Learning Resources

From food, energy and waste to consumerism, Shabbat and prayer, the materials cover eighteen topics on Judaism and ecology. Each of the 18 topics includes a short article (800 words) with a brief overview of the topic for blogs and articles; a long article (2000-2500 words) for in-depth study of the topic; a study guide with Hebrew/English sources and discussion questions for chavruta study or group learning, a podcast with a teaching on this topic; and a short video for sharing.

The materials were developed by Canfei Nesharim in partnership with Jewcology.com and released as a «Year of Jewish Learning on the Environment.»  The director of Jewish Eco Seminars, Rabbi Yonatan Neril, worked with Canfei Nesharim on a consulting basis in developing the materials on all eighteen topics.

Available Now:

Core Teaching #1: Trees, Torah, and Caring for the Earth

Core Teaching #2: Summoning the Will Not to Waste

Core Teaching #3: Compassion for All Creatures

Core Teaching #4: Sustainability in Settling the Land of Israel

Core Teaching #5: Slowing Down: Shabbat and Environmental Awareness

Core Teaching #6: Countering Destruction: Lessons from Noach

Core Teaching #7: Holy Use: Relating to Resources Sustainably

Core Teaching #8: The Spiritual Roots of the Environmental Crisis

Core Teaching #9: Passing the Test of Wealth

Core Teaching #10: Water: Appreciating a Limited Resource

Core Teaching #11: Praying for a Sustainable World

Core Teaching #12: Genesis and Human Stewardship of the Earth

Core Teaching #13: We are How We Eat: A Jewish Approach to Food and Sustainability

Core Teaching #14: Let the Land Rest: Lessons from Shemita, the Sabbatical Year

Core Teaching #15: Toward a Wiser Use of Energy

Core Teaching #16: Being a Good Neighbor

Core Teaching #17: Guard Yourselves Very Well

Core Teaching #18: The Glory in Creation: Valuing Biodiversity

Other Teachings: