What is nature’s place in our
spiritual lives?
In today’s modern culture,
we’ve become separated from the sacredness of the natural
world. This book offers a different, eye- and soul-opening way
of viewing our religion: A perspective grounded in nature, and
rich in insights for seekers of all faiths.
Respect for the holiness of Creation, our
duty to protect the natural world, reverence for the
land…a focus on nature is part of the fabric of Jewish
thought. Here, innovative contributors bring us a richer
understanding of the long-neglected themes of nature that are
woven through the biblical creation story, ancient texts,
traditional law, the holiday cycles, prayer, mitzvot (good deeds),
and community.
Ecology & the Jewish Spirit explores the wisdom that the Jewish tradition
has to offer all of us, to help nature become a sacred,
spiritual part of our own lives.
“Highly readable…deftly
crafted…a treasure-trove of tools and insights for
following the deep roots of Judaism in the soil of this
planet.”
—Steve
Curwood, host of National Public
Radio’s Living on Earth
“A rich collection of thinking and
practices.... Challenges people of all faiths to examine their
own traditions.”
—Rev.
Lynne West, Environmental
Justice Office, National Council of Churches
“Pioneering.... A winning, eclectic
mix linking Judaism and ecology.... This book comes as a
blessing.”
—Rabbi
Irving Greenberg, Founding
President of CLAL; President, Jewish Life Network
“[These] readings are important
steps toward uncovering Judaism’s long-hidden ecological
message…. Can be appreciated by people from every school
of thought and ethnicity.”
—Sierra, the Magazine of the Sierra Club
“For the first time, a book that
illuminates the guiding role that nature plays in human
affairs….A welcome and powerful voice is now added to all
those dedicated to preserving the integrity and sacred quality
of the planet earth.”
—Thomas
Berry, author, The Dream of the Earth
“A great resource for anyone seeking
to explore the connection between their faith and caring for
God’s good creation, our environment.”
—Paul
Gorman, executive director,
National Religious Partnership for the Environment
“Splendid…. Lively and
compelling reflections on taking care of the earth.”
—Publishers
Weekly
“This timely collection, bringing
out the ecological soul of Judaism, is a cause for celebration.
Its many refreshing voices call Jewish spirituality to reawaken
to its own glad reverence for Earth.”
—Joanna
Macy, author, World as Lover, World as Self
“Ellen Bernstein’s
pathbreaking work helps us to rethink the meanings of
Judaism’s ancient texts as we struggle to find ways of
resolving today’s ecological dilemmas.”
—Carolyn
Merchant, professor of
environmental history, philosophy, and ethics, University of
California at Berkeley; author, Earthcare
Related Item(s)
| Code | Name | Image |
| 978-1-58023-086-5 | Torah of the Earth |
|
| 978-1-58023-087-2 | Torah of the Earth |
|
| 978-1-58023-368-2 | Way Into Judaism and the Environment (PB) |
|