292 - What Does God Say About Veganism? with Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz

Episode • Jul 24, 2024 • 44m

In this episode, we are honored to welcome Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz, a beacon of compassion, justice, and spiritual wisdom.

Rabbi Shmuly is a spiritual leader and passionate advocate for animal rights and veganism. As the Founder & President of Shamayim: Jewish Animal Advocacy, he promotes ethical treatment for all beings and a plant-based lifestyle. He also founded Uri L'Tzedek, dedicated to social justice and ethical leadership, and YATOM, a foster and adoption network for children.

Author of 24 books, Rabbi Shmuly’s writings have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian. Newsweek has recognized him twice as one of America's Top Rabbis.

Rabbi Shmuly’s extraordinary personal commitment to compassion extends beyond his advocacy. He has donated a kidney to a stranger and, along with his wife Shoshanna, opens their home to foster children, embodying the values he teaches.

Stay tuned as we delve into an inspiring conversation with Rabbi Shmuly, exploring the profound connections between spirituality, ethics, and animal rights. You don't want to miss his insights on how to lead a life of greater purpose and impact.

“Some people think, ‘Oh, I made it. I'm vegan. I'm done. I don't have to grow anymore.’ Nope. I think that's the floor. That's the beginning of what it means to then start to morally and spiritually grow on the next level. Okay, so I'm sensitive in this way. How about all these other ways that I can be more sensitive, thoughtful, and intentional in my life? And so I view that as one area that has enabled me to go deeper in supporting other people because behavioral change is so difficult and so frustrating for people who are trying to lose weight, or people who are trying to grow in their exercise, or trying to change, you know, the way they talk to people, or how they spend their free time. And it's so hard to change even when we're so committed. And I view my vegan journey as, you know, providing some insight into how we can make baby steps towards growth.” -Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz

What we discuss in this episode:

- Rabbi Shmuly’s journey to veganism and the inspiration behind his advocacy.

- The impact of veganism on his role as a Rabbi.

- Jewish religious texts and their connection to veganism.

- Understanding kosher: its true meaning, history, and its relation to veganism.

- The concept of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and its application in Rabbi Shmuly's work.

- The dangers of self-absorption.

- Theology on human responsibility.

- The importance of living with gratitude.

Resources:

- Website: Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz - https://www.rabbishmuly.com/

- Books by Rabbi Shmuly: Books - Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz - https://www.rabbishmuly.com/books.html