Who Can Be a Shochet

Overview

Can anyone perform shechita?

Excerpted from A Guide to Shechita 2009 by Shechita UK.

Only a Jew specially trained for shechita - a shochet - can perform shechita. He is required to study for a number of years and is examined, in theory and practice, in the laws of shechita, animal anatomy and pathology. He serves an apprenticeship with an experienced shochet before becoming fully qualified. The position of shochet, as a Godfearing person of integrity, is a respected one in the Jewish community.

Knowledge

1. Before attempting the act of Shechitah, one must become fluent in the relevant laws (Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh Deah 1-28) and then practice in front of an expert until he desensitizes himself. If he faints, he may ruin the shechitah and not even realize. Once he can successfully shecht three times in a row in front of an expert, he may then shecht on his own.

The Shechitah of an Untested Stranger

1. One may eat from the slaughter of a stranger whose competence is unknown, because, most people involved in shechitah are competent. However, if the shochet is still here or can be recalled to investigate his knowledge, then he must be. Even so, he doesn't need to be asked if he faints. Regardless, one should check the simanim.