| By :
Mark Etinger
Judaism is one of the world's oldest religions. There are many people who convert to Judaism every day, and for good reason. Here are some steps to take if you are considering converting to one of the first monotheistic religions. 1. Determine why: Do you seek spiritual guidance in your life? Want to be part of a community? Maybe you want to raise your child under the auspices of an organized religion that holds the same values as your spouse. There are lots of reasons people want to become Jewish, but to do it on a whim will undermine your faith, and prevent you from fully developing it. 2. Research: Learn a little bit about Jewish practices and culture. The 10 Commandments and the Torah are good places to start. Visit a synagogue and get an idea about Jewish practices, traditions and requirements. Think about and learn what goes into being a good Jew. 3. Talk to friends and family: This can be difficult, especially if you are already a member of an organized religion. Ask for opinions and then offer your own reasons why you are making the switch. 4. Marriage: If you are converting because of a loved one, talk with him or her about what kind of Judaism you want to practice. There are different sects that follow varying levels of observance and traditions. Orthodox Jews are the most conservative, followed by Conservative Jews, or "Masorti," in Europe, and finally Reform, or Progressive, Liberal Jews as they are called across the pond. 5. Talk to a Rabbi: Be prepared for the rabbi to dissuade you. They may even turn you away, but this is part of their job. The goal is not to prevent you from conversion, but to test the strength of your commitment. This is just the beginning. 6. Study: Becoming a Jew means that you have to be serious about learning Judaism. Taking night classes about Jewish culture and history for a year or so will allow you to do this. 7. The Test: A Jewish court called the Beit Din will question you regarding Jewish customs. 8. The ceremony: If you pass, a ceremony will occur in which you will be fully immersed in a Mikveh, and if you are a male and uncircumcised, your foreskin will need to be removed. If you've already been circumcised, a little bit of blood is enough (this alone should test your commitment). 9. Children: If your child is conceived before you have converted, according to many Orthodox laws, he or she will not be Jewish. If they want to be, they have to convert after the age of 13. If you have conceived after conversion, your children will be Jewish. After becoming a Jew, celebrate! You can officially participate in a tradition almost 6,000 years old. Take pride in your new religion, since you will have worked hard to practice it correctly. Celebrate by visiting the holy land during the high holy days, also known as the Jewish new year, or by having a party with Judaica gifts like mezuzahs, shabbat candlesticks, and other Jewish gifts.
|
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.articlesbacklink.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
