Explore the life and work of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks
Discover articles, videos, books, commentary, and educational resources from an international faith leader, ambassador for Judaism and Jewish values, respected moral philosopher, and award-winning author.
This digital archive, which continues to expand over time as more content is unearthed and uploaded, has been developed by The Rabbi Sacks Legacy in honour of Rabbi Sacks, following his passing on 7th November 2020.
PARSHA OF THE WEEK:
Vezot Habracha
From the series of weekly commentary essays on the Torah by Rabbi Sacks.
Highlights
What is a Sukkah?
This short Dvar Torah from Rabbi Sacks discusses the true meaning of the succah, the temporary home we use on the festival of Succot.
How to Change the World
Watch this new video, animating and illustrating Rabbi Sacks’ message on civility, the responsible life, and how to make a real difference.
Decorating the Sukkah
Newly designed posters with quotes from Rabbi Sacks to download and adorn your Sukkah.
FEATURED BOOK
Ceremony & Celebration
Introduction to the Jewish Holidays
When did Rosh Hashanah, the anniversary of creation, become a day of judgment? How does Yom Kippur unite the priest’s atonement with the prophet’s repentance? What makes Kohelet, read on Succot, the most joyful book in the Bible? Why is the remembrance of the Pesach story so central to Jewish morality? And which does Shavuot really celebrate – the law or the land?
Bringing together all Rabbi Sacks’ acclaimed introduction essays from the five Koren Sacks Machzorim, Ceremony & Celebration reveals the stunning interplay of biblical laws, rabbinic edicts, liturgical themes, and communal rituals, as well as the profound religious meaning of each of the five central Jewish holidays.
Now available in Hebrew and Spanish too.
Resources
Explore the Archive
Rabbi Sacks on Desert Island Discs
Listen to the full episode, first broadcast by BBC Radio 4 in February 1991, where Rabbi Sacks discussed music, religion, and his plans for the future.
A Tribute from the King
HM King Charles shares a tribute to Rabbi Sacks, shortly after his untimely passing in November 2020.
Rabbi Sacks and CNN’s Christiane Amanpour
When Amanour asked Rabbi Sacks about prospects for peace in the Middle East, the threat of Iran, and the extent of European antisemitism.
Tributes
Read a selection of the tributes, statements, articles and obituaries published in the aftermath of Rabbi Sacks’ passing.
Personal Reflections
Read a selection of personal reflections and stories about individuals’ interactions with Rabbi Sacks, or submit your own.