Is It recommended to Convert to Judaism?

In light of the conversion requests we have received, we find it appropriate to clarify the following.

Jewish Life: Ancient, Unchanging, and Rooted in Tradition

Jewish life, according to the Bible and the interpretations transmitted through tradition by authorized sages (Hakhamim), has been practiced for around 3,000 years without any change to its core principles. These are not merely human interpretations or opinions, they are teachings passed down in an unbroken chain, faithfully preserved through both the Written and Oral Torah.

Every generation has walked the same essential path. Anyone joining our community today will be entering the same Jewish religious structure practiced here in Al-Andalus over 1,000 years ago, during the time of Maimonides.

We are not referring to science, technology, or culture — in those areas, we believe Jews should advance and lead. But the Torah, its commandments, and its worldview remain constant.

Challenges of Jewish Life

We believe it's important to explain why not to convert, so you can consider it seriously:

1. Social Pressure and Identity

As a non-Jew, your personal choices usually pass unnoticed. As a Jew, however, you may often feel under scrutiny. Jews have long been targets of hatred, suspicion, and criticism — particularly in Europe, but not only. Being Jewish means carrying historical weight and moral responsibility, sometimes in very public ways.

2. Dietary Restrictions (Kashrut)

Once converted, you must adhere to the Jewish dietary laws:

• You may only eat kosher meat.

• Mixing meat and dairy is strictly forbidden.

• Seafood is limited to fish with fins and scales — no shrimp, crab, or shellfish.

These are major lifestyle changes that affect everything from shopping to social dining.

3. Shabbat (Sabbath) Observance

Shabbat, from Friday sunset to Saturday night, is a cornerstone of Jewish life. It involves numerous restrictions:

• No work or business activity

• No use of electricity, phones, or transportation

• No cooking or creative labor

• Even removing a small bone from fish can be considered a violation

Only life-saving actions override Shabbat restrictions.

4. Personal Conduct & Relationships

• Physical contact between unmarried men and women is prohibited.

• Premarital relationships are not allowed.

• Gossip, mockery, or defamation — especially about fellow Jews — is considered a serious sin.

5. Gender Roles

Men and women in Judaism have different roles, rights, and responsibilities. These distinctions are not based on superiority or inferiority but on spiritual design. Some laws appear to favor men; others favor women. This balance is sacred but can feel challenging to those raised with different cultural expectations.

We will address this complex issue in a separate article.

Conclusion

Converting to Judaism means fully accepting a way of life that is sacred, structured, and bound by divine law. It is not a private identity, but a communal and spiritual mission. We honor every sincere seeker, but we guide with honesty, not flattery.

If your desire to convert remains after deep reflection and learning, our doors are open to help guide you through the process with respect, transparency, and faithfulness to tradition.

Torah Scroll