Why is pork forbidden in Islam and Judaism?
Avoiding pork is considered one of the oldest traditions, uniting millions of people around the world. For Muslims and Jews, it is not a matter of diet. It is a way to maintain spiritual purity and discipline.
But why exactly has pork been strictly forbidden? Is it just religious doctrine, or are there entirely logical practical reasons? UA.NEWS has the answer.
Why is the pig considered an “unclean” animal?
The spiritual teachings of both religions are unanimous regarding this animal. The Quran calls pork unclean, imposing a strict taboo on it. Judaism adds more detailed conditions. For meat to be considered kosher, the animal must be a ruminant and have cloven hooves. The pig, however, despite the shape of its hooves, does not chew the cud. For this reason, it is not permitted for consumption.
Ethnographers note that the image of the pig in culture is closely associated with uncleanliness due to its omnivorous nature. From a biological perspective, this is reinforced by the fact that pigs do not sweat. As a result, harmful substances do not exit through the skin but accumulate in fatty tissue. All these factors have contributed to the prohibition on the consumption of pork.
Historical Background of the Ban on Pork Consumption
The ban also has a logical explanation for the hot climate of the Middle East. In ancient times, there were no refrigerators, and pork spoiled instantly. This often led to fatal food poisoning. Moreover, pigs are carriers of dangerous parasites that were impossible to detect thousands of years ago. Thus, the religious ban became a customary way for people to survive in the harsh conditions of the desert.
The Modern Context of the Ban on Pork Consumption
Today, people avoid pork not for religious reasons, but for health reasons. "Halal" or "Kosher" labels on products have become a true mark of quality.
People choose such food because they are confident that its quality is monitored much more strictly. It is an entire system where both what the animal was fed and how it was treated are important. Such strict control makes this meat safe, eco-friendly, and popular worldwide.
Why is there no ban on pork consumption in Ukraine?
There has never been such a ban in Ukraine due to our climate and history. It is much cooler here than in the desert. Meat kept longer, and people weren’t afraid of severe food poisoning. Ukrainian nature is ideal for raising pigs, which was beneficial to every farmer.
Moreover, throughout Ukraine’s history, pigs literally saved people from starvation. Our lands were often raided by nomads. They took all the livestock from the people except for the pigs, because their faith forbade them from even touching these animals. It was precisely because of this that Ukrainians were able to survive and not starve to death during the hardest times. That is why pork and lard have become a symbol of prosperity for us and an important part of our traditions.
