In most germanic languages the word “kosher” is used very often and a common word. In German for example, something that is not kosher, is something that is not trusted in or does not seem to be right. On the other hand most people seem to have heard, that kosher has something to do with eating rules in Judaism, but do not know many further details. In fact the word means in hebrew “clean” and “pure”. Jews, though, do not only use the term “kosher” in connection with their eating rules. So the question is, what does a Jew mean when about talking about this purity? In order to understand the eating rules better, we first need to look at a part of the jewish religious philosophy.
Compared to Christianity Jews do not have any kind of asceticism. That means there is no celibacy in Judaism. They do not have monasteries or monks. In Judaism everything is seen as a gift given to us by God. Jews try to enjoy these gifts by making them holy thrugh certain rules. Jews try to make things, which are part of the human nature and which are done everyday, holy and something special. They do not only do this in order to serve God, but also to draw a line between humans and animals. The rules for a kosher living help Jews to make common things holy in everyday life.
Table of Contents
- INTRODUCTION.
- KOSHER RULES
- Meat
- Dairy
- Parve
- Wine
- Separation of meat and dairy
- Kosherizing
- Passover
- Schechita
- At home
- CONCLUSION
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper explores the meaning and significance of "kosher" in Judaism, delving into the eating rules and their underlying religious philosophy. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the concept of purity and its relevance to everyday Jewish life.
- The concept of purity in Jewish philosophy and its application beyond food.
- The specific rules governing kosher meat and dairy consumption.
- The role of the Torah and rabbinical interpretations in defining kosher practices.
- The historical and cultural context surrounding kosher practices.
- The relationship between kosher rules and spiritual purity.
Chapter Summaries
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the concept of "kosher" and its multifaceted meanings, particularly within the context of Jewish dietary practices. It also explores the religious philosophy behind kosher rules, contrasting Jewish beliefs with Christian asceticism.
- Kosher Rules: This chapter delves into the specific rules governing kosher food and drink. It addresses the categories of kosher meat, dairy, and parve foods, explaining the distinctions and guidelines associated with each. It also examines the separation of meat and dairy and the practice of kosherizing.
Keywords
The key terms and concepts explored in this paper include kosher, purity, Jewish philosophy, dietary laws, Torah, rabbinical interpretations, meat, dairy, parve, separation of meat and dairy, kosherizing, Schechita, and spiritual purity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the word "kosher" literally mean?
In Hebrew, the word "kosher" means "clean," "pure," or "fit."
How does the Jewish concept of purity differ from Christian asceticism?
Unlike some Christian traditions, Judaism does not practice asceticism or celibacy. Instead, it views worldly gifts as blessings from God that should be made holy through specific rules.
What are the main categories of kosher food?
Kosher food is divided into meat (fleishig), dairy (milchig), and parve (neutral foods like fruits, vegetables, and fish).
What is the rule regarding meat and dairy separation?
Judaism strictly prohibits cooking, eating, or deriving benefit from mixtures of meat and dairy products, requiring separate utensils and waiting periods between consumption.
What is "Schechita"?
Schechita is the ritual slaughter of birds and mammals for food according to Jewish dietary laws, performed by a trained specialist called a shochet.
Why do Jews follow kosher dietary laws?
Beyond serving God, these rules are intended to make everyday acts holy, develop spiritual purity, and draw a distinction between humans and animals.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Sarah Kirsch (Autor:in), 2004, What is Kosher?, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/72454
