Magic
Eliezer Wenger (ewenger@ulix.net)
Tue, 20 Aug 96 05:25 EDT
In the Parsha we read this past week, Rashi brings up the subject of magic.
When one looks into the Shulchan Oruch Yoreh Deah 179:15 one finds that it
is forbidden to practice magic (which is fooling the eyes of the viewers).
The Shacha comments that this is even if the hand movements are slower than
usual. The Pischei Teshuva based on the Chochmas Odom states that not only
is it forbidden for a Jew to practice magic, but it is also forbidden as
part of "before a blind man you shall not place a stumbling block" to cause
others to see magic (such as hiring a magician) and also to watch a Jew do
magic. From personal experience I know of present day Poskim when asked
about presenting magic shows at a function disallowed it.
Thus, I would like to find out from those organizations or schools that have
hired Jewish magicians for assemblies, etc. and those Torah-observant Jews
who do perform magic even as a sideline a basis for their heter
(permissibilty)? Are there Rabbonim who permit it and under what rationale?