6561 —הדרכה על להפוך לשוחט בקהילה חדשה

B"H, 20th of Marcheshvan, 5719. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter, in which you write about the proposal to serve as a bodek and later as a shochet in Hamilton.

In general, the custom is that before one becomes an independent shochet in a city where there are no other shochtim, one must first serve as an active shochet together with other expert shochtim. Even if one has studied the laws from books and from other shochtim and has practiced somewhat, it is still not sufficient to become an independent shochet (i.e., to take on the position of shochet and bodek alone), because there is no sage like a man of experience. Even in a place where only glatt is slaughtered, one cannot foresee what questions and doubts may arise. Therefore, you should still be with the shochtim in Montreal and gain more practical experience, which will then be sufficient for you to become an independent shochet in a small town. And if there is any doubt, it is well known that "sit and do nothing is preferable." Especially in such a responsible matter as mentioned above. May Hashem lead you in the best way regarding all of the above.

With blessing for good news.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that practical experience under experts is essential before taking on communal responsibility as a shochet. In matters of great responsibility and doubt, it is better to refrain until fully prepared.