Regarding the Rabbi’s opinion on the authority of the Sages. And regarding prayers. And regarding the poor, a commandment in the Torah.

Shalom Rabbi Shlita: I wanted to ask about three matters.

1. I have heard several times from the rabbi (in passing) that in his opinion the authority that binds us is the Talmud (and the general authority). I will ask if the rabbi can explain it to me or direct me to a place where the matter is explained.
2. How can one deal with the obligation to pray the same prayer every day? There are different explanations. Is there a different direction to his honor, or even more?
3. There are commandments and laws that are so irrelevant to our way of life (starting with gas, slaves, the attitude towards rape, all the commandments in the field) that I am disturbed by this fact, the thought that the Torah is not truly eternal because an eternal book is supposed to remain relevant even after thousands of years. I know that the rabbi does not answer anyone blankly and from this knowledge I apologize for the trouble, question 3 is the one that disturbs my peace the most. With huge thanks for all the useful material here, I will bless the rabbi that he may continue all his endeavors in good health, happiness and wealth.