This update/Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA) Online Newsletter has the following items:
1. Moadim L’simchah/Have a Joyous Sukkot
2. Israel Observes World Farm Animal Day (WFAD)
3. Registration Open for 2006 Hazon Israel Bike Ride
4. How Can We Respond as Fur Season Approaches?
5. Evangelical Leader Promotes Green Agenda
6. Senator John McCain on Global Warming
7. Another Letter in Yosef Hakohen’s Series on Jewish Teachings About Animals
8. Nina Natelson’s letter to Haaretz, Related to Item in Last JVNA Newsletter on "Israeli School Teaches Compassion to Animals"
9. Increasing Interest in Vegetarian Foods
10. Rethinking the Global Meat Market/Worldwatch Paper
11. Vegetarian Female Seeking Vegetarian Male
12. Are Vegetarian Diets Unhealthy?
13. More Positive Reviews of "101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian"
14. More For Jewish Vegetarian Singles
Some material has been deferred to a later update/newsletter to keep this one from being even longer.
[Materials in brackets like this [] within an article or forwarded message are my editorial notes/comments.]
Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the JVNA, unless otherwise indicated, but may be presented to increase awareness and/or to encourage respectful dialogue. Also, material re conferences, retreats, forums, trips, and other events does not necessarily imply endorsement by JVNA or endorsement of kashrut, Shabbat observances, or any other Jewish observance, but may be presented for informational purposes. Please use e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, and web sites to get further information about any event that you are interested in.
As always, your comments and suggestions are very welcome.
Thanks,
Richard
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1. Moadim L’simchah/Have a Joyous Sukkot
I hope that my article below will help enhance your celebration of the joyous festival of Sukkot. Please feel free to share with others who might be interested. Suggestions welcome.
Sukkot, Simchat Torah, and Vegetarianism
Richard H. Schwartz, Ph.D.
There are many connections between vegetarianism and the joyous Jewish festivals of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret (the Eighth Day of Solemn Assembly), and Simchat Torah:
1. Sukkot commemorates the 40 years when the ancient Israelites lived in the wilderness in frail huts and were sustained by manna. According to Isaac Arama (1420-1494), author of Akedat Yitzchak, the manna was God's attempt to reestablish for the Israelites the vegetarian diet that prevailed before the flood in the time of Noah.
2. On Simchat Torah, Jews complete the annual cycle of Torah readings, and begin again, starting with the first chapter of Genesis, which contains God's first dietary law: "Behold I have given you every herb yielding seed which is upon the face of the earth, and every tree, in which there is the fruit of a tree-yielding seed - to you it shall be for food." (Genesis 1:29). Also, the Torah, along with prophetic and Talmudic interpretations, is the source of the Jewish mandates - to take care of our health, treat animals with compassion, protect the environment, conserve natural resources, help hungry people, and seek and pursue peace - that point to vegetarianism as the ideal diet today.
3. Sukkot is the Jewish harvest festival called the "Feast of Ingathering". Hence, it can remind us that many more people can be sustained on vegetarian diets than on animal-centered diets that presently involve over 70 percent of the grain produced in the United States being fed to animals raised for slaughter, while an estimated 20 million people die due to malnutrition and its effects annually.
4. The Sukkot holiday, including Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, is known as the "Season of Rejoicing", because people's concerns about the success of the harvest are over. Since one must be in good health in order to fully rejoice, the many health benefits of vegetarian diets and the knowledge that such diets are not harmful to hungry people or animals are factors that can enhance rejoicing.
5. Sukkahs, the temporary structures that Jews dwell in during Sukkot, are decorated with pictures and replicas of apples, oranges, bananas, peppers, carrots, and other fruits and vegetables, never with meats or other animal products.
6. After the sukkah, the main ritual symbols for Sukkot are related to the plant kingdom. The Torah states: "On the first day, you shall take the first fruit of hadar (goodly) trees (an etrog or citron), branches of palm trees (lulav), boughs of leafy trees (hadassim) and myrtle, and willows of the field (aravot), and you shall rejoice before the Lord thy God seven days (Leviticus 23:40). These four species represent the beauty and bounty of the land of Israel's harvest.
7. On Shemini Atzeret, Jews pray for rain, and plead to God that it should be for a blessing, not a curse. This is a reminder of the preciousness of rain water to nourish the crops so that there will be a successful harvest. Also, according to the Talmud (Rosh Hashanah 1.2), the world is judged on Sukkot with regard to how much rainfall it will receive. In the days when the Temple stood in Jerusalem, there was a joyous "Water Drawing Ceremony" (Simchat Bet Shueva), designed to remind God to pour forth water when it was needed. Modern intensive livestock agriculture requires huge amounts of water, much of it to irrigate feed crops. According to Newsweek magazine, the amount of water needed to raise one steer would float a Naval destroyer. A person on an animal-based diet requires up to 14 times as much water as a person on a strict vegetarian diet.
8. Sukkot is a universal holiday. There are at least three indications related to the festival that Jews consider not only their own welfare, but also the fate of all of the world's people:
a. In Temple days, there were 70 sacrifices for the then 70 nations of the world;
b. The lulav is waved in all directions, to indicate God's rule over and concern for the entire world;
c. The roof of the sukkah is made only of natural materials such as wood and bamboo, and must be open sufficiently so that people inside can see the stars, to remind them that their concerns should extend beyond their immediate needs and should encompass the world.Vegetarianism also considers not only a person's health, but also encompasses broader concerns, including the global environment, the world's hungry people, and the efficient use of the world's resources.
9. Moving out of comfortable homes to dwell in relatively frail sukkahs indicates that it is not our power and wealth that we should rely on, but rather that our fate is in God's hands. And it is God Who originally provided vegetarian diets for people, and created us with hands, teeth, and digestive systems most conducive to eating plant foods.
10. Dwelling in sukkahs also teaches that no matter how magnificent our homes, no matter how extensive our wealth and material possessions, we should be humble and not be overly concerned about our status. Vegetarianism is also an attempt to not be taken in by status symbols, such as those that the eating of meat often represent.
11. Sukkot's prophetic readings point to the universal messianic transformation of the world. According to Rabbi Abraham Isaac Hakohen Kook, first Chief Rabbi of pre-state Israel, based on the prophecy of Isaiah (. . . the wolf will dwell with the lamb, . . . the lion will eat straw like the ox . . . (Isaiah 11: 6-9)), the messianic period will be vegetarian.
In summary, a shift to vegetarianism is a way to be consistent with many values and teachings related to the joyous festivals of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah.
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2. Israel Observes World Farm Animal Day (WFAD)
Forwarded article from FARM (Farm Animal reform Group):
Compassionate individuals all around the world once again honored World Farm Animals Day on October 2nd. During this 23rd annual observance, thousands of people took to the streets to promote the humane treatment of farmed animals and nonviolent, plant-based diets during.
SHEVI, or Animal Liberation Israel, held a remarkably successful WFAD event. With the support of nearly 200 caring people, this animal advocacy group gathered for a march through the streets of Tel Aviv, Israel. Carrying candles to memorialize the lives of innocent farmed animals and banners to encourage vegetarianism, this group worked to raise awareness about factory farming issues.
To find out more about SHEVI, visit the website!
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3. Registration Open for 2006 Hazon Israel Bike Ride
Message forwarded from Hazon:
Friday, October 7th, 2005 / 4 Tishrei 5766
Dear Hazoniks-
We are pleased to announce the opening of Registration for the 2006 Arava Institute Hazon Israel Ride: Cycling for Peace, Partnership & Environmental Protection. The Ride takes place Tuesday, May 9th to Tuesday, May 16th. You can register now at www.israelride.org.
We're incredibly excited about the Ride this year, which we hope and expect will be our biggest and best Ride yet. We're planning for 150 riders, versus a little over 100 last year. We already have 50 people signed up! We offer route options for riders who prefer to do longer or shorter routes.
If you've been on the NY Ride or have been waiting for the right time to ride with us, you'll be thrilled by the diverse geography of the route - from the lush hills outside Jerusalem to the rich brown deserts of the Negev - this is truly a unique biking experience, and a great way to experience Israel in a way you've never seen it before.
We partner for this ride with the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, whose students join us for the Ride. You will raise money to support the important work that they are doing to meet environmental challenges and bring about coexistence in the Middle East, and support the important work that Hazon is doing here in the US. Come join us - register now at www.israelride.org.
Please contact us with any questions, spread the word to your friends and family, and we hope to see you on the Ride!
L'shanah Tova,
Howie Rodenstein howie@israelride.org
Ride Founder and Chair
Nigel Savagenigel@hazon.org
Hazon Executive Director
David Lehrerdavidl@ardom.ardom.co.il
Arava Institute Executive Director
Hazon
111 Eighth Avenue
11th Floor
New York , NY 10011
www.hazon.org
info@hazon.org
Tel: 212-284-6812
Fax: 212-284-6951
Hazon: new vision. "The Torah is a commentary on the world, and the world is a commentary on the Torah"
Registration is now open for the 2006 Arava Institute Hazon Israel Ride, May 9th -16th, 2006 ! - www.israelride.org
Hazon is a proud member of Bikkurim: An Incubator for New Jewish Ideas (a partnership of the Kaminer Family, JESNA and UJC). We gratefully acknowledge support from the Dorot Foundation, UJA-Federation of New York, FJC and many individual supporters.
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4. How Can We Respond as Fur Season Approaches?
Is Fur a Jewish Issue?
Richard H. Schwartz, PH.D.
Jewish worshipers chant every Sabbath morning, "The soul of every living being shall praise God's name" (Nishmat kol chai tva'rech et shim'chah). Yet, some come to synagogue during the winter months wearing coats that required the cruel treatment of some of those living beings whose souls praise God.
To decide whether the use of fur is a significant Jewish issue, we should consider several related questions:
1. What does the Jewish tradition say about the treatment of animals?
2. How much suffering do animals raised or trapped for their fur experience?
3. Does the wearing of fur coats have redeeming factors that would over ride Jewish teachings related to the proper treatment of animals?
JUDAISM AND ANIMALS
Judaism has beautiful and powerful teachings with regard to showing compassion to animals. The following are a few examples:
Moses and King David were considered worthy to be leaders of the jewish people because of their compassionate treatment of animals,when they were shepherds. Rebecca was judged suitable to be a wife of the patriarch Isaac because of her kindness in watering the ten camels of Eliezer, Abraham's servant. Rabbi Yehuda the Prince, the redactor of the Mishna, was punished for many years at the hand of Heaven for speaking callously to a calf being led to slaughter who sought refuge beside him.
Many Torah laws mandate proper treatment of animals. One may not muzzle an ox while it is working in the field nor yoke a strong and aweak animal together. Animals, as well as their masters, are meant to rest on the Sabbath day. The importance of this concept is indicated by the fact that it is mentioned in the Ten Commandments and on every sabbath morning as part of the kiddush ceremony.
The psalmist indicates G-d's concern for animals, stating that"His compassion is over all of His creatures" (Psalm 145:9). And there is a mitzvah (precept) in the Torah to emulate the Divine compassion, as it is written: "And you shall walk in His ways" (Deuteronomy 28:9). Perhaps the Jewish attitude toward animals is best expressed by Proverbs 12:10: "The righteous person considers the soul (life) of his or her animal." The Torah prohibits Jews from causing tsa'ar ba'alei chayim, any unnecessary pain, including psychological pain, to living creatures.
THE PAIN OF FUR-BEARING ANIMALS
Fur is obtained from animals who are either trapped or raised on ranches. Both involve treatment of animals that appears to be far from the Jewish teachings that have been previously discussed:
Animals caught in steel-jaw leg hold traps suffer slow, agonizing deaths. Some are attacked by predators, freeze to death, or chew off their own legs to escape. It has been said that one can get a "feel for fur" by slamming your fingers in a car door. A Canadian Wildlife service report gives an idea of the terror that trapped animals face and their desperate efforts to escape:
The stomachs of [trapped] arctic foxes . . . often contain parts of their own bodies. They may swallow fragments of their teeth broken off in biting the trap, and sometimes part of a mangled foot; almost every stomach contains some fox fur, and a considerable number contain pieces of skin, claws, or bits of bone.
Over 100 million wild animals are killed for their pelts every year. Many species of animals killed for their furs have become endangered or have disappeared completely from some regions. Millions of animals not wanted by trappers, including dogs, cats, and birds, die in traps annually and are discarded as "trash animals." Many trapped animals leave behind dependent offspring who are doomed to starvation.
Treatment of animals raised on "fur ranches" is also extremely cruel. Condemned to lifelong confinement, millions of foxes, beavers, minks, ocelots, rabbits, chinchillas, and other animals await extinction with nothing to do, little room to move, and all their natural instincts thwarted. The animals are simply a means to the maximizing of production and profit, and there is no regard for their physical, mental, or emotional well being. Because of the enforced confinement and lack of privacy, naturally wild animals often exhibit neurotic behaviors such as compulsive movements and self mutilation. The animals finally suffer hideous deaths by electrocution by rods thrust up their anuses, by suffocation, by poisoning, which causes painful muscle cramping, or by having their necks broken.
IS FUR NECESSARY?
Judaism puts human beings on a higher level than animals and indicates that animals may be harmed and even killed if an essential human need is met. However, is the wearing of fur truly necessary for people to stay warm during wintry weather? There are many non-fur coats and hats, available in a variety of styles, that provide much warmth. Imitation fur is produced at such a high level of quality that even among Chasidim there is a small but growing trend to wear synthetic "shtreimlach" (fur-trimmed hats).
Based on the prohibition of tsa'ar ba'alei chayim, Rabbi Chaim Dovid
Halevy, Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Tel Aviv issued a p'sak (rabbinic ruling) in March, 1992, indicating that Jews should not wear fur. Rabbi Halevy asked: "Why should people be allowed to kill animals if it is not necessary, simply because they desire the pleasure of having the beauty and warmth of fur coats? Is it not possible to achieve the same degree of warmth without fur?"
In his book, The Jewish Encyclopedia of Moral and Ethical Issues, Rabbi Nachum Amsel, a modern Israeli educator, states: "If the only reason a person wears the fur coat is to "show off" one's wealth or to be a mere fashion statement, that would be considered to be a frivolous and not a legitimate need.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
The Talmud teaches that Jews are "rachmanim b'nei rachmanim," compassionate children of compassionate ancestors (Beitza 32b). One has to wonder if the wearing of fur is consistent with that challenging mandate.
Not only do animals benefit from our compassion and concern -- we, too, benefit by becoming more sensitive and more humane, as Jews and civilized human beings.
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RESOLUTION ON JUDAISM AND FUR
WHEREAS
1. Jewish worshipers chant every Sabbath and festival morning, "The soul of every living being shall praise God's name" (Nishmat kol chai tva'rech et shim'chah), but some come to synagogue during the winter months wearing coats that required the cruel treatment of some of those living beings whose souls praise God.
2. Judaism has beautiful and powerful teachings with regard to showing compassion to animals. The following are a few examples:
Moses and King David were considered worthy to be leaders of the Jewish people because of their compassionate treatment of animals, when they were shepherds. Rebecca was judged suitable to be a wife of the patriarch Isaac because of her kindness in watering the ten camels of Eliezer, Abraham's servant. Rabbi Yehuda the Prince, the redactor of the Mishna, was punished for many years at the hand of Heaven for speaking callously to a calf being led to slaughter who sought refuge beside him.
Many Torah laws mandate proper treatment of animals. One may not muzzle an ox while it is working in the field nor yoke a strong and a weak animal together. Animals, as well as their masters, are meant to rest on the Sabbath day. The importance of this concept is indicated by the fact that it is mentioned in the Ten Commandments and on every sabbath morning as part of the kiddush ceremony.
The psalmist indicates God's concern for animals, stating that "His compassion is over all of His creatures" (Psalm 145:9). And there is a mitzvah (precept) in the Torah to emulate the Divine compassion, as it is written: "And you shall walk in His ways" (Deuteronomy 28:9). Perhaps the Jewish attitude toward animals is best expressed by Proverbs 12:10: "The righteous person considers the soul (life) of his or her animal."
3. The Torah prohibits Jews from causing tsa'ar ba'alei chayim, any unnecessary pain, including psychological pain, to living creatures. The Talmud teaches that Jews are "rachamanim b'nei rachamanim," compassionate children of compassionate ancestors (Beitza 32b).
4. Fur is obtained from animals who are either trapped or raised on ranches, in ways that are far from the Jewish teachings that have been previously discussed:
Animals caught in steel-jaw leg hold traps suffer slow, agonizing deaths. Some are attacked by predators, freeze to death, or chew off their own legs to escape. It has been said that one can get a "feel for fur" by slamming your fingers in a car door. A Canadian Wildlife service report gives an idea of the terror that trapped animals face and their desperate efforts to escape:
Treatment of animals raised on "fur ranches" is also extremely cruel. Confined to lifelong confinement, millions of foxes, beavers, minks, ocelots, rabbits, chinchillas, and other animals await extinction nothing to do, little room to move, and all their natural instincts thwarted. The animals are simply a means to the maximizing of production and profit, and there is no regard for their physical, mental, or emotional well being. Because of the enforced confinement and lack of privacy, naturally wild animals often exhibit neurotic behaviors such as compulsive movements and self mutilation. The animals finally suffer hideous deaths by electrocution by rods thrust up their anuses, by suffocation, by poisoning, which causes painful muscle cramping, or by having their necks broken.
5. Many species of animals killed for their furs have become endangered or have disappeared completely from some localities. Millions of animals not wanted by trappers, including dogs, cats, and birds, die in traps annually and are discarded as "trash animals." Many trapped animals leave behind dependent offspring who are doomed to starvation.
6. According to the International Society for Animal Rights, Inc., to make one fur garment requires 400 squirrels; 240 ermine; 200 chinchillas; 120 muskrats; 80 sables; 50 martens; 30 raccoons; 22 bobcats; 12 lynx; or 5 wolves.
7. People can stay warm during wintry weather without wearing fur. There are many non-fur coats and hats, available in a variety of styles, that provide much warmth. Imitation fur is produced at such a high level of quality that even among Chasidim there is a small but growing trend to wear synthetic "shtreimlach" (fur-trimmed hats). Synthetic garments are also moth proof, water repellant, and far less expensive to buy and to maintain. Synthetic furs also require less than one-third the energy for production than real furs do.
8. Based on the prohibition of tsa'ar ba'alei chayim, Rabbi Chaim Dovid
Halevy, late Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Tel Aviv issued a p'sak (rabbinic ruling) in March, 1992, indicating that Jews should not wear fur. Rabbi Halevy asked: "Why should people be allowed to kill animals if it is not necessary, simply because they desire the pleasure of having the beauty and warmth of fur coats? Is it not possible to achieve the same degree of warmth without fur?"
9. In his book, The Jewish Encyclopedia of Moral and Ethical Issues, Rabbi Nachum Amsel, a contemporary Israeli educator, states: "If the only reason a person wears the fur coat is to "show off" one's wealth or to be a mere fashion statement, that would be considered to be a frivolous and not a legitimate need. Rabbi Amsel also points out that hunting for sport is prohibited because it is not considered a legitimate need (Avodah Zarah 18b).
10. While Jews are to recite a special blessing when putting on a new garment, an exception is made for fur garments, since animals had to be killed in making them.
11. Young people may be getting an incorrect lesson on Jewish values when they see worshippers coming to synagogue in fur coats on the Sabbath day?
12. Not only do animals benefit from our compassion and concern -- we, too, benefit by becoming more sensitive and more humane, as Jews and civilized human beings.
13. At a time when we have witnessed horrible acts of terror and violence, giving up purchasing and wearing fur garments can be a step away from our apparent culture of violence to a world with greater compassion to animals, which can lead to increased compassion to other people, and hence a more compassionate, stable, and harmonious world.
WE RESOLVE,
To help educate Jews (and others) about Jewish values and the realities of fur production, so that they will avoid purchasing and buying fur garments.
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5. Evangelical Leader Promotes Green Agenda
[It is very encouraging that a green evangelical leader is promoting a position generally consistent with that of Jewish environmental groups, such as the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life (COEJL) and Canfei Nesharim.]
An interview with green evangelical leader Richard Cizik
By Amanda Griscom Little 05 Oct 2005 Richard Cizik.
Polluters will have to answer to God, not just government, according to Richard Cizik. Vice president of governmental affairs for the National Association of Evangelicals, Cizik is a pro-Bush Bible-brandishing reverend zealously opposed to abortion, gay marriage, and embryonic stem-cell research. He is also on a mission to convert tens of millions of Americans to the cause of conservation, using a right-to-life framework. Cizik has been crisscrossing the U.S. in recent months, spreading the doctrine of "creation care" to evangelical Christians.
Thanks to his leadership, NAE, one of the most politically powerful religious advocacy groups in America, released a manifesto last year urging its members to adopt eco-friendly living habits and exhorting the government to lighten America's environmental footprint. Next month, the organization will begin circulating a charter calling on its member network and top-level Beltway allies to fight global warming.
Cizik spoke to Grist recently from his hotel in New York City, where he was preparing to appear at a religious rally and wax evangelical on climate change -- a crisis, he says, of "biblical proportions."
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Amanda Griscom Little writes Grist's Muckraker column on environmental politics and policy and interviews green luminaries for the magazine. Her articles on energy and the environment have also appeared in publications ranging from Rolling Stone to The New York Times Magazine.
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6. Senator John McCain on Global Warming
Forwarded message:
Dear Fellow [Virtual] Marcher,
Recently, a number of my Senate colleagues and I traveled to Canada and Alaska to witness the devastating impacts of global warming on the Arctic. We left even more convinced of what we already knew: global warming is real and it’s not some future phenomenon – it’s here now. The impacts are visible if we just open our eyes to them. Visit my travel log to learn more about the consequences of global warming that are clearly visible today.
Just as in Canada and Alaska, the impacts of global warming in other areas of the country are real and they are happening now. This week, the March is stopping in Buffalo Creek Minnesota. Read more about the impact of global warming on Buffalo Creek.
I’m marching [virtually] so that we don’t hand our children and grandchildren a world vastly different from the one that we now inhabit. The March is almost halfway through its yearlong virtual tour around the United States. Our voices are amplified by the power of over 130,000 other voices marching together!
Visit http://www.StopGlobalWarming.org to read more about my travels and details about our current stop at Buffalo Creek.
Thank you for the joining the March, and adding your voice to the many speaking out to raise public awareness of the urgent problem of global warming.
Sincerely,
Senator John McCain
Marcher
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7. Another Letter in Yosef Hakohen’s Series on Jewish Teachings About Animals
The Journey to Unity - 144
Our Helpers for the New Year
Dear Friends,
Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur are sacred days of spiritual renewal when we rededicate every aspect of our being to serving the life-affirming and elevating purpose of our Creator. It is therefore appropriate to review some teachings which remind us that other creatures can be our helpers in this process of renewal:
The Talmud - Eruvin 100b - cites the following verse concerning the One Creator of all life:
"He teaches us from the animals of the land, and from the birds of the heavens He makes us wise" (Job 35:11). - For the Creator implanted within them wisdom in order to teach us (Rashi on the Talmud).
The Talmud cites the above verse from Job in order to convey the message that each creature within the creation has something to teach us. As human beings created in the Divine image, we have the spiritual ability to recognize the specific trait within each creature that can serve as a good example for us; thus, the Talmud cites the following examples in the name of Rabbi Yochanan:
"If the Torah had not been given, we would have learned modesty from the cat, the avoidance of theft from the ant, marital fidelity from the dove, and good manners in marital relations from the rooster, who appeases his mate before having relations with her." (Ibid)
The Talmud only elaborates on the good manners of the rooster, so the commentator, Rashi, explains the other examples in the following manner:
"Modesty from the cat" - When the cat eliminates wastes from its body, it buries it; moreover, it does not eliminate in front of people.
"The avoidance of theft from the ant" - The ant relies on its honest labor, for it stores food in the summer for what it needs in the winter, as it is written, "Go to the ant, you sluggard, observe her ways and become wise; for though there is neither officer nor guard, nor ruler over her, she prepares her food in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest" (Proverbs 6:6-8). In addition, the ant does not take the food of another ant.
"Marital fidelity from the dove" - The dove only has relations with its mate.
The above teachings remind us that each creature within creation has a certain characteristic that we can emulate when we serve the Compassionate One. In this spirit, the Mishnah states in the name of the sage, Yehudah ben Tema:
"Be bold as a leopard, light as an eagle, swift as a deer, and strong as a lion to carry out the will of your Father in Heaven." (Pirkei Avos 5:23)
"Be bold as a leopard" – Although modesty is a recommended trait, there are occasions when one must have the boldness of the leopard when doing a mitzvah or defending a truth which is not popular within one's social circles. Such boldness is "holy chutzpah" – a trait which has often enabled the Jewish people to go against world opinion. For example, when we lived in societies where people tried to persuade us or force us to worship a human being whom they deified, we boldly proclaimed that we only worship the Compassionate One - the Source of all life. We especially need this boldness in our modern secular society where many people proclaim that the entire humankind is god and that this god is the owner and sovereign of the earth and its creatures. In such a society, we need to have the boldness of the leopard and proclaim, "To the Compassionate One belongs the earth and its fullness, the inhabited land and those who dwell in it" (Psalm 24:1).
"Light as an eagle" – Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, who recently passed away in Jerusalem, elaborates on this idea. Rabbi Wolbe was a leading sage of "Mussar" – Torah teachings regarding ethics and personality refinement. In his work, "Alei Shur," Rabbi Wolbe offers the following explanation of how we can emulate the lightness of the eagle: Although the eagle is a heavy bird, it has large wings which enable it to soar to high altitudes. The human being is also a "heavy" creature due to the earthy nature of his body; nevertheless, the human being has special "wings" which can enable him to soar to a high spiritual level. These wings, says Rabbi Wolbe, are "simcha" – joy! And Rabbi Wolbe cites the following teaching of Rabbi Chaim Vital (Sha'arei Kedusha): A person who rejoices in his portion and who rejoices when he does mitzvos will overcome his earthy nature. (Cited in "Mishel Avos")
"Swift as a deer" – We should run after mitzvos (Bartenura); moreover, we should not procrastinate in the performance of a mitzvah (Rabbi Hirsch).
"Strong as a lion" – We should use strength in overcoming all obstacles – both within and without – which can prevent us from achieving our ethical and spiritual goals (Rabbi Hirsch). As Pirkei Avos (4:1) states, "Who is strong? The one who subdues his personal inclination, as it is said, 'The one who is slow to anger is better than a mighty hero, and the one who rules over his emotions is better than a conqueror of a city' (Proverbs 16:32)."
Just as we are to learn from other human beings without deifying them, so too, we are to learn from other creatures without deifying them. In fact, the wisdom which we perceive within all creatures is to lead us to a deeper awareness of the One Creator of all life. In this spirit, it is written within our Sacred Scriptures:
"Please ask, however, the animal, and it will teach you; the bird of the heavens, and it will tell you, or speak to the earth, and it will teach you; the fish of the sea will report to you. Who cannot know from all these things that the hand of God made this? That in His hand is the soul of every living thing and the spirit of all humankind?" (Job 12:7-10)
Shalom,
Yosef Ben Shlomo Hakohen (See below)
P.S. Most of the above teachings are found in the Hazon letter "Creatures as Teachers" which appears in the archive (lower section) on our website. For further study on this theme, review the following articles in the archive:
1. The Torah of the Creatures
2. A Divine Gift to the Wise: The Art of Learning from Other Creatures
Hazon - Our Universal Vision: www.shemayisrael.co.il/publicat/hazon/
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8. Nina Natelson’s letter to Haaretz, Related to Item in Last JVNA Newsletter on “Israeli School Teaches Compassion to Animals”
Dear Editor,
Yulie Khromenko's article about schools keeping animals fails to point out that such programs, rather than teaching responsibility, respect, and the unique needs of each species, teach the opposite. Why instill in children the notion that it is acceptable to force other living beings to spend their lives in captivity to satisfy our curiosity? Shouldn't we be teaching, instead, that a fish should be able to swim freely, a bird to fly, a snake to feel the earth on its belly as it slithers across the field?
Which is more educational: Listening to specialists who work with animals they understand thoroughly and whose emotional, as well as physical, needs they attend to on a daily basis? Or occasionally glancing at a lonely, bored animal who has been taken from his or her family group and natural habitat, and who sits languishing in a cage in the corner of the room?
On weekends, holidays, and summer vacations, classroom animals may be left without food, water, and companionship, teaching insensitivity and lack of respect. A mishandled, teased, or ill animal can bite, instilling fear. A lonesome, bored animal, or an animal confined to a small cage can become depressed and even die. If unaltered animals of the opposite sex are housed together, breeding is inevitable and the lesson taught is not responsibility, but the lack of it.
Are schools prepared to pay for emergency veterinary care, or to deal with students' grief and guilt if the animal is accidentally or intentionally injured or killed? What happens when the novelty wears off, or when one or more students become allergic to them? If they are disposed of when they become inconvenient, students are taught that their life has no value.
There are alternatives: showing videos of animals in their natural habitat, the dangers they face, and what we can do to help; inviting representatives of an SPCA or a wildlife rehabilitation organization to speak to the class; taking the class on a fieldtrip to a wildlife rehabilitation center or animal sanctuary; discussing the new information scientists are discovering about animal communication and intelligence, and whether we have the right to remove animals from their natural habitat at all.
You teach best what you model. When you model humaneness, respect and responsibility for all living beings, that's what your students will learn.
Nina Natelson
Director of Concern for Helping Animals in Israel (CHAI)
President of the vad of Hakol Chai, Israeli sister charity of CHAI
www.chai-online.org
[Comments welcome. Thanks.]
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9. Increasing Interest in Vegetarian Foods
1 in 5 diners seek veg meal
[from Washington Post]
There is wizardry afoot in a large number of Washington area restaurants, where the skill for counterfeiting meat has become rather sophisticated. Even without a blindfold, it is often impossible to tell. Get up close and inspect the grain. Breathe deep its waft. Feel it yield to the fork, and to the tooth. Test for "bounce." Mutton isn't dressing up as lamb, soy is.
According to the National Restaurant Association, one in five diners now looks for a vegetarian meal when dining out. And judging by the number of spots offering mock meat, these vegetarians are hungry for something with a bit more bite than a lentil casserole, but just as healthy (high in protein, low in fat and cholesterol).
Raised on the meatiest of British diets, I was the first to sneer at these alleged substitutes. I love my meats -- my roast beefs, my burgers, my porky sausages. Can't get enough of them. So, I proclaimed boldly, let me be the judge of these so-called meats. Hearing rumors of some particularly good versions, I hurried off to the following eateries to taste for myself.
--
full story
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10. Rethinking the Global Meat Market/Worldwatch Paper
New Worldwatch Paper: Happier Meals: Rethinking the Global Meat Industry
Worldwatch Paper #171
Happier Meals: Rethinking the Global Meat Industry
Danielle Nierenberg
ISBN: 1-878071-77-7
91 pages
September 2005
In Happier Meals: Rethinking the Global Meat Industry, Worldwatch researcher Danielle Nierenberg documents the harmful effects of factory farming in both industrialized and developing countries and explains the range of consequences for the environment, human health and communities. From transmission of disease and loss of livestock diversity to hazardous and unsanitary processing methods, this book shows clearly why factory farming is an unsafe, inhumane, and ecologically disruptive form of meat production.
On the brighter side, Happier Meals tells you how you can make a difference by supporting local, organic, or pasture-raised animal products; embracing alternative production methods; or including a few vegetarian meals a week to help ensure that meat is made better for people, the environment, and the animals themselves.
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11. Vegetarian Female Seeking Vegetarian Male
Forwarded message from Aviva:
About me: I am in my 50's,(5.7, slim and healthy) and moved to
Vancouver BC in 1975 from The Netherlands. I was in a very long relationship but never married.
Although I have some Jewish blood, I converted to Judaism (Orthodox) in 1995 (so I may not date a Cohen).
I have always been a vegetarian, neither eating meat, fish or fowl.
I am not fanatic (in either Judaism or vegetarianism), but I do observe Shabbat and keep kosher at home. At times I will eat in a vegetarian restaurant that may not be completely kosher.
I believe I am a spiritual, sensitive and intuitive person. I love the outdoors and consider walking and talking with a friend one of my favorite activities. I enjoy cultural events, reading, singing in the local JCC choir, and working as an educator in various capacities such as workshop instructor (teaching teachers how to help students learn about the Holocaust).
I am honest, direct, sincere, and kind with a sense of humor and joy of life. I try to have compassion for people who commit atrocious acts of cruelty to children and animals (which deeply pains and bothers me) by not being judgmental but working on my own life and actions instead. (This is very hard to do at times!)
My education is a Masters of Art from UBC here in Vancouver. Mostly, I try to tread lightly on this earth, being aware of the speed with which we are destroying our fragile eco systems and resources and doing my best to not contribute to this trend.
I am looking for a middle aged Jewish, vegetarian man (over 5.7, up to 65 years of age) who is Shomer Shabbat, healthy, strong, loving, successful, university educated, masculine, peaceful, prosperous, honest and faithful. Someone who is willing to find love and happiness with me. I am able to relocate.
My contact e-mail address is: arro@mail.vcn.bc.ca
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12. Are Vegetarian Diets Unhealthy?
Below are key points re connections between nutrition and health, compiled by Robert Cohen, the “Notmilkman”:
"Significant athersclerosis is rare in peoples whose diet over the life span is predominantly vegetarian and low in calories, total lipids, saturated lipids and cholesterol."
Nutrition and Athersclerosis by Louis Katz. 1958
______________________________________
"The study measured testosterone levels in 696 Oxford University men. Of the study participants, 233 were vegan (ate no animal products) and 237 were vegetarian (ate milk and dairy products). The remaining 237 subjects were men who ate meat on most days of the week...vegans had higher testosterone levels than vegetarians and meat-eaters."
British Journal of Cancer, 83(1), July 2000
______________________________________
"Scientific data suggest positive relationships between a vegetarian diet and reduced risk for several chronic degenerative diseases and conditions, including obesity, coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and some types of cancer."
Journal of the American Dietetic Association, November 1997, 97(1)
______________________________________
"Vegetarians often have lower mortality rates from several chronic degenerative diseases than do nonvegetarians."
British Medical Journal, 1996; 313
______________________________________
"Vegan diets are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle, including during pregnancy and lactation."
Am J Clin Nutr. 1994;59(suppl):1176S-1181S.
______________________________________
"Vegan diets can meet the nutrient and energy needs of pregnant women. Birth weights of infants born to well nourished vegetarian women have been shown to be similar to birth-weight norms and to birth weights of infants of nonvegetarians."
Pediatrics. 1989;84
______________________________________
"Vegetarian diets low in fat or saturated fat have been used successfully as part of comprehensive health programs to reverse severe coronary artery disease."
Journal of the American Medical Association 1995; 274
______________________________________
"Vegetarian diets offer disease protection benefits because higher concentration of antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, carotenoids, and phytochemicals."
Am J Clin Nutr. 1996;63(suppl)
______________________________________
"Vegetarian diets offer disease protection benefits because of their lower saturated fat, cholesterol, and animal protein content and often higher concentration of folate which reduces serum homocysteine levels."
J Am Diet Assoc. 1995;95
______________________________________
"Mortality from coronary artery disease is lower in vegetarians than in nonvegetarians."
British Medical Journal, 1994; 308
______________________________________
"Vegetarian diets have been successful in arresting coronary artery disease."
Am J Epidemiol. 1995;142
______________________________________
"Serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels are usually lower in vegetarians."
Am J Clin Nutr. 1994;59
______________________________________
"Vegetarians have a lower incidence of hypertension than nonvegetarians."
Am J Clin Nutr. 1994; 59(suppl)
______________________________________
"Type 2 diabetes mellitus is less likely to be a cause of death in vegetarians than nonvegetarians."
Am J Clin Nutr. 1988;48(suppl)
______________________________________
"Incidence of lung and colorectal cancer is lower in vegetarians than in nonvegetarians."
Am J Clin Nutr. 1994;59(suppl)
______________________________________
"Reduced colorectal cancer risk is associated with increased consumption of fiber, vegetables, and fruit."
Cancer Causes Control. 1991;1:427-442.
______________________________________
"Breast cancer rates are lower in populations that consume plant-based diets."
American Cancer Society Cancer Facts and Figures, 1994
______________________________________
"Some plant proteins may increase survival rates and decrease proteinuria, glomerular filtration rate, renal blood flow, and histologic renal damage compared with a nonvegetarian diet."
Clinical Nutrition, 1995;10
______________________________________
Robert Cohen
http://www.notmilk.com
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13. More Positive Reviews of "101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian"
Forwarded message:
There are roughly a thousand books published in the United States every week. The sheer numbers prohibit all but a few to be reviewed in the trade publications. Yet 101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian - the book version - was reviewed in the two most important magazines in the book industry, back to back: Publishers Weekly and Library Journal. Moreover, even a bad review in either of these publications is considered a good thing for the publicity alone. Yet both reviews were favorable, with the one in Library Journal being downright excellent!
Order a copy for yourself
-----------------------------
The following review appeared in the September 15, 2005 edition of Library Journal
RICE, PAMELA. 101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian. Lantern. Oct. 2005. c.288p. bibliog. index. ISBN 1-59056-075-2. pap. $20. SOC SCI
Expanding on her popular pamphlet of the same title, vegetarian writer/activist Rice thoroughly covers all the practical reasons to go vegetarian, including (in addition to the welfare of animals) social, medical, economic, and-especially-environmental concerns while avoiding spiritual or religious reasons. Examples of her reasons include "The Cancer connection: The 'Big C' and meat" and "Fossil fuel alchemy: The oil in your meat." Rice aims to let the facts speak for themselves and not to attack anyone's eating habits or beliefs. She accomplishes this by thoroughly documenting all her 101 reasons, using respected mainstream sources, such as U.S. government reports, major newspapers, peer-reviewed journal articles, and other citations from scientists, doctors, and government officials. Although Rice jumps from topic to topic, intending to give readers the big picture, she includes a page that lists "reasons by category" as well as a comprehensive index for those interested in a specific aspect of vegetarianism. A well-written and -documented indictment of the meat industry and its impact on the world, this is an excellent source for students writing papers on or debating this topic. Recommended for all libraries.
-Robert Flatley, Kutztown Univ., PA
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The following review appeared in Publishers Weekly
101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian
Pamela Rice
Less an introduction to vegetarianism than a list of reasons not to eat meat, this expansion of a self-published pamphlet Rice hands out on New York streets (she claims to have distributed nearly 200,000 copies since 1991) offers already committed vegetarians back-up for their decision and gives diehard carnivores a surprising look at some of the problems associated with meat eating. Rice's "attempt to investigate every good reason to become a vegetarian" can feel unnervingly strident, even for those inclined to agree with her, but her sources are primarily mainstream newspaper and magazine articles-not small, fiery anti-carnivore Web sites. Some of Rice's reasons we should all go veggie include: vegetables' high concentrations of beneficial phytochemicals and antioxidants; the stomach-turning odor of pork "mega-farms"; costly government subsidies for livestock producers; and studies that show animal protein is linked to heart disease, hormonal cancers and diabetes. This isn't a book to read cover-to-cover, but it will provide interested parties with a wealth of information about health and social issues connected to meat consumption.
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The following review appeared in the Sept./Oct. 2005 edition of VegNews Magazine (San Francisco)
101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian
By Pamela Rice
Lantern Books
2005 <> 239 pages <> $20
For nearly a decade, Pamela Rice's pamphlet, "101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian," divulged the facts about meat consumptions to anyone willing to leaf through it. Now, her book by the same title expands her case, bringing about a more comprehensive attack against what she calls "carnivorous habits." Her indictment really brings to use the old mantra that the best defense is a good offense. With uncanny intellect, Rice uses an arsenal of figures culled from credible sources to back her cause. The book's broken down format makes it a user-friendly reference for anyone seelomg to cultivate informed arguments ranging from the ghastly treatment of dairy cows (Reason 58; Moo!) to the plight of meat laborers (Reason 10: Low Rungs) to bacterial dangers right where we cook (reason 95: Kandid Kitchen). This book is edgy, insightful and uncompromising in its criticism. Give a copy to your smartest meat-eating friends. -J.H.
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The following review appeared in Altar Magazine
Click to go straight to review
101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian
By Pamela Rice
Lantern Books
I just finished reading Pamela Rice's 101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian, and I simply have been bowled over. Reason after reason, the information the author brings forth is unrelenting and, no-less, devastating. This is up there as one the most far-reaching indictments of the meat-eating lifestyle to date. So much of this material was absolutely new to me, and I pride myself on being an informed vegan. It would be pretty tough for any meat eater to remain so after reading this book. If you read it, you will be transformed. Despite the obvious fact that Ms. Rice shares the philosophy of your most ardent vegan advocate, the writing style is understated, which is perhaps what gives the information its power. In the majority of cases Ms. Rice's facts come from conventional sources (the USDA, the EPA, The New York Times, The Economist, agricultural colleges, etc.), which, by the way, are copiously referenced. I figure there are perhaps 1,500 citations in the book. I could not, of course, look at every one, but it was nice to know they were always there to back up the facts. I did look up a few with Google searches. In those cases I was at once brought into a world of key experts at the forefronts of their fields. Furthermore, the 13-page index appears to allow readers a good chance at cross referencing at any point. Both the index and the reference pages were interesting browse-reads in themselves. Here is a book that should probably be on the shelf of every vegan or vegetarian alive. There, this book offers the meat-free the constant assurance that each had made the best decision of his or her life. My only complaint with the book was that the author did not let loose more often. I got the feeling Ms. Rice's editors reigned in a more flamboyant style, a style that seeps through the cracks all too infrequently. In the end, at risk of repeating myself, if you're a vegetarian or vegan, here is your ultimate vindication. If you're a meat eater, you may want to consider yourself duly put on the hot seat. (Review by Louis Gedo)
Reviewed in
Altar Magazine
955 Metropolitan Avenue, Suite 4R
Brooklyn, NY 11211
info@altarmagazine.com
-----------------------------
The following review appeared in Vegan Voice
101 Reasons Why I'm a Vegetarian
Pamela Rice
However informed on the topic we may consider ourselves to be, Pamela Rice demonstrates that her research is impeccable, as the author goes through her 101 reasons, sometimes with a few lines, and sometimes covering several pages. As the author points out, most people have heard of at least one-perhaps several-reasons why somebody has adopted a vegetarian diet. But this 101 Reasons... covers, in a relentless manner, the ethical, ecological, health-related, social and economical arguments, and more, in order to challenge the conventional views on what humans should eat.
The author is founder of the VivaVegie Society and Vegetarian Center, as well as editor of The VivaVine: The Vegetarian-Issues Magazine.
This book is undoubtedly a complete indictment of the widespread meat-eating lifestyle. In fact, how could anyone choose to eat meat, or dairy, after reading this book? However, the author's writing style is modest, and not in any way ranting, but what she points out in reason after reason is powerful over the 239 pages.
As John Robbins says: "Without sentimentality or preaching, she provides a clear and thoughtful understanding of one of the most important choices anyone can make. You don't have to be a vegetarian to benefit from this book. You only need to care about your health and the health of our planet."
This book covers a vast area, including cruelty to specific species, dead animals and where they go, animal drugs and disease, hazards for fish in the wild or in aquaculture farms, human health and nutrition, the excrement files, hunger in the world and the meat connection, animal mutilation, mad cow disease, hormones in meat and milk, chemical castration, incarceration of innocent veal calves, cyanide and coral reefs, water pollution, scientific thinking on cancer, heart failure and stroke, and milk and osteoporosis. It is a valuable repository of all the information you will ever need to close an argument, although Pamela Rice modestly writes that there is still plenty to explore.
All the facts presented are well referenced, the index allows readers to cross-reference easily, and there are reasons by category. This is the book that every vegan and vegetarian would find invaluable, and although the meat and dairy industries can't be prettied up for a happy presentation, yet the author manages to use her wit, or irony, in paragraph headings such as "White wine with your mercury?" "Genetic integrity: the animals' ultimate sacrifice", "Numbers up: cholesterol readings", "Listeria: the pathogen that came in from the cold", "Pick your poisson: dioxin, mercury, or PCBs".
There's excellent advice here on what we should be eating to maximise our health, as well as the health and scientific reasons why. The author gives good background on what has led to this horrific situation, with the whole planet being poisoned just so that unthinking people can eat meat. And this book vindicates the choices made by vegetarians and vegans every day. However, the author has kept it simple by concentrating on the term "vegetarian", as it is a diet that eschews any form of meat, whereas "vegan" is not a diet but a lifestyle.
This book comes highly recommended-if only I could give a copy to each of my omnivore friends!
Reviewed by Eve Spencer
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14. More For Jewish Vegetarian Singles:
Forwarded message from "jewishinnj"
Two Very Different Jewish Singles Lunch Parties
We have decided to sponsor SEPARATE events for Single Jewish Republicans in New Jersey AND for Single Jewish Democrats in New Jersey IN ADDITION to our regular Jewish Singles events which are for EVERYONE regardless of political affiliations.
When we go to a restaurant you pay only for what you order plus tax and tip. Reservations are NOT required. We never charge anything for any of the events we sponsor. We never charge anything to join or to belong to our groups.
Below you will find information on two SEPARATE Very Different Jewish Singles Lunch Parties
Our next Jewish Singles Party is for Single Jewish Democrats in New Jersey at 12 noon on Sunday October 16th, 2005 c.e.
The party after that one is for Single Jewish Republicans in New Jersey at 12 noon on Sunday October 23rd, 2005 c.e.
Both events will be held in the same location, at Veggie Heaven, a Kosher Chinese totally vegetarian very economical restaurant, in Parsippany, New Jersey only a week apart in time.
SNIP
Veggie Heaven is a Vegan Chinese Totally Vegetarian Kosher Restaurant. The restaurant is located in Parsippany, New Jersey at 1119 Route 46 East #8A Parsippany, New Jersey, in a shopping center which has plenty of parking and is near Route 80. The telephone numbers of the restaurant are 973 335-9876 and 973 263-8331 the zip code, if you are using Mapquest, is 07054.
SNIP
It is certified Kosher by United Kosher Supervision P.O. Box 317 Monsey, NY 10952 Phone: (845) 352-1010 Fax: (845) 352-0316 Rabbinic Administrator: Rabbi Yaakov Spivak
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