Q. On a previous answer the Rov mentioned the importance of listening to Torah tapes while driving safely to keep the mitzvah of uvelechtecha baderech. I have concerns as we approach summer and there is so much immodesty in the streets, should you not avoid learning Torah while you have to contemplate the ervos walking in front of you in the street when driving?
A. Mogen Avrohom (85,2) quoting Talmud Shabbos 150a rules that it is permitted to think Torah thoughts in front of an ervoh or immodestly clad person, only verbalizing is prohibited. “Shomeah keoneh” or listening (to a brocho) is like answering, does not apply in the context of learning Torah. (see Avnei Tzion 2,8 in regards to writing divrei Torah facing an ervoh).
Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit”a commented in addition, that the windshield which is often tinted, although by itself it does not permit the articulation of words of kedusha, (see Mishna Berura 75,5 on ervoh beashoshis), it does provide a further added reason to be lenient and listen to a light Torah tape while driving safely.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit”a
Leave A Comment