
The Office of Rabbi 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.
Latest episodes

Oct 11, 2024 • 18min
To Live and Act as a Jew - A Selichot Address from Rabbi Sacks (5772)
Explore the powerful connection between Dr. Ludwig Guttmann's revolutionary work with paraplegics and the spirit of the Jewish New Year. Discover how he turned despair into hope for many through the Paralympic Games. The discussion highlights the profound impact of community and the significance of physical activity in spiritual recovery. It’s an inspiring reminder of resilience and the importance of living actively as a Jew.

Oct 2, 2024 • 15min
An Unforgiving Age: A Midnight Selichot Address from Rabbi Sacks 5779
Rabbi Sacks, a renowned religious leader celebrated for his impactful teachings, addresses the harsh realities of our unforgiving age. He discusses the societal pressure of public scrutiny and the urgent need for redemption. The conversation delves into the consequences of hasty judgments, particularly regarding public figures, and highlights the importance of personal responsibility. Rabbi Sacks beautifully intertwines themes of forgiveness and redemption found in Jewish tradition, using biblical examples to emphasize the transformative power of true repentance.

Sep 30, 2024 • 17min
How to Evolve: A Midnight Selichot Address from Rabbi Sacks 5769
Discover the inspiring power of personal transformation and self-reflection. The speaker emphasizes moving beyond victimhood to embrace change and take responsibility. A touching story highlights the role of gratitude in tough times, enlightening listeners on the art of forgiveness. The address encourages harnessing resilience and spiritual strength to tackle adversity with love, ultimately transforming oneself and enriching relationships. Experience a profound exploration of how to evolve amidst life's challenges.

Sep 28, 2024 • 4min
Thoughts for Ellul: "God's Faith in Us" - recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014
In 2014 Rabbi Sacks recorded six thoughts for Ellul, providing wisdom and guidance as he reflected on the year gone by, and the new year soon to begin.
In this final message of the 'Thoughts for Ellul' mini-series, Rabbi Sacks discusses Professor Reuven Feuerstein, and draws a parallel between his highly-esteemed work as a child psychologist and our relationship with God.
Recorded ten years ago, this remains a timeless message for us all, particularly as we may wish to reflect on our spirituality as Rosh Hashanah draws ever closer.
Find the full recordings here: rabbisacks.org/archive/thoughts-for-ellul/

Sep 27, 2024 • 3min
Thoughts for Ellul: "Forgiveness" - recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014
Explore the profound evolution of forgiveness from biblical narratives, focusing on key moments in Genesis and Exodus. Rabbi Sacks emphasizes how human forgiveness lays the groundwork for divine forgiveness. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal relationships and lingering resentments, making this a compelling journey into the heart of compassion and reconciliation.

Sep 26, 2024 • 3min
Thoughts for Ellul: "The Cry" - recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014
Embark on a poignant journey exploring the themes of identity and vulnerability. Rabbi Sacks shares a heartwarming story of a 19th-century French Jewish aristocrat, shedding light on the struggle between hidden selves and authentic emotions. The discussion highlights how the shofar’s sound symbolizes sincere repentance and the deep connection to God. As Rosh Hashanah approaches, the narrative emphasizes the power of a heartfelt cry—inviting reflection and personal growth.

Sep 25, 2024 • 8min
Leadership: Consensus or Command? (Rabbi Sacks on Nitzavim-Vayelech)
Welcome to Covenant & Conversation essays, Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion, explores new ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week.
You can find both the video and the full written article on Nitzavim-Vayelech available to watch, read, print, and share, by visiting: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/nitzavim/leadership-consensus-or-command/.
Multiple translations of the essay are also available here.
A new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/nitzavim/leadership-consensus-or-command/
For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks.
The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011.
With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.

Sep 24, 2024 • 4min
Thoughts for Ellul: "The Future of the Past" - recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014
In 2014 Rabbi Sacks recorded six thoughts for Ellul, providing wisdom and guidance as he reflected on the year gone by, and the new year soon to begin.
In this third message, Rabbi Sacks reflects on biblical figures such as Noah, and Lot's wife, and draws a unique comparison to Rosh Hashanah, through an outlook he gained from his close relationship with many Holocaust survivors.
Recorded ten years ago, this remains a remarkably timely message for us all.
Find the full recordings here: rabbisacks.org/archive/thoughts-for-ellul/

Sep 20, 2024 • 3min
Thoughts for Ellul: "The Love That Says No" - recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2014
Rabbi Sacks, a distinguished religious leader and author, shares profound reflections on teshuvah and forgiveness. He recounts a visit to a rehabilitation center for teens battling addiction, drawing parallels between repentance and overcoming challenges. Rabbi Sacks emphasizes the critical role of love and setting boundaries, showcasing how recognizing one's mistakes can lead to transformative change. His insights offer a fresh perspective on the laws of God and their relevance in our lives.

Sep 18, 2024 • 8min
Freedom Means Telling the Story (Rabbi Sacks on Ki Tavo, Covenant & Conversation)
Rabbi Sacks, a prominent Jewish leader and insightful author, dives deep into the themes of freedom and storytelling. He contrasts how American and British monuments convey narratives, revealing philosophical differences in cultural memory. The discussion also highlights the importance of storytelling in covenant societies, emphasizing how shared histories and moral commitments foster community identity and unity. Utilizing biblical examples, he illustrates how narratives can integrate newcomers and maintain freedom.