Kosher

Kosher is a Hebrew term meaning ‘fit’, ‘proper’, or ‘appropriate’. It can refer to anything that is fit (or not) for ritual purposes.

Most often ‘kosher’ refers to food and food preparation. The laws of kosher define what and how Jews should eat.

This system of rules is based in the Hebrew Bible and was developed by historical rabbis. It has continued to change over time as Jewish lives have changed.

Someone who follows these rules is said to be ‘keeping kosher’. Traditionally, this involves three basic elements:

1. Avoiding foods prohibited by the laws of kashrut.
2. Avoiding meat that has not been correctly slaughtered or prepared according to ritual method.
3. Avoiding mixing meat and milk. (People who keep kosher may have separate storage, utensils, and washing facilities for meat and milk products.)

This photo shows an in-flight meal on a airplane that is certified kosher, “under strict rabbinical supervision”.

Different communities across time and place have interpreted kosher eating in different ways. Different individuals and families may also have their own interpretations. Some Jews do not not keep kosher at all for a variety of reasons.