Nature
R. Johanan observed: If the Torah had not been given we could have learnt
modesty from the cat, honesty from the ant, chastity from the dove, and
good manners from the rooster who first coaxes and then mates.
-Eiruvin 100b
Commentary: Experiencing G-d and Torah through nature is a path
that is unfamiliar to many Jews. Perhaps this is because of ancient fears
that this might lead to worshipping the sun and the moon instead of the
Source behind them. Nevertheless, it is an important spiritual path to which
many references can be found in Jewish literature. In particular, Psalm
19 highlights two paths to G-d that one may follow. The second half
of Psalm 19 extols the virtues of G-d's commandments,
but the first half shows us how we may have a direct experience of G-d's
glory through nature. Additional references to experiencing G-d in nature
can be found in the writings of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.
As human beings, we have a need for the type of immediate experience of
G-d that can be found in a natural setting. As it says in Psalms 34:9, "Taste
(experience) and see that the Lord is good."
