Q. Dear Rabbi, I think it is likely that this is the first time this question is being asked. We live in a changing world. Totally deaf people can now hear using Cochlear implants. Born blind or people missing eyes, can now see at least partially for the first time. A new implant for blind people connects directly into the brain successfully bypassing the eyes and allows rudimentary vision. (aarp.org).
Even brain waves are used already by paraplegics to move wheel chairs. No doubt in the not so far future we will be able to communicate with others using just those brain waves. Today we are able to zoom and participate in a shiur with others, in the future we likely be able to share not only sights and sound, but taste and smell too.
My question is, will one have to recite a bracha on those flavors, smells and tastes he experiences. And if they bring joy to us, will they be considered similar to a Seuda that if done on Chol Hamoed complies with the mitzvah of Simchas Yom Tov or any other expression of Simcha?
A. In regard to Cochlear implants on question 3306 we wrote that Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that one does not comply with the mitzvah of listening to the Shofar or listening to the Megila, while using them.
Horav Dovid Pam Shlit’a maintains that one would likely not have to recite a Brocho when experiencing a similar taste to food since after all it is only in one’s mind.
As far a Simchas Yom Tov is concerned, since our Sages specify that it has to be created with real meat or wine, one would also not comply. However, for just being in joy such as Marbim Besimcha in Adar, it is possible that one may indeed comply.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Dovid Pam, Horav Aharon Miller and Horav Chanoch Ehrentreu Shlit'a
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