Rabbi Moshe Feinstein’s Influence as a Medical Halachic Decisor

Abstract

In this essay, we will analyze Rabbi Moshe Feinstein’s responsa and halachic rulings in the field of medicine in order to gain insight on his role as a medical halachic decisor and the significance of these two worlds (science and Jewish law) merging. Rav Moshe had a particular contribution to the world of medical halacha. He was consulted on virtually every medical halachic issue during his life. I will give an overview of his approach to medical halacha, concentrating on specific areas in medicine where his halachic rulings had a major influence. Rabbi Feinstein’s rulings on medical halacha have had broad and enduring impact on the world of medicine today. (from Introduction)