I have high regard for people who can maintain strict dietary restrictions for whatever reason. It takes discipline and creativity. Discipline, because it requires great self control not to consume foods outside your permitted domain, though they may look great, and even smell wonderful. Creativity, because you need to think outside the box to find ways to eat the permitted foods. In some geographical areas it may be next to impossible. The Jews were no different.
Leviticus 11:46-47, ‘This is the law of the animals and the birds and every living creature that moves in the waters, and of every creature that creeps on the earth, to distinguish between the unclean and the clean, and between the animal that may be eaten and the animal that may not be eaten.’
I learnt the word Kosher when I went to Canada to study. I met a number of Jews while I was there but I wish I had stayed in touch with them. They were brilliant. Whether it was Math or computer logic. God had a reason for them to follow strict dietary laws. It was probably because the animals or creatures they were to abstain from could cause health issues. So they were unclean.
Others like the Muslims have adopted similar food laws. But, the matter changed dramatically with Peter going to Cornelius' house. In Acts Chapter 11 you can read how the early church had a contention about association with non Jews and the discussion about foods. There was liberation and at the same time Paul is ready to be a vegetarian to avoid offending anybody.
I love all foods and am ready to eat kosher, halal, vegetarian and all other foods in order to present you the most important message. The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Father, thank you for giving me a great appetite for all foods.
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