A Jewish Approach to Animal Welfare (in Hebrew) — יהודות וצער בעלי חיים

In this insightful Hebrew-language lecture, Rabbi Yonatan Neril, Founder and Director of the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development, explores the rich Jewish tradition of compassion toward animals and the ethical responsibilities humans have toward all living creatures.

Drawing on teachings from the Torah, Talmud, and later Jewish sources, Rabbi Neril examines the concept of Tza’ar Ba’alei Chayim (preventing the suffering of animals), a foundational principle in Jewish ethics. He discusses how Judaism views humanity’s role as caretakers of creation and highlights the moral obligations that accompany this responsibility.

Filmed in the historic Nachlaot neighborhood of Jerusalem, the talk addresses practical and contemporary questions related to animal welfare, food production, environmental stewardship, and the treatment of animals in modern society. Rabbi Neril demonstrates how ancient Jewish wisdom remains highly relevant to current discussions about ethics, sustainability, and compassionate living.

This lecture offers a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between faith, responsibility, and respect for all forms of life, providing valuable insights for anyone interested in Judaism, animal welfare, and environmental ethics.

Please see this video for more on the well being of Earth’s creatures.