3,606. Bringing First Fruits in a Vessel

Hilchos Bikkurim 3:6

We know that first fruits are prohibited to one who is bereaved (an onein) because Deuteronomy 26:11 tells us, “You shall rejoice in all the good.” We infer from this that they must be eaten in a state of joy rather than bereavement. One who eats first fruits in a state of bereavement is liable to the penalty of stripes for acting rebelliously.

Hilchos Bikkurim 3:7

First fruits must be brought in a vessel as per Deuteronomy 26:2: “You shall place them in a vessel.” The best way to perform the mitzvah is to bring each type of fruit in its own vessel, though if one brings them all in a single vessel, he fulfills his obligation. Nevertheless, one may not mix the produce together. Rather, he places barley on the bottom, wheat on top of that, then olives, dates, pomegranates, and figs on top. Something like palm leaves, grass or leaves should be placed between each type of produce. The figs should be surrounded with clusters of grapes around the outside.