Bal tashchit

Question 1

What commandment does Bal Tashchit refer to and where is it found?

Answer 1

Deuteronomy 20:19
“Do not destroy”
“You shall not destroy it’s trees by wielding an axe against them.”

Question 1

What is considered a violation of Bal Tashchit and gods mandate to be stewards of creation?

Answer 1

Consumption of resource in a wasteful manner. Constitutes unnecessary destruction.

Question 2

What understanding does Bal Taschit promote?

Answer 2

Everything created by God was done so for a purpose, and thus demands respect.

Question 3

What teaching further emphasizes the teaching of bal Tashchit?

Answer 3

Teachings on wasting natural resources. Found within the Talmud.
“One who covers an oil lamp, or uncovers a naphtha lamp has violated bal Tashchit” - Shabbat

Question 5

How does Imagio Dei (image and likeness of god; Gen 2:26) relate to Bal Taschit?

Answer 5

Bal Taschit supported by imagio dei, as it supports that just as we were created in the image of God, we must also be creators, not destroyers.

Question 6

What did Moses maimondes state about bal Tashchit?

Answer 6

“Whoever burns a garment or breaks a vessel, contravenes the commandment; ‘do not destroy’.”