3. Lifting an article from its resting position is called "akirah"; placing it down is called "hanacha." [Not only is it forbidden for a person to perform the "akirah" in one domain and then the "hanacha" in a different domain], but it is also forbidden to perform the "akirah" [in one domain], without [being the one to perform] the "hanachah" [in a different domain], or to perform the "hanacha" and not the "akirah" (1).

Accordingly, it is forbidden for a Jew [to pick up an object in a "reshus ha'yochid" (private domain)], and hand it to a Gentile to take out of the private domain into the public domain or into a "carmelis," because [by picking it up and handing it to him] the Jew is performing the '"akirah." Instead, the gentile should pick it up [in the private domain] himself. Likewise, when a Gentile brings an article [from a different domain], a Jew should not take it from him, because the Jew would then be performing a "hanacha." Rather, the Gentile should place the article down himself.

[This concept is particularly relevant when a child's circumcision takes place on Shabbos, and] the infant is brought [from his home] to the synagogue by a Gentile women; the Gentile should pick up the baby herself in the house and, upon arrival at the synagogue, place him down in the courtyard or foyer. A Jew may then pick up [the baby] (2).

FOOTNOTES:

(1) Most authorities agree that the prohibition against performing only the "akira" or only the "hanacha" is a rabbinical enactment.

(2) The Mishnah Berurah 331:20 maintains that one should have the child circumcised at home, rather than have a Gentile bring him to the synagogue.

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