Complimenting Non-Jews: Difference between revisions

#Some only prohibit praising something that is uniquely not Jewish, but if it relates to the Torah it is permissible.<ref>Shut Titz Eliezer 15:47 quoting from Rav Chaim Palagi (Nishmas Kol Chai 1:54). The Titz Eliezer concludes that therefore we should praise those who have a medical breakthrough.</ref>

#Some allow praising the wisdom of a non-Jew.<ref>Shut Teshuvos V'Hanhagos 4:197 bases this on the idea of Medrash Eicha Rabah 2:13 that we should believe that the nations of the world have wisdom. This also explains how the Rambam would compliment Aristotle's wisdom. However, it is always advisable to use the praise as a springboard for the Jews by adding "but not as smart as our sages."</ref>

#Some allow praising a non-Jew after he dies.<ref>Avoda Berurah Avoda Zara 20 as we no longer have to worry about becoming to involved with the non-Jew.</ref>

#Some only prohibit praising a non-Jew with above normal abilities.<ref>Shut Divrei Yatziv 10:43</ref>