Chapter 8 – Luxury, Desire & Personal Growth

Higher Standards, The Etrog & The Olive Tree

 Case Study: Hermès craftspeople sign each bag — luxury as personal responsibility, not mass waste.

 Torah Source: Deut. 20:19 — “Do not destroy trees” — the biblical root of sustainability.

 Example: Fair-trade luxury chocolate and diamonds — aligning beauty with ethics.

 Jewish Value: Bal tashchit (do not waste) encourages mindful luxury.

Avoiding Vanity: The fine line between mitzvah and ego

 Aligning Luxury with Values: Choosing beauty that uplifts others