In Jewish tradition, spiritual leadership was shaped not only through study and text, but first and foremost through direct engagement with life itself — with the land, with animals, and with responsibility for the silent creation entrusted to humanity.

Today, the term animal chaplaincy is often perceived as something new or unusual. Yet a closer look reveals that it is not an innovation at all, but a return to the most ancient form of Judaism — prophetic Judaism.

Prophets as Guardians of Life

The Torah begins the story of humanity not with law, but with a task. Adam is placed in the Garden not as a priest or a judge, but as a guardian. He gives names to the animals — and in Jewish thought, naming means recognizing essence and accepting responsibility. Midrashic tradition preserves the idea that Adam drew the cat close to himself, welcoming the animal into human space. This is not a domestic anecdote, but a model: human life unfolds alongside animal life, with accountability.

Noah elevates this responsibility further. He saves not only human beings, but the entire living world. Midrashim emphasize that Noah cared for every animal according to its nature and needs, excluding none from his responsibility. His righteousness is measured not by words, but by action........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)