Conversion to Judaism is a deeply personal and spiritual journey, and various Jewish texts and thinkers have expressed profound thoughts on this topic. Here are some famous quotes:
1. Ruth’s Declaration of Faith (Book of Ruth 1:16-17)
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"Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God."
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These words are spoken by Ruth, a Moabite woman who converted to Judaism and became a forebear of King David. Her declaration symbolizes the heartfelt commitment of converts to join the Jewish people and embrace their faith.
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2. Talmudic Wisdom (Yevamot 47b)
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"A convert who comes to convert, we say to them: What did you see that brought you to convert? Do you not know that the Jewish people are downtrodden, oppressed, and suffering?"
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This passage highlights the seriousness of conversion, emphasizing that it is a choice made with full awareness of the challenges and responsibilities of being Jewish.
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3. Rabbi Hillel (Shabbat 31a)
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"What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow. This is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary. Go and learn it."
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Rabbi Hillel famously shared this concise summary of Jewish ethics with a potential convert, underscoring Judaism’s focus on moral behavior and lifelong learning.
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4. Rabbi Nachman of Breslov
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"The greatest gift God can give a soul is to bring it close to Him."
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While not specifically about conversion, this quote resonates with the spiritual journey of those who choose to draw close to God through Judaism.
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5. Maimonides (Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Issurei Bi’ah 14:2)
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"Once a convert has immersed and emerged, they are considered as a Jew in every sense."
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This affirms the full acceptance and equality of converts within the Jewish community.
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6. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
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"A convert shows that Judaism is a faith worth choosing, not just one we are born into."
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Rabbi Sacks emphasized the beauty and significance of those who join Judaism out of genuine conviction and love for the tradition.
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These quotes reflect the respect, seriousness, and joy Judaism holds for those who choose to join the Jewish people. If you are interested in conversion, please reach out to me. The timeline for conversion is 12 months minimum. We can meet in person in Flagstaff, via Zoom for our sessions, or by phone.
Conversion
An Introduction to Judaism class offers a comprehensive overview of Jewish beliefs, practices, and culture, providing a welcoming space for individuals seeking to explore or deepen their understanding of Judaism. This course covers foundational topics such as the concept of God, the Torah, and other sacred texts, along with key principles like mitzvot (commandments) and tzedakah (charity). Participants learn about Jewish lifecycle events, major holidays, and rituals, including Shabbat observance, keeping kosher, and synagogue customs. The class also delves into Jewish history, cultural diversity, and ethical values, offering insights into how Judaism approaches social justice and community. Through interactive discussions and reflection, it fosters a deeper connection to Jewish life, making it accessible to those curious about Judaism, considering conversion, or seeking a better understanding of Jewish traditions. Your path and your education can be bespoke - if you are interested in a specific area in Judaism, I can be your guide either in person in Flagstaff, AZ, via phone or online.