Tell me about the Kosher Laws — why do some Jews eat special food? Whats special about the food?
A. Traditional Jews follow kosher laws (kashrut) because they believe they are commanded to by God. Kosher laws don’t deal with only food, but that’s what they’re known for. These complex rulings come from the Torah and are expanded upon in the Talmud. Briefly (very simplified): Animals from which meat and dairy is derived must be domesticated. Land animals must have a cloven hoove and chew cud. Sea animals must have fins and scales. Birds must be non-predatory. Insects, reptiles and amphibians are forbidden. Meat (does not include fish) must be slaughtered a unique way that allows for the most humane death possible. Meat and dairy cannot be eaten together.
