Kashrut

Kashrut refers to the Jewish dietary laws that specify which foods are permissible and how they must be prepared. These laws are outlined in the Torah and interpreted by rabbinic authorities. Key principles include avoiding certain animals (like pigs and shellfish), ensuring meat and dairy are not mixed, and using specific methods of slaughtering animals (shechita). Prepared kosher foods follow strict cleanliness and separation rules to maintain ritual purity. Kashrut guides daily eating practices for observant Jews, emphasizing spiritual discipline, ethical treatment of animals, and community identity.