Judaism has always been a tradition that evolves. The very act of writing a midrash, composing a new piyyut (liturgical poem), or crafting a modern ritual is an act of hiddush — bringing forth something new in honour of what has come before.

In the same spirit, we at Shtiebel see AI as a tool for hiddush in our time. Carefully, thoughtfully, and with clear boundaries, we are using AI to help co-create prayers, reflections, and learning materials that speak to today’s realities while remaining rooted in Jewish values.

Our approach has been recently reaffirmed by the insightful responsum issued by the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), “Artificial Intelligence and Authorship: A Response to the Use of AI in Rabbinic Work” (Responsum 5784.2).

This responsum affirms that:

• Works created solely by AI are not considered lishmah — created for the sake of fulfilling a mitzvah — unless a human being engages meaningfully in shaping, editing, or directing them.

• Authentic Jewish authorship requires intentionality, discernment, and ownership — qualities that only human beings can bring.

• AI can be a helpful tool, but never a replacement for human creativity, spiritual responsibility, or communal connection.

At Shtiebel, we take these teachings seriously. Everything we produce with AI — whether it’s a new kavanah (spiritual intention) for Shabbat, an educational guide, or a reflective reading for communal use — is a product of real human collaboration, curation, and care.

You’ll often see us note, for example, in our Lev Shalem siddur currently in production:

“Unless otherwise noted, the readings enclosed within grey boxes reflect a unique collaboration between Shtiebel and ChatGPT, thoughtfully co-crafted to inspire and elevate our prayers — where the old becomes new, and the new becomes holy.”

Here’s how we’re currently using AI at Shtiebel:

• Liturgy Development: Collaborating with AI to draft new readings, blessings, and reflections — always edited, adapted, and reviewed by human hearts and minds.

• Educational Resources: Creating engaging summaries, introductions, and study guides for learners of all backgrounds, making Jewish knowledge more accessible and approachable.

• Creative Exploration: Experimenting with poetry, translations, and commentary to broaden the ways we experience and express Jewish ideas.

At every stage, we ask:

• Does this honour the tradition?

• Does this spark a genuine connection?

• Does this deepen understanding, access, and meaning for our community?

If the answer is yes, we embrace the opportunity. If not, we step back and re-centre the work in human creativity and spiritual responsibility.

As we move further into this era of rapid technological change, Shtiebel remains grounded in a simple but powerful principle: Technology can be a partner, but humanity must always lead.

Jewish life is not sustained by the latest tool or trend. It is sustained by people — by hearts seeking meaning, by communities coming together, by souls yearning to connect with something larger than themselves.

AI may help us find new ways to tell our story. But it’s up to us — all of us — to make sure that story remains holy.