Accepting scientific observation

Hi,

"We must believe the words of the Greeks, that the rainbow is created by the shining of the sun through moist air, for in a vessel of water set out in the sun one may observe a sort of rainbow."

(Ramban to Bereishit 9:12, regarding the biblical significance of the rainbow)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

Rabbis as physicians

Hi,

"As far as your request to record the medicines from the seventh chapter in Gittin, from Rav and Shemuel to the breakpoint of the mishnah, in terms of how they were received and to provide their translations:

"We must inform you that the rabbis were not doctors, and they stated general things they saw in their times, one by one. These are not mitzvah matters. Therefore, you shall not depend upon these medicines; one should not practice any of them until after they have been checked and we know with certainty from expert physicians that this will not harm or endanger someone. So our fathers and elders taught us and told us, not to practice any of these medicines other than kibla which we know causes no harm."

(Rav Sherira Gaon, Otzar haGaonim, Eruvin, Teshuvah 376)

Have a great day,
Mordechai