A common misconception is that in biblical times, when Yahweh ordered the Israelites to invade or attack an army or tribe the Israelites were permitted to do whatever was necessary to win. However, this is not true.
When besieging cities, the Torah forbid the Israelites from cutting down fruit trees unless they somehow caused distress or suffering to its inhabitants (Deut. 20:19-20).
Even during times of war, Jews must not destroy things unnecessarily and must remain conscious of the need to maintain concern for the general welfare, even of their own enemies.
Because fruit trees are vital to humanity, the Rabbis deduced the general principle of bal tashchit, the prohibition of wanton destruction of anything valuable to human existence, including vessels, clothing, buildings, springs, and food.
Please Share and Recommend
Comments
Post a Comment