My wife is Jewish, and I have been to Israel a number of times, I have read all of the torah (in English), and read, speak and understand Hebrew. I still don't know the process.
2007-02-14 00:47:40 · 5 answers · asked by Jonathan R 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
It is a long process, but it sounds like you have a good start on the knowledge. The next step is to begin observance to the level required by whatever sect you are planning on converting in.
You will have to start attending a synagogue. Approach the rabbi there (not on the Shabbat) and discuss it with him. Be prepared to tell him why you want to convert and what you are doing. What books have you read. What's your level of Hebrew. What miztvot do you observe regualarly. He will tell you the next step. It may be formal lessons, or perhaps private meetings. He may pair you with a Jewish family to learn observances.
Anyone can convert given the right intention and actions. When it happens, you will have to have a brit milah. If you are alread cirsumcised, the mohel will draw a drop of blood with a pin. I'm told you barely feel it. If not, you will have to be circumcised. After you're healed, you will appear before the rabbinical court, who will judge your intentions, knowledge, and observance. Last, you go for three dunks un the mikveh and you are a member of the tribe.
PS. I felt safer in Israel than I did here. It certainly is not the most dangerous place on earth.
2007-02-15 09:13:55 · answer #1 · answered by MaryBridget G 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Take formal classes at your synagogue and if you are not circumcised you will have to have that surgery performed on you, and if you you already are, then you will have a very MINOR version of it done as a symbol of your conversion.
You will sit before a panel of rabbis who will question you on all things Torah, Talmud and Jewish culture and history and the roles of a Jewish husband and father.
How complex the process depends on whether you are converting Orthodox or Reform or one of the many variations in between.
The first answer is so wrong. Many Jewish congregations are full of converts married to Jewish spouses.
2007-02-14 08:57:34 · answer #2 · answered by WhatAmI? 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Painful if you are male!
And yes you can convert.
2007-02-14 08:51:38 · answer #3 · answered by fourmorebeers 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I don't suggest you do that.
Israel is the most dangerous country in the world.
2007-02-14 08:57:30 · answer #4 · answered by Fanano 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
you can only be born a jew you cant convert. how selfish!
2007-02-14 08:51:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋