The words spoken at the time of animal slaughter hold religious and ethical significance in halal, kosher, and jhatka methods. The values and beliefs underlying each practice are reflected in these invocations or prayers. Knowing them enables customers to make wise dietary decisions, especially when taking ethical and religious compliance into account.
What Is Said During Halal Slaughter?
In halal slaughter, Muslims are required to pronounce the name of Allah Almighty before making the cut. The standard phrase is:
“Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” – meaning “In the name of Allah Almighty, Allah Almighty is the Greatest.”
For the meat to be deemed halal, this declaration is necessary. It confirms that the animal’s life was taken in compliance with Islamic law and with Allah Almighty’s consent. If the prayer is intentionally omitted, the meat is not halal.
Allah Almighty states in the Noble Quran at Surah Al An‘aam (6), Verses 118:
‘So, eat (of that meat and food) upon which has been read the name of Allah (Almighty), if you are (a true) believer in the Signs given by Allah (Almighty).’
This emphasises the importance of invoking Allah’s name during slaughter.
What Is Said During Kosher Slaughter?
In kosher slaughter (shechita), the Jewish slaughterer (shochet) recites a blessing before starting the day’s slaughter. It translates to: ‘Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us concerning slaughtering.’
Before starting a slaughter session, this prayer is recited once. A new blessing might be needed if the shochet is interrupted or distracted. The blessing is not pronounced over each individual animal as it is in halal.
Is There a Prayer in Jhatka Slaughter?
There is no religious prayer involved in Jhatka, which is primarily practiced by some Sikhs and Hindus. The main characteristic of jhatka is that it doesn’t require any recitation beforehand and the animal is instantly killed with a single blow. This stems from the idea that an extended death should not cause the animal to suffer or become afraid. It differs from both halal and kosher customs in that it does not involve ritual prayer.
Conclusion
Halal and kosher slaughter both involve specific prayers that acknowledge the Creator and sanctify the act of taking life. These utterances are central to their religious frameworks. In contrast, jhatka prioritises an instant death without religious invocation. Each method reflects distinct theological and ethical principles, and the presence or absence of prayer plays a key role in determining the acceptability of the meat for followers of each tradition.
