The pandemic rocked the world and led many people to turn to new practices, beliefs, and ways of life - including nature-based spirituality. Discover here.
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The pandemic led us down a path like no other. The world went into shutdown - leading many people to turn to alternative ways of living or simply existing. There are many articles online about Jewish people turning to nature-based spirituality post-pandemic, a movement that allowed them to explore the deeper meaning behind the religion they follow.
It's an opportunity to look within, exploring values, beliefs, and how they coincide with the natural cycles around us. Keep reading to learn more.
Jewish Beliefs On Natural Cycles
Judaism closely links to natural cycles, something those outside the religion may not understand. The Jewish calendar is lunisolar, which means it's regulated by the moon and the sun. People follow a lunisolar calendar for multiple reasons - the moon is said to have different meanings and energies throughout the phases of its cycle that tie closely to spirituality. As such, Jewish people celebrate each new moon - a practice called Rosh Chodesh.
Then you have Rosh Hashanah, the signal of a completely New Year where the sounds of a shofar ring far and wide. The shofar signals the call to repentance, a chance to reflect on everything that's happened over the last 12 months and start fresh - you can find examples of the shofar horn for sale online.
The pandemic gave Jewish people the time to explore the nature-based - or what some people call earth-based - Jewish practices that are already engraved into the fabric of Judaism. It also gave birth to online groups like Talmud study groups which promote ancient Jewish practices linking to nature-based spirituality.
What Judaism Believes About The Environment
Judaism places the responsibility of the world and the environment on humanity. Jews believe in Genesis - that God created the world - and that humans have the responsibility to cultivate creation, guard it, and use it correctly - something known as stewardship.
If you explore the history of Judaism and beliefs, there are multiple connections to nature and natural cycles. Tikkun Olam, for example, means repairing the world and the Jewish desire to create harmony - referring to social harmony and people living in peace, health, justice, and prosperity. An example of jews actioning this is the practice of a sabbatical year - every seven years, the earth is left to fallow, so natural ingredients in the soil can replenish.
How This Benefits A Post-Pandemic World
The exploration of natural cycles and Judaism seeks to serve a more inclusive and environmentally aware world. Judaism isn't the only culture or religion that follows moon cycles and isn't the only one that promotes the cultivation and preservation of the environment - but online support and teaching groups have elevated the understanding.
It'll benefit the world by opening up a channel for honest discussions about Judaism, the way the world works, and the way we're all connected to natural cycles.
The pandemic has taught us a lot about life, religion, spirituality, and how fast all can change. It has enabled us to have more honest conversations, connected lost people with religion, and offered an alternative way of life. What do you believe about natural cycles and the way the world works?