Rabbi creates AI chatbot for Orthodox Jews after Skver Hassidic movement bans AI.
In a move that has surprised many, a rabbi has created an AI chatbot specifically for Orthodox Jews after the Skver Hassidic movement banned the use of AI. The chatbot, called “Ask Moses,” is designed to provide answers to common questions about Jewish law and customs.
The Skver Hassidic movement, which is based in New York, banned the use of AI earlier this year, citing concerns about the potential for AI to replace human interaction and the risk of AI being used to spread false information. The ban has been controversial, with some members of the community arguing that it is too restrictive and others expressing concern about the potential consequences of using AI.
Rabbi Moshe Friedman, who created the chatbot, said that he was inspired to create it after seeing the impact that the ban was having on members of the community. “I saw that people were struggling to find answers to their questions, and I realized that there was a real need for a tool like this,” he said.
The chatbot is designed to be easy to use, with a simple interface that allows users to ask questions in natural language. It uses AI algorithms to analyze the question and provide a relevant answer, drawing on a database of Jewish law and customs. The chatbot is also designed to be interactive, with users able to ask follow-up questions and receive additional information.
Friedman said that he has received a lot of positive feedback from members of the community who have used the chatbot. “People are really grateful to have a tool like this at their fingertips,” he said. “It’s making it easier for them to navigate the complexities of Jewish law and customs.”
However, not everyone is happy about the chatbot. Some members of the Skver Hassidic community have criticized Friedman for creating it, arguing that it goes against the spirit of the ban. “We believe that AI is a threat to our way of life, and we don’t want to encourage its use in any way,” said one member of the community.
Despite the controversy, Friedman said that he is committed to continuing to develop the chatbot and making it available to as many people as possible. “I believe that technology can be a force for good, and I think that this chatbot is a great example of that,” he said. “It’s helping people to connect with their faith in a way that is convenient and accessible.”
The creation of the chatbot raises important questions about the role of technology in religious communities. While some may see it as a threat, others see it as an opportunity to connect with their faith in new and innovative ways. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how religious communities adapt and respond to these changes.