Some unique lexica in the Jerusalem Talmud

The article discusses a few Hebrew words and meanings unique to the Jerusalem Talmud: (1) A newly discovered version –מגננה – is suggested to have been derived from a Greek word meaning ‘to mumble’. (2) The verb מטפטפת in connection with sunrise is examined in light of a possible Syriac cognate; another solution, based on a rare Hebrew verb, is also presented. (3) The word ביניםֵ as found in a specific context is explained on the basis of a parallel Tosefta as signifying an architectural item. Two of the findings are supported particularly by their attestations in manuscripts from the Cairo Genizah (T-S NS 329.343 and Antonin 324). As is often the case, the Genizah manuscripts record the text of the Jerusalem Talmud more authentically than other manuscripts.