Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'Thou shalt not eat any abominable thing' mean in Deuteronomy 14:3?
A: This verse introduces the laws of kosher food, prohibiting the consumption of animals, birds, and other creatures that are deemed spiritually impure or 'abominable' according to Torah law. Rashi explains that this refers to non-kosher species listed later in the chapter (Deuteronomy 14:4-20).
Q: Why is keeping kosher important in Judaism?
A: Keeping kosher is a fundamental mitzvah (commandment) that elevates the act of eating into a spiritual practice. The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot) teaches that kosher laws refine a person's character and connect them to holiness. The Talmud (Chullin 109b) also states that avoiding non-kosher food protects the Jewish soul from negative spiritual influences.
Q: What can we learn from the prohibition against eating 'abominable things'?
A: This teaches that Judaism views physical actions—like eating—as having spiritual consequences. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) connects this to the idea that our bodies are holy vessels, and what we consume affects our spiritual sensitivity. By eating only permitted foods, we sanctify our daily lives.
Q: How do we know which foods are considered 'abominable'?
A: The Torah details kosher laws in Deuteronomy 14 and Leviticus 11, specifying permitted and forbidden animals, fish (requiring fins and scales), birds, and insects. The Talmud (Chullin) expands on these rules, and later halachic authorities like the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah) codify practical guidelines for kosher certification today.
Q: Does this verse still apply to Jews today?
A: Yes, the prohibition remains binding. The Rambam (Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot 1:1) emphasizes that these laws are eternal commandments. Modern Orthodox Judaism maintains strict kosher standards, with rabbinic supervision ensuring compliance with Torah and Talmudic requirements in food production and preparation.
Prohibition Against Eating Abominable Things
The verse "לֹא תֹאכַל כָּל־תּוֹעֵבָה" (Devarim 14:3) prohibits the consumption of anything deemed an abomination. This commandment is understood in the context of the Torah's dietary laws (Kashrut), which delineate permissible and forbidden foods.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi comments that the term "תּוֹעֵבָה" (abomination) refers specifically to non-kosher animals, birds, and creeping creatures listed in the Torah (Vayikra 11, Devarim 14). He emphasizes that these creatures are spiritually repulsive and unfit for consumption by the Jewish people, who are commanded to maintain holiness in their dietary practices.
Rambam's Perspective
In Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot), the Rambam elaborates that the prohibition against eating abominable things is not merely about physical impurity but also about spiritual contamination. He teaches that consuming forbidden foods dulls the soul and distances a person from divine sanctity.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) connects this verse to the broader theme of kedushah (holiness), stating that the Jewish people are distinguished by their adherence to dietary laws. By abstaining from abominable foods, they emulate the holiness of Hashem, as it says, "קְדֹשִׁים תִּהְיוּ כִּי קָדוֹשׁ אָנִי" ("You shall be holy, for I am holy" – Vayikra 19:2).
Practical Halachic Implications
Spiritual Significance
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 73) explains that dietary restrictions train a person in self-discipline and refine their character. By controlling physical desires, one elevates the act of eating into a mitzvah, aligning bodily sustenance with divine service.