The Spiritual Forest: Timeless Jewish Wisdom
NIEA Finalist
Best Book Award Finalist
5-Star Review
Did you ever think that Adam, Judaism’s description of the first human being, might be called the world’s earliest forest ranger? Like many religions that embrace nature within their spiritual philosophies, the Jewish tradition in particular has a deep, rich connection to the natural world. If Adam were alive today, he would be sounding the alarm that our natural world is at risk. Our trees – and our planet – are in extreme danger from deforestation that continues unabated. But there is something else at stake as well.
The more we strip the earth of nature’s magnificent trees, the more we harm our spiritual selves. Fortunately, there is a way to protect and restore our earth and our spirituality. By cultivating our trees and forests as a vital source of life, we can connect to the earth – and our spirituality – in a deeply transformational way.
Through Jewish scriptures, teachings, and commentary, The Spiritual Forest will help you discover how to: Appreciate the connection we have between the earth, trees, and our spirituality Use Judaic principles related to the environment and apply them to your spiritual life, regardless of your religion, political affiliation, or background Deepen your connection to nature Experience the pleasure that comes from contributing to a higher, divine missio Take simple yet impactful steps to help save our precious earth.
We all have the capacity to expand and grow through self-reflection and meaningful actions that contribute to the vitality of our communities and the environment. Let The Spiritual Forest serve as an inspirational resource to guide you on your journey toward a healthier, more sustainable world – and a more fulfilling spiritual life.
Winner: National Indie Excellence Awards (NGIBA)
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Testimonials for Spiritual Forest!
Rabbi J.L. MirelAuthor of "Stepping Stones to Jewish Spiritual Living" "Andy Becker has created another inspiring book that brings us closer to nature and to the spiritual side of life. Trees are the source of our physical sustenance but also serve as the quintessential Jewish metaphor for Torah in all its aspects. Read this book a bit at a time and you will be elevated to new levels of holiness."
Rabbi Miles KrassenPlanetaryJudaism.org "The Spiritual Forest is an inspiring and beautifully written work celebrating the preciousness of the earth and its glories. The vision is supported by a wide array of deep sources, drawn from both Jewish and non-Jewish traditions, along with practical suggestions for how to meaningfully contribute to the wellness and sustainability of our sacred home."
Howard VanEsPresident, Let’s Write Books, Inc. "It is a rare individual that can speak with clarity and insight when it comes to issues that involve the mind and spirit. In The Spiritual Forest, Andy Becker brilliantly accomplishes this—and the very act of reading it will raise your consciousness."
Geoffrey L. HaskettPresident, National Wildlife Refuge Association "Andy Becker and I were high school friends and celebrated the first ever Earth Day together! He clearly still loves the earth and captures writing about why we need to take care of the earth from his Jewish tradition... I love how Andy writes from that remarkable notion and loved reading this book. Really nicely done and fun to read!"
Dorothy WilhelmColumnist, Broadcaster, and Bestselling Author "Andy Becker has done it again! This time, it’s The Spiritual Forest and just as I was thinking, ‘That’s enough spiritual reading for the day,’ Becker comes out with the astonishing idea that Adam may have been the first Forest Ranger. That’s what he says!! This slender volume is a joyous hymn to the precious gift that trees are to the planet."
Graeme P. Berlyn, Ph.DYale School of the Environment "It is a truly enriching experience to read Andy Becker’s recent book, The Spiritual Forest. It provides a biblical basis for our responsibility to care for, nurture, and sustain our beautiful planet."
Denise FrisinoAuthor and Speaker "A book such as The Spiritual Forest can be many things: a spiritual guide, thoughtful prose, a call to arms (or shovels). This journey of reflection should be savored, like a feast that has been grown in one’s private garden... Exceptional and inspiring."
Bob HillRetired Columnist, Louisville Courier-Journal "As a man who has covered eight bare acres with a wide variety of trees over 50 years... Andy Becker’s ‘The Spiritual Forest’ is the perfect biblical companion. It is a book to be read and absorbed slowly, perhaps sitting under a different leafy tree with each visit."
Nalini M. NadkarniProfessor, School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah "This compact and wonderfully-illustrated book brings readers a fresh perspective on why humans value and protect the arboreal world through the lens of rigorous religious scholarship and references, but with a light touch... I will share this book near and far—to people of all experiences and faiths."
"Just as others planted for me, I plant for future generations." — Talmud