In Parshas Shmini, Hashem directs us on the laws of Kashrus. We may eat only certain animals, ones that have very specific signs.
Though we don’t know the full reasons for any mitzvos, we are able to gain some insight by way of ‘ta’amim’ (lit.: tastes), understandings which give us a bit of the flavor of the commandment.
For example, we don’t eat animals that are hunters or predators. We, as human beings, are not supposed to oppress those weaker than us. We don’t revel in their failures, nor attempt to tear them apart.
There is a bird called a ‘chasida,’ which the Torah tells us is kind to its species. It is forbidden. Why? Only Hashem knows, but we do know that this bird limits its kindness to those that are like it, and not to those who are different. This is not a Jewish trait.
The fins and scales of a fish represent the desire to “get ahead” as fins propel the fish, but also integrity, as the scales protect the fish from outside forces. We are to avoid being influenced by society, but also positively impact it.
You are what you eat, says the Torah, and we could all stand to eat a little better, so we can be better. It may not be the whole reason, but it’s enough of one to love what Kosher represents – that Hashem thinks highly of us and wants to see us succeed and live up to the hype.
