By Rabbi Yair Hoffman

There can be two types of objects that are under Schach � Non-decorative items and decorative items. For non-decorative items one may not sit below it if it is 4 tefachim wide (12.6 inches according to Rav Chaim No�eh).� Ideally (lechatchila), one should not sit below it if it is 3 tefachim (9.45 inches) wide.� Non-decorative items are not considered batel or subordinate to Schach.

[It is this author�s view that since the Rambam specifically identifies the Drahm coin with the measurements, we should be stringent and use the measurements of Rav Chaim No�eh when it comes to what is considered an interpolation. Everyone should check with their own Rav or Posaik.]

Decorative items are considered batel (subordinate) to the Schach if they are hanging within 4 tefachim of the Schach.� One may sit under it. �If, however, they are hanging more than 4 tefachim below the Schach (12.6 inches or more) as in the picture above � then they are considered non-kosher Schach and if they are more than 4 tefachim wide � one may not sit under it.� Ideally, one should not hang items � even light fixtures more than 4 tefachim below the Schach because one may come to make a mistake.

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