Who Invented AI?
It’s hard not to be amazed by the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) over the past few years. Many people feel a mix of wonder, excitement, and uncertainty about what the future holds. Many experts predict that AI will usher in a golden age of abundance, where goods and services become so affordable that a high standard of living will be accessible to all. Others, however, express concern about AI's potential to disrupt the job market, affecting hundreds of millions of workers worldwide.
We often attribute the rise of AI to the brilliant minds of unique visionary innovators. Yet, upon reflection, we realize that AI is not solely the product of a few geniuses—it is the result of collective human effort, with the help of G-d, across generations. AI is a powerful tool that organizes and synthesizes the vast knowledge and ideas humanity has accumulated over thousands of years. Today, this technology allows billions of people to access and benefit from that collective wisdom, marking both a culmination of past efforts and the beginning of a new era of possibility.
The power of collective contribution is not unique to AI. In many fields, we see the impact of crowdsourcing and crowdfunding, where the combined efforts of ordinary individuals drive innovation and change. Similarly, in politics, the authority of elected officials is granted by the collective votes of individual citizens. While we often recognize the influence of industry leaders, it is essential to value the power of each individual's contributions.
The Power of the Individual
This idea is reflected in this week's Torah portion, Pikudei, which means "numbers" or "accounting." The portion details the meticulous accounting that Moses conducted of all the materials the Jewish people contributed to the construction of the Tabernacle in the desert.
In this divine "Building Campaign" to create a dwelling place for G-d on earth, every contribution was valued, not just the large or impressive ones. G-d instructed Moses to count and appreciate each offering, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. The message is clear: everyone’s participation matters. When each person gives their best effort, the collective outcome is far greater than what a few individuals could achieve on their own.
The construction of the Tabernacle is a powerful metaphor for our own lives. Judaism teaches that every person, animal, plant, and even inanimate object plays an essential role in G-d's master plan. Every moment in time has a purpose. Each of us is endowed with unique abilities and resources, and it is our responsibility to account for how we use them.
On a personal level, this means recognizing that no one exists in isolation. Each individual is part of a greater whole, and our actions have a ripple effect on the world around us. When we see ourselves as connected to something larger, our individual contributions are amplified. Our personal identity is not diminished by being part of a collective—rather, it is enriched and strengthened.
Collective Responsibility
The Jewish belief in Moshiach (the Messiah) is sometimes misunderstood simply as the arrival of a single leader who will instantly transform the world. While Jewish tradition indeed teaches that a human Moshiach will bring about the Messianic era, his role is not to replace our responsibilities. Rather, Moshiach will serve as a unifying force, empowering us to reveal our inner qualities, fulfill our purpose, and channel the immense divine energy of that time in a meaningful way.
The coming of Moshiach is not a passive event—it depends on the collective efforts of individuals. We are like midgets standing on the shoulders of giants, completing the work of previous generations. Each positive action we take brings the world closer to an era of peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.
Our Role in Shaping the Future
As we witness the pain and suffering of our brothers and sisters in Israel, it is easy to feel powerless. We may be tempted to believe that only global leaders and policymakers can make a difference. However, Jewish tradition teaches that every Mitzvah and act of kindness has a profound impact.
Each of us can contribute by increasing our observance of Mitzvot and engaging in small, meaningful actions. Light Shabbat candles, place a Mezuzah on your door, wrap Tefillin, give charity, study Torah, or choose from the many Mitzvot that resonate with you. These seemingly minor deeds have the power to bring protection and merit to those in need and to tip the scales toward goodness.
Through our collective efforts, we can help usher in a time of true peace and redemption.
As Maimonides (Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon, 1135–1204) writes:
"Throughout the entire year, a person should always see themselves as evenly balanced between merit and sin, and the world as equally balanced between merit and sin. If one performs a single mitzvah, they tip their balance and that of the entire world to the side of merit, bringing deliverance and salvation to themselves and others."
In the era of Moshiach, our focus will shift to discovering deeper meaning and purpose in life. We will use the material abundance available to us to create a better world and to connect with one another in profound and lasting ways. Let us take action today to be part of that transformation, knowing that every individual contribution matters in shaping a brighter future for all.
