Artificial intelligence has impacted the trustworthiness of online interactions, including on dating apps. Singles often question if their matches are genuine, if conversations are authentic, or if profiles are real. Instead of rejecting AI, Chabad, a Jewish organization, is utilizing both AI and traditional matchmaking to help singles find meaningful relationships.
On August 9, Chabad plans to host what may be the largest Jewish virtual speed dating event, connecting 13,000 singles from over 30 countries. This event is scheduled around Tu B’Av, a Jewish holiday linked to love and matchmaking. Each participant is verified by a local rabbi or rebbetzin, with AI assisting in the matching process for five rounds of video dates. This approach merges human oversight with technology.
Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, executive director of Merkos 302, emphasized that this initiative does not intend to replace technology but to use it alongside the human touch often missing in modern dating. “AI can aggregate data to suggest matches based on shared interests and values,” he said, “but human elements are indispensable.” Kotlarsky believes personal involvement builds the trust and mentorship that technology lacks.
The Met@Chabad initiative aims not only to pair individuals but also to strengthen marriages and families. It’s a comprehensive approach to Jewish dating, blending technology with traditional Torah wisdom. Beyond matchmaking, Met@Chabad provides dating and relationship courses and personalized guidance. Rabbis and rebbetzins mentor participants, helping them identify crucial relationship qualities and prepare for marriage.
According to Kotlarsky, the desire for more than algorithm-driven matchmaking is growing. AI should enhance the search for a partner, yet relationships are deeply rooted in human connection, which technology cannot replace. “Building relationships involves focusing on something larger than yourself,” Kotlarsky noted.