A few years ago, nobody in our community was seriously talking about artificial intelligence (AI). It sounded like something out of a science fiction movie. But now? AI is in schools, businesses, and even in some shiurim. You can ask a chatbot to explain a pasuk, generate a dvar Torah, or even write you a Shabbos menu. So, the question is: should we be using AI in our Torah learning – or is it something to avoid?

Some people are even starting to use tools to bypass AI filters so they can access certain content freely, without restrictions. But is that something a frum Jew should be doing? Let’s break it down.

The Good: A Tool for Torah

Used the right way, AI can be helpful. Here’s how:

• Quick Answers: You can ask a question about the Torah and get an answer right away. It may not be perfect, but it provides you a place to start.

• Need help with Aramaic in the Gemara?

• Ideas for Shiurim: Rabbeim or teachers can use AI to brainstorm topics or find sources.

And for balabatim who don’t have hours to spend in the beis medrash, it can be a tool to stay connected to learning.

The Risk: Torah Isn’t Just Information

But Torah isn’t like math or science. It’s not just data – it’s Divrei Elokim Chaim. When we learn Torah, we’re not just reading – we’re connecting with Hashem. That’s something AI can’t feel, understand, or respect.

Some problems to consider:

• Mistakes: AI sometimes gets things wrong, especially in halacha.

• Lack of Mesorah: It can’t replace your rebbe or chavrusa. It doesn’t have a neshama or yiras Shamayim.

• Cold Learning: Torah isn’t about speed or convenience. It’s about effort, struggle, and growth.

Using AI too much might make us lazy. Worse, it might make us think we don’t need our rabbanim anymore – and that’s dangerous.

A Balanced Approach

So what’s the right way to look at AI in Jewish learning?

Let’s compare it to a calculator. A calculator helps with math, but no one learns math only by using it. You need the basics first. The same goes for Torah. Use AI as a helper – after you’ve done your own work.

Here’s one idea:

• First, learn the sugya yourself.

• Then, use AI to help check or clarify.

• And always ask your rebbe or posek if it’s about halacha.

What Do Gedolim Say?

Some rabbanim say it’s totally fine – with limits. Others warn that too much reliance can be harmful. Most agree: it’s not assur, but it needs seichel and siyata dishmaya. Don’t treat AI like a posek. Treat it like a tool – and nothing more.

Closing Thoughts: It’s About the Heart

AI can do many things – but it can’t have kavanah. It can’t cry over a pasuk. It can’t feel the simcha of a chidush. That’s what makes our learning holy. We bring our hearts to the sefer. No machine can do that.

So yes, explore. Use AI if it helps. But don’t forget: the most powerful tool in Torah is you – your effort, your sincerity, and your connection to Hashem.