Righteous Indignation, Ch. 9 (p 67-75)

Righteous Indignation, Ch. 9 (p 67-75)
Wonder and Restraint: A Rabbinical Call to Environmental Action -- COEJL

(1) Within the Jewish tradition reside rich teachings about the unity of creation, about boundaries and limits, about deeds and consequences, about poverty and wealth, about individual and communal responsibility, which together form a comprehensive environmental vision and provide practical guidance for environmental balance and restoration" (p 68).

What examples stand out to you that demonstrate the unity of creation? What boundaries or limits do you are most in need of respect? How do poverty and wealth fit in the conversation on enviro stewardship?

(2) "The awakening we seek begins with wonder" (p 68).

Why wonder? What is the significance of wonder? Why do you think the authors want us to begin here?

(3) We are called to consistency on page 69. How consistent are my words and deeds? Do I thank God for the bounty of my meals while supporting agriculture that "despoils the waterways"? Do I give tzedakah and think little of the effects of my investments? Do I talk a big game and yet still leave a large chemical and carbon footprint?

(4) It is said on pages 70 and 71 that there are two covenantal responsibilities--restraint and speaking out. "First, we must understand "...restraint: to practice restraint in our individual and communal lives" (p 70). Examples include Shabbat, dietary consciousness, destruction in warfare, care for animals, generosity and self-care.

"...we must transform ourselves from nature's children to nature's guardians by learning to say 'dai,' 'enough,' to ourselves" (p 71).

In what areas do I need to exercise some restraint--shopping, traveling, watching TV, working, blogging, worrying, controlling? How could restraint in these areas bless the Earth?

(5) "...the second convenantal obligation that our Earth and our faith require is that we speak out, and speak truth, to the world's leaders" (p 71).

Of the six general obligations listed on page 71, which are you already doing? Which pose the biggest challenge for you? Why? Who can hear your voice today?

(6) "Let us rejoice that we, as children of God, have been endowed with the intelligence, reverence, scientific capacity, and faith to serve as the caretakers for such an extraordinary world! And when God declares to us--'Look at My works! See how beautiful they are--how excellent! For your sake I created them all. See to it that you do not spoil and destroy My world, for if you do, there will be no one else to repair it' (Ecclesiastes Rabbah 7:13)--let us respond, with unified voice: 'We will do and we will hearken' (Exodus 24:7)" (p 75).

May we each respond with love, reflection and action.