelling is the deciding factor.

Source: Shu"t Chasam Sofer YD §281

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