Automatic Lighting on Shabbat
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Question
Hello, I am spending Shabbat in an apartment in a building abroad, and I have a problem: when I enter the lobby, the lights turn on (automatically). Is this a 'psik reisha' and is it permitted for me, as I prefer it not to happen and do not want it? And if it is forbidden, then what should I do? Is it then permitted to go to a minyan, etc.?
Answer
Shalom and blessings,
It is permitted to pass through when a non-Jew passes there for his own needs.
It is also permitted to call a non-Jew so that the light turns on because of him, but this is only allowed on the condition that the non-Jew does not know that he was called for the purpose of turning on the light. Instead, call him as if you want to talk to him there, and the light will automatically turn on.