Question

Dear Rabbi,

I would like to know what foods are permissible in the eyes of God. I read about the dietary laws, but still do not understand all of what is written regarding what we can and cannot eat. I thought it might be helpful if you could help me by giving me a list of animals, fowl, and fish that are lawful to eat.

Thanks for your help and God bless you.

Don

Answer

Dear Don,

It is true that the dietary laws, as written in the Bible, may seem a bit complicated. I would suggest you consult with a rabbi in your city if you decide that eating Kosher is something you want to undertake. In the meanwhile, here are the basic principles that you can find in the Encyclopaedia Judaica, under "food":

1. All fruit and vegetables are permitted.
2. Meat taken from a still living animal or from one found dead, and the drinking of blood are prohibited.
3. Only animals specifically slaughtered for food can be eaten. These animals must have two characteristics: those who chew the cud and have cloven hoofs. An animal possessing neither or only one of these characteristics is forbidden. (see Deuteronomy 14: 7-8)
Some types of birds are permitted and the exceptions are specifically named (Lev. 11:13-19). All birds of prey are forbidden, such as the vulture, the osprey, the kite, the falcon, the raven, and the hawk.
The consumption of fish is limited to those possessing scales and fins. As to insects, only locusts can be eaten.
4. The laws regarding use of animal food and its preparation require that all meat and poultry, having been killed in accordance with the laws of shehitah, (ritual slaughter) must be entirely drained of blood. Observance of the dietary laws precludes the mixing or cooking of meat with milk.

I hope this helps you a little in your quest. Let me know if you have more questions.