עברית
Ask the Rabbi - General
Littering in the Land of Israel
Question
Hello, esteemed Rabbi,
I heard that one who litters in the Land of Israel has their prayers unanswered for 40 days. Is this true, and if so, what is the source? In this regard, there are many who throw their cigarette butts on the ground—does this count as littering in the Land of Israel, or is it not considered so since someone comes afterward to clean it up?
Thank you, Ariel..
Answer
Hello,
It is not known of any source stating that one who litters in the Land of Israel has their prayers unanswered for forty days.
However, it is certainly very commendable not to litter the land of Israel at all—even in cases where someone comes afterward to clean up the litter (see Responsa Mishneh Halachot, part 14, section 129, beginning with 'but'). People of basic civility take care not to throw litter anywhere in the world.
Best regards,
Hillel Meirs
