Drawing the Sun, Moon, and Stars to Learn Their Appearance
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Question
Hello, Rabbi, is it permissible to draw the sun, moon, and stars to learn and know exactly how they look?
Answer
Hello,
There are two answers to this question:
A. For the purpose of Torah study, such as the Parashat Bereshit, which discusses the creation of the world, or Parashat Vayeshev, which is the current weekly portion and tells about Joseph's dream, it is permitted. It is also permitted if it is just to know how things looked, even if it is not practically necessary.
B. For secular educational purposes, such as an art course, it is forbidden, but one should not protest against those who are lenient.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh De'ah, Siman 141, Se'if 4. See Taz, Shach, and Nekudot HaKesef there. Keritot, page 5a. Rambam, Hilchot Klei HaMikdash, Chapter 1, Halacha 4, regarding the anointing oil. Chatam Sofer, Yoreh De'ah, Siman 128.