Dear All, I know taht many Christians feel that Judaism is too "legalistic," with our 613 commandments.  I want to tell you about the law that exempts an ill person or a persecuted person from following any of all the other laws.  (However, there are no exempptions for murder, *** crimes, or blasphemy.)   

It is called pikuach nefesh, or "for the sake of the soul."  It means, for the recent example pertaiining to me, that if you are very ill or convalescing from serious illness, you can violate the Kosher/Kashrut laws.  I ate trefe/non-Kosher chicken, mixed with dairy products, from 4/15 to 5/13.  Once I get my "breath back" (just using an expression -- I am fine now), my aides & I have to re-Kasher my kitchen/make it Kossher again. 

Yours in Him, Deb

 I like the practicality of that law, and the wisdom of those that saw a need for it.  A person's life and health is more important than obeying a rigid law that is detrimental to that life, just for the sake of that law, for fear of offending God. I"m referring to other faiths here, but won't go into details to avoid an argument.  

I'm so glad that you are back Deb.  You are a big part of this Community and you were missed.  

Edey

Deb,

God is not only a Just and Powerful God, but He is also Merciful and Loving to His children. If you are too sick to follow your heartfelt convictions about Kosher food and other lifestyle choices, then by golly, you must take care of yourself the best you can at the time.

Love and Prayers still being sent your way!

Dear Edey, Judaism, to those of us who practice it, is a very practical religion.  From the outside, I understand that it doesn't seem that way!

Remember that I am only back "part-way, in a limited way."  I'll be back in my full Stretchpert role some time n the 1st week of June.

Love in Him, Deb

Thank you so very much, SLK!  (Is your name Stacie -- I am afraid that I can't remember, so forgive me if I am wwrong!).  Love in Him, Deb

It is nice seeing you again Deb - you were greatly missed.   I also find the information you share about Judaism extremely interesting and I'm glad that you have been able to heal without having to feel stress about following strict rules.   I hope you are fully back to good health soon and can re-embrace your faith in the fashion that you were before becoming ill.

blessings....

Deborahmichelle:

(Is your name Stacie -- I am afraid that I can't remember, so forgive me if I am wwrong!). 

Yup, that's me!

Dear Sunshine & Ariel, It is nice to know that you enjoy my being an ambassador of my faith.  Know, please, that I am an avid on-looker of Christian traditions, as well. 

Dear Stacie, Ah!  I recalled your name!!

Love in Him, Deb

 I, too, have learned quite a bit about the Jewish religion and traditions from what you have posted and am finding it very interesting. Like you said, practical. Religion of any kind should be practical and should be in place for the well-being and guidance of the followers. Judaism seems to follow the natural rhythm of life, or tries to.  I can admire that.  Edey