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Conversion
Question
Dear Rabbi,
I read in this website's "Ask the Rabbi" column that in order to convert to Judaism,
a convert must agree to adhere to all 613 mitzvot at the time of his conversion.
Isn't this requirement a little unreasonable? I've been
studying Judaism for four years now, and if I were to convert, there is no way I would
be able to say "'yes, from this day forward I will follow all 613 mitzvot." In all honesty,
I could commit to telling the rabbi I would try, but more than that would be impossible.
Christine
Answer
Dear
Christine,
The Talmud says that when somebody wants to convert he/she is taught a combination of "easier"
mitzvot and more "difficult" mitzvot, as well as their concomitant rewards and punishments.
According to one source, if the prospective convert rejects even one rabbinic rule, he/she is
not accepted. However, if you accept in principle that all laws are binding, and you are aware
that not observing them is considered a sin, you can be accepted into the fold and all
transgressions are your sole responsibility.
By the way, it is impossible to observe 613 mitzvot today: For example, without the Temple, all laws
concerning sacrifices and other Temple rituals aren't being practiced; anyone living outside the land
of Israel cannot observe specific laws that apply only to inhabitants of the land; there are certain
laws that apply only to specific groups, i.e. men, women, Levites or Cohanim; and finally, certain laws
are applicable only under given circumstances. In total, I believe that only about one third of all the
mitzvot can be observed today.
As you can see, what is important is your commitment and your endeavor to be as observant as possible.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Diana Villa
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