Parshas Shemini contains most of the Torah laws concerning forbidden foods.
The Gemara states concerning non-kosher foods, not to become defiled (nitmatem)
one self by eating them. It then goes on to expound, “Don’t read it as nitmatem, (defiled),
rather as nitamteym, (to have become stupid).” Rashi on the spot explains that his heart
becomes stopped up and obstructed from having any wisdom.
The Holy Zohar states further, concerning this week’s Parsha, that one who eats
forbidden non-kosher foods, causes unholy forces to cling to him and his body and soul become
repulsive to the Holy One. A spirit of impurity rests on the onewho eats forbidden foods, and
he demonstrates before everybody that he has no part in the Living G-d. There is no cure for his
impurity, it stays with him for eternity!! Woe is he and woe to his soul, he has removed himself
from amongst the living!!
Therefore, it is advisable for one to take as much care to avoid forbidden foods which are
dangerous for his soul, as to avoid those which are dangerous to his body.
A Short Biography:
The Chiddushei HaRim, (Rebbi Yitzchok Meir), (1799-1866), was one of the most important
disciples of Rebbi Simcha Bunem of Pryschicha and then the fiery
R’ Menachem Mendel of
Kotzk. At the insistence of the Chassidim, the RIM
became leader after the death of the Kotzker. At the first Chassidic
gathering over which he presided he declared, “Reb Simchah Bunem
led with love, and R’ Menachem Mendel with fear. I will lead with
Torah!”
He led his followers for only seven years before his demise, yet succeeded in establishing
a precedent of excellence in Torah study which is still a hallmark of the Gerrer Chassidim today.
KosherQuest
Find out From KEDEM What Makes
Wine Kosher
A good Kashrus primer
The London Beis Din for Kashrus
Some Q's and A's on Kashrus