Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'clean fowls' mean in Deuteronomy 14:20?
A: The Torah lists specific birds that are kosher (permitted to eat) and others that are non-kosher (forbidden). 'Clean fowls' refers to birds that meet the kosher criteria, such as having an extra toe, a crop, and a gizzard that can be peeled (Chullin 59a). The verse permits eating only those birds that fit these signs of kashrut.
Q: Why does the Torah specify which birds we can eat?
A: The Torah teaches us that certain foods elevate the soul while others may have negative spiritual effects. Rambam (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot) explains that non-kosher birds often have cruel or predatory traits, and by avoiding them, we refine our character. Eating kosher birds helps us maintain spiritual purity.
Q: How do we know which birds are kosher today?
A: We rely on a tradition (mesorah) passed down through generations identifying which birds are kosher. The Talmud (Chullin 63b) lists some kosher birds, such as chickens, ducks, and geese. Without a clear tradition, a bird cannot be considered kosher, even if it has kosher signs.
Q: What lesson can we learn from this verse about food?
A: This verse teaches that eating is not just about physical nourishment but also spiritual discipline. By following kosher laws, we train ourselves to make mindful, holy choices in all aspects of life. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 73) explains that kashrut helps us control our desires and connect to Hashem.
Understanding the Verse
The verse "כָּל־עוֹף טָהוֹר תֹּאכֵלוּ" ("But of all clean fowls you may eat") appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 14:11, within the broader context of the Torah's laws regarding kosher animals. This verse permits the consumption of birds that are deemed טָהוֹר (tahor, "clean" or "pure") according to the Torah's criteria.
Criteria for Kosher Birds
The Torah does not explicitly list the signs distinguishing kosher birds from non-kosher ones, unlike the clear criteria given for land animals (split hooves and chewing the cud) and fish (fins and scales). Instead, the Talmud (Chullin 59a-65a) derives the principles for identifying kosher birds based on tradition and the list of forbidden birds in Vayikra (Leviticus) 11:13-19 and Devarim 14:12-18.
Spiritual and Ethical Dimensions
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 157) explains that the prohibition against eating non-kosher birds serves to distance the Jewish people from cruelty and negative influences. Since non-kosher birds are often predators, consuming them could impart undesirable traits. Permitted birds, by contrast, are associated with gentleness and purity.
Practical Halachic Implications
In practice, Orthodox Jews rely on a mesorah (established tradition) to determine which birds are kosher. Common examples include chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys, which have a clear mesorah. Birds without a mesorah, even if they fit physical descriptions of kosher birds, are not eaten.