ReporterNotebook memo:
New Zealand Bans Jewish Ritual Slaughter
JTA
New Zealand's first Jewish Prime Minister has banned shechita, the kosher slaughter of animals as other nations have due to the notion that it is a more cruel method. The country's new animal welfare code, which took effect Friday, mandates that all animals for commercial consumption be stunned prior to slaughter to ensure they are treated "humanely and in accordance with good practice and scientific knowledge." The regulation has shocked the Jewish community. World religion views on animals
Web sites offer more information about animals and faith
By Lisa Black, Tribune reporter
June 6, 2010
The world's primary religions consider humans to be superior to animals. While abuse is generally prohibited, most have historically overlooked cruel practices used to provide food, fur and service to humans.
Judaism:
Permits using animals for legitimate needs, such as food and clothing, but prohibits causing unnecessary suffering. Jewish law prohibits altering pets, such as spaying, neutering or declawing a cat. Some pet owners deal with this by temporarily "selling" their pet to a non-Jew, then "buying" the pet back after the operation has been performed. Pet owners are required to feed their animals before themselves. Animals are subject like humans to a day of rest, and may not be slaughtered or put to work on the Sabbath, according to Rabbi Byron Sherwin, professor with Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies in Chicago.
Christianity:
Has traditionally ascribed to the view that humans, made in the image of God, have dominion over all Earth. But the Bible also calls for humans to be good stewards of all creation, leading to a divergent call to improve the care of animals.
Islam:
Ritualized slaughter of animals reflects a belief that humans are "divinely appointed representatives" of Allah, yet recognizes animals have their own importance.
Hinduism:
Animals are considered inferior to humans but also understood to have souls and be worthy of ethical consideration. Humans who live immorally are believed destined to be reborn as animals. Cows are considered sacred and are not eaten. Many followers are vegetarians.
Buddhism:
Followers take a kind, sympathetic view toward animals but view their lives as unhappy and in competition with humans. Many Buddhists are vegetarians.
Web sites of interest:
notonesparrow.
humanesociety.
religionandanimals.
lblack@tribune.
Copyright © 2010, Chicago Tribune
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