Jonathan Sacks, Baron Sacks

Jonathan Sacks, Baron Sacks, was a prominent British Orthodox rabbi, philosopher, and theologian who played a significant role in the Jewish community. Born in 1948, he went on to become a leading figure in British Judaism, serving as the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth from 1991 to 2013. In this capacity, he was the spiritual head of the United Synagogue, the largest synagogue body in the United Kingdom, overseeing the Orthodox synagogues under its umbrella.

As Chief Rabbi, Sacks held the formal title of Av Beit Din, or head, of the London Beth Din. Although his authority was not recognized by certain segments of the Jewish community, such as the Haredi Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations or the progressive movements, he remained a respected voice in the Orthodox tradition. Following his retirement in 2013, Sacks was accorded the title of Chief Rabbi Emeritus, a position he held until his death in 2020. Through his work as a rabbi, philosopher, and author, Sacks left a lasting legacy in the field of Judaism, shaping the spiritual and intellectual landscape of the British Jewish community.