Shalom everyone. If you didn't know, that means hello in Hebrew. Today Rabbi Akiva Gersh A.K.A The Vegan Rabbi joins us to talk about how Judaism and Veganism go hand in hand. We discuss how embracing a vegan lifestyle can align with Jewish values of compassion, kindness, and tikkun olam, which means "repairing the world" in Hebrew. Rabbi Akiva Gersh, a passionate advocate for ethical eating, sheds light on the significance of kashrut (the Jewish dietary laws) in promoting a deeper connection with nature and a heightened awareness of the food we consume. He shares fascinating insights into how Jewish teachings encourage responsible stewardship of the Earth and the creatures that inhabit it. During our conversation, Rabbi Gersh addresses some of the commonly misunderstood phrases in the Bible that have been used to justify certain dietary practices. He clarifies that ancient texts may have been interpreted differently over time, and he encourages listeners to explore the true essence of these verses in the context of compassion and kindness. Rabbi Gersh also shares his personal journey to finding veganism and religion and shares inspiring stories of how the Jewish community has been embracing plant-based living, incorporating compassionate choices into their traditional recipes, and celebrating plant-based holidays. Join us for a thought-provoking and eye-opening discussion as Rabbi Akiva Gersh, The Vegan Rabbi, bridges the gap between Judaism and veganism, revealing how both paths can lead us towards a more harmonious and compassionate world. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to be enriched with wisdom and insights on this compelling episode of our podcast. Shalom! Follow us:  instagram.com/veganrabbi instagram.com/itsjamiescorner