Baal Tashchit (Do Not Destroy)

As we prepare for the Jewish holiday of Tu Bishvat (Jewish Arbor Day which falls on February 7-8), we become more conscious of the ways in which we can better fulfill the mitzvah (commandment) of Bal Tashchit ("Do not destroy"), based on Deuteronomy 20:19-20:

"When in your war against a city you have to besiege it a long time in order to capture it, you must not destroy its trees, wielding the ax against them. You may eat of them, but you must not cut them down. Are trees of the field human to withdraw before you into the besieged city? Only trees that you know do no yield food may be destroyed; you may cut them down for constructing siege works against the city that is waging war on you, until it has been reduced."

Questions for Discussion and Further Thought:

• How do we damage Creation when we consume in a wasteful manner?

• Have you ever bought something you really didn't need or use? How can we consider our real needs whenever we purchase anything?

• When planning a family simcha such as a naming or a Bnai Mitzvah celebration, how can we limit wasteful decorations or excess food?

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