What is the connection between Zionism and planting trees in Israel?

The Torah's principle of 'bal tash'hit,' the ban against needless waste, is explored through its surprising introduction amid warfare, highlighting a complex relationship with resources.

This prohibition, which permits felling non-fruit-bearing trees for military needs while protecting fruit trees, is linked to an "iconic analogy": 'ki ha’adam etz hasadeh,' meaning "man is like the tree of the field." This comparison underscores the unique human connection to trees, often perceived with a spiritual lens, as noted by naturalist W. H. Hudson who described a landowner's "reverential feeling for his old trees."

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ki ha’adam etz hasadeh

While not believing nature is animate or trees possess souls, the article notes the prominence of trees throughout Jewish scripture, appearing in foundational narratives like the Garden of Eden and Abraham's visitors. The physical structure of a tree, roots, trunk, and branches, is also presented as mirroring human anatomy, suggesting a profound, almost bodily, identification that extends beyond mere sentimentality.

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he would walk round to visit them, one by one,” resting his hand on the bark and whispering good night. Hudson writes that the man believed his trees possessed “intelligent souls” and appreciated his devotion.