AI is helpful, but it has no Jewish soul

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly embedded in myriad facets of daily life – from virtual assistants to automated systems – it prompts a profound question: what’s Judaism’s approach to AI, and what are the potential effects that this new reality can have on Jewish faith and religion?

Jewish history is one of creative innovation and adaption, while always preserving ancient tradition. From the codification of the Talmud to the invention of the printing press, Judaism has repeatedly harnessed new tools while safeguarding spiritual integrity.

AI, however, poses a novel challenge. It’s not a mere tool, it emulates reasoning and discourse, insight and analysis, which raises questions about authority, authenticity, and the definition of absolute truth.

Though AI has already accomplished so much and is rapidly growing in capability, there’s one thing AI will never attain – a soul. Judaism asserts that humans possess a neshama (soul) and are created in the image of G-d. Even animals possess divine energy, which gives them constant vitality and a sense of spiritual purpose. AI, in contrast, is ethically and spiritually neutral in nature. As such, it may serve as an aid, but never as a replacement for a soulful connection to G-d and Judaism, and their impact on our day-to-day lives.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic distanced people from their synagogues and Jewish hubs, communities around the world have embraced digital Jewish life ways, from Zoom shiurim, to WhatsApp study circles, and a variety of prayer apps. AI can enhance this shift. It can suggest Shabbos-friendly lunch menus; offer Torah texts for all lifecycle study; or provide gentle reminders for prayer times. For an individual seeking spiritual growth, such tools can be meaningful and enriching.

However, Judaism privileges kavanah – intentionality – and a soulful experience. A digital assistant cannot feel a mourner’s agony or a congregant’s joy. True prayer is referred to by our sages as avodah she-balev (service of the heart) not recitation generated by an algorithm. If we delegate spiritual life to AI, we risk flattening richness into mere information.

AI-powered platforms can bolster communal cohesion. They can translate Hebrew texts; offer halachic guidance where rabbis are distant; and educate all ages and stages of Jewish life. Yet Judaism is fundamentally communal and interpersonal, embodied in the gathering of minyanim, synagogue acoustics, and ritual intimacy. AI cannot replicate the echo of tefillah in a sanctuary or the warmth of a yom tov dinner under a sukkah. Technology should scaffold – not supplant – our traditions.

As a rabbi in the community, it is my duty to give halachic rulings to help guide the community and its members with their personal questions and deliberations. Jewish law thrives on context, nuance, and human sensitivity. A rabbi doesn’t just pasken, but he has to properly connect with the individual and empathise with the situation before giving any guidance. AI algorithms without proper oversight could misapply sources, misunderstand personal circumstances, or privilege certain traditions to the exclusion of others.

Despite the shortfalls of AI, there is substantial upside to AI when employed appropriately. Judaic educators and researchers are already benefiting immensely from the wide and diverse reach of the various AI platforms. AI can reveal inter-textual patterns across Talmudic, medieval, and modern sources. Educational AI platforms can assist in creating curriculum and student workbooks, from basic to advanced.

For the average user, AI tools can assist with the preparation of parsha insights for the Shabbos table or wedding speech. It can widen our understanding of any topic of Torah or Jewish thought.

Nevertheless, we must remember that more important than artificial intelligence is authentic intelligence. It is authentic and truthful Judaism that will ensure the continuity of Jewish tradition. We must avoid bestowing AI with undue authority or moral standing it cannot possess.

AI should be a bridge, not a replacement. If guided by thoughtful halachic oversight and ethical clarity, it may indeed be a holy tool. We must continue to innovate and create new techniques for the way we practice and study our tradition, with our strong values and spiritual selves as our moral compass.

We are encouraged to embrace the gifts of modernity, but without losing the timeless heartbeat of our faith. Let’s use the tools of AI wisely, but always remember that no machine can ever replace the spark of a Jewish soul.

• Rabbi Yehuda Stern is senior rabbi of Sydenham Shul.

Watch the SA Jewish Report webinar on ‘AI for Beginners – A practical Guide to artificial intelligence’ on Thursday 17 July at 20;00. To register: bit.ly/jrlive184