suffocation, by poisoning, which causes painful muscle cramping, or by having their necks
broken. According to the International Society for Animal Rights, Inc., to make one fur garment
requires 400 squirrels; 240 ermine; 200 chinchillas; 120 muskrats;
80 sables; 50 martens; 30 raccoons; 22 bobcats; 12 lynx; or five wolves.
Is Fur Necessary?
Judaism puts human beings on a higher level than animals and indicates that animals may be
harmed and even killed if an essential human need is met. However, is the wearing of fur truly
necessary for people to stay warm during wintry weather? There are many non-fur coats and
hats, available in a variety of styles, that provide much warmth. Imitation fur is produced at
such a high level of quality that even among Chasidim there is a small but growing trend to wear
synthetic “shtreimlach” (fur-trimmed hats).
In his book, “The Jewish Encyclopedia of Moral and Ethical Issues,” Rabbi Nachum Amsel, a
modern Israeli educator, states: “If the only reason a person wears the fur coat is to ‘show off’
one’s wealth or to be a mere fashion statement, that would be considered to be a frivolous and
not a “legitimate need.” Rabbi Amsel also points out that hunting for sport is prohibited
because it is not considered a legitimate need.
What kind of lesson in Jewish values are young people getting when they see worshippers
coming to synagogue in fur coats on the Sabbath day?
Not only do animals benefit from our compassion and concern — we, too, benefit by becoming
more sensitive and more humane, as Jews and civilized human beings.
Richard H. Schwartz is professor emeritus of the College of Staten Island and the author of
books and articles on Judaism and vegetarianism.
©2009 The Jewish Journal Boston North
T: (978) 745-4111 F: (978) 745-5333
201 Washington Street, Suite 14
Salem, Massachusetts 01970
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