THE SPIRITUAL FOREST: Timeless Jewish Wisdom for a Healthier Planet and a Richer Spiritual Life by Andy Becker – Gardening, Ecological Protection, Spiritual Philosophy

Andy Becker, a small-town lawyer in Washington State, found solace from the demands of his career through the joys of gardening, the forests of the Pacific Northwest, and the spirituality of Judaism. He shares this sensibility in The Spiritual Forest

In this sequel to The Spiritual Gardener, Becker delivers a quiet, meditative offering that showcases the special connection between ancient Biblical values and the modern concepts of environmentalism.

The narrative is both informative and thought-provoking. To show the connection between our spirituality and the sacredness of our planet Becker uses questions for the reader as a guide, provides resources to take action in protecting natural treasures, and encourages us to share this knowledge with future generations. In a nod to Dr. Seuss’ cautionary tale, The Lorax, Becker stresses the importance of teaching youngsters about a love and respect for the Earth.

While Jewish traditions teach that we must care for the Earth to preserve what God created, and the great Chasidic Masters often wrote of their connection to the forest and their love of trees, Becker is quick to point out that this reverence is not restricted to any one religion or culture.

When a forest is artfully likened to “the greatest synagogue God ever created,” it could just as well be a cathedral. Here he ethereally describes a walk through a grove of old sequoias, their beauty lending a palpable divinity amidst the softness of the forest floor and the shafts of light streaming down.

In veneration of the author’s Northwestern home state and its far-reaching apple industry, Becker appropriately focuses on the popularity and historical relevance of the “King of all fruits.” In equal fairness, he references the significance of all blooming fruit trees and their embodying principle of shared beauty and bounty.

Within this slim volume, each of the 18 chapters opens with a relatable and provocative quote ranging from the philosophical words of religious leaders and environmentalists, to those of entertainment moguls, or the simple, yet profound Joyce Kilmer musings that declare, “I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree.” This wide array of voices helps to broaden Becker’s intentions.

Captivating black & white photographs help introduce each new topic and illustrate in particular the solemn beauty of trees within their natural landscape.

The images of trees range from a giant entity that extends upwards and out of the roof of a ruin at Angkor Wat, intertwined with its anchoring roots, to a favorite family catalpa tree known to drop its jasmine-scented blossoms like summer snow. Each selection, whether a burned-out forest, a close-up of budding fruit, or a high-angle tree canopy provides a noteworthy accompaniment to Becker’s pondering revelations.

In his effort to raise awareness about religious thought and the ethereal divinity of our planet, Becker provides an even balance in speaking to our hearts and minds while keeping our souls and spirits rooted.

A compact, contemplative companion, The Spiritual Forest highlights a gentle yet knowledgeable perspective on blending pious thought and the need to save our natural environment. A powerful book for nature lovers and faithful believers.