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Thoughts to Nosh OnDecember 2005From the Desk of Rabbi SharffThe movie “Fast Food Nation,” based on the book with the same title is currently in production in Austin. The filmmakers have had to give the film a pseudonym in order to gain access to fast food restaurants, which would most likely not want to be a part of an expose originally written by Eric Schlosser. The book on which the movie is based; is in and of itself both a fascinating and disturbing examination of the policies of fast food corporations as well as America’s eating habits. As a people whose tradition often times seems to revolve around food, it does beg the question: what does Judaism have to say about the fast food culture we are a part of? When it comes to food, Judaism is of two minds. The first factor is that food is both essential to life, and that it also helps to demark celebrations. What would Hanukkah be without the latka? What would Purim be without the Hamentaschen? On the other hand, our tradition also espouses moderation. One should drink to “make the heart glad,” when celebrating the Shabbat. However one should not drink to the point of getting fershnikered. This idea comes to us from Sanhedrin 8:2, which basically says, “Do not be among those who drink too much or overeat.” But more than that, our tradition teaches us that our bodies are a gift from God, and that we should not do with them as we please. Therefore, it is important to celebrate with food, but not to the point where we endanger our health. We learn from this that it sometimes it is both necessary and appropriate to pass up on the second round of latkes this Hanukkah, and contrary to popular belief, one does not always have to “clean their plates.” For what we put in our holy vessels is as important as what we do with them. Amidst all of the delightful and tasty treats that seem to pop up this time of year, it is always good to remember that what we do with the holy vessels that are our bodies can be a reflection not just of our physical selves, but also of our spiritual understanding of God. May you all have wonderful holiday celebrations, and may your celebrations be joyously done through the Jewish tradition of moderation. Rabbi Ben Sharff |
