Worship in the Cloud 55

times. It is generally assumed that, in the halakhic world, microphone use is forbidden without question. But, that is not completely true. Current normative Orthodox practice certainly forbids the use of microphones on Shabbat, ’ on two grounds: the use of electricity, and the creation of something new in this case, a sound.

In terms of electricity, it's obvious that all microphones, whether attached to a PA system or a webcam, use electricity. But, that does not automatically forbid their use on Shabbat ; electric lights may be used on Shabbat , provided they are turned on before Shabbat begins, or via a timer. But, halakhic authorities do not apply this logic to microphones as they use more or less electricity depending on whether they are amplifying sound. So, speaking into a microphone, even if already turned on, would constitute “additional work,” and therefore be forbidden. In recent times, there have been efforts to make a“Shabbat microphone”which use a constant amount of electricity and might therefore be usable, much as a Shabbat elevator.’

In our context, this would not be necessary, as Reform Judaism has long asserted our right to use electricity on Shabbat . We use light, heat, air-conditioning, etc. There is no reason to think that a microphone attached to a webcam should be treated differently.

The other main halakhic objection to microphone use on Shabbat deals with“creation.” There are those who feel that amplification systems do net truly“amplify” sound, but“create” a new sound similar, but louder, than the original sound and from a technical point of view, they are surely correct. As such, even without involving electricity, they would constitute a violation of Shabbat .” Again, clearly this is not a concern from a