Technology changes, Torah endures

Numbers 13:1–15:41

“That’s AI.”

It’s a phrase we’ve been hearing more and more over the past two or three years. Sometimes it is said as an assumption. Other times it feels almost like a complaint.

There is no question that the technological advancements of AI are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, both in major industries and in everyday life. “Generate a realistic photo of me breathing underwater,” you tell your favorite AI program. A moment later, there you are — breathing underwater.

But what is the drawback?

There are probably a few. But one that stands out is this: “That’s AI.”

Why does that person in the background have three-and-a-half eyes? Why are there so many unnecessary dashes in my essay? Yes — you know exactly what I mean.

As useful and powerful as this new technology may be, human beings still desire authenticity. We still resonate with what is real. If it looks fake, sounds fake, or feels fake, something inside us pushes back. Keep it away from me. Give me something real.

There is a deeply meaningful lesson here.

As Jews, many parts of our lives, history and culture have changed over time. Styles have changed. Languages have changed. Communities have developed different customs. Even the way we communicate and connect with the world around us continues to evolve.

But those things are not the essence of who we are.

Our holy Torah and its mitzvos are our essence. They do not change. They cannot change. And they have not changed for over 3,000 years.

We can and should use technology, including AI, for the positive purposes it can serve. But more importantly, we should give special attention to a mitzvah we already perform — or perhaps one we have not yet begun to perform — and reflect on its eternality. Use that reflection to power boost your observance.

With this mitzvah, we are connecting to something eternal. Something unchanging. Something real. Get excited! PJC

Rabbi Dovie Kivman is executive director of Chabad of Erie County. This column is a service of the Vaad Harabonim of Greater Pittsburgh.