Question: Can you explain the YouTube video showing a kosher slaughterhouse's cruelty?
Dear Rabbi,
In terms of kosher being more compassionate, I recently saw footage that disturbed me, from the largest kosher slaughterhouse in the country. This is it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-ascm17R9A. What are your comments on this?
Thank you and God Bless, Erica
Answer: Dear Erica,
I am well aware of this video and related issues concerning inappropriate conduct at Kosher slaughterhouses. It is reprehensible and should be condemned by every rabbi. Judaism is strongly opposed to any mistreatment of animals.
Unfortunately, there are some who put conveniences and profit above Jewish law and values. The only thing I can suggest is that you keep away from such "Kosher" meat providers until the situation is rectified -- I sure am.
The Torah is perfect -- unfortunately not everyone who claims to follow it is.
Yours truly,
Rabbi Ari Enkin
Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel