kids encyclopedia robot

Jonathan Sacks facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Sacks
Sirjonathansacks.jpg
Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth
In office
1 September 1991 – 1 September 2013
Preceded by Immanuel, Lord Jakobovits
Succeeded by Ephraim Mirvis
Member of the House of Lords
Lord Temporal
In office
1 September 2009 – 7 November 2020
Personal details
Born
Jonathan Henry Sacks

(1948-03-08)8 March 1948
Lambeth, London, England
Died 7 November 2020(2020-11-07) (aged 72)
Political party Crossbench
Spouse
Elaine Taylor
(m. 1970)
Children Joshua, Dina and Gila
Education Christ's College, Finchley
Alma mater
Occupation Rabbi
Awards Canterbury Medal (2014)
Templeton Prize (2016)
Semicha Jews' College
Etz Chaim Yeshiva (London)

Jonathan Henry Sacks (born March 8, 1948 – died November 7, 2020) was a very important leader in the Jewish community in Britain. He was a respected rabbi, a deep thinker, a popular author, and even a member of the House of Lords. He was known for teaching about faith and for bringing people together.

Who Was Rabbi Lord Sacks?

Jonathan Sacks was a British Orthodox rabbi, which means he followed a traditional form of Judaism. He was also a philosopher, someone who thinks deeply about life and knowledge. He wrote many books and was a well-known speaker.

Leading the Jewish Community

From 1991 to 2013, Rabbi Sacks held a very important position. He was the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth. This meant he was the main spiritual leader for many Jewish communities in the UK and other Commonwealth countries.

He was in charge of the United Synagogue, which is the largest group of synagogues in the UK. As Chief Rabbi, he also led the London Beth Din, which is a Jewish court that helps with religious matters. After he retired from this role, he was known as the Emeritus Chief Rabbi.

A Voice for Faith and Understanding

Rabbi Sacks was not just a religious leader; he was also a powerful voice for understanding and respect between different faiths. He wrote many books that explored ideas about religion, morality, and how to live a good life. His writings were read by people of all backgrounds.

He believed that faith could help people find meaning and purpose. He often spoke about the importance of community and kindness. For his work, he received important awards like the Canterbury Medal and the Templeton Prize.

His Later Years and Legacy

In 2009, Jonathan Sacks became a Member of the House of Lords. This meant he could help make laws and discuss important issues in the British Parliament. He used this platform to speak about values and ethics.

Rabbi Lord Sacks passed away on November 7, 2020, at the age of 72. He had been battling cancer. He left behind a lasting legacy of wisdom, leadership, and a message of hope and understanding for the world.

Images for kids

kids search engine
Jonathan Sacks Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.