The National Library of Israel hosts the 2024 Sacks Conversation

The Sacks Conversation, an annual event honouring the legacy of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, took place on 21 November at the National Library of Israel, coinciding with Rabbi Sacks’ fourth yahrzeit. This marks the second time the event has occurred in Israel; it was previously hosted by President Isaac Herzog in 2022. Established in memory of Rabbi Sacks, the Sacks Conversation celebrates his enduring influence as a global moral leader, fostering dialogue and the exchange of ideas.

This year’s theme, “The People of the Book,” reflects a concept that Rabbi Sacks cherished – a commitment to learning, dialogue, and the power of ideas. The event featured a conversation between US Ambassador of the United States to Israel Jacob J. Lew. and Jerusalem-born writer and educator Rachel Sharansky Danziger.

The choice of the National Library of Israel as the venue is particularly significant, as it coincides with the rehousing of Rabbi Sacks’ personal archives, now preserved at the Library. These archives contain pivotal documents, handwritten correspondence, certificates, and meticulously crafted notes for some of Rabbi Sacks’ most influential speeches.

This event not only served as a tribute to Rabbi Sacks’ profound impact but also offered a unique opportunity to explore his personal journey through these newly accessible archives.

Rachel Sharansky Danziger began the conversation with a message of hope in the power of Rabbi Sacks’ legacy: “Although we don't have Rabbi Sacks in the flesh and can’t hear his voice to share insights and to get us through these difficult times, he bequeathed us with a treasure of texts and words that we can turn to and continue to converse with him about the hard times and good times and our hope and heartbreak forever.” 

As the discussion delved into current events, Ambassador Lew told the audience about a meeting he had held earlier in the day with a hostage family: “I didn’t realise I was quoting Rabbi Sacks; but I said I’m more hopeful today than I have been in weeks, and I can’t tell you that it’s going to change tomorrow, but if things proceed in the way that I hope they will, in the coming days, there is a new opening that we will use everything in our power to bring out the 101 hostages.”

Sallai Meridor, Chairman of the National Library of Israel, said, “In April of this year, through the generosity of The Rothschild Foundation Hanadiv Europe, the National Library of Israel was entrusted with the personal archive of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt”l. This is a landmark event that sheds light on the mission of the National Library to serve as home for the intellectual and cultural creation of the greats of our people around the world. We are honoured by this opportunity and responsibility and are committed to sharing this important archive with the world.”

Daniel Taub, Chair of the Israel Board of The Rabbi Sacks Legacy, added, “At a time when his ideas are more relevant than ever, the influence of Rabbi Sacks’ thought continues to grow. On the occasion of his fourth yahrzeit, it is moving and inspiring to see such meaningful study of his teachings across five continents and throughout Israeli society.”