Artificial Intelligence, Jewish Texts and Stories

What if you could talk to Moses and ask him about his view of the ten commandmentsor discuss with Abraham how he feels about the binding of Isaac? Would you like to recreate a story from Jewish history or texts with photorealistic images? Can we apply key philosophical and ethical questions from the Jewish heritage to the dilemmas of using artificial intelligence?

This course will explore the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Jewish texts, stories, and culture. Using AI tools such as ChatGPT, DALL-E 3, Midjourney and Suno, among other tools, participants will gain hands-on experience while applying modern technology to traditional Jewish narratives and ethical discussions. The course will provide a creative and reflective journey into how AI can reshape our engagement with Jewish heritage, providing new lenses for storytelling, ethical inquiry, and cultural exploration.

With the help of AI we will recreate stories and characters from Jewish scripture and history, engage in interactive debate with those texts and personas, and find ways for a contemporary interpretation and creative expression of Jewish concepts and tradition with the help of this technology.

We will also get to learn about, and probably experience, some of the challenges and risks of using AI (such as bias or hallucinations, or limited controllability), and will acquire methods and tools to use this technology responsibly.

The aims of the course are to:

• Understand the fundamentals of generative AI and its applications.
• Recreate and reinterpret Jewish and biblical stories using AI tools.
• Explore the ethical dimensions of AI through the lens of Jewish philosophy and perspective.
• Create new educational and cultural experiences by blending AI capabilities with Jewish heritage.

Course structure

The following methods will be used:

• Lecture: Introduction to concepts and tools.
• Chevruta (paired study): Participants will work in pairs/small groups to explore texts and discuss interpretations with AI assistance.
• Hands-on Practice: Using AI tools to create art, text, and music.
• Group Discussions: Reflective conversations on ethical, cultural, and philosophical topics.
• Showcase: Participants will present their work to the group for feedback and reflection.

Prior knowledge

All curious about AI and Jewish culture are welcome!

No technical experience or previous experience with generative AI is needed. Just a curiosity to explore and try new things. However, it is expected that you have basic skills in using the web and online tools. An interest in storytelling, creativity and cultural heritage is encouraged.

Course material

Course material is included in the cost for this course. Participants need to bring their own laptop/tablet and create free accounts on the AI tools we will use (e.g. ChatGPT, DALL-E, Midjourney) on their own device. It is optional to subscribe to the premium version of some tools for enhanced features, if desired.

About the teacher

Amir Elion was born and raised in Israel and moved to Stockholm in 2020. He is an experienced innovation and digital transformation consultant with over 25 years of expertise in applying creative methodologies, including generative AI, to cultural and educational projects. He worked at global companies, including Amazon, Motorola, and Teva, as well as startups and non-profits. He also worked and led unique education programs in Israel – including teaching elementary school children various skills through board games, helping youths succeed in final exams, and using virtual and augmented reality in education. He specializes in integrating AI for a variety of use cases, including learning and development, product development, storytelling, and more.

Photo: AI / Amir Elion.