Ask The Rabbi

Ask The Rabbi

category:  Holidays

Shofar by telephone

Shalom & Greetings,

It’s difficult for me to go to synagogue on Rosh HaShanah. My elderly friend goes to synagogue with her non-Jewish caretaker. Can I hear the shofar from her phone? I use my phone on Shabbat.

Thank you.

Hearing the shofar by telephone is not considered hearing, according to Jewish law, and thus the obligation to hear shofar is not fulfilled.


It is worthwhile contacting your local Chabad house and asking them to send someone to blow the shofar for you, if you are unable to get to the synagogue yourself.

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