Electricity on Shabbat: Difference between revisions
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# According to many poskim it is Biblically forbidden to turn on an oven or warming plate. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:3 </ref> | # According to many poskim it is Biblically forbidden to turn on an oven or warming plate. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:3 </ref> | ||
# In Israel, the widespread minhag is to leave electric appliances running on [[Shabbat]] even though the electric companies are run by Jews who violate [[Shabbat]]. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:1 </ref> | # In Israel, the widespread minhag is to leave electric appliances running on [[Shabbat]] even though the electric companies are run by Jews who violate [[Shabbat]]. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:1 </ref> | ||
# It is forbidden to turn off or dim an electric light. <ref> While Melamed Lehoil OC 49, Kuntres Gorem HaMalot 185, Maharsham 2:146, Minchat Shlomo pages 85-88 and pages 107-109, Shemirat | # It is forbidden to turn off or dim an electric light. <ref> While Melamed Lehoil OC 49, Kuntres Gorem HaMalot 185, Maharsham 2:146, Minchat Shlomo pages 85-88 and pages 107-109, Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchatah 13:1 all say this prohibition is rabbinic and this is the conclusion by [http://www.daat.ac.il/DAAT/english/journal/broyde_1.htm Rabbi Jachter and Rabbi Broyde], Machaze Avarham OC 41 and Beit Yitzchak Hashmatot YD 2:31:8 say it is a violation from the torah and this possibility is also raised by Rav Shlomo Zalman. </ref> | ||
# It is forbidden to turn off any electric appliance. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:5 </ref> | # It is forbidden to turn off any electric appliance. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:5 </ref> | ||
===Phones=== | ===Phones=== | ||
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===Shabbos Elevators=== | ===Shabbos Elevators=== | ||
# It is forbidden to use a regular elevator on [[Shabbat]]. Some allow using a '[[Shabbat]] elevator' which stops at every floor, while others forbid, and some say one may go up in the [[Shabbat]] elevator but not down. It is forbidden to touch the elevator doors when they are closing. <ref>Shemirat | # It is forbidden to use a regular elevator on [[Shabbat]]. Some allow using a '[[Shabbat]] elevator' which stops at every floor, while others forbid, and some say one may go up in the [[Shabbat]] elevator but not down. It is forbidden to touch the elevator doors when they are closing. <ref>Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 23:49 (in the new edition 23:58) permits uses a [[Shabbat]] elevator on [[Shabbat]]. Sefer Maliyot BeShabbat (chapters 1 and 7) holds that one may go up in the elevator but not down. Menuchat Ahava 24:15-6 concludes that one shouldn't use the [[Shabbat]] elevator to go up or down unless there is a great need in which case he is lenient to allow going up in the [[Shabbat]] elevator. Rav Yosef Henkin (Edut LeYisrael p. 121) rules that for someone who's weak to do a mitzvah such as daven with a [[minyan]], one can be lenient to use an elevator on [[Shabbat]] as long as the non-jew is the one who presses the button and not a Jew. He then says one doesn't need to protest someone who is lenient if the non-Jew is pressing the button, but a pious person (baal nefesh) would be strict. </ref> | ||
# Some poskim write that only elderly and sick people should use [[shabbat]] elevators <ref> Or Letzion 2.47.36 </ref> | # Some poskim write that only elderly and sick people should use [[shabbat]] elevators <ref> Or Letzion 2.47.36 </ref> | ||
===Refrigerators=== | ===Refrigerators=== | ||
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* On the other hand, Rav Ovadia Yosef (Yabia Omer 1:21) assumes like Rav Shlomo Zalman that it is grama, but thinks that completing a circuit may involve an issur deoraitta of hav’ara. He also is uncertain if this should be considered a psik reisha d’lo nicha lei and concludes that it is permitted, but it nevertheless is proper not to open the door unless the motor is running. Har Tzvi 1:151, Menuchat Ahava 24:19, and Rav Henkin (Edut LeYisrael p. 122) agree that although it is permitted, it’s proper to be strict. | * On the other hand, Rav Ovadia Yosef (Yabia Omer 1:21) assumes like Rav Shlomo Zalman that it is grama, but thinks that completing a circuit may involve an issur deoraitta of hav’ara. He also is uncertain if this should be considered a psik reisha d’lo nicha lei and concludes that it is permitted, but it nevertheless is proper not to open the door unless the motor is running. Har Tzvi 1:151, Menuchat Ahava 24:19, and Rav Henkin (Edut LeYisrael p. 122) agree that although it is permitted, it’s proper to be strict. | ||
* Lastly, Chelkat Yaakov O”C 76 argues that while it may be a psik reisha, perhaps it is not considered grama since this is the intended normal way it is used. Therefore, he rules that one may only open the door when the motor already is running. Minchat Yitzchak 2:16 and 3:24, Az Nidberu 2:36, Sh"t Igrot Moshe 2:68, 4:74, and Mishnat Rabbi Aharon 1:4 agree. | * Lastly, Chelkat Yaakov O”C 76 argues that while it may be a psik reisha, perhaps it is not considered grama since this is the intended normal way it is used. Therefore, he rules that one may only open the door when the motor already is running. Minchat Yitzchak 2:16 and 3:24, Az Nidberu 2:36, Sh"t Igrot Moshe 2:68, 4:74, and Mishnat Rabbi Aharon 1:4 agree. | ||
* Shemirat | * Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 10:12, Orchot [[Shabbat]] (vol 3 p. 62), and The [[Shabbos]] Home (p. 482) quote the two approaches but do not give a final ruling. Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata (10:12) recommends setting the refrigerator to a timer. | ||
* [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/742318/Rabbi_Mordechai_I_Willig/Halacha_Engages_Modernity_-_Part_8_-_Electrical_Appliances_(Part_1) Rabbi Willig (min 33-35)] says that using a water fountain on [[Shabbat]] depends on how long it takes for the motor to turn on. He mentions that one shouldn't use a water fountain which clearly will have the motor go on with a single regular use. However, he did not say this as a definitive ruling but in passing. Note that this wouldn't apply to an electric water fountain that triggers a circuit. See [https://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/924745/Rabbi%20Ike%20Sultan/Using%20YU%20Water%20Fountains%20on%20Shabbos R' Sultan's note about water fountains at YU]. | * [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/742318/Rabbi_Mordechai_I_Willig/Halacha_Engages_Modernity_-_Part_8_-_Electrical_Appliances_(Part_1) Rabbi Willig (min 33-35)] says that using a water fountain on [[Shabbat]] depends on how long it takes for the motor to turn on. He mentions that one shouldn't use a water fountain which clearly will have the motor go on with a single regular use. However, he did not say this as a definitive ruling but in passing. Note that this wouldn't apply to an electric water fountain that triggers a circuit. See [https://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/924745/Rabbi%20Ike%20Sultan/Using%20YU%20Water%20Fountains%20on%20Shabbos R' Sultan's note about water fountains at YU]. | ||
* See [http://www.zomet.org.il/Eng/?CategoryID=253&ArticleID=143 Zomet.org] or [http://www.star-k.org/kashrus/kk-cooling-keepcool.htm star-k.org] for details on other problems with refrigerators. </ref> | * See [http://www.zomet.org.il/Eng/?CategoryID=253&ArticleID=143 Zomet.org] or [http://www.star-k.org/kashrus/kk-cooling-keepcool.htm star-k.org] for details on other problems with refrigerators. </ref> | ||
# If one forgot to disable the light he is permitted to ask a gentile to open or close the refrigerator for him. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Chelek 4 [[Shabbat]] 5 page 229, Iggerot Moshe OC 2:68, and Shemirat | # If one forgot to disable the light he is permitted to ask a gentile to open or close the refrigerator for him. <ref> Yalkut Yosef Chelek 4 [[Shabbat]] 5 page 229, Iggerot Moshe OC 2:68, and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchatah 3:31. The aforementioned poskim all reject the opinion of the Aruch either because psik reishe dilo nicha leih is not permitted and they also argue that it is nicha leih because had it not been [[shabbat]] one would certainly want the light to help him see (see minchat shlomo page 91), and say that one should get a gentile to do it for him. [http://www.daat.ac.il/DAAT/english/journal/broyde_1.htm Rabbi Broyde and Rabbi Jachter] permit even asking a Jew who doesn't know that the light will turn on as this would fall under the category of mitasek. Iggerot Moshe OC 2:68 and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchitah 31:1 also permit hinting to the gentile to disable the light so that the refrigerator could be used for the remainder of [[shabbat]], but not telling him directly. </ref> | ||
# If the light is left on and one finds a way to open the refrigerator the food inside isn't mutkzeh.<ref>Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata ch. 10 fnt. 44 explains that it isn't muktzeh since turning on the light is merely an impediment (Magen Avraham 518:14 from Ran and Rashba Beitzah 31b) and also there are permitted ways to get a refrigerator to open a refrigerator with a light on.</ref> | # If the light is left on and one finds a way to open the refrigerator the food inside isn't mutkzeh.<ref>Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata ch. 10 fnt. 44 explains that it isn't muktzeh since turning on the light is merely an impediment (Magen Avraham 518:14 from Ran and Rashba Beitzah 31b) and also there are permitted ways to get a refrigerator to open a refrigerator with a light on.</ref> | ||
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===Hearing Aids and Microphones=== | ===Hearing Aids and Microphones=== | ||
# Someone who's hard of hearing may use a hearing aid which was turned on before [[Shabbat]]. It's proper to attached a piece of scotch tape on the button so one doesn't come to turn it off on [[Shabbat]]. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:11, Sh"t Yabia Omer 1:19(19), Minchat Yitzchak 2:17-8, 3:41, Minchat Shlomo 1:9, Tzitz Eliezer 6:6, Shemirat | # Someone who's hard of hearing may use a hearing aid which was turned on before [[Shabbat]]. It's proper to attached a piece of scotch tape on the button so one doesn't come to turn it off on [[Shabbat]]. <ref>Menuchat Ahava 24:11, Sh"t Yabia Omer 1:19(19), Minchat Yitzchak 2:17-8, 3:41, Minchat Shlomo 1:9, Tzitz Eliezer 6:6, Shemirat Shabbat Kihilchita 34:28. Rav Shlomo Zalman in his teshuva Minchat Shlomo 1:9 is dealing with microphones and concludes that a change in a voltage of a current isn't molid but still using a microphone is forbidden since it is audible and is a violation of Avsha Milta, degrading Shabbat. However, regarding hearing aids the Shaarim Metzuyim Bhalacha v. 2 p. 137 80:39:5 cites a letter from Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach that it is permitted to turn up a hearing aid on Shabbat and as there's no issue of muktzeh with a hearing aid that is already on. Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata 34:28 confirms this. Chelkat Yakov 119 forbids using a hearing aid on Shabbat because he holds that connecting the circuit is Biblical as it created sparks (according to the science of that time which is no longer the case) and he leaves it unresolved if it is permitted to use if was already functioning before Shabbat.</ref> | ||
# It is permitted to use a hearing aid on Shabbat even if it automatically adjusts the volume depending on the loudness of the environment.<ref>Rav Asher Weiss in Minchat Asher 1:31:1 writes that using hearing aids which automatically adjust depending on your surrounding. In a quiet place it amplifies noise and in a loud place it lowers the amplification. He explains that it is permitted to use them and move around while wearing them since either that isn't considered your action that the device changed its functionality or that it is but it is permitted since the accomplishments of the change in voltage in the circuit are insignificant and don't violate makeh bpatish, boneh, or molid. The automatic mode of hearing aids is described here: https://www.boystownhospital.org/knowledgeCenter/articles/hearing/Pages/PutYourHearingAidsOnAutomatic.aspx.</ref> | # It is permitted to use a hearing aid on Shabbat even if it automatically adjusts the volume depending on the loudness of the environment.<ref>Rav Asher Weiss in Minchat Asher 1:31:1 writes that using hearing aids which automatically adjust depending on your surrounding. In a quiet place it amplifies noise and in a loud place it lowers the amplification. He explains that it is permitted to use them and move around while wearing them since either that isn't considered your action that the device changed its functionality or that it is but it is permitted since the accomplishments of the change in voltage in the circuit are insignificant and don't violate makeh bpatish, boneh, or molid. The automatic mode of hearing aids is described here: https://www.boystownhospital.org/knowledgeCenter/articles/hearing/Pages/PutYourHearingAidsOnAutomatic.aspx.</ref> | ||
# It is forbidden to use a microphone on Shabbat.<Ref>Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach in Minchat Shlomo 1:9 s.v. ach writes that even if one solves all melacha issues with speaking into a microphone on Shabbat nonetheless it is forbidden since it creates an audible noise which is a violation of Avsha Milta (Shabbat 18a, Rama 252:5), which is Zilzul Shabbat. One of his precedents is the Nodeh Byehuda OC 30 regarding umbrellas where there is a concern of Zilzul Shabbat even if it was open before Shabbat.</ref> | # It is forbidden to use a microphone on Shabbat.<Ref>Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach in Minchat Shlomo 1:9 s.v. ach writes that even if one solves all melacha issues with speaking into a microphone on Shabbat nonetheless it is forbidden since it creates an audible noise which is a violation of Avsha Milta (Shabbat 18a, Rama 252:5), which is Zilzul Shabbat. One of his precedents is the Nodeh Byehuda OC 30 regarding umbrellas where there is a concern of Zilzul Shabbat even if it was open before Shabbat.</ref> | ||
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==Setting Timers before Shabbat== | ==Setting Timers before Shabbat== | ||
# It is permitted before [[Shabbat]] to set a timer for lights or other electric appliances to go on or off on [[Shabbat]].<ref>Sh"t Maharam Shik 157, Chazon Ish 38:2, Shemirat | # It is permitted before [[Shabbat]] to set a timer for lights or other electric appliances to go on or off on [[Shabbat]].<ref>Sh"t Maharam Shik 157, Chazon Ish 38:2, Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 13:26, Menuchat Ahava 24:30, Sh"t Yabia Omer 3:17. | ||
* Ben Yehuda (responsa 151) writes that it is rabbinically forbidden to use a timer that turns on a light on Shabbat. He writes that there's no Biblical melacha to set a timer since it was all put in place before Shabbat as per the Nemukei Yosef b"k 10a. However, he writes that it is rabbinically forbidden based on the opinion of Rabba in Shabbat 18a who says that it is a disgrace to Shabbat to leave grain in a water-grinder that will become ground on Shabbat. Rav Yosef in the gemara argues that it is permitted and only forbidden according to Bet Shamai. The Shulchan Aruch 252:5 rules like Rav Yosef but the Rama is stringent unless it will result in a loss. He says that based on the Rama it is forbidden to set a timer before Shabbat and even though everyone knows that it is set before Shabbat that logic isn't applicable if the melacha in question is Biblically forbidden. The Kaf Hachaim 252:73 cites this opinion. Ish Matzliach (v. 3 p. 17) writes that his father wouldn’t use timers even for the lights.</ref> | * Ben Yehuda (responsa 151) writes that it is rabbinically forbidden to use a timer that turns on a light on Shabbat. He writes that there's no Biblical melacha to set a timer since it was all put in place before Shabbat as per the Nemukei Yosef b"k 10a. However, he writes that it is rabbinically forbidden based on the opinion of Rabba in Shabbat 18a who says that it is a disgrace to Shabbat to leave grain in a water-grinder that will become ground on Shabbat. Rav Yosef in the gemara argues that it is permitted and only forbidden according to Bet Shamai. The Shulchan Aruch 252:5 rules like Rav Yosef but the Rama is stringent unless it will result in a loss. He says that based on the Rama it is forbidden to set a timer before Shabbat and even though everyone knows that it is set before Shabbat that logic isn't applicable if the melacha in question is Biblically forbidden. The Kaf Hachaim 252:73 cites this opinion. Ish Matzliach (v. 3 p. 17) writes that his father wouldn’t use timers even for the lights.</ref> | ||
# One may set an alarm clock before [[Shabbat]] even though it will make noise on [[Shabbat]]. <ref>The [[Shabbos]] Home (Rabbi Simcha Cohen, vol 2, pg 537) and Sh"t Maharshag YD 1:7(2) permit. However, Sh"t Igrot Moshe 4:70(4) only permits if it is not heard outside his personal room. See Shemirat | # One may set an alarm clock before [[Shabbat]] even though it will make noise on [[Shabbat]]. <ref>The [[Shabbos]] Home (Rabbi Simcha Cohen, vol 2, pg 537) and Sh"t Maharshag YD 1:7(2) permit. However, Sh"t Igrot Moshe 4:70(4) only permits if it is not heard outside his personal room. See Shemirat Shabbat KeHilchata 28:29 (and 28:30 in new edition) who permits before [[Shabbat]] for mitzvah purposes setting a mechanical alarm clock that involves removing a pin (see there). </ref> See [[Making music on Shabbat]]. | ||
# Some forbid leaving a digital photo frame which presents a slideshow of pictures set from before [[Shabbat]] to continue during [[Shabbat]]. <ref>[http://www.ou.org/webcast_kosher Rav Hershel Schachter] (OU Kosher Webcast, 2011, min 16-8) </ref> | # Some forbid leaving a digital photo frame which presents a slideshow of pictures set from before [[Shabbat]] to continue during [[Shabbat]]. <ref>[http://www.ou.org/webcast_kosher Rav Hershel Schachter] (OU Kosher Webcast, 2011, min 16-8) </ref> | ||
# It is forbidden to leave a bread machine on a delayed start timer to bake fresh bread on Shabbat because even if one does so the bread will be muktzeh.<ref>Divrei Dovid 4:21 explains that fresh bread cooked on Shabbat is muktzeh since the flour during ben hashemashot wasn't edible. He explains that it isn't considered gamru biyadey adam since 1) Since it wasn't baked before Shabbat it is considered like it was totally rejected (dachinhu byadayim). 2) It didn't start during ben hashemashot. 3) Nolad is more serious than other muktzeh.</ref> | # It is forbidden to leave a bread machine on a delayed start timer to bake fresh bread on Shabbat because even if one does so the bread will be muktzeh.<ref>Divrei Dovid 4:21 explains that fresh bread cooked on Shabbat is muktzeh since the flour during ben hashemashot wasn't edible. He explains that it isn't considered gamru biyadey adam since 1) Since it wasn't baked before Shabbat it is considered like it was totally rejected (dachinhu byadayim). 2) It didn't start during ben hashemashot. 3) Nolad is more serious than other muktzeh.</ref> | ||
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==Using a light bulb for [[Shabbat]] Candles and Havdala== | ==Using a light bulb for [[Shabbat]] Candles and Havdala== | ||
# Common consensus among the halachic authorities is to consider electricity as fire for the purpose of [[Shabbat]] observance. Just as lighting a fire is a Biblical violation of [[Shabbat]], so too is the flipping of a switch which turns on a light.<ref>Beit Yitzchak Y.D. 1:120, Achiezer 3:60, Melamed L’Hoil O.C. 49, Tzitz Eliezer 3:17, Chelkat Yaakov 1:52, Yesodei Yeshurun 5:147. Chazon Ish Orach Chaim 50:9 says that the problem is the melacha of [[cooking]]. On the other hand, Maharsham 2:246, Chasdei Avot pp. 43-75; Yam Gadol OC 26, Levush Mordechai OC page 47-51 all say that turning on a lit switch is only forbidden on a rabbinic level. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach Minchat Shlomo page 103-105 addresses this opinion at length and concludes that they are in error. </ref> As such, many families are particular to place a covering over the light switches in the home in order to ensure that they are not switched on or off accidentally over the course of [[Shabbat]].<ref>Shemirat | # Common consensus among the halachic authorities is to consider electricity as fire for the purpose of [[Shabbat]] observance. Just as lighting a fire is a Biblical violation of [[Shabbat]], so too is the flipping of a switch which turns on a light.<ref>Beit Yitzchak Y.D. 1:120, Achiezer 3:60, Melamed L’Hoil O.C. 49, Tzitz Eliezer 3:17, Chelkat Yaakov 1:52, Yesodei Yeshurun 5:147. Chazon Ish Orach Chaim 50:9 says that the problem is the melacha of [[cooking]]. On the other hand, Maharsham 2:246, Chasdei Avot pp. 43-75; Yam Gadol OC 26, Levush Mordechai OC page 47-51 all say that turning on a lit switch is only forbidden on a rabbinic level. Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach Minchat Shlomo page 103-105 addresses this opinion at length and concludes that they are in error. </ref> As such, many families are particular to place a covering over the light switches in the home in order to ensure that they are not switched on or off accidentally over the course of [[Shabbat]].<ref>Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata 13:32</ref> | ||
# This concept has broad halachic ramifications and applications. For example, if a woman is without candles on a Friday afternoon, she may be permitted to simply turn on the electric lighting that normally lights up the home and even recite the usual blessing over this "lighting".<ref>Shemirat | # This concept has broad halachic ramifications and applications. For example, if a woman is without candles on a Friday afternoon, she may be permitted to simply turn on the electric lighting that normally lights up the home and even recite the usual blessing over this "lighting".<ref>Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata 43:4. Rav Moshe Soloveitchik (quoted in Nefesh Harav pg. 155), Rav Mordechai Willig (“The Positive Mitzvos of [[Shabbos]],” min 49-51), Yabia Omer O.C. 2:17, and Rav Henkin (Eidut LeYisrael p. 122) agree. | ||
* Rav Ovadyah Yosef (Yalkut Yosef [[Shabbat]] vol 1 pg 188, Yabia Omer OC 2:17) agrees that one can make a bracha on it but emphasizes that it's a last option and that preferably one should have a designation that the bulb is for [[Shabbat]] candles. | * Rav Ovadyah Yosef (Yalkut Yosef [[Shabbat]] vol 1 pg 188, Yabia Omer OC 2:17) agrees that one can make a bracha on it but emphasizes that it's a last option and that preferably one should have a designation that the bulb is for [[Shabbat]] candles. | ||
* Rav Shlomo Zalman (Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata (ch. 43 fnt. 22) held that using an electric bulb plugged into the wall is questionable since the fuel to keep it lit on Shabbat wasn't present at the time of the lighting. Rav Moshe Feinstein (quoted by Rabbi Tendler in Moreshet Moshe v. 2 p. 51) agreed with this concern.</ref> This is because the light bulbs essentially accomplish the role<ref>Tosfot [[Shabbat]] 25b</ref> that the traditional [[Shabbat]] candles are intended to serve.<ref>There are two reasons why we light [[Shabbat]] candles. The first is for “Oneg [[Shabbat]]” which requires that the home be illuminated Friday night in order that people not stumble in the dark. The second reason is for “Kavod [[Shabbat]]” which calls for plentiful lighting in honor of [[Shabbat]], as was the custom upon receiving a distinguished guest. </ref> The electric lights actually become the [[Shabbat]] candles and one will discharge one's [[Shabbat]] candle lighting obligations with them. While such an approach should never be relied upon in normal circumstances, it is permissible in extenuating ones. Some authorities suggest that when making use of electric lights for one's [[Shabbat]] candles the accompanying blessing should be omitted.<ref>Shraga Hameir 5:11. see also The Radiance of [[Shabbos]] (p. 12) who quotes Rav Moshe Feinstein as saying that one should not recite a bracha on an electric light. </ref> | * Rav Shlomo Zalman (Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata (ch. 43 fnt. 22) held that using an electric bulb plugged into the wall is questionable since the fuel to keep it lit on Shabbat wasn't present at the time of the lighting. Rav Moshe Feinstein (quoted by Rabbi Tendler in Moreshet Moshe v. 2 p. 51) agreed with this concern.</ref> This is because the light bulbs essentially accomplish the role<ref>Tosfot [[Shabbat]] 25b</ref> that the traditional [[Shabbat]] candles are intended to serve.<ref>There are two reasons why we light [[Shabbat]] candles. The first is for “Oneg [[Shabbat]]” which requires that the home be illuminated Friday night in order that people not stumble in the dark. The second reason is for “Kavod [[Shabbat]]” which calls for plentiful lighting in honor of [[Shabbat]], as was the custom upon receiving a distinguished guest. </ref> The electric lights actually become the [[Shabbat]] candles and one will discharge one's [[Shabbat]] candle lighting obligations with them. While such an approach should never be relied upon in normal circumstances, it is permissible in extenuating ones. Some authorities suggest that when making use of electric lights for one's [[Shabbat]] candles the accompanying blessing should be omitted.<ref>Shraga Hameir 5:11. see also The Radiance of [[Shabbos]] (p. 12) who quotes Rav Moshe Feinstein as saying that one should not recite a bracha on an electric light. </ref> | ||
# If one is forced to use the electric lights in one's home as the [[Shabbat]] candles they should be shut off momentarily and then turned back on in order for them to now be designated as the [[Shabbat]] "candles".<ref>Teshuvot V’hanhagot 2:157</ref> Indeed, every week before the lady of the house lights her [[Shabbat]] candles, she should momentarily turn off the household lights and then turn on them back on. When she makes her blessing over the candles she should have in mind that her blessing include the electric lights as well which will also be providing light over the course of [[Shabbat]].<ref>Az Nidberu 1:79, Shemirat | # If one is forced to use the electric lights in one's home as the [[Shabbat]] candles they should be shut off momentarily and then turned back on in order for them to now be designated as the [[Shabbat]] "candles".<ref>Teshuvot V’hanhagot 2:157</ref> Indeed, every week before the lady of the house lights her [[Shabbat]] candles, she should momentarily turn off the household lights and then turn on them back on. When she makes her blessing over the candles she should have in mind that her blessing include the electric lights as well which will also be providing light over the course of [[Shabbat]].<ref>Az Nidberu 1:79, Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata 43:N171 </ref> Those who are forced to use the electric lights instead of candles should endeavor to turn on even those lights which are not normally used in order for there to be some distinction that the electric lights are in honor of [[Shabbat]].<ref>Tzitz Eliezer 1:20</ref> Even a desktop light could be used for this purpose. Some say that this only includes incandescent bulbs and not fluorescent.<Ref>Rav Hershel Schachter (“Lighting [[Shabbos]] Candles,” min 36-7) holds that while one may light an incandescent bulb with a bracha, one may not light a fluorescent or neon bulb with a bracha. This opinion is repeated in [http://www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/839951/Rabbi_Hershel_Schachter/Jewish_Heritage_Tour_of_Hungary_Part_10_of_10 this shiur on yutorah.org]. [https://www.torahanytime.com/#/lectures?v=63110 Rav Yitzchak Yosef (Motzei Shabbat Parshat Chukat 5778 min 38)] held that any light even a florescent or LED light is effective for Shabbat candles. [http://halachipedia.com/documents/5773/4.pdf Rabbi Mordechai Willig (Halachipedia Article 5773 n. 4)] agrees.</ref> | ||
# The issues are essentially the same with regards to [[Havdala]] and one may use an electric light in place of a [[Havdala]] candle in a time of need.<ref>Shaarim Metzuyanim Behalachah 96:6, Az Nidberu 8:2, Rivevot Ephraim 3:599</ref> In fact, it is reported that Rabbi Chaim Ozer Grodzinsky would always use an electric bulb for [[Havdala]] in order to demonstrate how strongly he felt that electricity is to be treated exactly like fire from the perspective of halacha.<ref>Shaarim Metzuyanim Behalachah 96:6. Nefesh Harav pg. 156</ref> Nevertheless, there are those authorities who discourage the use of an electric light for [[Havdala]]. Among their opposition to it is the fact that the blessing recited upon the [[Havdala]] candle includes the word "fire" which seems to imply the need for actual fire, not merely light. As such a light bulb would not be acceptable according to this view.<ref>Har Tzvi 2:114</ref> Even among the authorities who permit the use of electric lighting when needed many would disqualify the use of fluorescent bulbs as they work differently than standard light bulbs.<ref>Hachashmal L’or Hahalacha 3:88 </ref> | # The issues are essentially the same with regards to [[Havdala]] and one may use an electric light in place of a [[Havdala]] candle in a time of need.<ref>Shaarim Metzuyanim Behalachah 96:6, Az Nidberu 8:2, Rivevot Ephraim 3:599</ref> In fact, it is reported that Rabbi Chaim Ozer Grodzinsky would always use an electric bulb for [[Havdala]] in order to demonstrate how strongly he felt that electricity is to be treated exactly like fire from the perspective of halacha.<ref>Shaarim Metzuyanim Behalachah 96:6. Nefesh Harav pg. 156</ref> Nevertheless, there are those authorities who discourage the use of an electric light for [[Havdala]]. Among their opposition to it is the fact that the blessing recited upon the [[Havdala]] candle includes the word "fire" which seems to imply the need for actual fire, not merely light. As such a light bulb would not be acceptable according to this view.<ref>Har Tzvi 2:114</ref> Even among the authorities who permit the use of electric lighting when needed many would disqualify the use of fluorescent bulbs as they work differently than standard light bulbs.<ref>Hachashmal L’or Hahalacha 3:88 </ref> | ||
==Static Electricity== | ==Static Electricity== | ||
# According to most poskim, the unintentional creation of static electricity from clothes is not a halachic problem. <ref> Shemirat | # According to most poskim, the unintentional creation of static electricity from clothes is not a halachic problem. <ref> Shemirat Shabbat Kihilchita 15:72 quoting Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach. Tzitz Eliezer 7:10 writes that there is no problem because the static makes no real impact in that small amount of time, there is no precedent for this type of electricity in the times of the mishkan, and this type of electricity cannot start a fire at all. Sh"t Yabia Omer 5:27 and Sh"t Yechave Daat 2:46 says it is permitted because one does not intend for them, and doesn't care for them. (psik reishe dilo nicha leh.) Chazon Ish OC 50:5 rules stringently in this however. </ref> | ||
==Yom Tov== | ==Yom Tov== | ||
# Most poskim agree that turning on or off an incandescent light on [[Yom Tov]] is forbidden rabbinically. Although in the past some poskim permitted turning on lights on [[Yom Tov]], it was based on an incorrect assumption. Thus, the accepted minhag is to follow the poskim who say that it's forbidden. <ref> It is permissible on [[Yom Tov]] to add to or transfer an already existing flame and even lighting a new flame is only a rabbinic prohibition. Shulchan Aruch 502:1 and Beiur Halacha "Ein Motziin." See Sh"t Yabia Omer OC 1:19 and poskim cited there. The poskim who permit it include Rav Yechiel Michel Epstein (The Aruch Hashulchan) in a letter published in Kovetz Vaad Chachamim 1 (Shevat 5663), Even Yekara 3:168, Ohr Chadash page 64, Rabbi Tzvi [[Pesach]] Frank in Kol Torah 5694, Mishpetei Uziel OC 19, Hilchot Rabata LeShabbata 1:7, as well as more poskim quoted in Chashmal Behalacha 2:5. However, [http://www.daat.ac.il/daat/english/journal/broyde_1.htm Rabbi Broyde and Rabbi Jachter] explain that this is based on a faulty understanding of electricity that completing a circuit only transfers an existing flame, which isn't correct. Thus, they reject these arguments and conclude that since this is not the view of the majority of the poskim it is prohibited. The poskim who forbid turning on a light on [[Yom Tov]] include Rav Ovadia Yosef in Sh"t Yabia Omer 1:19, Rav Moshe Feinstein in Iggerot Moshe OC 1:115, Chelkat Yaakov 1:51, Yaskil Avdi 2:10 and 4:27:3, and Shemirat | # Most poskim agree that turning on or off an incandescent light on [[Yom Tov]] is forbidden rabbinically. Although in the past some poskim permitted turning on lights on [[Yom Tov]], it was based on an incorrect assumption. Thus, the accepted minhag is to follow the poskim who say that it's forbidden. <ref> It is permissible on [[Yom Tov]] to add to or transfer an already existing flame and even lighting a new flame is only a rabbinic prohibition. Shulchan Aruch 502:1 and Beiur Halacha "Ein Motziin." See Sh"t Yabia Omer OC 1:19 and poskim cited there. The poskim who permit it include Rav Yechiel Michel Epstein (The Aruch Hashulchan) in a letter published in Kovetz Vaad Chachamim 1 (Shevat 5663), Even Yekara 3:168, Ohr Chadash page 64, Rabbi Tzvi [[Pesach]] Frank in Kol Torah 5694, Mishpetei Uziel OC 19, Hilchot Rabata LeShabbata 1:7, as well as more poskim quoted in Chashmal Behalacha 2:5. However, [http://www.daat.ac.il/daat/english/journal/broyde_1.htm Rabbi Broyde and Rabbi Jachter] explain that this is based on a faulty understanding of electricity that completing a circuit only transfers an existing flame, which isn't correct. Thus, they reject these arguments and conclude that since this is not the view of the majority of the poskim it is prohibited. The poskim who forbid turning on a light on [[Yom Tov]] include Rav Ovadia Yosef in Sh"t Yabia Omer 1:19, Rav Moshe Feinstein in Iggerot Moshe OC 1:115, Chelkat Yaakov 1:51, Yaskil Avdi 2:10 and 4:27:3, and Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchatah 13:2. </ref> | ||
==Using a Smart Phone on Shabbos== | ==Using a Smart Phone on Shabbos== | ||
# Battery: The battery can get extremely hot from use - this can be a potential issur derabanon of making a fire (Mavir).<ref> The Rambam (Shabbat 12:1) holds that heating a metal in order to temper it is a Biblical violation of lighting a fire (Mavir).</ref> | # Battery: The battery can get extremely hot from use - this can be a potential issur derabanon of making a fire (Mavir).<ref> The Rambam (Shabbat 12:1) holds that heating a metal in order to temper it is a Biblical violation of lighting a fire (Mavir).</ref> | ||
