We Can’t Allow Zoom to Take Over Judaism: Why Leaders Must Think Out of the Digital Box

I’m constantly blown away by the power of technology to keep us connected with the world. Over these long quarantine months, like many others I’ve pretty much lived on Zoom, whether for meetings, lectures or family events. It was via Zoom that I witnessed my grandson’s brit milah in Israel.

Technology has so vastly improved that it has become ubiquitous and simple enough for anyone to use.

Which is why I’m concerned.

The amazing convenience of the digital world can lull us into a type of complacency. Slowly, without realizing it, we are using the technology so often and consistently that we may be giving it the power to change us.

I see signs of this everywhere, but especially in synagogue communities, where virtually all activities are now digital. The lethal threat of the COVID-19 virus, combined with the ease of Zoom, has made this digital transformation irresistible. But we must resist it.

Because although Zoom offers many benefits, it comes with a high price. For one thing, many communities have stopped seeing each other. Think about that. Computer screens have become our new gathering places. This is not something we should get used to.

COMPUTER SCREENS HAVE BECOME OUR NEW GATHERING PLACES. THIS IS NOT SOMETHING WE SHOULD GET USED TO.

I understand people who say: “What choice do we have? This virus is lethal. Our world is in lockdown.”

Yes, yes and yes, but we can and must aim higher.

We already know that outdoor is a lot safer than indoor. To bring back real human connection, we must put our creative hats on and develop a new “outdoor mentality.” Especially here in Los Angeles where the weather allows it, rabbis, leaders and program directors must think outdoor, outdoor, outdoor.

Orthodox communities already do that for prayer services, but I’m thinking beyond prayer.

Torah classes? Outdoor. Lectures? Outdoor. Concerts? Outdoor. Debate panels? Outdoor. Community meals? Outdoor. Visits to elderly homes? Outdoor.

We have enough park areas and private backyards throughout our communities that we can surely make this happen. Occasionally, why not plan events at the beach or in nature?

Some of these events can also be livestreamed, with tech experts ensuring that the sound quality is acceptable.

Innovative communities are already doing this. The more these outdoor events are seen, the more the idea will spread.

Outdoor events need not replace digital ones, but they would be a wonderful addition to the mix to bring people together. Of course, outdoor events take a lot more planning because of safety restrictions, but that’s hardly a reason not to offer them.

The point is this: Rabbis and local leaders need to create multiple opportunities for people to meet safely and to stay connected to the very idea of human connection. As we continue riding our digital runaway train, we are getting further and further away from the real stuff of life that no Zoom event can ever replace.

It is precisely because digital technology is so powerful that we must limit its power to isolate us. We must think out of the digital box before the box closes in on us.