Judaism in the 21st Century

A Brave New World: AI, Torah, and Human Responsibility (S3, E33)

Artificial intelligence is no longer something “out there” in the future. It is already shaping how we write, learn, search, diagnose, decide, and even think. In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Rabbi Daniel Cohen turns the tables and interviews Dr. Steven Labkoff about one of today’s most urgent ethical frontiers: AI. What exactly is artificial intelligence? How is it different from machine learning or algorithms? And what happens when AI begins helping us write sermons, synthesize ideas, make medical judgments, or shape religious and moral decisions? Together, they explore the Jewish lens on questions of authorship, authenticity, geneivat da’at, human responsibility, and the danger of outsourcing moral judgment. AI may be able to organize knowledge, find patterns, and help us communicate more clearly. But Judaism reminds us that free choice, conscience, accountability, and the human soul cannot be delegated to a machine. This conversation does not offer all the answers. But it raises the right questions for a brave new world.

When Liturgy Changes in the 21st Century (S3, E32)

In this episode of Jews in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen explore a question that sits at the heart of modern Jewish life: when the world changes, should Judaism change with it, or should Judaism remain the compass that helps us navigate the changing world? Prompted by recent bar mitzvah services where Steven heard changes in familiar prayers, including the addition of the Imahot alongside the Avot, the conversation turns to liturgy, tradition, women’s roles, Shavuot, and the meaning of receiving Torah. Rabbi Cohen reflects on the idea that Torah is both timeless and timely, and that the challenge is not simply to change Judaism to fit the moment, but to understand its depth, its structure, and its relevance. Along the way, the discussion touches on Shabbat, women’s Torah study, bat mitzvah, minyan, Fiddler on the Roof, and the lifelong journey of growing into Jewish understanding.

The Role of Jerusalem in the 21st Century (S3, E31)

A vision for the future of Jerusalem—and what it means for all of us. In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Rabbi Cohen shares a deeply personal and forward-looking story: the creation of a new kind of community in Jerusalem—one rooted not in uniformity, but in openness, kindness, and shared purpose. What does it mean to build a synagogue not in our own image, but in God’s image? How can Jerusalem, a city often defined by division, become a model of unity? This conversation connects past to present—from the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967 to the responsibility we carry today to actively shape a redemptive future. This is not just about a place. It’s about a mindset—and a call to participate in building something greater.

Is there a proper way to argue? (S3, E30)

Is there a right way to disagree? In a world increasingly defined by division, this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century explores a timeless idea: argument as a path to truth—not conflict. Judaism doesn’t just tolerate disagreement—it elevates it. But only when it’s done for the right reasons. We unpack: • The difference between debate and division • “Arguments for the sake of heaven” vs. personal conflict • Why the Talmud values multiple perspectives • How modern discourse has lost its balance At a time when disagreement often leads to polarization, this conversation offers a powerful framework for reclaiming respectful dialogue—and rebuilding connection.

Making Sense of Prayer in the 21st Century (S3, E29)

What is prayer supposed to feel like… especially if it never quite “clicked”? In this deeply personal episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff opens up about a lifelong struggle with prayer. Despite years of study and exposure, the emotional and spiritual connection others describe has remained elusive. Rabbi Daniel Cohen responds with a powerful reframing: prayer is not about changing God, but about changing us—our perspective, our gratitude, and our sense of purpose. Together, they explore what it means to engage with prayer in a modern world, how to move beyond simply reciting words, and why even a small, meaningful connection can be transformative. This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and resonates with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from traditional practice.