תלמוד בבלי מסכת שבת דף סז עמוד ב
Rav Zutra says, One who covers an oil lamp, or uncovers a naphtha lamp has violated ba'al taschit. (note: ba'al taschit refers to the Torah's prohibition on wasteful or pointless destruction of property or resources)
Suggested Discussion Questions:
1. What are modern parallels to covering an oil lamp or uncovering a lamp? What is the parallel to electricity?
2. What are various denominations' reactions to the belief that leaving lights on during shabbat is wasteful rather than halachic?
Time Period: Rabbinic (Maccabees through the Talmud)