A Biblical Argument for Veganism

Background

Classical Jewish law neither explicitly requires nor prohibits meat consumption. It does however demand, inspire and compel mindful, conscious eating via a myriad of complex, inter-relating laws, injunctions, sanctions and principles. These complex directions, restrictions and commands have stimulated centuries of religious, spiritual and philosophical debate by Judaism’s most eminent rabbis, sages and teachers about the consumption of animal flesh authoritatively documented in ancient (pre-Christian era), middle ages and contemporary manuscripts. These tombs require lifetimes of dedicated study and any in-depth analysis is beyond the scope of this paper. Discussion will thus be limited to four key Jewish texts: