Q. On question 3187 above, even if one cannot comply with Tefilah, Shema or Brachot using using this technology, would he be able to use it on Shabbat just to communicate with his family?
A. On question 2928 (See also questions (2926-27). in regard to using a prosthetic electronic arm hand on Shabbos even when it is not connected to the batteries. we wrote:
“Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that a melacha or work performed on Shabbos by using only the electrical charges that emanate from ones controlled and willing thoughts, collected by electrodes attached to the head, is considered a proper melacha.
However, for someone who does not usually use his thoughts for the creation of electrical discharges, it likely would be a melacha performed with a shinui or a significant deviation from the norm and therefore only Rabbinically prohibited. However, an invalid or paraplegic that uses this method to constantly move and perform other works, for him it becomes the norm and would constitute a Biblical prohibition.”
Therefore, the use of that bionic arm and hand, regardless whether it is done directly, by using the electrical discharges provided by the nerves or the electrical waves provided by the brain, would not be permitted during Shabbos. However, if one turned off the arm before Shabbos, and just wants to use it as a covering or dressing to look like others, it would be permitted."
The Rov added than in our case, since the technology is still developing into a practical stage that has different options, an Halacha opinion should wait.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit’a
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