How can I keep kosher when the laws are so complicated?

Question

Have any advice?

For instance, are there any breads that are kosher by nature rather than by certification?

I'm trying to convert to Judaism. I've been reading Torah, changing my diet, and learning how to recite a prayer in Hebrew.

Answer 1

The laws aren't THAT complicated once you get into it.

But the best way to do it is to first get in contact with your local orthodox rabbi (if you want to do it right) and find out who, in your area, is the 'goto' guy for kosher questions.

He'll get you started by going over the basics, helping to kosher your house, and teach you how to shop. Then, whenever a question arises, you'll know who to call.

What many do beforehand is to 'practice' keeping kosher. By this, I mean that one only buys reliably kosher food and learns the ins and outs before actually koshering the house. If you're not even to that point yet, an easy way to start is to stop eating non-kosher meats and fish (ie pork, shellfish, etc) and eliminate mixtures of meat and dairy (no cheeseburgers). Once you're comfortable with that, you can move forward.

Just remember, until you actually take the plunge, it's not all or nothing...any movement towards keeping completely kosher is a good move. And even once you have made the complete commitment, there are many remedies for simple mistakes....that's why you need the relationship with the rabbi.

Good luck.

Answer 2

THere's a Mishnah in Pirkei Avos that says it pretty well, "The unknowing person cannot be pious."

You have to learn the basic laws, which is not very difficult to do once you find a good source. The problem is people will tell you all kinds of baloney, so find a trustworthy person who will explain you kashrus on one foot and direct you to good books.

Generally the best way to do it fast is to find a good certification you trust, and don't let the meat and dairy mix at all. If they do call the rabbi you trust. And keep in mind that vegetables and fruits, if they don't come from the Holyland, are kosher without question if you peel them.

And yes, there are breads that are inherently kosher without certification, but you won't be able to find them until you know a bit more.

Answer 3

It is actually rather simple. Eat kosher meat, do not mix meat and dairy, look for the kosher symbol on foods in the supermarket, no shell fish or fish without scales and fins.

Not exactly brain surgery.

Answer 4

If you were raised in a family that keeps kosher, you know how to do it. If not, don't worry about it.

Answer 5

just eat vegetables and only eat with your hands, India style.