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Torah Study Discussion Starter: Shemini

The parashah that kicks off April is Shemini, which provides a long list of foods that are kosher and defines those that are not...but gives no justification for kashrut (the dietary laws). Why do we keep kosher? Is God the ultimate cosmic doctor, whose all-knowing wisdom has kept us away from foods that are harmful to the health of the Jewish people? 

We can't fully know God's intentions, but what we have found in practice is that keeping a kosher diet allows us to bring Judaism into the details of our daily lives. At each meal, we are reminded of community, spirituality and our commitment to reaffirm daily the Jewish values that make us who we are.

You may or may not keep kosher - it is a personal decision. We have a question for both:

If you do...what's your favorite kosher recipe? 

If you don't, what other ways do you bring Judaism into your daily life? 

Try taking some time with your family and friends to discuss each other's thoughts on this. And, if you are in the sharing mood, share it with the community on our Facebook page.

Hot tip: Sisterhood’s “Family Favorites” cookbook has some pretty fantastic recipes and is available for purchase on our website at https://www.pjtc.net/sisterhood!

For more information on why we keep kosher, click here to read a My Jewish Learning article on the subject.

Fri, March 29 2024 19 Adar II 5784