Expert: Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner - 9/20/2006

Question
Thanks Rabbi!
How about flipping on lights or adjusting the AC? Are these also permitted by some? How about use of the computer? Thanks again for your time!
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Followup To

Question -
Dear Rabbi,
I recently received a magazine in the mail from the Conservative. I was surprised to find that they mention the ok to drive on Shabbos as a well accepted doctrine. When did this occur? I have a friend who left JTS for private practice who told me that they would not knowingly ordain a Rabbi who planned to do so. Sign me confused but not judgemental. Thanks!

Answer -
Dear Ovadiah,

All of my student peers were Shomer Shabbat, including not driving on Shabbat.

I don't recall that as a condition of attending, but it was a natural expression of who we were.

There is a responsum that does permit any Conservative Jew, lay or clergy, to drive to and from the synagogue for the purpose of attending worship services. Some Rabbis do observe this responsum.

If you wish to see the responsum of the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards, all have been published through 2000 and are in many synagogue libraries.

Ketivah vehatimah tovah

Rabbi Dov

Answer
Dear Ovadiah,

Electricity in mnay opinions of the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards is permitted. As I suggested, the responsa are published and available to you rather to have to ask.

Moreover you can actually read the various opinions, the halachic basis, quotations, give and take - far better than a summary opinion from me.

If you really want to study the materials, all of these volumes are available quite reasonably from USCJ book service at 212-533-7800.

Bet wishes

Rabbi Dov