Hello Chaim,
Hope all is going well for you and yours this holiday season. Thanks for your insights on Judaism's views regarding the afterlife, heaven, and hell. As you said, such deep topics require in depth study and analysis, but your concise comments were thought provoking nonetheless. I will ask related questions as they come to mind. It was quite comforting to hear that Hell is indeed a Jewish concept, as in our "dream world" as you put it so eloquently there is often no justice. It is nice to know G-d has set aside a place for Nazis, Muslim Nazi terrorists, and other forms of evil to be severely punished as they deserve. Well, Chaim, as you might remember, I am trying to become more religious and taking your advice to do it a little at a time. This week I was wondering about the kosher dietary laws. I have always stayed away from pork, shellfish, and other forbidden foods, but I would not classify my home as strictly kosher. Eventually I would like to reach this point. In that regard, I always look for food products labeled "OU" or "K." Is this enough? Also, is it permissible to buy kosher products in supermarkets that also sell non-kosher food? Unfortunately, I do not have many all kosher stores in my area. Finally, I was wondering what Jewish or Rabbinic law says about consuming animals in general. As an animal lover, I sometimes feel guilty about eating animal products, though I must admit I enjoy them and they are an important source of protein in a balanced diet. As always, thanks for your insights and all the best.
Ari