Israeli Conference Explores Halacha and Technology Intersection
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
The second Zomet Conference in Jerusalem, co-hosted by the Zomet Institute and Makor Rishon, is exploring the intersection of Jewish law, technology, and modern life. The event features discussions on artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, religious observance in high-pressure roles, and changes within the Haredi community. A recent study suggests some electric vehicles may be permissible for use on Shabbat under specific conditions.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- The Zomet Conference examines the intersection of Jewish law, technology, and modern life.
- Discussions cover artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and religious observance in senior roles.
- The event marks the Zomet Institute's jubilee year and will present new technological developments.
- A study suggests some electric vehicles may be permissible for Shabbat use by emergency personnel.
The second Zomet Conference, a joint initiative by the Zomet Institute and Makor Rishon, is focusing on the intersection of Jewish law (Halacha), technology, and modern life, addressing the new questions posed by technological advancements to the world of Halacha. Marking the Zomet Institute's jubilee year, the conference will review the institute's journey since its founding, examine present and future Halachic challenges, and convene rabbis, Halachic authorities, researchers, technologists, public opinion leaders, and public figures for discussions on innovation and tradition.
The conference agenda includes discussions on dilemmas faced by observant Jews in senior positions, religious erosion in the shadow of war, Halachic challenges of electric vehicles, and ethical questions raised by artificial intelligence. Alongside presentations of new developments from the Zomet Institute, the event will cover individual responsibility towards the state, changes in the Haredi community, and the transition from crisis to public action.
Key sessions include a discussion on "Observant Jews in Senior Positions: Dilemmas and Challenges" featuring Government Secretary Yossi Fuchs, a panel on "The Faith Front: Is There Religious Erosion in the Shadow of War?" with Rabbi Chananiel Etrog and psychotherapist Shi Orim, and a look at electric vehicles and the dawn of a new era, with a technical overview by Matania Shamir of Geely and a Halachic perspective from Rabbi Shai Simanovsky of the Zomet Institute.
Further panels will delve into "Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making: Ethical Questions," featuring Dr. Moiz Navon from Bar-Ilan University and Dr. Tehila Schwartz-Altshuler from the Israel Democracy Institute. New developments from the Zomet Institute will be showcased, including an astronomical Shabbat clock by engineer Noam Mandelbaum and a cannabis inhaler adapted for Shabbat by Rabbi Menachem Perl. The conference will also address building residential towers with Halachic guidance, and feature discussions on the Haredi perspective, individual responsibility, and moving from crisis to public action, with participants including Minister Orit Strock and various political candidates.
The conference is being broadcast live online and on social media. A related study by the Military Rabbinate and the Zomet Institute suggests that driving certain electric vehicle models may not involve prohibited Sabbath work, potentially offering an exemption for emergency service personnel.
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