shehita

In Judaism, shehitah refers to the ritual method of slaughtering animals for food. This practice is a key component of kosher dietary laws, which dictate what foods are permissible for consumption. The term "kosher" means "fit" or "proper" and applies not only to food but also to ritual objects.1

Shehitah involves a swift, deep incision across the animal's neck using a specially sharpened knife with a smooth edge. This method is intended to sever the main arteries and veins, causing rapid unconsciousness and allowing blood to drain from the body. The person performing the slaughter, known as a shohet, must be specially trained and licensed by rabbinic authority. While some have raised concerns about cruelty, scientific opinion suggests that this method leads to near-immediate loss of consciousness. Adherence to shehitah is a divine command in Orthodox Judaism, though Reform Judaism views its observance differently.12