Traditions.
Initiative.
"To work it and to guard it." (Genesis 2:15) - The mandate to protect the Earth.
Tikkun Olam
The mission of ReJews is connected to the obligation of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world. In the Mishnah, Tractate Gittin, Chapter 4, Mishna 2, Rabban Gamaliel the Elder established certain rulings for the sake of tikkun olam, meaning a practical correction that remedies harm. This concept is not abstract. It calls for responsible action that improves the world we live in.
Protecting the Earth is an active mandate. Together with Bal Tashchit, the prohibition against waste, these teachings guide the ReJews approach to sustainability and environmental action.
Bal Tashchit
"Do not destroy." The prohibition against wastefulness is a central tenet of Jewish law. Solar energy prevents the waste of finite resources and money.
Vayishlach
In the Torah portion of Vayishlach, before Yaakov wrestles with the angel, he returns across a river to retrieve small jugs that were left behind. This moment highlights Bal Tashchit, the directive not to waste, even when the item seems insignificant. This teaching serves as a foundation for ReJews' promotion of sustainable living practices, reminding us that mindful use of resources reflects care for both the present and future.
L'ovda U'l'shomra
"To work it and to guard it." (Genesis 2:15). We are tasked with being guardians of the earth. Reducing our carbon footprint is a direct fulfillment of this duty.
Light unto the Nations
By adopting cutting-edge renewable technology, our communities serve as a moral example to the wider world.
Inspired by the Torah
The Torah teaches responsibility through action, not waste. Building on these values, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, emphasized that the sun's energy was created for humanity's benefit and should be used constructively. In 1981, during the Birkat Hachamah blessing of the sun, the Lubavitcher Rebbe described solar energy as a way forward in harnessing renewable power. Promoting solar adoption reflects this teaching by turning a natural resource into practical benefit while caring for the world entrusted to us.
Halachic Perspectives
Leading Poskim have increasingly addressed environmental issues, citing the obligation to protect human health and the integrity of creation.
Switching to solar energy is seen by many as a fulfillment of these mitzvot, reducing pollution and preserving the world that Hashem entrusted to us.