Tu BeShevat

Rabbis Steve Gutow and David Saperstein (COEJL: Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life)

At Tu B'Shevat, we look at the natural world with wonder and celebrate the abundance of earth's incredible resources. We remember the teaching from Kohelet/Ecclesiastes 1:4: "One generation goes, another comes, but the earth remains the same forever." In our generation, however, this promise is threatened. The earth is changing before us, and the resources we enjoy today -- abundant food, a stable climate, and clean, breathable air -- may not be here forever.

Tu B'Shevat began as a minor holiday marked by a festive meal, and has grown into the modern Jewish Earth Day, linking traditional celebration with our growing sense of environmental responsibility. Jews have long taught that every act counts and each decision matters. Thus, on Tu B'Shevat, we deepen our sense of personal responsibility, planting trees and reminding ourselves that it's a mitzvah to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Jews have also taught that we must raise our voices for what we believe is right and just. Thus, on Tu B'Shevat, we deepen our sense of collective responsibility. We remind legislators of the need for comprehensive climate and energy legislation. We remind corporations and service agencies that we need meaningful measures to minimize the impact of climate change on low-income communities and vulnerable international populations.

Midrash Kohelet/Ecclesiastes Rabbah teaches that the Creator led Adam around the Garden of Eden saying, "Look at My works. See how beautiful they are, how excellent. See to it that you do not spoil or destroy My world -- for if you do, there will be no one to repair it after you."

Visit www.ecoaction.gc.ca to learn about government environmental initiatives, and www.davidsuzuki.org to learn how you can take citizen action!

Return to Reb Laura's "Taste of Torah" list.

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