Kosher Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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kosher
[ˈkoʊʃər ]
Definition
food preparation
Kosher refers to food that complies with the dietary regulations of Judaism. These laws include specific guidelines on what foods can be eaten, how they are processed, and the methods of preparation. For example, kosher meat must come from certain animals and must be slaughtered in a prescribed manner. Additionally, dairy and meat products cannot be mixed, and they are prepared with separate utensils. Observing kosher laws is often part of Jewish cultural and religious identity.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- We only serve kosher meals at our events.
- This restaurant is certified kosher by the local rabbi.
- He always checks for the kosher symbol on food packaging.
- She follows a strict kosher diet at home.
Translations
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Origin of 'kosher'
The term 'kosher' comes from the Hebrew word 'kosher' (כָּשֵׁר), which means 'fit' or 'proper'. The roots of kosher dietary laws can be traced back to the Torah, specifically in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, which outline the types of animals that are permitted to eat, along with the rules governing their preparation. These laws were developed over centuries and have shaped Jewish culinary traditions. The practice of keeping kosher has variations among different Jewish communities, including Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews, which may affect specific dietary customs and interpretations of the laws. Kosher food and laws play a significant role beyond dietary practices; they foster a sense of community and cultural identity among Jewish people. In contemporary society, kosher certification has also entered the commercial food industry, where many products are labeled to indicate they meet kosher standards, catering not just to observant Jews but also to health-conscious consumers seeking quality and hygiene.