This is a common attitude that the author has
found. Many people feel that if there are benefits
to vegetarianism, and if some people want to have
such a diet, fine, but they should keep it to themselves
and not try to convert others.
The question really becomes one of how seriously
we take Jewish values. Are we to ignore Torah mandates
to preserve our health, show compassion for animals,
conserve resources, help feed hungry people, preserve
the earth, and others that are violated directly
or indirectly by animal-centered diets? Is it proper
that people be kept uninformed about the many violations
of Torah law so that they can continue their eating
habits with a clear conscience?
The following powerful talmudic teaching shows
the importance of speaking out when improper actions
occur: Whoever is able to protest against the transgressions
of his own family and does not do so is punished
for the transgressions of his family. Whoever is
able to protest against the transgressions of the
people of his community and does not do so is punished
for the transgressions of his community. Whoever
is able to protest against the transgressions of
the entire world and does not do so is punished
for the transgressions of the entire world. (Shabbat
54b)
The Talmud also relates a story of how apparently
righteous individuals were punished along with the
wicked because "they had the power to protest
but they did not." (Shabbat 55a) Related to
these principles are the following teachings of
the Jewish sages: If a man of learning participates
in public affairs and serves as judge or arbiter,
he gives stability to the land. But if he sits in
his home and says to himself, "What have the
affairs of society to do with me?... Why should
I trouble myself with the people's voice of protest?
Let my soul dwell in peace!" If he does this,
he overthrows the world." (Tanchuma to Mishpachim)
If the community is in trouble, a man must not
say, "I will go to my house, and eat and drink,
and peace shall be with you, ..." But a man
must share in the trouble of his community, even
as Moses did. He who shares in its troubles is worthy
to see its consolation.(Taanit 11a)
