Halachos of Superheroes

by R. Yossi Sirote, dated Purim 5772 (March 2012)

Table of Contents


Shiur 1: Origins.....................................................................................................................................................3
Introduction..............................................................................................................................................3
May one become a Superhero knowing that it may endanger one’s life? ...............................................3
What are the Hashkafic implications of Superhero-“gods” like Thor? .....................................................6
Are Superheroes liable for the collateral damage that they cause?...........................................................6
Are magic talismans Avoda Zara? ......................................................................................................7
Does multiplying count as a minyan?....................................................................................................7
Is one allowed to read others’ minds?.........................................................................8
If you had 8 arms how do you put on teffilin? ................................................................................9
Shiur 2: Shabbos .........................................................................................................................................10
May a Superhero violate Shabbos?....................................................................................10
Can Wolverine eject his claws on Shabbos?.......................................................................10
Is there a problem with super-speed (exercise)?..................................................................11
In life threatening situations, must a Superhero minimize violation of the Shabbos? ...................12
May one move a muktze object by telekinesis on Shabbos?......................................................................13
Can a time traveler travel in and out of Shabbos? Can he skip a shabbos?..........................................13
Shiur 3: Eruvin......................................................................................................................................16
May Clark Kent wear his glasses in a place with no Eruv on Shabbos?....................................................16
May one wear his Superhero costume under his secret identity clothing without an Eruv?..........18
May one fly in a Reshus Harabim? ..........................................................................................18
May one carry in a Reshus Harabim while flying? ....................................................................19
May one fly out of techum shabbos?........................................................................................22