[Avodah] Rabbi Angel: Halachic essay on Geirus

[rabbirichwolpoe at gmail.com]

Teaser:

Rabbi Angel
    ...Most Orthodox Jews (including me) were taught to believe that
    conversion is valid only if the would-be proselyte comes with pure
    spiritual motives and if he/she will be observing all the mitzoth upon
    conversion. Because we have been taught in this way, it is difficult
    to examine the sources without bringing these assumptions into play.

    Yet, we cannot arrive at the truth unless we put aside our
    preconceived notions, and see what the texts themselves tell us.
    We must also keep in mind what the halakha prefers, and what the
    halakha allows. Obviously, the halakha prefers ideal converts who are
    motivated by pure love of God and Torah, and who fully desire to live
    a life of Torah and mitzvoth. Yet, the halakha allows conversions of
    individuals who do not fulfill the ideal qualifications. The classic
    halakhic sources provide significant leeway...

Full post:
http://www.jewishideas.org/articles/more-issue-conversion-judaism

KT
RRW
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