• English
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
    • Privacy Policy
  • BLOG
  • PODCAST
  • SPEAKING
  • RESOURCES
    • Shabbat Guide
    • Bat Mitzvah Guide
    • Parenting Principles
  • CONNECT
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

    Search

Jewish Latin Princess

Is Thanksgiving Kosher?

November 8, 2017 by Yael Leave a Comment

Is Thanksgiving Kosher

B”H

Is Thanksgiving Kosher? Kosher, meaning “fit,” is Thanksgiving a Holiday celebration fit for a Jew? I don’t mean the meal itself, as certainly that can be made kosher, but I mean the entire celebration, which yes, revolves around the meal. (Celebration revolving around a meal? Sounds pretty Jewish to me, ha!)  Is Thanksgiving, a holiday with non-Jewish origins, by default “un-Jewish”? The question of whether Jews should participate in Thanksgiving celebration has been up for halachic debate in the past. I will present you with the results of my research and what I conclude from it, but clearly I’m not a Rabbi and if you have a question of whether celebrating Thanksgiving is kosher for you as a Jew, please consult your local Orthodox Rabbi.

 

Is Thanksgiving Kosher

The Debate

The basis for the debate or the question of whether Thanksgiving is Kosher, is found in the way different authorities interpret the commandment of b’chucoseichem or the Torah’s adjunction to not copy other people’s ways (found in Leviticus 18:3).

Now, what that clearly means, is a matter of debate in the Talmud. There are two interpretations that have been debated by the Sages of the Talmud about what does “copying other people’s ways” mean:

  • Idolatrous customs, and
  • Foolish customs found in the Gentile community, even if their origins are not idolatrous

All authorities agree that b’chukoseihem applies to copying other’s religious practices which extends to celebrating holidays with origins in other faiths (ie. Christmas, Ramadan etc.) And most authorities hold that foolish – but secular customs are permissible, so long as they have a reasonable explanation and are not immodest.

Yet, you will find some Jewish communities in America, even today, who do not celebrate Thanksgiving. One of the halachic authorities of the past generation who ruled against the observance of Thanksgiving was Rav Yitzhock Hunter (1906-1980). His position is that as an annual holiday established and based on the the Christian calendar, Thanksgiving is closely associated with idol worship and thus prohibited.

Don’t Put Away Your Bubbie’s Thanksgiving Menu, Just Yet

But, wait I’m not telling you to give up your turkey and pumpkin pie, yet. If you’re a fan of this Holiday and it’s traditions, it seems like you’re in luck, because there are other halachic authorities who do not consider the celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday a violation of b’chucoseichem, as they deem Thanksgiving to be a purely secular holiday, with no religious or idolatrous origin. Among them are both Rabbi Moshe Feinstein and Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik.

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (1895 – 1986) published four responsa (rabbinic rulings) on the issues related to celebrating Thanksgiving, all of which conclude that Thanksgiving is not a religious holiday but a secular one.

Nonetheless, he prohibits taking the ongoing celebration as an obligation, as to avoid the prohibitions to add to the Jewish calendar and/or to add commandments. It seems however, that he sees no problem in Thanksgiving’s celebration as a Gentile holiday, and he appears to see no problem with eating a turkey meal on that day as a matter of choice, and not obligation.

In addition, he warns that the celebration would be prohibited if it was done with celebratory rituals associated with actually celebrating Thanksgiving, (perhaps of some religious significance), and not merely eating a meal.

Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik (1903-1993) also agreed that Thanksgiving was not a Gentile holiday, and ruled that it was permissible to eat turkey on Thanksgiving. It is said that this was also the position of his father, Rabbi Moshe Soloveichik (1879-1942). It is said, that even though Rabbi Joseph B. Solovietchick may have suggested to his students that he was going to have a Thanksgiving meal with his family later in the day, he always held classes on the day of Thanksgiving.

Conclusion

So, if you’re a fan of turkey, pumpkin pie and all the other trimmings, you certainly have halachic authorities to rely on for your decision to partake of the Thanksgiving celebration. To most American Jews, even some of the most Orthodox Jews, there seems to be no question about the appropriateness of celebrating to Thanksgiving. They regard it as a secular holiday that represents American values that are honored by Judaism as well.

However, like many areas of Jewish law where there is a diversity of legitimate approaches:

  • one should follow the practice of one’s community, family or Rabbi, and
  • be respectful of Jews who choose not to celebrate this American tradition, even with the most kosher turkey.

Did I just mention kosher turkey? It’s not that hard to make a fully kosher Thanksgiving feast, so if you’re going to do it, I say go all out and make it kosher!

The Message of Thanksgiving

Here’s a beautiful clip, on what the Lubavitcher Rebbe says we should learn from the American Holiday of Thanksgiving:

 

Do you celebrate Thanksgiving? Tell me… I might need some recipes…

Related Post: Thanksgiving Tradition

 

You may also like | Puede que también te guste

  • My ThanksgivingMy Thanksgiving
  • Thanksgiving Gift-GivingThanksgiving Gift-Giving
  • Thanksgiving TraditionThanksgiving Tradition
  • Lego DreidelLego Dreidel
Episode 31: Wendy Sachs, Author of Fearless & Free
Fall Modest Fashion

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

INSTAGRAM

Follow on Instagram

Jewish Mom Blogs

Judaica by Kate Spade NY

Sponsors I Love

Sponsors I Love

Ready to enjoy a joyful & richer Jewish life?

Recent Posts

  • 318: Your Attachment Style & Your Relationship with Money
  • 317: What Happened with SVB and Signature Bank and What Should I do?
  • 316: Creativity, Money and G-d with Hollywood Writer David Sacks
  • 315: Minisode — Unconventional Lessons in Public Speaking 
  • 314: Ask Yael

Testimonials

  • Chaya Mushka Ben-Shabat, Founder and CEO, Menachem Mendel AcademyChaya Mushka Ben-Shabat, Founder and CEO, Menachem Mendel Academy
    Being a guest on JLP was a true delight!  Easy, quick, hassle-free, and most of all…FUN!  Yael made the entire experience feel like a chat with a long-lost friend, and I finished with the interview feeling invigorated and excited to re-focus on my mission.  May Hashem give us MANY more women like Yael in this world to hasten our righteous Moshiach NOW!!
  • Harriet Lerner, PhD, Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?Harriet Lerner, PhD, Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?

    I loved being in Jewish Latin Princess. Yael made me feel right at home. Her careful reading of the book and her interview style was terrific. I also enjoyed sharing a part of my life that I don’t usually get to share in interviews. Thank You Yael!

  • Jamie Geller, the Queen of KosherJamie Geller, the Queen of Kosher

    I had a great time being on Jewish Latin Princess Podcast. Yael is a great interviewer and fun. The questions just flowed and they were the perfect balance of thought provoking and deep, while also keeping the conversation very real and practical. I’ve done many interviews in the past and I can say, Yael is great on the mic!

  • Shira Kraft, Director of Nishmah, JCC of St. LouisShira Kraft, Director of Nishmah, JCC of St. Louis

    I can’t thank you enough for joining us at the retreat and being a truly special guest! Your words were beautiful and meaningful. You exceeded our expectations and were a pleasure to work with. It was wonderful to share this Shabbat with you.

  • Lenore Skenazy, America’s Worst MomLenore Skenazy, America’s Worst Mom

    It was a joy to be interviewed by Yael -- she's fun, prepared, quick and smart. A truly zesty conversation. What more could an interviewee want?

  • Julie Starr, Possibility Life Coaching for WomenJulie Starr, Possibility Life Coaching for Women

    Being interviewed by Yael is pure joy! Her insightful comments, powerful questions and warm interaction helps one share with ease. Yael may you go from strength to strength with your mission of spreading goodness throughout the world!

  • Faigy Pollock, Expert on Marriage & IntimacyFaigy Pollock, Expert on Marriage & Intimacy

    What an honor to be interviewed by Yael. In my eyes, Yael's show is a place to glorify Judaism and the Jewish way of life, and I am humbled to have been invited to share my passion. Yael made me feel so comfortable and confident. Her easy going upbeat energy was felt way across the globe as if I was sitting right there next to her. I enjoyed every moment of the interview and couldn't believe that an hour and a half went by so fast;-) I look forward to connecting again soon. Yael, keep up the good work!

  • Amy Kritzer

    I loved being a guest on Yael's podcast! Her questions are thoughtful, and it's like chatting with a good friend. The time flew by. I wish we could have chatted more.

  • Silvia Cohen, Food Creative Blogger en LemishmashSilvia Cohen, Food Creative Blogger en Lemishmash

    Yael de JLP no es solo mi gran amiga sino que es una host maravillosa, con la voz más dulce y hace las preguntas más asertivas. Te hace sentir en casa estando tan lejos y en un micrófono. Yael es el perfecto ejemplo de mujer mamá judia trabajadora que lo puede todo! Y todo lo que hace lo hace perfecto. No solo recomiendo escuchar sus podcast que son maravillosos sino seguir su blog y sus ocurrentes historias y los mejores tips.

  • Stacy Middleman, Author of Dear Cancer, Love StacyStacy Middleman, Author of Dear Cancer, Love Stacy

    Yael is a delight! My interview with her for Jewish Latin Princess was like talking to an old friend. Her questions are thought-provoking, insightful and generous. Her warm approach allowed me to be myself, and I loved having the opportunity to share my story in such an engaging way.

  • Michelle Poler, Founder of Hello Fears, Speaker & Fear FacerMichelle Poler, Founder of Hello Fears, Speaker & Fear Facer

    I loved being part of your podcast, I had no idea what to expect and it was refreshing as a Jewish woman to participate in your podcast. Your questions related to what I do, combined with Judaism gave me a lot to think about. I love getting new questions instead of the typical “why did you start the project?” which is important but I’m glad you gave it a twist. I hope your listeners enjoy the interview as much as I enjoyed being part of it! Thanks for challenging me to think about my topic and religion as one.

  • Nomi Freeman, Expert in Near Death ExperiencesNomi Freeman, Expert in Near Death Experiences

    It was great talking with you yesterday. You made me feel totally comfortable from the start. Your style is so dynamic, and your interviews so thought provoking! Our interview was just one fun conversation and it flew by so quickly!

  • Rebecca Schweiger: Artist & Founder of The Art Studio NYRebecca Schweiger: Artist & Founder of The Art Studio NY

    By far the highlight of my week was interviewing with Yael for JLP! I felt like I plugged into an outlet of inspiration and human connection. Yael has brains, spunk, spirit and curiosity, all of which come through her thought-provoking and engaging interview style. Thank you, Yael, for including me in your podcast. You are a pleasure to join forces with!

  • Shirley Varnagy: Periodista, Anfitriona de Radio y TVShirley Varnagy: Periodista, Anfitriona de Radio y TV

    Gracias por la estupenda entrevista que me hiciste, siempre es grato que te entrevisten de otra manera, es una conversación que nunca olvidaré. Al final el propósito de una buena entrevistadora es que su entrevista deje huella, y tu lo lograste.

  • Abigail Pogrebin: Author of My Jewish YearAbigail Pogrebin: Author of My Jewish Year

    Yael's careful preparation and genuine sensitivity are evident in every question she asks and in how attentively she listens. It was a pleasure to talk to the Jewish Latin Princess!

  • Bari Lyman: Author & Creator of Meet to MarryBari Lyman: Author & Creator of Meet to Marry

    It was such a delight to be interviewed by Yael. She is so warm, on target and really insightful. Instead of feeling like an interview, it was like have a cup of tea with a really good friend. Thanks Yael for sharing your gifts with the world and creating a platform to share ours.

  • Bari Tessler: Financial Therapist and Creator of The Art of MoneyBari Tessler: Financial Therapist and Creator of The Art of Money

    Yael and I went deep into my journey to becoming a financial therapist in her podcast. Thank you for this lovely interview.

  • Rena Reiser: Intuitive Eating CoachRena Reiser: Intuitive Eating Coach

    I'm brand new to the podcasting world, and Yael made me feel right at home and relaxed. She's so curious and honest, making it a pleasure to speak to her. Being interviewed by Yael is like sitting in your best friend's living room shmoozing and laughing about the day.

  • Barbara Stanny: Bestselling Author, and the Leading Authority on Women and MoneyBarbara Stanny: Bestselling Author, and the Leading Authority on Women and Money

    You are a truly terrific interviewer. I'm also filled with joy and gratitude to have had such a juicy, deep, and spiritual conversation with you. Thank you so much for inviting me on your show.

    Author of Prince Charming Isn't Coming, Overcoming Underearning, and Sacred Success

  • Vicki Samuels: President & CEO, Jewish Herald-VoiceVicki Samuels: President & CEO, Jewish Herald-Voice

    Yael is a gifted and intuitive writer. So impressed was our staff, that the Jewish Herald-Voice offered her a monthly column, "Defining Jewish Women." We have received only positive feedback and our readers look forward to the third Thursday of every month. In between, I personally follow her blog and gain much insight into myself through her words and emotions.

  • Gila SimchaGila Simcha

    What a treat to hear Yael speak at the Jewish Women's Retreat in San Antonio. Her presentation, "Mi Casa es Su Casa, The Kabbalah of the Home" inspired me to express my Judaism in a way that speaks to my creative side and love of all things chic without compromising my true self and style. I'm so glad I got the chance to hear her message of creativity and Torah. Bravo!

  • Sandy FrydbergSandy Frydberg

    I enjoyed your presentation very much. Your way of presenting material is your strongest asset. You are organized, friendly and approachable, and you speak beautifully, including when you incorporated Jewish teachings in Hebrew. I would be happy to learn from you as you make it fun and interesting.

  • Tina GrossTina Gross

    Thank you so much for a wonderful presentation....You are a great speaker and all the ladies loved hearing your stories....

  • Shoshana BonnShoshana Bonn

    I am writing to share how much I enjoyed your presentation on the kabbalah of home at the 55th N'shei Chabad convention in San Antonio, Texas. Your vivacious speaking style, the clarity with which you made your points, and your warmth toward your audience made this one of the best breakout sessions I attended. You offered both depth of Jewish knowledge and perspective on how this applied to people's individual situations. I look forward to my next opportunity to hear you speak.

  • Ronit Spiwak WolfRonit Spiwak Wolf

    Gracias por crear un blog tan necesitado para la mujer moderna Judia.

  • Clara GrossClara Gross

    Yael y JLP son muy especiales para mi. Fue gracias a JLP que me di la oportunidad de intentar nuevamente preparar Challah para mi familia - desde que JLP publico la Challah que nunca falla en nuestra mesa hay hermosas y deliciosas Challah todos los Shabbat y en las festividades. Soy una foodie así que no me pierdo las recetas que publica y hasta ahora han sido un éxito total, sin contar que me inspira la bellísima presentación de los platos y como presentar una hermosa,  sencilla y a la vez elegante mesa para nuestra familia e invitados.

  • Miranda HurwitzMiranda Hurwitz

    In preparation for my wedding, I had the opportunity to learn with Yael. Creativity aside, she is a wealth of knowledge, both passionate and practical, about what she teaches and how she teaches it. I'm also proud to say that through our experience together she has become a great friend and is someone that I can I always talk to.

  • Melinda SilberMelinda Silber
    Yael can be defined as “refreshing inspiration.” She is well-versed in an array of topics from Jewish femininity to design details. Every time I hear her at a speaking engagement or in passing conversation, she always brings an awareness of Jewish femininity to the forefront, constantly reminding women of their spiritual role and importance in ‘everyday’ things. I was thrilled that she passed this concept on, along with her deep knowledge of Judaism, to my daughter during their Bat Mitzvah lessons together. Yael always rises to the occasion (no pun intended) with her eye for design and attention to details. Her subtle palette, creativity and organizational skills are her recipe to success!
  • Vanesa KreindelVanesa Kreindel

    Estoy inmensamente feliz de haber conocido a Yael. En ella no solo encontré una persona con inmenso talento, sino que también encontré una gran amiga que abre su corazón y te contagia su alegría, creatividad y armonía. Me fascina leer su blog - en el siempre encuentro algún nuevo “tip” y también disfruto muchísimo de las clases de mujeres que nos da mensualmente.

  • Anat ChenAnat Chen

    My daughter Stav had her Bat Mitzvah a few months ago.  I wanted Stav to go into her 'Bat Mitzvah' understanding the meaning of the term, and with the knowledge of how to apply it to her life. Even though she learns in a Jewish Orthodox school, I felt that she needed extra learning and inspiration for her coming of age.  Luckily, I knew Yael from before, and heard that she teaches Bat Mitzvah classes.  I had a feeling that this would be a good match... I wasn't wrong :)

    Yael teaches ancient ideas in a modern way.  Stav came back from classes inspired, thinking and asking herself questions.  I'm thankful that my daughter had the opportunity to learn with Yael for her Bat Mitzvah in a interesting, welcoming and inspiring way.

  • Kayla WarrenKayla Warren

    Yael has creativity, vision, and energy, and she uses them all to the fullest for her clients. She came up with the color scheme, all the accessories, the overall “look” of the day, and I just happily and gratefully followed along. But I don’t want you to think it’s only what Yael wants, Yael does. She asked me for input every step of the way. She always checked in with me about what she was buying, what she thought we should have at the party, and she was always conscious of budget. I wanted everything she suggested, but I know that if there had been anything I wasn’t keen to have, she would have changed it until she found something that I loved. She wanted my daughter and me to be happy with everything. We weren’t happy – that’s too meager a word – we were elated!!! Working with Yael was such a pleasant and joyful experience. And those are two words I don’t use lightly when it comes to describing planning an event.

  • Elisheva GolaniElisheva Golani

    Yael helped me style my son's upshernish as well as my living room. She is wonderful to work with! She is talented and extremely organized which is super helpful! She has an incredible eye and knows how to beautify absolutely anything!

Ready to enjoy a joyful & richer Jewish life?

75 yael@jewishlatinprincess.com
xo Yael
  • English
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • BLOG
  • PODCAST
  • SPEAKING
  • RESOURCES
  • CONNECT

© 2023 · Jewish Latin Princess · website by Pretty Darn Cute Design