CCAR RESPONSA
Contemporary American Reform Responsa
55. Conversion with
Reservations
QUESTION: Several Christians who seek to become Jews
have indicated that they are convinced of their ability to become Jews but can not absolutely
abandon the divinity of Jesus. May such individuals be accepted as converts? (Rabbi H. L.
Poller, Larchmont, NY)ANSWER: The traditional requirements for conversion are
clear (Yeb. 46, 47; Shulhan Arukh Yoreh Deah 268; Yad Hil. Isurei Biah 15)–a
court of three is necessary. Prospective converts must be warned that they are joining a
persecuted community and that many new obligations will be incumbent upon them. They were
to bring a sacrifice in the days when the Temple stood, and males had to be circumcised and
take a ritual bath. The Bet Din has asked the prospective convert a number of questions
which deal with his education and commitment to Judaism. One of the questions which has
traditionally been asked is whether the convert receives upon herself the entire Torah
without exception (Bekh. 30b; Yad Hil. Issurei Biah 14.8; Tur and Shulhan
Arukh Yoreh Deah 268.2 ff). Traditional Judaism would interpret this as an obligation to
observe all of the commandments. We state that the convert has an obligation to practice
Judaism according to our Reform tradition. Both would, however, agree that this indicates a clear
willingness to abandon all other former beliefs. This would definitely include belief in the divinity
of Jesus. Individuals who believe in the divinity or a special status of Jesus may, of
course, study Judaism. It will help them understand Judaism better, but we can not accept them
as converts until they are willing to give up their belief in Jesus without any mental
reservations.February 1984
If needed, please consult Abbreviations used in CCAR Responsa.