Jerusalem, 22 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — JERUSALEM — Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel Kalman Meir Ber issued a public directive Ahead of the Sukkot holiday, urging worshippers to observe religious commandments without damaging trees or natural landscapes.
Rabbi Ber warned that cutting down branches or damaging flora to construct temporary holiday huts (sukkahs) violates the biblical prohibition against wanton destruction (Bal Tashchit). He emphasized that fulfilling religious obligations must not involve ecological harm, noting that municipal authorities provide sustainably sourced palm fronds (sach) for roofing.
The Chief Rabbi called on the public to respect environmental safeguards while celebrating the festival, concluding with prayers for peace, security, and harmony across the nation.