Writing order - Writing and erasing

The melakha of 'Writing' is one of the 39 Avot Melakhot. It derives from the Tabernacle's work, where they wrote the names of the tribes on the Choshen stones and details of the sacrifices. But what exactly constitutes 'writing' for Shabbat purposes?

Not all writing actions are equal in severity. Halakha distinguishes between writing that is 'de'Oraita' (biblical) and writing that is 'de'Rabanan' (rabbinic). This distinction impacts the severity of the prohibition and the ways it might be permitted in certain cases.

1. 1De'Oraita writing: Must be permanent writing, on a lasting surface (e.g., parchment, paper), with ink or writing material intended to remain.
2. 2De'Rabanan writing: Includes writing that does not endure (e.g., in dust, on steam), writing that is not discernible (e.g., with lemon juice visible only with heat), or writing not on a lasting surface (e.g., on food).
3. 3The main difference: Karet or stoning for de'Oraita writing, rabbinic lashes for de'Rabanan writing.

The modern world has presented new challenges to halakhic authorities. Is typing on a computer, sending a text message, or even taking a photograph considered 'writing' on Shabbat? This is a complex question with deep disputes.

Most halakhic authorities view digital writing as a rabbinic prohibition at the very least, due to 'weekday activities' or 'appearance of impropriety,' and some are stringent enough to consider it a biblical prohibition in certain cases. The complexity stems from the fact that digital writing is not physically 'on a lasting thing,' yet its results can be extremely lasting and significant.

The melakha of 'Erasing' is the parallel melakha to 'Writing,' prohibiting the erasing of letters or symbols. Here too, the minimum measure for erasing is two letters, and again, the erasing must be 'permanent' to be biblically prohibited. Erasing not for the purpose of writing, or erasing that leaves no impression, can be rabbinically prohibited.