The Vishnitzer Rebbe Shlita is among the admorim who displays zero tolerance to smartphones, which the rebbe feels are destructive to one’s neshama and therefore may not be tolerated.

A kinnos was held to address the unwanted technological devices that have infiltrated the Vishnitz [and other] courts under the banner “בנפשינו הדבר”. During the gathering a new pamphlet was distributed to participants containing the new ‘takonos’, the regulations pertaining to what is and what is not permitted. The pamphlet is entitled “תקנת נפשות”. The pamphlet addresses several areas of technology, not just phones.

Under phones it states clearly a chossid may only use a phone that bears the stamp of approval of the Vaad Rabbonim for Communications, a kosher phone. Those that are supportive and compatible of kosher and similar devices are prohibited.

The pamphlet acknowledges some claim to need a smartphone for business, warming nevertheless some fall victim to these phones and anyone who nevertheless feels he requires it for businesses must address the matter with one of the rabbonim on the committee. Whatever the case, no such phone will be authorized without being blocked by Delta and never may it be used for speaking. One may leave a voice message directing callers to the number of a kosher phone and the ringer must remain on silent.

It adds that even with the software blocking such a device, it is nothing more than the lesser of the evils and it still possesses a threat. If the phone in question is not given an okay be the Delta Company, then even if one requires it for work it is will not be authorized for use.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)