Can A OCD Rabbi Be The Posek Achron?

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February 19, 2008

Can A OCD Rabbi Be The Posek Achron?

The Chofetz Chaim refused to allow his synagogue to have electricity, even on regular weekdays. The synagogue was lit by oil lamps and candles 27/7.

Why?

Hadash assur min haTorah. Everything new is biblically forbidden, the maxium of the Hatam Sofer.

In other words, the Chofetz Chaim held that it was halakhicly forbidden to use new innovations like electricity in the service of Judaism.

–––cited by Rabbi Daniel Sperber in a lecture given in Toronto in February 10, 2008.

What does this say about the Chofetz Chaim's judgment?

UPDATE: mp3 excerpt posted here.

Posted at 12:01 PM in Halakha, Haredim, History | Permalink

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Failed messiah was established and run in 2004 by Mr. Shmarya (Scott)Rosenberg. The site was acquired by Diversified Holdings, Feb 2016.
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February 19, 2008