Nature & the Environment Quiz | My Jewish Learning

Question 1 of 10

According to medieval commentator Don Isaac Abravanel, the Torah emphasizes sustainability through its discussions of which of the following mitzvot?

Question 2 of 10

Which of the following was a major ecological concern in talmudic times?

Question 3 of 10

How do many Israelis deal with the challenges of the shemitah (sabbatical) year?

Question 4 of 10

What is the traditional Jewish theological understanding of humanity’s relationship with the earth?

The heavens are for God and the earth was set aside for humanity, so we can do with it whatever we want
God gives careful instructions about what parts of the environment we are free to do with as we wish, and which are to be dedicated to His glory
To the extent that the forces of nature can be harnessed, it is the job of humanity to be the stewards of the world, and to act on behalf of God
Each person's relationship to the environment is determined by God, and it is each person's responsibility to seek out the appropriate balance

Question 5 of 10

Which Israelite tribe was not given agricultural land and essentially remained urban?

Question 6 of 10

According to Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, why did the Bible require that levitical cities be surrounded by green space?

Question 7 of 10

According to the 13th Century Seder Hahinukh, righteous people should grieve when what seed is wasted?

Question 8 of 10

Which of these traditions presents a challenge for Jewish families trying to balance traditional practice with environmental sensitivity?

Question 9 of 10

In what way is Tuv Ha'Aretz, the first Jewish Community-Supported Agriculture program in North America, different from other CSAs?

The produce is grown by Jewish farmers
The money goes to Jewish charities
Members have the opportunity to participate in educational and social activities that connect Jewish tradition with agriculture
Members are required to take part in the mitzvah of leaving the corners of the fields unharvested

Question 10 of 10

What is the name for the prohibition of unnecessary cruelty to animals?