DEUT97 [In fifteenth-century philosopher Isaac Arama's work Akedat Yizhak, he proves] from Biblical narratives such as the Patriarchs' efforts to save themselves when in danger, and legislation such as the duty to construct parapets around roofs (Deuteronomy 22:8) for the prevention of accidents, that man must not rely on miracles or Providence alone, but must himself do whatever he can to maintain his life and health. Rabbi Hayyim Azulai, an 18th century commentator on Caro's code, writing under the pen name of Birkei Yosef, summarized Jewish thought and practice relating to our questions [on seeking medical attention]. His views are cited by Rabbi Jakobovits as follows: "Nowadays one must not rely on miracles, and a sick man is in duty bound to conduct himself in accordance with the natural order by calling on a physician to heal him. In fact, to depart from the general practice by claiming greater merit than the many saints (in previous) generations, who were cured by physicians, is almost sinful on account of both the implied arrogance and reliance on miracles when there is danger to life… hence, one should adopt the ways of all men and be healed by physicians…" One might arrive at the same conclusion if one were to literally interpret the Pentateuchal admonition "Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves" [this verse].