Animal Quote by Richard J. Foster
“Graciousness, courtesy, compassion-this is hesed. Hesed is a quality that extends even to the animals and the land. The sabbath rest principle of Hebrew law included the needs of the livestock (Exod. 23:12). After seven years of planting and harvesting, the land itself needed "a year of complete rest" (Lev. 25:5). Even the soil of the vineyards was not to be overtaxed by planting other crops between the rows (Deut. 22:9). The oxen that trod out the grain were not to be muzzled so that they could eat while they worked (Deut. 25:4). And so on.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. Foster, 1978
Hesed, a compassionate kindness, extends to animals and land, mandating rest for soil, livestock, and crops, reflecting a holistic ethic of care.
In simple terms: Compassionate kindness includes caring for animals and the earth, requiring rest for all.
Key Takeaway
Practice holistic compassion that respects all living things.
Themes
compassion
stewardship
rest
holistic ethics
religion
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
serene
Type
religious
ethical
environmental
When to use this quote
- farm management
- animal welfare
- land stewardship
- community rituals
Key Concepts
theology
environmental ethics
biblical law
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we integrate ancient rest principles into modern agriculture?
- What responsibilities do we have toward non-human creation?
A Different Perspective
Modern industrial practices often ignore these ancient principles, causing ecological harm.
