World Congress of Jewish Studies Highlights Enduring Influence of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks

The 19th World Congress of Jewish Studies, held this August at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, included a number of sessions devoted entirely to exploring the thought and impact of Rabbi Sacks zt”l.

The sessions reflected the wide scope of Rabbi Sacks’ influence, ranging from theology and philosophy to ethics, politics, and education. Scholars examined his approach to covenant and moral responsibility, his engagement with thinkers such as Emmanuel Levinas, Abraham Joshua Heschel, and the Lubavitcher Rebbe, and his unique contributions to Religious Zionism, Jewish identity, and interfaith dialogue. These presentations underscored the depth and originality of Rabbi Sacks’ work, and how it continues to shape Jewish philosophy and public discourse in the face of modern challenges.

Speakers from across disciplines and continents included Sacks Scholars Davina Wanderer-Kriel, Dr. Tanya White, Rabbi Dr. Dov Lerner, Rabbi Reuven Leigh, Dr. Miriam Feldmann-Kaye, as well as Yehoshua Hayun, Yoav Sade, Dr. Natan Ophir, Prof. Jonathan Rynhold, Gitit Hoze, Rabbanit Yafit Clymer, and Rachel Misrati. Their diverse academic backgrounds and areas of expertise reflected the range and richness of Rabbi Sacks’ thought and its relevance across fields.

This extraordinary academic attention reflects the ongoing significance of Rabbi Sacks’ voice in navigating today’s philosophical questions. His work continues to inspire deep scholarship and creative engagement.