Dov Lew asked:
The Issurim of eating non-kosher animals in Parshas Shmini contain the term "Lo To'chailu". Why are these animals Mutar B'Hanah?
Thank you.
Dov Lew
The Kollel replies:
The Gemara on 23a asks your question, "v'Harei Sheratzim... Tzayadei Chayos v'Ofos ..." (even though the Gemara calls them "Sheratzim," it refers to all animals and creatures that are Tamei, as the Sugya makes clear). The Gemara answers that the Torah says "Lachem" with regard to those creatures, teaching that they are Mutar b'Hana'ah.
Even though the Gemara brings a verse which is written about birds that are Tamei (Vayikra 11:11), it says "Lachem" several times in the verses dealing with all of the animals as well (Vayikra 11:5,6,7,8).
Be well, Mordecai