Israeli Halachic Journal Explores AI in Jewish Law and Women’s Role in Rulings

The latest volume (46) of the Israeli halachic journal Tchumin continues its tradition as a key platform for religious legal discourse, featuring over fifty articles on diverse topics including Torah, state, and technology. This edition notably includes four articles addressing artificial intelligence (AI) in Jewish law, reflecting growing interest in the intersection of halacha and modern technology.

Rabbi Moshe Greenhut examines the possibility of AI systems serving as judges or arbitrators, concluding that while AI may assist in arbitration, it cannot replace human judges due to the moral authority vested in courts by Torah and society. Rabbi Ariel David explores AI’s role as evidence in rabbinical courts, highlighting AI’s unique ability to analyze complex data and strengthen weak evidence, but stresses the need for mutual consent of parties and vigilance against AI-generated forgeries.

Rabbi Israel Klarak argues that AI can indeed issue halachic rulings, challenging traditional views that human judgment is uniquely required. Rabbi Yaakov Ariel discusses AI use on Shabbat, particularly regarding smart home devices activated by voice or button. He contends that AI lacks independent agency and that all actions ultimately derive from human input, advocating a cautious approach limiting automated Shabbat use to what a non-Jew might perform. The editor notes this view contrasts with emerging realities where AI devices can act autonomously, raising unresolved halachic questions.

Additional articles address contemporary issues such as wearing smartwatches on Shabbat, the permissibility of weight-loss injections for matchmaking purposes, and the evolving nature of leisure activities in halachic contexts. Rabbi David Lau supports the military rabbinate’s stance on Sabbath leave, while Rabbi Gad Eldad critiques the publisher’s position on conversion. The volume also highlights the underrepresentation of female authors, calling for greater inclusion of women in Torah scholarship and halachic decision-making.

Overall, volume 46 of Tchumin offers a rich and timely exploration of how Jewish law grapples with technological advances and societal changes, underscoring ongoing debates and the need for continued scholarly engagement.