n an ever-evolving, increasingly complex world, education is of critical and fundamental importance not only in shaping knowledgeable individuals, but also in guiding, training, and inspiring socially responsible citizens. The integration of Jewish heritage into modern educational systems offers a unique perspective on religious teaching and spirituality, highlighting its relevance to contemporary life. Jewish teachings, with their emphasis on values and ethics, provide a rich foundation for students to explore profound questions such as “Who am I?” and “What is my place and purpose?”
AMIT, a leader in the field of education, is dedicated to implementing a holistic approach that incorporates Jewish values and the development of skills, personal enrichment, and technology. This approach empowers students to successfully navigate and contribute positively to a world of constant change. It’s natural, then, that AMIT has formed a unique partnership with The Rabbi Sacks Legacy, which perpetuates the timeless and universal wisdom of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, one of our world’s most eminent teachers of Torah and a guiding moral voice.
Before his passing in November 2020, Rabbi Sacks was a leading figure in contemporary Jewish thought whose teachings underscored the importance of ethics and the transformative power of faith to shape a strong, compassionate, and cohesive society. Now, a new generation of AMIT students are benefiting from his enduring wisdom by means of a digital avatar of the former Chief Rabbi, who speaks fluent Hebrew with a soft British accent, harnessing a metaverse platform that resonates with today’s youth. Technology serves as a bridge, combining the wisdom of Jewish teachings with the realities and possibilities of the modern world. This fusion allows for a more interactive and personalized learning experience for students.
“This is a true game changer in education,” declares Elad Bar Shalom, director of the Torat Chaim program at AMIT. “Incorporating Rabbi Sacks’ teachings through the metaverse is our way of harmonizing age-old wisdom with modern technological advancements. Rabbi Sacks addressed timeless questions about Jewish identity, and through this platform, we hope students can deeply connect with our mission and these teachings in an engaging and modern context.”
The unique virtual experience, made possible through a strategic collaboration with the startup Inpris, is currently running in four AMIT schools in Israel and set to expand to more AMIT schools around the country and additional schools abroad. This will open opportunities for collaboration between Jewish students in Israel and the Diaspora.
In the AMIT learning environment, asking questions is accepted and encouraged as an essential path to deeper understanding and personal growth. AMIT’s integration of technology in education further enhances this dynamic, creating opportunities for students to engage with learning materials in innovative ways and to explore their spirituality and values in a context that is both meaningful and relevant to them.
Students are encouraged to use their technological skills to address both Jewish and global challenges, such as promoting social justice and supporting environmental sustainability. By fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment, education becomes a powerful tool for personal and societal transformation. Through this partnership, students at AMIT not only gain academic knowledge, but also develop a strong moral compass and a commitment to improving the world around them.
On the platform, students are charged with a mission. They receive a message that technology, mainly AI, is taking over the world. The Rabbi Sacks avatar explains how they must use their Jewish identity, including elements such as chesed (kindness) and tzedakah (charity), to save the world and give people back their freedom of choice.
The students can raise questions, deal with various dilemmas, and ask Rabbi Sacks’ avatar for guidance. Students immerse themselves in his essential teachings, covering topics like Jewish identity, gratitude in prayer, free will in Judaism, and the meaning of life. Engaging activities, such as exploring the contrast between temporary joy and enduring happiness, are thoughtfully crafted to enrich this unique educational journey.
Rabbi Sacks’ Ten Paths to G-d, a 10-unit curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity, is based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Sacks himself. This curriculum, which emphasizes belief, identity, mitzvot, and contribution to society, can be freely adapted and used by anyone involved in formal or informal Jewish education, including parents learning one-on-one with their children and individuals who just want to think deeper about Judaism.
“Rabbi Sacks had a vision of disseminating Torah principles through innovative methods,” explains Rabbi Dr. Daniel Rose, director of education at The Rabbi Sacks Legacy. “This project brilliantly encapsulates education, Zionism, and state-of-the-art technology, perfectly aligning with his enduring ideals.”
Through The Rabbi Sacks Legacy, AMIT is inspiring scores of students to become thoughtful, engaged, proactive citizens of Israel.
“Rabbi Sacks represented the epitome of a Jewish role model,” says Dr. Amnon Eldar, AMIT’s director general, who emphasizes the importance of this trailblazing project. “By integrating his teachings with advanced technology, we are bringing his wisdom to the fingertips of a new generation.”
