Circumcision is one of the biggest sources of anxiety for many men considering conversion to Judaism – and also one of the parts of the process people seem least willing to talk about. So, let’s talk about it. In this video, I walk through what circumcision for Jewish conversion (Brit Milah) actually involves, what happens […]
Circumcision for Jewish Conversion: What You Need to Know Read Post »
If you’re converting to Judaism, you’ve probably wondered: Once I convert, am I Jewish forever? Can a rabbi take away my conversion? It’s a question that comes up surprisingly often, and the answer is a little more nuanced than a simple yes or no. In this video, we’ll talk about what Jewish law says about
Can Your Jewish Conversion Be Taken Away? Read Post »
Keeping kosher can feel overwhelming when you’re first starting out. One person tells you to buy new dishes. Another says you need separate sinks. Someone else hands you a list of foods to avoid. It’s no wonder so many people don’t know where to begin. The good news is that building a kosher life doesn’t
How to Start Keeping Kosher (Without Getting Overwhelmed) Read Post »
Your first Beit Din meeting can feel like one of the most intimidating parts of the Jewish conversion process. You’re meeting with the rabbis who will help determine whether you’re ready to join the Jewish people, and it’s easy to feel like every word matters. The good news? They aren’t expecting perfection. They want to
The Biggest Mistakes People Make in Their First Beit Din Meeting Read Post »
Tisha B’Av can feel intimidating, especially if you’re converting to Judaism, don’t have a local Jewish community, or are observing it on your own for the first time. The good news is that you don’t need a synagogue to observe Tisha B’Av meaningfully. Whether you’re fasting, reading Eicha, learning about Jewish history, praying, or simply
Tisha B’Av Rituals You Can Do at Home (Even Without a Community) Read Post »
If you’re building a Jewish life at home, Rosh Chodesh may become one of your favorite observances. Known as the beginning of the new Jewish month, Rosh Chodesh is a small but meaningful celebration that helps you experience the rhythm of the Jewish calendar. You don’t need to host a big meal or know dozens
Rosh Chodesh Rituals You Can Do at Home (Even Without a Jewish Community) Read Post »
Can you convert to Judaism if you’re vegetarian or vegan? Mostly, yes. But there is one small corner of the Jewish world where you may be told that eating meat is expected, at least on Shabbat and holidays. Before you panic, let’s talk about where that idea comes from, how common it actually is, and
Do You Have to Eat Meat to Convert to Judaism? Read Post »
One of the most common questions I get from teenagers is whether they can convert to Judaism before they turn 18. The answer is usually no – but that doesn’t mean you have to put your Jewish journey completely on hold. In fact, there is a tremendous amount you can do right now to learn,
Can Minors Convert to Judaism? The Truth About Converting to Judaism Under 18 Read Post »
Can you keep Shabbat before converting to Judaism? If you’ve spent any time researching conversion online, you’ve probably encountered two completely opposite answers. Some people insist that conversion candidates should start keeping Shabbat as soon as possible. Others will tell you that non-Jews shouldn’t keep Shabbat at all. So which answer is correct? As with
Are You Allowed to Keep Shabbat Before Converting? Read Post »
“Just ask your rabbi.” Sometimes that’s genuinely the correct answer. But is it the right answer? If you’re converting to Judaism, exploring Judaism, living far from a Jewish community, or simply don’t have a rabbi yet, it can feel less like guidance and more like a dead end. If they had a rabbi to ask,
Why “Just Ask Your Rabbi” Is Terrible Advice Read Post »