177

To examine the signs of fowl to distinguish between kosher and non-kosher

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
כׇּל־צִפּ֥וֹר טְהֹרָ֖ה תֹּאכֵֽלוּ׃ - פָּרָשַׁת רְאֵה
Deuteronomy 14:11 - "You may eat any pure bird."

This Mitzvah's Summary

מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Kashrut – כַּשְׁרוּת

We are commanded to recognize and distinguish kosher fowl from non-kosher fowl.

This mitzvah requires us to examine and distinguish between kosher and non-kosher birds. Unlike animals, the Torah does not give specific physical signs for birds but instead lists non-kosher species. The Sages derived general traits of kosher birds, such as not being predators. By learning and transmitting these distinctions, we maintain the sanctity of our diet and fulfill the Torah’s command to separate the pure from the impure.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Ma’achalot Asurot 1:14): Rules that kosher fowl are identified by tradition, and if a community has a clear tradition that a species is kosher, it may be eaten.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 154): The root is to cultivate holiness through awareness of what we eat, separating Israel from the practices of other nations.
  • Talmud (Chullin 61a): Explains that kosher birds can be identified through tradition and by signs such as non-predatory behavior and possession of an extra toe, crop, and peelable gizzard.
(Source: Chabad.org)

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Holiness - קְדֻשָּׁה

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Represents the concept of  spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.

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Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.

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Between a person and G-d - בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

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Mitzvot that define and deepen the relationship between a person and their Creator. These include commandments involving belief, prayer, Shabbat, festivals, sacrifices, and personal holiness — acts rooted in divine connection rather than human interaction.

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