Footnotes
1.
In that source, the Alter Rebbe rules:
It is, however, forbidden to
sweep [the earthen floor of] a home, because it is inevitable [that he will
level crevices]. If, however, the earth of a home is paved with stones, and how
much more so with wooden boards – in which instance, there is no concern about
leveling crevices – it is permitted to sweep it….
There are authorities who rule
stringently [and forbid sweeping] even a paved [floor], as a decree [lest one
sweep] an unpaved [floor]. This is the custom in these countries; one should
not deviate from it.
An overwhelming number of contemporary
authorities permit sweeping a paved floor in the present era, since, by and
large, floors are paved and there is no need for a safeguard regarding dirt
floors. However, they recommend using a broom with soft bristles. See Ketzos
HaShulchan 146:27.
Sources
Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (18 Elul 1745-24 Tevet 1812), known as "the Alter Rebbe," was one of the main disciples of the Maggid of Mezritch, and the founder of the Chabad Chassidism. He is the author of Shulchan Aruch HaRav and Tanya as well as many other major works in both Jewish law and the mystical teachings.
Translated by Eliyahu Touger and Sholom B Wineberg.
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