Can I, as a former Christian, just go to any synagogue and check it out? Also, any book suggestions on the theology of Judaism (that aren't too dry)?
2006-08-29 14:46:32 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Firstly if you are interested in converting to Judaism you must know that the true version of Judaism is Orthodox Judaism. Orthodox Jews live their lives by the laws of the Bible and Talmud and they have not changed their traditions since they recrived it 3318 years ago. There are other forms of Judaism such as Reform and Conservative which basically cut out 99% of the religion and Ill leave it at that. Most Orthodox synagogues will allow you to visit for prayers or whatever as long as you show up dressed conservatively and modestly (if youre a woman that means covered knees and elbows and a top/blouse that covers basically up to your neck/collar bone) for a man that would mean a suit and a head covering. If you are interested in reading about the theology of Judaism there are many fine books by Orthodox Rabbis that are out there. Your best bet would be to go to a Judaica book store explain your situation and ask for help. There is an excellent author on Jewish theology. His name is Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan I suggest you read a few of his books. His books are geared towards those who want a deeper and more well rounded understanding of Judaism. He explains everything in a crystal clear simple manner that anyone can appreciate. Im sure you will enjoy his books. If you have anymore questions you can email me.
2006-08-29 19:24:26 · answer #1 · answered by DefenderOfTheMeek22 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you got some good answers here, but I should say despite what some orthodox Jews like to believe, there are some specific philosophical and political differences within the major branches of judaism and you should research them and decide which fits you best. It is true that orthodox jews follow most traditions observantly but there are also chasidic jews who follow even more traditions so they by no means have the monopoly on that. An orthodox conversion is probably the best way to go, but it is not the only way.
2006-08-30 11:57:05 · answer #2 · answered by abcdefghijk 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
yes you can, but its not easy or necessary.
in Judaism their is a concept of a righteous gentile who only has to follow the basic noahide laws
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noahide_laws#The_Seven_Laws
but if you really want to convert I would suggest an Orthodox convertion. They are the hardest to do, but are also the only ones accepted by the entire jewish population and the govenment of Israel.
2006-08-29 14:52:21 · answer #3 · answered by Gamla Joe 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
just like any religion you can convert but you must study and accept their teachings .the best thing to do is check out all religions and find one that you believe in then choose what you want
2006-08-29 14:57:19 · answer #4 · answered by frogger 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not sure if they'll let you in to some synoguages. Talk to an Orthodox Rabbi.
2006-08-29 14:49:21 · answer #5 · answered by ysk 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It takes a little medical procedure for men....
2006-08-29 14:50:01 · answer #6 · answered by Bimpster 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ppl doit all the time.
2006-08-29 14:49:43 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
idk because im christiannnnnnnnn
2006-08-29 14:48:40 · answer #8 · answered by St. John Bosco 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋