Name: Daniel M	Date: 2009-05-18 03:09:19
Subject:long conversion
Question: I am looking for information regarding conversion. My grandparents on my father’s side are Jewish and my wife and I have been living a Jewish lifestyle for a solid two years. We celebrate the feasts, I wrap and daven, we keep Shabbat, we observe family purity and we dress frum (to include tzit tzitot, head coverings for myself and my wife and Orthodox modest dress). What other steps need to be taken in order to be acknowledged as Jewish and permanently commit to the walk Hashem has intended for us?
Answer: The Jewish people were in Egypt for years before they received the torah. Don't rush it. Keep learning halacha, Jewish laws and when your ready, Hashem will open the door.

Name: Sari M.	Date: 2009-03-08 23:21:22
Subject:adopted by Christains
Question: My mother died during childbirth and my grandmother was unable to raise me so I was adopted by a wonderful Christian couple who gave me a good home. Now, I am an adult and I was given a box of "items" that my grandmother saved for me from my mother. Inside of this box were several Jewish items, a Mannorah, a gold star of David pendent, a sedar plate, and many other things. I asked my adopted parents if my biological mother was Hebrew? They said yes, she was. SO that means I am Jewish too. However, since I was raised Christian and I have NO FORMAL training at all in my Jewish background and heritage, will I be accepted if I wish to convert? My heart is being sincere when I say I wish to go "home" - back to my roots of Judaism.
Answer: You may not need to convert, you should do some more research and it is a law in judaism that you should love the convert as much as any Jew.

Name: Matthew Bowers	Date: 2009-03-07 00:14:52
Subject:Yeshua
Question: Do you believe Yeshua is the Jewish Messiah? If so - why and if not - why
Answer: It is known that he was a rasha, evil person. The Messiah must be a person accepted by all people.

Name: Kerry O'Donoghue	Date: 2009-02-12 12:24:19
Subject:How do I convert in the middle of nowhere?
Question: Shalom Rabbi, For complicated reasons I need to go through a Conversion even though I was raised a Jew, I try and be as Orthodox as possible and I raised my two son's as Jews, to cap it all I work in the area of Pro-Yisrael campaigning and want to settle in Israel with the family as soon as possible. My problem, and I can't be the only one, is that I live on the island of Ireland and we don't have any Rabbi's. One flys in every other week, sometimes, and when he does come over it is the other side of the island which is over a days return travel away. Any ideas? Kerry (Jewish name Rachel)
Answer: Hi, Well many people take a year off and study conversion in Israel when they are serious. Other people move their entire family just to be in a Jewish area. Are you intending to convert just to continue in a place with no Jewish light? Have you started out with the laws of noach?

Name: Julian Gregory	Date: 2009-01-20 16:36:35
Subject:jewishness
Question: how does one determine wether one is jewish or non-jewish. this is why my sister is a bone marrow dohnar and as she was told our linage came from judah or from isarel but we are not sure as far as we know wew are puertorican now i'm more confused then ever.still love " Torah" not confused about that
Answer: A person is Jewish by their mothers side and her mother. If there is a question to ones status that can't be proven 100% then a person has the option to convert to Judaism. The records today are coming out more and more. You can also hire an expert in family history.

Name: Christopher Sawyer	Date: 2008-11-12 18:59:26
Subject:Breslov Conversion
Question: Hello I have been wanting to convert to Orthodox Judaism for over 3 years now. But the thing is is that I am not 18 yet. I will be March 2009. I have been having a pull toward Hasidic Judaism, Mostly the Breslov sect. How does a non-jew become a Hasid? Plus I am an African American. I have yet to see even a black reform jew. Let alone a Hasidic one. Is it possible? Can a non-jew wear a tzitzit and kippah? Should I start wearing it? I have been studying and going to Shabbos service at an Modern Orthodox Shul. I am in JSU at my school. Should I start to practice things slowly and see how I like it? -Christopher Sawyer
Answer: Converting to Judaism doesn't have age rule. We know plenty of African American Jews. I have met quite a few chassidim as well. I recommend you find a teacher who will give you classes and teach you have to progress slowly in your observance.

Name: Aviel Tobias	Date: 2008-09-30 21:14:59
Subject:conversion vs noahide
Question: Although raised in a Christian home, I felt my questions unanswered until 2 years ago when I began studying the Torah. I have since studied with the Ari and any and all things pertaining to being closer to Hashem. I finally feel like I belong! My question is, is it selfish of me to want to convert, to try to "become" Jewish, as if that were possible with just a conversion? I realize I can never truely be jewish by birth, but are we not all truely one with Hashem? Or would it be better to stay as I am - a noahide? Why just 7 laws? - Why not 10? Either way, I will be faithful to ALL the laws! Thank you!
Answer: Only you can answer this qusetion truly if you feel unsatisfied with the 7 laws and not only seek more but are sure you can preform all. As you know, even for one born into Judaism, it is a lot of hard work to keep all the commandments. From converts, we have even higher expectations since they are accepting these laws fully aware of them at an older age. It really is all or nothing for a convert. But as far as being compared to a born Jew, the Torah teaches us that a convert is completely equal.

Name: laura terrell	Date: 2008-09-14 14:00:50
Subject:converting
Question: hello rabbi moshe i was wondering if you could help me.... see my family belives in god but does not worship him i readdy the bible and i study stories of the bible. but i was wondering how do i become jewish my family is christain but i want to convert to judism i just find it really hard to find a way to do this since it is a diffrent way of cooking and living and it would be hard for our belifes not to clash so please help me to gain understanding of how to convert
Answer: Well you don't have to convert. Judaism does not encorage conversion but we do accept wholehartedly anyone who does convert properly. It is enough that you worship ONE Hashem and follow the 7 laws of Noah given to gentiles. Please join our little group who are interested in this at, www.noachspace.com

Name: Tiffany Fichtenbaum	Date: 2008-08-25 09:01:13
Subject:Attracted To Hasidim
Question: I admire the dedication observant jews have to the jewish faith,I can see myself marrying a Hasid in the future only problem is that I am a conservative Jew , But I do keep Kosher and the sabbath and I try to lead an observant life as much as I can .What do I do ?. Do I get an othodox conversion? Will an orthodox rabbi convert someone who is considered secular ?. And is it wrong for me to find a hasid attractive ? Can you tell me what is it bout Hasidic men that I find so fasinating and worth learning more about ?. Sorry if my question is a bit inappopreate I didnt mean for it to be I am just in search of the truth .
Answer: Well your conversion is not recognized so you should start from the beginning again. I am sure if your a worthy person who wants to convert you could find a rabbi to help you. When you convert, you can convert through chassidus, sefardi or regular orthodox. This is not the first time I have heard this about chassidic men, I think you are just attracted to the mysterious and something different. Personally, I think we all look like shaggy dogs with long side burns but if it were for Hashem (& in the Torah), I would be willing to even have a mohalk. But that would not hold up the kippah well.

Name: cindy .	Date: 2008-07-04 03:14:16
Subject:
Question: Can you really be both Jewish & christain?
Answer: Messianic Judaism isn't Jewish, it is christian. It is a movement created by christians in order to convert Jews to Christianity. Most people involved are not Jewish and it is well funded by christian extremest who believe the coming of Jes... is dependent on more Jewish converting to christianity. Since it is so difficult to convert Jews, it is easier to trick them by creating a movement with similarities of customs. This way, uninformed Jews will not know the difference. Messianic Judaism is a well orchestrated christian movement.

Name: Aron R	Date: 2008-07-03 15:28:50
Subject:
Question: My father is Jewish and I have always been more or less raised Jewish, but the one thing that bothers me is that I am not considered Jewish by law. I know LONG ago ancestry used to be patrilineal but that is an antiquated fact. I have been looking into different communities in my areas and somewhat talking to rabbis. Should I go through a conversion process? Especially, if I'm thinking of making aliyah.
Answer: It isn't for someone like me to tell you to convert. Judaism never pushes people to convert. It must totally come from them. One reason is because taking on 613 commandments is a huge responsability. Rather, an easier method would be to first become Bnei Noach, following the 7 laws. See my website, www.noachspace.com for more!

Name: Jacob Tracy	Date: 2008-06-22 01:54:51
Subject:circumsized at 22
Question: I wasn't circumsized till I was 22, (I was born premature and my parents when they got around to it, the docs told them it would hurt too much.) When I did finally try to do it myself, a rabbi in Florida told me that most moyels wont do an adult and that the cheapest method (as he was a moyel as well) was to be circumsized by a doctor and then by a moyel in a mock circumcision for conversion. When the urologist circumsized me, because of my age, he was afraid of excessive bleeding and permanent nerve damage so he left a little on. Should I go back and have it all removed, what is the halachah on this? Thank you. -Jacob
Answer: Doesn't sound like it was done correctly or you were advised well. Contact an orthodox mohel that is more experienced who is out of New York. People don't know this but there is even an organziation that will fly by plane at cost just to help Jews be circumsized. I have never heard of this age problem.

Name: Jacob Tracy	Date: 2008-06-22 01:15:48
Subject:conversion Jewish Communities
Question: Hello, I am an ex-messianic, I could go through a long story but basically I am to judaism through a person called Rabbi Bentzion Kravitz. I started going to a shul here in Ft. Collins (well for about 9 months actually...) but it's just too liberal for me. I desire to go orthodox, and one rabbi I wrote told me not to bother with conservative or reform. Probably especially since that's my impetus anyways. He told me I'd have to move into a orthodox community, which I am willing to do, although it'll take time. I thought about a few options, I'm in Colorado. Denver has a few, but I've heard they're very much against the idea of converts. Boulder is too expensive to live there, if you're not from around here let me tell you it's like the Beverly hills of Colorado. And then I have my work's headquarters in Minneapolis, which is close (sorta) to some relatives I have. The only trouble with that, is that all the trouble of moving, I wonder if moving to Israel is really the better route. Why not go for the gusto. Plus most all they have there are Ashkenaz, and I have more of a drive toward Sephardic traditions. But I am also a big fan of Breslov. (I know, it's askhenaz, but I like the Rebbe's teachings...) And I'd also be interested in learning some Mitzrachi stuff. The only option in Minnesota for Sephardim is in St. Paul, which is still only another 15 minute drive to where i'd be working. I guess the question I have is; IF I were to go to Israel, what kinds of things should I expect? I know that any route is a long and ardous task, BUT, I am willing. I am still not converted though, so like I said, what kinds of things should I do, what do you advise? I've been studying Judaism now for about 5 years and still have alot to learn. Thanks for all the help.
Answer: Well I am quite familiar with many communities as I researched in many years ago. First though, I would not believe rumors into some communities not liking converts. The Torah says we are too treat them as ourselves. It is true though that smaller communities sometimes have their issues, especially the further you might get from the East Coast. If you want a thriving Jewish community, you really want to head east in general. Denver is a good Bal Teshuva community but it isn't all that big. Minneapolis & S. Paul are very small but very warm. You have some great Rabbis in both these places. In S. Paul you have a strong chabad which would be helpful in converting. Milwaukee isn't so far and has a nice small community. Israel is a good place to convert as well. It is a different culture and lifestyle. It is a major decision. Certainly one that would come easier with a few month visit.

Name: Jennifer Savage	Date: 2008-06-11 16:08:28
Subject:
Question: Hello. I am writing because I don't know where to look for the answer to this question. My mother converted to Judaism before getting married. It was an Orthodox conversion. This was back in 1973 and we are in Canada. Recently I heard about someone whose parents have a similar situation and she had issues with being recognized as Jewish (or the conversion her mother made being recognized) in Israel. I would like to know how I could find out if there would be any such issues for myself. I don't plan on moving to Israel or anything but the idea that I might not be considered Jewish if ever I wanted to make such a move is rather troubling. I don't even know where to begin to look to find out whether or not this is an issue. My mother said that Israel recently released the names of non-Israeli rabbis who they recognized for doing conversions and the one our community uses now was not on the list, however this is not the one who converted my mother. We have no rabbi in our community (Moncton, New Brunswick) and a Jewish friend from the internet thought you might be able to help with this. Hopefully that wasn't too confusing and I appreciate any advice or information you can offer. Thank you.
Answer: In Israel people have problems with conversions because it is run by the state notby Orthodox rabbis. Even if she had a good legitamate conversion Israel would not recognize it for political reasons. If you are sure she had a kosher conversion by a compitant Orthodox rabbi then don't worry, you're Jewish.

Name: YOHANAN BEN NAVARRO	Date: 2008-04-16 15:03:56
Subject:ACCEPTING YAHSHUAH!
Question: WHAT ORTHODOX DON'T ACCEPT YASHUAH IF HE IS THE MESSIAH?
Answer: Aha, Yeshuva, Jesus was an evil man. Most things spoken about him are myths. The Jewish Rabbis threw him out of Yeshiva because he had no respect for Torah and Hashem. He was one of the biggest sinners in Jewish history. So, Messiah? I think not. In fact, 90% of priests today if you asked them unofficially if they believed in Jesus, they would tell you they have more doubts but they continue their leadership so they have something to give the world hope with, a false hope. The Jewish messiah to come will be someone who all will accept as such and will have qualities which will be real and not fairy tales.

Name: Monica McCoy	Date: 2008-04-08 23:39:39
Subject:Should I come to Israel
Question: I heard there is a place in Israel where I can show up and be Jewish. Is that true and are there any travel agencies that offer package deal for gentile conversions. I hate Jesus and think his a wimp and a quitter. Thanks for your help. Shalom!
Answer: Converting isn't like going to Vegas one evening and getting married. It takes time, patience and a lot of learning. It is true you can do it quicker here in Israel but any true conversion and proper one takes a year of close study with a Rabbi or program. For now, I recommend learning about becoming Bnei Noach.

Name: jason .	Date: 2007-11-19 10:46:30
Subject:Convert from books
Question: I have been interested in judaism so i am reading a lot online and from books.
Answer: Do you know all the halachos of shabbos, kosherous, all the 613 commandments? It takes about 2 years to learn this. We are not like other religions. Judaism doesn't look for converts and to convert they have to be totally commited to keeping shabbos, kosherous and totally lifestyle change. This is something that has to be learned in a jewish community, not just in books.

Name: ziggy .	Date: 2007-11-19 10:37:28
Subject:reform or messianic, what its jewish
Question: I have been researching my fathers lineage and apparently, I am Jewish. There is only a reform congregation and a messianic congregation here. I want to learn Hebrew. At this time I know a few of the blessings, for tefillin, for kiddush for tallis. I want to know my people.
Answer: Hi. I understand your intentions to learn of your past and to get to know your history. Firstly, stay away from Messianic people. Messianism is an insideous way to infiltrate the Jewish people, and their goal is to turn Jews into Christians, which they ultimately are. Secondly, I am sorry to say this, but Judaism, what makes a Jew a Jew, is passed from the mother to the child. Judaism is a maternal nation. One may only be a Jew if he/she has a Jewish mother, or has fully converted in an Orthodox conversion. One who has a Jewish father and a non-Jewish mother is completely non-Jewish. However, one whose mother is a Jew, yet the father is a non-Jew, then the child of that relationship will be 100% unquestionably Jewish. There is no concept of being a half-Jew. You are either Jewish or you are not. It is like saying "I am a little bit pregnant." You either are or are not. All the best! -Moshe

Name: Marco .	Date: 2007-11-19 09:24:53
Subject:what to do to convert
Question: what do i need to do to convert?
Answer: Do you know all the halachos of shabbos, kosherous, all the 613 commandments? It takes about 2 years to learn this. You can't convert a person by email and you have to meet them dozens of times. We are not like other religions. Judaism doesn't look for converts and to convert they have to be totally commited to keeping shabbos, kosherous and totally lifestyle change. This is something that has to be learned in a jewish community, not just in books.

Name: nachman .	Date: 2007-11-19 04:13:58
Subject:where do convert
Question: ow, it is four years later. I haven't officially converted yet, but I am talking with our Rabbi about it. He is encouraging. The synagogue here is Reform orientated. Personally, I am drawn to a more orthodox interpretation of Judaism, but it is difficult to learn this way around here. Well, there is a new Chabad Rabbi here. (This area of Arkansas is the world headquarters of Wal-Mart so they get a lot of vendors who pass by who are Jewish. Otherwise, why else would Chabad come to Northwest Arkansas?) Anyhow, I like to learn about the Orthodox, and Chassidic way, but I am reluctant to approach Chabad for sever reasons. First, once the Rabbi found out I am not Jewish, (since I told him in a letter like this one), his attitude to me changed. He seemed not so interested in me. I told him I wanted to convert, but he didn't respond at all. Then, later, when I would attend some of his lectures, he seemed not to happy that I was there. But anyways, I understand he is supposed to refuse me three times and all that, but these are just my feelings.
Answer: Hi, If it were easy to convert people online, Id have converted thousands by now, lol. Like I told another person interested in converting, go with the chabad even though you don't agree with that aspect because they will do the conversion correctly and then later find your own way. A conversion through reform is not a recognized conversion as you know. I think it is a blessing the chabad rabbi came to your town and you should embrace it.

Name: Marcal .	Date: 2007-11-19 03:49:57
Subject:conversion process
Question: What is the procedure for converting a Muslim to Judaism? My religious affiliation was Muslim and I think I want to convert to Judaism. How much time does it take to convert? Is it possible to convert to Judaism online?
Answer: It takes about 1-4 years to convert. Average about 2 years. Coming to Israel is the fastest way to convert but a rushed conversion is usually not done correctly and is not recognized. One has to know all the halachos, Jewish laws inside and out before they are converted and be fully keeping them. And no, haha, one can not convert via the Internet!

Name: andrey .	Date: 2007-11-18 08:35:36
Subject:conversion online
Question: hi, what is the procedure for converting to jewish to non jewish religion online. Is it possible to convert online ? Please respond urgently.
Answer: The entire conversion process is never a fast one, when done correctly it takes years and it is supposed too. It is something that should be pursued with a rabbi in person

Name: black women .	Date: 2007-11-18 00:14:39
Subject:Can Blacks Convert?
Question: I will love to know more about the jewish teaching. I'm a african american women that will like to know more about the jewish teaching. People tell me i can't be jewish becasue i'm black .
Answer: no, we do not descrimiate based on color, it is simply a matter of devotion and willlingness to do all the commanements which are not an easy undertaking

Name: Morris J	Date: 2007-11-18 00:06:30
Subject:conversion learning
Question: would ask a question of you, as I told you about my desire to finish my conversion to be expectable to the Orthodox. What would you suggest that I read now to get started on now. Shalom, Shalom, Yosef
Answer: halachos of Shabbos

Name: Andrew and Shoshi .	Date: 2007-11-16 02:58:01
Subject:Community for Converts
Question: We are really drawn towards chassisdus. do you know of any groups that are receptive to converts. Should we consider making aliyah?
Answer: well you have to travel around and meet many Rebbes and see who you like and the communities. Lots of prayer to find your way. Aliyah, depends on if you think you can ajust to life here and grow more here, parnasa... The Biala Rebbe of New York might be a good place to start.

Name: ana .	Date: 2007-11-16 02:30:14
Subject:Engaged not Jewish
Question: I'm not Jewish and I just got engaged to a Jewish Man.
Answer: It is an not allowed to marry a Jew when your Jewishness is not proven 100% or gone through proper and long process of conversion through orthodox.

Name: Ryan .	Date: 2007-11-15 22:14:41
Subject:Convert in Israel?
Question: Hi there Reb Moshe, First up - great site, I've discovered lots from visiting your site. Secondly, I should I go to Israel to convert and where abouts in Israel should I go, or can I just do it where I am? My intention to convert started beginning last year and I've been pretty much learning on my own, the Shulchan Aruch, Gemara and Tanach. I was told, recently, that I'm supposed to attend courses as part of the conversion process, but nothing concrete has been forthcoming from the authorities I corresponded with - that'll probably explain why I've been learning on my own. What's your advice? Thanks Regards Ryan
Answer: conversion is very complicated and i can no way help you over the internet with it cause of that. It is not supposed to be an easy process and it is supposed to take years and go slowly. You have to be the one to push the buttons. One learns the basic laws of halacha and tanach mostly but it is adviced not to convert, we are obviouslyl a people that are pursicuted and killed. Not loved by anyone and its enough for you to just hold the 7 laws of noah, you should learn them well. ----- Original Message -----

Name: Arny Waxman	Date: 2007-11-15 18:49:17
Subject:I don't think i am Jewish
Question: Hello, I am a non-Jewish person (probably, my mother insists otherwise, but I don't agree with her reasoning) with a serious question about Jewish congregations. I was an atheist for a long time, but then, for various reasons, decided God had to be real. I am looking now to join a jewish synagoge.
Answer: Most people don't properly research their family history and just come to their own conclusions. Can we explore more if you are properly Jewish or not first.

Name: Rachel R	Date: 2007-11-14 23:52:29
Subject:Convert good shul
Question: I just wanted to ask a quick question, I know that this is a busy time of year, I'm busy myself, but do you know about the different sects of the Orthodox? how many sects are there and what are the different belief systems. My husband found out that he has Jewish blood and for the past half a year we have wanted to convert to Judaism after extensive research. We would like to convert and then make aliyah to our homeland! But we want to convert to a good Orthodox shul and I'm not sure where to find one or what to look for! I don't know if this makes any sense. But I thought you might know something that would help us. I have read many of your writings and they have blessed me tremendously! Thank you so much! And Chag Semeach!! Rachel
Answer: Usually you search for a good Rabbi you like and then join the community based on your respect for him.

Name: Jewish Girl .	Date: 2007-11-14 18:02:18
Subject:Am I Jewish 50% ?
Question: I believe I am half Jewish since my mother is Jewish, my father is Christain.
Answer: There isn't 50. it is 0 or 100% jewish. The Torah says that being Jewish goes by the mothers side. If ones mother is Jewish and her mother, you are Jewish. If only on your fathers side is Jewish, you are not half Jewish but not Jewish. You should study the 7 laws of Noah.