Q. I am beginning to learn Maseches Beitzah. While reviewing your information below in answer to a past query of mine, (question 517) I realized that none of the information really answers the question, "What connection does the word 'Beitzah' have to the subject of the Masechta?"
A. On the introduction to the Shas Lublin edition of Maseches Beitzah, under the subtitle for the reason of the name and after quoting the Smichas Hachomim previously cited, it is mentioned that the Shita Mekuvetzes (Kesuvos 28a) and Meleches Shlomo (Introduction to Mishnayos) indeed wondered at this unusual title.
Adding to the reasons given for naming this masechtah as Beitzah, Ben Yehoyoda (2: p. 93) further clarifies why the first word of this masechta was chosen as the most used title, rather than the expected Maseches Yom Tov, based on the content. He explains that as a chicken that lays daily an egg, so should the learner of the tractate constantly try to bring out chidushei and novelties of Torah, accordingly the name Beitzah was chosen.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit"a
Important Numbers
