Rabbi explores Judaism-environmentalism link

Rabbi Barry Freundel, an adjunct religion professor and author, presented a lecture entitled “It’s Not Easy Being Green” as part of the third-annual Shiur Madness informational series.

The event, sponsored by Emes, a GW Jewish student group, explored the relationship between Judaism and environmentalism Thursday night.

“Judaism has a strong environmental bent that runs through almost everything,” Freundel said.

Freundel said to respect creation is to respect the creator. He also said because God is concerned about the fate of the earth, people should show concern for the environment as well.

Audience members said human survival, limited resources and the independent worth of the environment are reasons for environmental consciousness.

Freundel cited examples from the Bible, the Talmud and other scriptures to present historical environmental concern in Judaism.

Emes sponsored Shiur Madness (shiur means class or lesson in Hebrew) to promote learning about Judaism and spirituality on campus, said Mat Slatkin, Emes president.

-Jessica Bradley