

The Office of Rabbi Sacks
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks
Follow the audio shiurim, lectures and speeches of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, global religious leader, philosopher, author of over 30 books and moral voice for our time. Rabbi Sacks served as Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth between September 1991 and September 2013. A full biography - together with an extensive online archive of Rabbi Sacks' work - is available at www.rabbisacks.org or you can follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @rabbisacks.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 5, 2025 • 10min
Why Is The Jewish People So Small? (Vaetchanan)
Dive into the intriguing contrast of small numbers versus great influence in Jewish identity. Despite being a minority, the Jewish people have significantly shaped history through resilience and moral leadership. Discover how true greatness is defined by impact rather than numerical strength, and learn about Israel’s role as an innovative beacon for humanity. It's a fascinating exploration of how a tiny nation carries immense promise.

Jul 30, 2025 • 12min
The First Follower (Rabbi Sacks on Devarim, Covenant & Conversation)
Discover the intricate relationship between leadership and accountability as Moses imparts his final teachings in Devarim. Explore the fascinating dynamics of followership, showcasing how engaged followers enhance effective leadership. Through biblical examples, the discussion emphasizes the importance of mutual participation and respect in leadership roles. These themes reveal the complexities of decision-making influenced by public sentiment, offering timeless lessons relevant to today.

Jul 23, 2025 • 10min
Conflict Resolution (Rabbi Sacks on Matot-Masei, Covenant & Conversation)
Delve into the art of leadership and conflict resolution through a captivating biblical story about Moses and two tribes. Explore how collective interests can drive negotiations and discover strategies to ease personal tensions. Uncover four key principles that prioritize interests over positions, illustrating how these insights can foster mutual benefits and peace. This discussion provides timeless wisdom applicable in both ancient times and modern conflicts.

Jul 16, 2025 • 12min
Elijah and the Still, Small Voice (Rabbi Sacks on Pinchas, Covenant & Conversation)
Explore the moral dilemmas of faith faced by Jewish communities during persecution, featuring thought-provoking insights from Moses Maimonides. Discover how compassion shapes religious leadership, as illustrated by the story of Elijah. The podcast sheds light on the importance of empathy in guiding others, emphasizing that true leadership often requires a gentle approach. Join in for a reflective journey on faith, identity, and the power of compassion.

Jul 9, 2025 • 9min
Not Reckoned Among the Nations Rabbi Sacks on Balak, Covenant & Conversation)
Explore the complexities of Jewish identity through engaging conversations that highlight both anti-Semitism and resilience. Discover the uniqueness of Israel as a nation defined by religious beliefs amid historical challenges. Delve into the intersection of Judaism and national identity, emphasizing that being Jewish is more about faith than ethnicity. Through insightful commentary, the discussion brings to light the enduring covenant and its role in shaping Jewish nationhood.

Jul 2, 2025 • 10min
Losing Miriam (Rabbi Sacks on Chukat, Covenant & Conversation)
Grief can profoundly shape leadership. The discussion centers on how the loss of Miriam affects decision-making and community dynamics. It delves into the emotional turmoil faced by leaders, revealing the challenges that personal loss brings to their roles. Insights are provided on maintaining resilience and finding inspiration amidst sorrow. This exploration emphasizes the deep connections between personal experiences and communal responsibilities.

Jun 25, 2025 • 8min
Servant Leadership (Rabbi Sacks on Korach, Covenant & Conversation)
Dive into the essence of servant leadership through the lens of Korach's rebellion. Discover how true leaders in Judaism, like Moses, prioritize community over ambition. Explore the importance of humility in leadership, where personal honor takes a back seat to the welfare of the people. Learn how Maimonides sheds light on the contrast between selflessness and self-serving authority for those in power. This insightful discussion offers timeless lessons on what it truly means to lead with purpose.

Jun 17, 2025 • 9min
Fear of Failure (Shelach Lecha, Covenant & Conversation)
Delve into the intriguing tale of spies sent to explore the promised land, revealing how their conflicting reports shaped a generation. Discover the layers of fear versus freedom in this biblical narrative. Explore the spies’ deeper fear—not of failure, but of losing their spiritual connection with God. Uncover the challenge of integrating spirituality into everyday life as a central tenet of the Jewish mission.

Jun 16, 2025 • 31min
What Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks’ State of the Jewish World Teaches Us Today - AJC & Books and Beyond
Tanya White, the inaugural scholar of the Rabbi Sacks Legacy and host of 'Books and Beyond', teams up with Joanna Ben-Aroch, global chief executive of the Rabbi Sacks Legacy. They dive into Rabbi Sacks' powerful 2014 call to action at the AJC Global Forum. The conversation explores the evolving challenges of anti-Semitism, the significance of maintaining a strong Jewish identity amidst modernity, and the importance of advocacy within the community. Their insights illuminate how Rabbi Sacks' legacy continues to inspire resilience and purpose today.

Jun 11, 2025 • 10min
Loneliness and Faith (Rabbi Sacks on Beha'alotecha, Covenant & Conversation)
Explore the profound themes of loneliness and faith through biblical figures like Moses, who faced their own isolation while remaining steadfast in belief. The discussion highlights the relevance of these experiences to contemporary feelings of solitude, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. It encourages a journey towards spiritual depth and resilience, reminding us that faith can flourish even in moments of despair.