Conversion to Judaism (yes or not)?
(Sorry for the rant lol)
I want to introduce myself a bit more, as I feel we often don’t hear much about Jewish conversions (giyur)—especially since the journey tends to be more complicated than in other religions. But why is that?
Unlike other Abrahamic religions such as Christianity or Islam, Judaism is not a proselytizing religion—meaning it does not actively seek converts. This is because Judaism technically offers a path for everyone, whether Jewish or not. For non-Jews, however, the path is different: they are expected to follow the Noahide Laws, which consist of seven commandments. In contrast, Jews are obligated to fulfill the 613 mitzvot (commandments)—a much greater undertaking.
Here are the Seven Noahide Laws for anyone who’s curious:
Do not deny G-d: Prohibits idolatry, or the worship of false gods.
Do not murder: Prohibits the unlawful killing of another human being.
Do not steal: Prohibits theft and all forms of robbery, including cheating and kidnapping.
Do not engage in illicit sexual relations: Includes prohibitions against adultery and incest.
Do not curse G-d: Prohibits blasphemy.
Do not eat from a live animal: Prohibits cruelty to animals by eating the flesh of a living creature.
Establish courts of justice: Requires the creation of legal systems to ensure the other six laws are upheld.
These laws were given to Noah—hence the name “Noahide Laws.” This is what non-Jewish people are expected to follow, and it’s one of the reasons Judaism teaches that it’s perfectly acceptable not to convert. Judaism recognizes that there are many valid paths to approach G-d.
But what about converts?
Converting to Judaism is absolutely possible—whether you feel a deep connection to the Jewish faith, wish to reconnect with your ancestors, or simply feel it’s your spiritual path. However, there are many important things to consider:
Is this truly what you want? Conversion is a major decision that transforms your entire way of life—and potentially the lives of your future children.
Conversion differs for men and women:
For men, the process includes circumcision (brit milah) or, if already circumcised, a symbolic drop of blood (hatafat dam brit).
For women, this step does not apply.
Both men and women, however, must immerse in the mikveh (ritual bath) at the conclusion of their conversion and accept the commandments before a qualified beit din (rabbinical court).
Regardless of gender, both become full members of the covenant of Israel once they convert.
Are you prepared to endure hardships? There’s a saying that G-d tests converts with three trials of rejection—and if you remain steadfast, you are considered a true and righteous convert.
You don’t have to convert. Judaism teaches that everyone is loved by G-d; conversion is not required to have a relationship with Him.
Be ready to study—a lot. Judaism isn’t just about the Torah (the Written Law), but also the Oral Law. (We’ll explore that more deeply in a future section.)
I’ll also share more about my personal journey in future posts—my motivations, experiences, and challenges. Everyone’s path is unique; there’s no universal conversion story.
Judaism also has different movements (or “sects,” though that word can sound misleading):
Reconstructionist / Reform
Masorti / Conservative
Orthodox
And others, such as the Karaite Jews, who do not accept the Oral Law.
(Only Orthodox conversions are recognized by all Jewish movements. However, choosing to convert through Reform, Conservative, or other branches is a personal decision. For instance, Reform converts may not be able to marry in an Orthodox synagogue, and their conversions might not be recognized in Orthodox communities. That said, you can still attend services—except perhaps in certain Hasidic neighborhoods, where practices vary.)
There’s a lot to unpack here, and I’ll explain these concepts more deeply later on. For now, think of this as an introduction for anyone interested in truly understanding or living a Jewish life.