The Land must Rest

This past shabbat we read from the concluding chapters of Leviticus. We are given clear instructions that every seventh year the land must rest. It is to be a sabbath for the land (we call it shmittah). Of course, today we understand that letting the land rest is part of responsible agriculture but in the Torah responsible agriculture is no option - it is a commandment! The Torah understands that our connection to the land is not only necessary for physical nourishment but it is part and parcel of our spiritual nourishment as well.

This week, as we marvel in the bounty of food brought forth from the earth let us fully appreciate the deep soulful connection of our ancient Jewish tradition and the earth's produce.

Rabbi K