Rabbis pile on Chaim Walder

 

I guess I will need to subscribe to "NetFlix" now!

The Bnei Brak Bais Din founded by Hagaon Rav Nissim Karelitz ZT”L, has issued a ruling regarding whether one is allowed to read the books of a popular author who has been found to be committing serious aveiros and immoral acts. AlthIn short, the psak says that one must avoid reading his books, even if the allegations have not been proven.

Here is the translated text of the teshuva:

Question:

A Charedi author who writes books for chinuch and teaching purposes, in which stories are told that teach lessons in mussar for children and teenagers. However, recently it has come to light that the author committed very grave aveiros which have been ongoing for a long time. Is one permitted to continue reading his books?

Teshuva:

If the allegations are true, it is certainly forbidden to read the books, just as Chazal warned us not to read books written by authors who are not Yirei Shamayim. Especially if there are concerns that the author is a disgusting person, in which case reading his books are tantamount to supporting his behavior.

Obviously, that would be the case if the allegations are confirmed. However that is not the case. Despite that, since the author has not yet undergone an investigation in accordance with halacha, even though it’s only in doubt, it is still appropriate to not read his books until there is final confirmation as to what took place.ough his name is not mentioned in the teshuva, they are presumably referring to noted author Chaim Walder.