AI in Halacha: Reliability and Limitations

Hi Rabbi, I recently acquired an Alexa device, and I am quite impressed with how it simplifies many aspects of day-to-day life through voice commands. This convenience has led me to ponder its use in religious practices. Specifically, as Shabbat approaches, may I use Alexa to inquire about sunset times? Additionally, can I consider the information provided by Alexa as reliable according to Halacha? Your expert advice on these modern dilemmas would be most appreciated.

Thank you for your question.

Your question is indeed fascinating as it highlights how this innovative technology is transforming our interactions with machines, effectively serving as a virtual companion. This raises an important issue: does AI possess the capability to assist us in addressing halachic inquiries?

We do find that we rely on machines when it comes to halacha like checking the clock before we decide that Shabbat has ended. Nevertheless, when it comes to artificial intelligence we find that it cannot be relied on when it comes to halachic decisions for three reasons:

1. When we pose a question to a rabbi, we need to appreciate the role of the rabbi when it comes to answering questions. It's essential not only to pay attention to the words of a question but also to understand the intent behind it. Often, the person asking may not know which details are crucial to share with the rabbi, and these details can be critical to arriving at the correct answer. In contrast, if one were to pose a question to artificial intelligence, it would generate an answer based on the given information but would not probe further or ask additional questions that might lead to a more accurate response.
2. A comprehensive response to a halachic query requires an in-depth understanding of the Talmud, analysis of debates among the Rishonim, and the rulings of the Beit Yosef. Often, various opinions exist on a matter, and only a posek with deep Torah insight can issue a definitive ruling based on the accepted halachic opinion. In contrast, artificial intelligence operates through algorithms and cannot discern the nuances essential to halachic decision-making. It compiles information from numerous sources, which may include views from Reform Judaism or other religions, leading to outputs that may not align with Halacha.
3. The concept of "shimush" is crucial in Pesak. Even if someone possesses complete knowledge of the Torah, engaging in "shimush" is essential. Shimush involves practical apprenticeship or mentorship, where a student learns by observing and assisting a rabbi. Often translated as "service" or "attendance," shimush emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning. In the realm of Halacha, shimush is a fundamental part of a student's education. It extends beyond theoretical study, involving the observation of how a rabbi applies legal principles in real-life situations and navigates complex questions. This close relationship and direct involvement provide the student with insights into the nuances and subtleties of Halachic reasoning and decision-making, which are not apparent in texts alone. Such learning is vital for a student aspiring to become a competent halachic authority, capable of making informed and judicious decisions in matters of Jewish law.

The importance of shimush in Halacha is illustrated in a story from Tractate Derech Eretz, Chapter 7: "Rabbi Akiva said: This was the beginning of my service before the sages. Once, I was walking along the road and found a met mitzvah (a corpse requiring burial). I carried it for about four miles until I brought it to a burial place and buried it. When I recounted the events to Rabbi Eliezer and Rabbi Joshua, they told me: 'For every step you took, it is considered as if you shed innocent blood.' I asked them, 'My teachers, why is this so?'... Rabbi Akiva then concluded, 'If at the time when I intended to perform a meritorious act, I became liable, how much more so when I do not intend to perform a mitzvah?' From that moment on, I never strayed from serving the sages. He used to say: 'He who does not serve the sages deserves death.'"

In contrast, when analyzing the use of artificial intelligence in Halacha, the capability of shimush—knowing when to apply each case and recognizing exceptions to the rules—is something artificial intelligence lacks.

When considering the use of AI to check the time of sunset as you asked one might compare it to checking the time on a clock. This suggests that the typical concerns, such as the delivery of new information or the need for a rabbinic ruling, may not apply. However, it's important to recognize that AI systems, including those used for this purpose, rely on algorithms to fetch data which might not always be up-to-date. For instance, the AI might retrieve the time from a source that is not current, such as information from the previous day, or you are aware, sunset times vary depending on one's location—for instance, the time of sunset in Tzfat differs from that in Tel Aviv, as it is contingent upon one's specific geographical position.

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Therefore, one should be cautious and not solely rely on this method for accurate and timely information.

Wishing you much success.

1. Tractate Derech Eretz, Chapter 7