Rabbi Sacks’ Personal Archive Finds Permanent Home at National Library of Israel

The personal archives of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, one of the most influential Jewish thinkers of the modern era, have been permanently housed at the National Library of Israel in Jerusalem. The announcement was made during the 2024 Sacks Conversation, held in honor of the fourth anniversary of his passing.

The archive offers an intimate glimpse into Rabbi Sacks’ extraordinary life, featuring correspondence with global leaders such as King Charles and the Lubavitcher Rebbe. One poignant letter revealed during the event documented a heartfelt exchange with then-Prince Charles regarding his engagement to Camilla Parker Bowles.

Hosted at the National Library as part of the Rabbi Sacks Global Day of Learning, the gathering celebrated his enduring legacy and contributions to Jewish thought, interfaith dialogue, and modern ethics. Lady Elaine Sacks expressed her pride in seeing her late husband’s work preserved at what he once called “the Home of the Book for the People of the Book.”

Born in 1948, Rabbi Sacks served as Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth from 1991 to 2013. Educated at Cambridge, Oxford, and Yeshiva Etz Chaim, he combined intellectual rigor with deep religious faith. He later held academic positions at institutions including King’s College London and New York University.

Rabbi Sacks was renowned for addressing contemporary challenges such as secularism, multiculturalism, and technology through the lens of traditional Jewish wisdom. His ability to bridge complex ideas for Jewish and non-Jewish audiences alike earned him widespread admiration.

Over his career, Rabbi Sacks authored more than 25 books, including notable works such as The Dignity of Difference, Not in God’s Name, and Morality: Restoring the Common Good in Divided Times. His weekly Torah commentaries reached a global audience, offering moral and spiritual insights that continue to resonate.

In 2005, Rabbi Sacks was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to the British community and interfaith relations. He became a Life Peer in 2009 and received the Templeton Prize in 2016 for promoting religious understanding.

Lady Sacks reflected on the enduring relevance of his teachings: “My dear husband’s vision and wisdom continue to guide us. This archive ensures his ideas will inspire future generations to engage with Jewish thought and values.”

As his writings and speeches find a permanent home in Israel, Rabbi Sacks’ legacy of wisdom, compassion, and scholarship continues to enrich the world. May his memory be a blessing. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to honor Rabbi Sacks’ profound contributions to Jewish life and thought.