When there are multiple layers of doubt about whether a trapped person is alive and Jewish, do we still clear the debris on Shabbat?
Synopsis
Even when there are multiple layers of doubt — whether the person is there, alive, and Jewish — we clear the debris. The principle of safek nefashot lehakeil (lenient in life-threatening doubt) prevails.
More in Rescuing from Danger on Shabbat
Is it permitted to extinguish a fire on Shabbat to prevent danger to life, and does this apply even when the threat is indirect or potential?
4 opinions
When a person is buried in an avalanche/collapse and it is unknown whether the person trapped is Jewish, do we clear the debris on Shabbat?
6 opinions across 3 eras
If a person found under debris is critically injured and can only live a short time, do we still clear the debris on Shabbat?
3 opinions
If people on top of the debris are found dead, should we stop clearing or continue to check if those underneath may still be alive?
2 opinions
When non-Jews besiege a Jewish city, under what circumstances may Shabbat be violated to defend the city?
4 opinions
In the current era, when bandits come for money only, may Shabbat be violated to repel them?
4 opinions
Is there an obligation to violate Shabbat to rescue Jews endangered at sea, in a flood, or being pursued by enemies?
3 opinions
After going out on Shabbat to rescue others, may the rescuers return to their home with their weapons?
3 opinions
Related from other topics
Must every God-fearing person feel anguished and worried about the destruction of the Temple?
Rising in the Morning
If one is in doubt whether one prayed the obligatory prayer, may one return and pray again?
Rain Prayers
If one did not pray because one thought there was still time remaining, does one have tashlumin?
Missed Prayers
After saying the blessing with rain mention 90 times (corresponding to 30 days × 3 prayers/day) on the first day of Pesach, what presumption applies if one later doubts whether rain was mentioned?
Rain Request (V'Ten Tal U'Matar)
Are there special rules for Torah reading on Shemini Atzeret or Simchat Torah regarding multiple grooms?
Torah Reading Aliyot
Should a person use their time in the beit midrash to reflect on whether their business dealings involve any transgressions?
Community Torah Scroll Obligation
Discussion
Discussion coming soon.
The Daily Law
One question. Every opinion. Every morning.
A new halakhic question and the full spectrum of rabbinic thought, delivered daily.