Is is okay to practice Judaism before conversion?

Question

I am seriously considering conversion to Judism. I have visited a synagogue and have spoken to a rabbi about it. He said he is going to Israel and to call him when he returns in a month (maybe this is to test my sincerity?) anyway I have taken it upon myself to memorize prayers, eat kosher and light a menorah since this is the Channukah season. I also study the Talmud and try to gain an understanding of Jewish traditions. Since I haven't officially began to convert I find this faith wonderful and interesting. But is it wrong to start early? I DO intend to convert but is it okay for a non-Jew to practice?

Answer 1

It is fine to practice some things, but be reminded that some things are only for Jews, and until you convert, you shouldn't do those things in full--like not observing the Sabbath like a Jew does. Keeping kosher and having a menorah going to synagogue are fine things, good things to get involved in if you are thinking of converting. But just keep in mind that you are still not a Jew yet.

Have you already studied the Tanakh, and that is why you are studying the Talmud? Usually one does not learn Talmud without the assistance of a rabbi.

Answer 2

I'm Jewish, and I'll answer this from my own perspective.

Expect to be turned down for conversion 2 or 3 times. This is a part of conversion practiced by many rabbis. You are absolutely correct that this is a part of the process. I don't like it, but go with the flow.

Along the way, you may be given study assignments, or asked to write about your spiritual path. Be sure to complete these as quickly as possible as they are also a test of your desire to complete the process of conversion.

Yes, it is certainly ok to practice Judaism before you actually convert. In fact you will be expected to do this. This is what a proselyte does. It is important that you have demonstrated a willingness to accept the covenant with G-d before you actually accept it. It's also important that you know what you are getting into, in the opinion of the Rabbis.

I say the last not to disparage the rabbis, but to refer to the Jewish people who said "We will do and we will hear" before accepting the Torah. The only problem is, they had some difficulties in the doing part and so experienced some affliction therapy they might have avoided if they had instead said "Tell us what you want and then we will do it."

There is no wrong place to start. You start where Hashem started you, so it's the right place. Since you are being driven to observe some of the Mitzvot, it's right for you. The mitzvot (commandments) are ways of connecting with G-d.

It may be that you will attend more than one synagogue along the way, and this is ok, too. Go where it is best for you.

May you be blessed on your spiritual journey.

Shalom,
Gershon

Answer 3

Not only is it okay to practice Judaism before conversion, it is obligatory. There shouldn't be a problem with your starting now, but you will need to learn the laws in much greater detail from an Orthodox rabbi who does conversions. Prayers should be read from a siddur, with "kavana" (proper intention,) not simply memorized. There are only a few mitzvos (commandments) which cannot be done until the candidate has been accepted for conversion. Shabbos was given as a "sign" between G-d and the Jewish people. Therefore it cannot be practiced in its entirety before conversion. The accepted practice is to keep Shabbos, but shortly before it's over, in private, to do something which is not allowed - for instance turning on or off a light switch. Bris milah (circumcision) is also done just prior to the actual conversion. And immersion in a kosher mikvah, part of the actual conversion process, cannot be done earlier. A couple learning for conversion will need to speak to their rabbi as to what to do, as there are varying practices.

Answer 4

I believe some orthodox rabbis still won't recognise you as a Jew... only people ordained in an Orthodox ceremony are recognised by all Jewish schools. Though I assume you already went through that issue before. I'd assume the Rabbi already has such an encyclopedia, so offering it to a Jewish family who can't afford one might be of more help. I would give him a smaller gift and ask him for advice on who is most in need of the encyclopedia and give it to the person based on his advice... if I were a rabbi, I'd feel blessed that I brought such a person into the fold, because that would be an example of showing charity where it's important and it's nice mitzvot for both you and him at the same time.

Answer 5

Of course you can. Immersion in the Jewish community is part of the conversion process. However, keep in mind that it's best to study with at least one other person and to read plenty of commentary as well. Studying with a group is an encounter with God.

Take your time and savor the conversion process. Some people take years and years before making the final plunge. You must learn exactly what is involved in becoming a Jew before a rabbi will convert you.
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Answer 6

To be honest it is Shabbat so no practicing Jew will answer until sundown. Make sure you are going to an Orthodox rabbi since all other conversions are not accepted by the Jewish world

Answer 7

Of course it is ok, actually it is required to live a year like a jewish before conversion. The rabbi probably really did go to Israel, he wasn't testing you

Answer 8

I am fairly certain you are being tested. Don't be surprised if you are asked to come back at least one more time before the rabbi will talk to you seriously about joining.

Answer 9

Of course. Practice makes perfect.

Answer 10

Of course it is alright to practice. Have you talked to him about conversion yet. Just remember, if he turns you down, be persistent and keep coming back and asking until he says yes. Don't feel rejected if he says no about your conversion, it is only part of the process.