Program Overview
In this module, participants will have an opportunity to connect to nature in Israel while simultaneously engaging in a stimulating Jewish environmental teaching. They will enjoy a guided hike in a rich historical, ecological site in Israel.
One of the environmental successes of modern Israel is the reforestation of the Land of Israel. Yet, an array of environmental issues present significant challenges for modern Israel, from air pollution to species loss to urban sprawl. These will be touched on in conjunction with Jewish values that offer insights into potential solutions for how the Jewish people can live sustainably in the land of Israel in the 21st century.
Possible Locations: Any forested area in Israel with a hiking trail and shaded places for the group to stop along the way. The Jerusalem Forest, just outside of Jerusalem, is one ideal location for this module. Ein Sataf, 20 minutes outside of Jerusalem, provides another optimal location. That site contains an orchard of fruit trees indigenous to Israel, an old-grove oak forest, an ancient wine press, and organic garden plots cultivated using traditional techniques.
Time: Two hours thirty minutes, excluding travel time to and from site.
Basic Module Timetable:
0:00-0:20 Introduction
0:20-1:00 Guided hike through a dramatic nature site in Israel with opportunities to touch, smell & taste as we walk
1:00-2:50 Brief learning in pairs about Jewish texts relating to the environment in Jewish traditional and contemporary thought
Group discussions of the teachings and experiential activities related to the site and texts
Refreshments of local fruits with insights into how they grow in Israel
Interactive exploration of contemporary environmental challenges in Israel
Circulate questions for contemplation
2:50-3:30 Guided hike back to bus with time for participants to contemplate and/or discuss questions
Summary and conclusions