The Blood and the Life-Force
what strikes me as perhaps more interesting is the agreement between the rationalists and the kabbalists. Similarly, there is also a strong affinity to be found among the writings of the New Testament on this topic as well.
Among the warnings in the Torah, particularly the portion known as Re'eh¹, there is an emphasis on the avoidance of blood. Multiple times this section reiterates 1) the avoidance of blood, and 2) the life-force contained within the blood, of which we will explore in a moment.
In addition to this warning, it is promised that upholding this command will have a positive impact on future generations².
Diverse Reasons to Keep Kashrut
Reading these passages, it leaves us to ponder the potential for hidden, or spiritual reason(s) behind Kashrut (dietary laws known as Kosher). Perhaps influenced by these passages, some Gentiles also shop the Kosher food section.
On a base level of understanding, some might opt for the logic of a health-based rationale, such as avoidance of Trichinosis,³ limiting the amount of chemicals and hormones from processing plants, avoiding foreign and unregulated supply chain contamination, and many other modern points of focus.
There is indeed merit to these ideas, but they do not factor into the discussions of the Sages. Amidst the ancient discussions, what strikes me as perhaps more interesting is the agreement between the rationalists and the kabbalists. In these ideas, we also find accordance with the writings of the New Testament as well.
Jewish tradition has long taught that the Torah's commandments and prohibitions are designed to engineer a heightened spiritual awareness, or an elevated consciousness. These function as a ladder that allows one to receive insights from the Creator, with the goal of attaining the Divine Presence⁴.
This will be the backdrop of our topic.
