Whether you are relatively new to the idea of ‘keeping kosher’ or already quite knowledgeable of the issues, this book is for you. I recommend this book as a beginning place for understanding how rooted in Scripture kashrut is, and its importance for those at the beginning of their journeys.
What is Kosher?
Kosher is a Hebrew word that literally means "fitting" or "appropriate." It is usually used to describe food that meets the standards of dietary laws in Judaism. The study and practice of Jewish dietary law is called kashrut or kashrus.
Jewish dietary law is based upon the Bible's commands concerning food. For example, Leviticus 11 discusses which species of animals the Israelites may eat and which ones they may not eat. Elsewhere, the Bible discusses topics such as parts of the animal that must be avoided, the proper method of killing the animal, and what must be done with defiled dishes.
Jewish sages, rabbis, and scholars have discussed and expounded on the significance and practical application of these laws. New experiences such as different lands and cultures and advances in technology raised new questions about how to apply the Bible's laws regarding food. Their conclusions form an important part of the laws of kashrut today.
Kosher does not necessarily refer to ethnic Jewish cuisine. Even though something is a traditionally Jewish food such as matzo ball soup, it can still be made in a way that would not be kosher. Likewise, foods that are not traditional in Jewish cuisine, such as sushi, can often be made in a kosher way.
