Is It Ethical to Keep a Kosher Home While Choosing Non-Kosher Outside?

Is it ethical to keep a kosher home while deciding to be non-kosher outside?

It's certainly a common question, and one that many religious Jews, including myself, have pondered. Growing up, I was taught that kashrut (kasherness) was a commandment directly from God. The idea that such a fundamental religious practice should only be followed within the confines of one's home struck me as inconsistent. After all, wouldn't it violate the essence of the command if we were to follow it only when it was convenient?

Biblical Commandments and Practical Living

Scripturally, the Bible doesn't seem to make a distinction between being kosher within the home and outside of it. The Torah says, "You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy" (Leviticus 19:2). This command applies to all aspects of life, and not just when one is within the four walls of their home. The primary exception to this rule is when keeping kosher poses a direct threat to one's life.

Life-Threatening Situations

For instance, a person stranded in an area with no kosher options for food is allowed to consume non-kosher food to survive. Similarly, if a person is in a life-threatening situation and can only find non-kosher medication, it would be ethically justified to use that medication. However, such instances should be rare and should not be the norm.

Social and Personal Choices

While these examples highlight exceptional circumstances, it's important to recognize that each person has the right to choose how they observe their religious practices. Many people, including myself, choose to keep kosher at home to create a comfortable environment for friends and family.

A Personal Insight: Living by Example

I once had a neighbor who kept kosher, but she occasionally tasted bacon at a friend's house. Curious about cooking it herself, she consulted with a neighbor, who told her that it was a personal choice. We all sat outside one afternoon and were aware of the bacon's aroma, which could only have come from within the neighbor's house. After she admitted to cooking bacon, we all laughed about the waste of cooking such food, despite her intentions.

Alternative Solutions

I suggested she try kosher beef fry as an alternative with fewer downsides, and it's possible she took my advice. But the experience highlighted the importance of understanding different practices and respecting personal choices.

Spelling Mistakes: A Teachable Moment

Another instance that comes to mind highlights the importance of understanding language and context. During a parent-teacher meeting, a mother came to announce that her son's name was Geoffrey. The teacher, unfamiliar with the spelling, mistakenly pronounced it as Gophery. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural and linguistic sensitivity.

Ultimately, the decision to keep kosher only within the home or to extend it to all aspects of life is a matter of personal choice and understanding. While it is important to respect the commands of one's faith, it is equally crucial to show empathy and respect for the choices of others.