More than 70 rabbis from across the world and from across the religious spectrum signed a declaration urging Jews to switch to a vegan diet. The statement was signed by 13 Orthodox rabbis, 24 Conservative rabbis, 25 Reform rabbis, 8 Reconstructionist rabbis, 3 transdenominational rabbis, 1 Renewal rabbi and 1 Secular Humanist rabbi, as well as by 2 rabbinic students and one cantorial student.
The rabbis call on their ‘fellow Jews to transition towards animal-free, plant-based diets. This approach to sustenance is an expression of our shared Jewish values of compassion for animals, protection of the environment, and concern for our physical and spiritual well-being’. Arguing that animal agriculture is ‘the number one contributor to global climate change among all economic sectors’, they add: ‘As we enter the New Year, let’s align our actions with Judaism’s values and solve these problems’.
Former chief rabbi of Ireland, David Rosen has asserted that virtually all meat should be considered non-kosher, due to the egregious contrast between Jewish law and contemporary animal-agriculture practices. According to Rabbi David Wolpe, ‘Tza’ar ba’alei chayim’, not causing pain to another living creature, is a central principle of the Jewish tradition and we violate it every time we eat something that we know was factory farmed, was debeaked, declawed, was treated cruelly’.
Fortunately, the Jewish vegan community is growing, but we still have a long way to go. As Jews, we should be expanding our circle of compassion, not narrowing it. We should be setting an example, not following the lead of a decadent society. Let us look at the changes that we can make.
Firstly, for Shabbat and Holidays, opt for a plant-forward diet. Swap sides and desserts for a plant-based version. For example, try lentil soup instead of chicken soup. Try a ‘Meatless Shabbat’ or a Shabbat lunch that is plant-based. Make holiday menus greener by trying vegan charoset, veggie matzah ball soup, dairy-free cheesecakes on Shavuot and honey-free deserts using date syrup and Rosh Hashana. During the Sabbath, we are celebrating God’s creation, and we are commanded to rest. According to the Torah, animals must also be allowed to rest. The diet most consistent with honouring our planet is one that is plant-based.
Secondly, instil an ‘Eco-Kashrut’ mindset. Eco-kashrut seeks to ensure that food is not only spiritually permissible but also ecologically responsible. Go beyond the hechsher and ask ‘how’ the food was produced. Choose local, fairtrade or organic where possible. Buy less processed vegan food and focus on seasonal foods. Essentially, Jewish law encourages avoiding waste and excess. Compost food scraps as well as this is a direct application the Jewish commandment of bal taskchit (‘do not destroy’).
Lastly, sermons are an effective way to inspire and fortify the soul into learning about the beauty of plant-based diets. Try organising a Tu BiShvat seder focusing on plant-based foods and environmental awareness. Offer adult-education sessions discussing inciteful questions like ‘Is Eco-Kashrut the New Kashrut?’ and ‘What Jewish Law Says About Food Waste and Animal Welfare?’ Not only that, invite speakers from Jewish Veg or the Jewish Vegetarian Society to present at community events.
Nonetheless, it is much easier to adopt a plant-based diet today because of the increasing abundance of plant-based substitutes with appearances, textures, and tastes very similar to meat and other animal products.