Q&A- AI, Rationalism & Mysticism

00:00 What's the purpose of being on this earth?

7:23 Following R' Moshe Feinstein's psak regarding mamzerim from reform (civil) 2nd marriages, would this mean those women wouldn't need to cover their hair?

12:58 In order for Biah to be effective, doesn't the man need to state his kavana?

17:50 How is Shabbos affected by changes in the dateline?

24:35 If it is a mitzvah deoreisa not to return to mitzrayim, how about issues like business, the occupation of Sinai peninsula, the Rambam etc.?

27:42 (Followup) What about those who speak Coptic Egyptians?

28:20 If one is exposed to rationalistic views and struggles with mystical views e.g. Zohar; Kabbalah, how does he sensitize himself?

35:25 How does tzaddik gamor (without a yetzer hara) get schar for mitzvah?

42:20 We know the original calendar (around Rosh Chodesh) was determined by witnesses in beis din, what would it take to go back to that?

46:24 (Followup) It is certain that we need Eliyahu haNavi?

48:35 Don't we need a beis din in order to confirm that it is Eliyahu haNavi who will institute the beis din?

49:17 What is the Halacha in assisted pregnancy (e.g. artificial insemination)?

58:30 Would it be mares ayin to a single woman with in-vitro fertilization?

1:00:00 Can a man be a sperm-donor?

1:01:56 If the Avos only kept the positive commandments, then wasting seed would not seem assur. Can a goy not waste seed?

1:04:41 How does one differentiate between magic (even seemingly practicing magic) and very impressive action?

1:09:52 Does HaShem hold Torah learning more precious ?

___________________________________________________ Rabbi Dr Yitzchak Breitowitz, of Ohr Somayach Jerusalem, discussing the most common questions about Judaism. To submit questions, feedback or for sponsorship opportunities, contact us at: podcasts@ohr.edu

Vayechi 5781

(Produced by: CedarMediaStudios Podcasts)