This week’s Torah portion introduces us to the kosher laws—the dietary guidelines that define which foods are permissible for Jewish people. From determining which animals chew their cud and have split hooves to identifying which fish have fins and scales, these laws are detailed and specific. And yet, the Torah does not offer a direct reason for these commandments.
Unlike some other mitzvot that have clear moral or ethical underpinnings, the kosher laws fall into the category of chukim—statutes given by G-d without an explained rationale. And still, they have shaped Jewish identity for millennia. While we may not fully understand the “why,” their impact is unmistakable.
Kosher serves as a daily reminder of our unique covenant with Hashem. In a world that often pulls us toward assimilation, keeping kosher is one of the most tangible ways we maintain our distinctiveness. It’s not just about what we eat—it’s about who we are. The separateness instilled by these laws has been a key to our survival, keeping the Jewish people united and spiritually connected even in the most challenging times.
This helps us appreciate the depth of our tradition and the ways in which even the most mysterious mitzvahs contribute to the continuity of our people.
May our observance, even without full understanding, bring us closer to G-d and to each other, and lead to the ultimate redemption with Moshiach, very soon!
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie Lazaroff
THE COHEN CORNER
Don’t blame the distractions. Improve your focus.
This week’s Torah portion outlines the criteria for identifying kosher animals: they must both chew their cud and have split hooves. Beyond their physical characteristics, these signs carry deep spiritual significance.
The hoof represents our interaction with the material world. While the foot connects us to the earth, it also serves as a boundary, reminding us to remain spiritually elevated even as we engage with the physical. The split hoof symbolizes openness, an invitation for G-dly light to enter and sanctify even the most mundane aspects of life. Thus, we are called to maintain spiritual awareness in all our worldly pursuits.
Chewing the cud reflects the importance of contemplation. Before partaking in material experiences, we must reflect to ensure our actions are not driven by indulgence or self-interest, but by the desire to uplift the physical in service of a higher purpose. Additionally, our efforts to elevate the world must align with the framework of the Torah, ensuring that both our goals and our methods remain holy.
Have a wonderful Shabbos!
Rabbi Yosef, Chanale & Mushka Cohen
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:
- Thursdays, May 1-22 at 10:30am - Mommy and Me with Chanale Cohen - Nurturing and engaging program designed for mothers and babies (newborn to 2 years) to learn, play, and connect in a warm Jewish environment. - www.chabaduptown.org/mommy
- Tuesday, May 6th - Lunch 'N Learn: "Counting With Purpose: A mystical journey through the Omer count" with Rabbi Yosef Cohen. RSVP at Chabaduptown.org/lunch
- Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon - featuring a lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
- Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary, followed by our annual Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party!
UPCOMING YJP EVENTS:
- Friday, May 2 at 7:30pm - YJP First Fridays - Cinco De Shabbat- Mexican Themed Shabbat Dinner for Young Jewish Professionals. www.yjphouston.org/fiesta
- Wed-Sun., May 7-11 - CYP Encounter Guatemala - Join us for an adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. www.chabadyoung.com/gua
- Thursday, May 15 at 8pm - Lag Ba'omer Steakhouse - Experience the mystical Jewish Holiday with mouthwatering steaks, fire pit and s’mores, open bar and music. RSVP at www.yjphouston.org/steaks
Wed.-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Israel Volunteer Trip - Meaningful, memorable and amazing volunteering trip to Israel this summer, eligible ages 18-50 —and the price is insane - as low at $599! www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip
SHABBOS MEVARCHIM IYAR, PARSHAS SHEMINI
FRIDAY, APRIL 25, NISSAN 27
7:30 Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat
7:37 Shabbos Candle Lighting
Count Omer 13
8:30 pm RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
SHABBOS, APRIL 26, NISSAN 28
8:00 am Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim
9:30 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbos Mevarchim Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen
7:35 pm Mincha
Pirkei Avos Ch. 1
8:33 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Count Omer 14
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