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Inviting Non-Observant Jew for Shabbos

What are the sources that deal with the question of inviting a Jew for Shabbos in the knowledge that he will drive to your house?

Answer:

Two sources that are stringent concerning this issue are Rav Moshe Feinstein (Iggros Moshe, Orach Chaim 1:99) and Rav Elyashiv zt”l (cited in Chashukei Chemmed Pesachim p. 189). The reason is that inviting him for Shabbos will cause him to violate the Shabbos by driving over.

This appear to be the principle ruling, though it is permitted to invite somebody if there is no clear knowledge that he will be driving, even where the possibility (or even likelihood) exists.

However, there are also more lenient opinions, as mentioned here (see in particular in the name of Rav Shlomo Zalman and Rav Zalman Nechemya) — in particular where the invitation is deemed important for the purpose of kiruv.

Best wishes.

 

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