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While listening to a presentation being given by an orthodox Jew, he made a comment about shaving, and how he had to use an electric razor past a certain point on his face. It was just a conversational, in-passing remark during introductions for a meeting that had nothing to do with Judaism, so I didn't get a chance to ask about it. But I am curious...

I am not Jewish, but customs regarding hair are common in Christian and Muslim sects as well, so I totally get that part. This Wikipedia page and this SE question both do a good job of explaining where the custom comes from.

The distinction comes down to the use of a straight blade vs. a pair of scissors, but this argument doesn't make sense to me in our modern technological age.

If the religious objective is that you should not destroy the corners of the head and of the beard, how does an electric razor -- which accomplishes very nearly the same exact thing as a straight razor does -- be acceptable to that objective? It seems like splitting hairs to me (pun very much intended).

BTW, the guy giving the presentation was clean-shaven.

Double AA
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  • Welcome to MiYodeya Wes – mbloch Jan 20 '18 at 16:29
  • @mbloch; Thanks :-). I referenced that question but it doesn't contain the info I'm looking for. It only explains that scissors are OK because of two blades coming together rather than a single blade, but I already understand that. – Wes Sayeed Jan 20 '18 at 17:31
  • What if the religious objection is to using a straight blade vs a pair of scissors? – Double AA Jan 20 '18 at 23:30
  • @DoubleAA; I don't understand what you're asking. – Wes Sayeed Jan 20 '18 at 23:42
  • Why do you not assume something else is the religious objection such that you have your question? – Double AA Jan 20 '18 at 23:56
  • "which accomplishes very nearly the same exact thing" (your quote, emphasis mine). This does imply that you concede that there is a difference. The simple answer would be that whatever this difference is, that's enough of a distinction to remove it from the prohibition against shaving. – Salmononius2 Jan 21 '18 at 01:21
  • Since we don't have a conclusive answer about WHY G-d would prohibit shaving certain parts of the beard and temples, how can you know what is a significant difference and what is not? – Micha Berger Jan 21 '18 at 19:07

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