By the Grace of G-d 10th of Kislev, 5747 Brooklyn, N.Y.

Blessing and Greeting:

This is to acknowledge receipt of your letter of . . . and may HaShem grant the fulfillment of your heart's desires for good.

Judging by your writing, there is surely no need to emphasize to you that there is always room for advancement in matters of Torah and Mitzvoth in the everyday life and conduct. Although this is a "must" for its own sake, this is also the way to widen the channels to receive G-d's blessings in all needs.

With reference to the latter part of your letter, in which you write about new methods of dealing with infertility - one must bear in mind, in addition to the essential aspect, namely that of the Halacha, that generally it has often been shown that methods which are not natural, particularly such that have not been practiced and proven over a long period of time, cannot be considered fully effective, nor can one be quite certain of the outcome. Even if it does produce a child, one cannot be certain how that child will develop, if it will develop naturally, or otherwise, G-d forbid.

To be sure, a Jew is expected to do what is necessary in the natural order of things, as it is written, "HaShem your G-d will bless you in all that you do."¹ But this does not include doing things which are contrary to the natural order, and, as mentioned before, something that cannot be foreseen for the long period over a lifetime. Therefore, if it is my advice that you seek, I am not in favor of resorting to this new procedure you mention, nor to invitro and other procedures you mention.²

At this time, before Chanukah, I extend to you and all yours prayerful wishes for a bright and inspiring Chanukah, to illuminate and permeate all days ahead.

With blessing,