Shoftim: Sparing the fruit trees, and little else, part 2

The rabbis’ interpretation of the prohibition against destroying fruit trees us (Deuteronomy, chapter 20, verses 19-20) was to forbid wastefulness. In theory, this is a fine basis for the modern environmental movement. In practice, though, this prohibition is honored more in the breach than in the observance. Once upon a time, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration was marked by the sponsorship of a kiddush for the congregation and, perhaps, a luncheon or dinner for the invited family and friends. How did we get from there to here? Now, there’s a buffet that’s more than sufficient for a meal, followed by the meal, followed by the sort of entertainment that used to be reserved for a wedding.

“Simcha inflation” is a serious problem in current Jewish life, in all denominations. A small gathering of friends and family for a brit milah followed by bagels and cream cheese has been replaced by a catered meal. Wedding parties spend literally thousands for flowers alone.

Speaking of pursuing righteousness, I feel a lot more comfortable seeing celebrants spend more on tzedakah and less on a party. I’d like to encourage anyone celebrating a simcha to make a donation to Mazon, a Jewish Response to Hunger (http://www.mazon.org/, (National Office1990 S. Bundy Dr., Ste. 260, Los Angeles, CA 90025-5232, phone 310-442-0020, fax 310-442-0030, mazonmail@mazon.org), or any other Jewish and/or secular charity of your choice.