0

According to those that hold vegetarianism is the higher & more exalted path (Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, Rav Kook, The Nazir of Yerushalayim, Rav Shlomo Goren) what should be done if a piece of meat is on its way to a trash-bin? Would it not be more dignified for the animals sake to eat it so that he doesn’t go completely wasted? When consumed he can become part of you, energize you, & even partake & become exalted through the good deeds you perform? Or maybe it would be better for the meat to just be thrown away? I personally just came to the conclusion that I no longer find it necessary (nor particularly nice!) to eat meat anymore because of all the amazing Kosher food that exists today but my family are very carnivorous & I usually end up throwing out lots of leftovers. Although I understand that this is an “ask a Rav” type question still any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank You & Be Blessed!

2
  • 1
    I don’t have a Rav to ask so any input would be greatly appreciated. Please find yourself one. It is very important as we don't know you personally. And while the question is good, that line alone gives me a temptation to close as "Request for Psak" Nov 14, 2017 at 22:38
  • @ShmuelBrin That's "bal tashchit" בל; not בעל. Embarrassingly common mistake...
    – mevaqesh
    Nov 15, 2017 at 4:22

1 Answer 1

2

The Talmud reads (BT, Shab. 140b):

ואמר רב פפא האי מאן דאפשר למישתי שיכרא ושתי חמרא עובר משום בל תשחית ולאו מילתא היא בל תשחית דגופא עדיף

Trans. (Sefaria):

And Rav Pappa said: One who is able to drink beer and nevertheless drinks wine violates the prohibition against wanton destruction. The Gemara comments: And this is not a correct matter, as the prohibition against destruction of one’s body takes precedence. It is preferable for one to care for his body by eating higher quality food than to conserve his money.

Based on this amoraic extension of the prohibition of 'bal tashchit' (waste), in which causing bodily deterioration is a bigger sin, I don't think in the given situation the meat would be discarded and not eaten.

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .