How To Start Your Conversion Process?

A Step-by-Step Guide

Converting to Judaism is a deeply personal and spiritual journey that requires careful thought, commitment, and a sincere desire to join the Jewish people.
If you feel drawn to Judaism, taking the first steps toward conversion is an exciting and transformative experience. If you’re ready to embark on this journey, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start the conversion process to Judaism.

First of all, what is a conversion process?

The conversion process to Judaism is a spiritual and educational journey in which an individual learns about Jewish beliefs, practices, and traditions while also adopting Jewish ways of life.
The process culminates in a formal commitment to Judaism and acceptance into the Jewish nation.

I decided to convert. What steps should I take?

Step 1: Finding a Rabbi and a Jewish Community

The first step is to connect with a rabbi or a Jewish community nearby, to help guide you through the conversion process. A rabbi is your main resource, mentor, and spiritual guide during your conversion journey.

In addition to finding a rabbi, you should join a Jewish community in your area and participate in prayers at the synagogue, events, and classes. Usually, the rabbi will guide you to the appropriate community.

What should I do if there is no Jewish community in my area?
A Jewish community is a mandatory condition for the conversion process.
If there is none in your area, you must move to a community where the rabbi assists converts.

Step 2: Begin Jewish Studies

Once you have connected with a rabbi and a Jewish community, you will begin a period of Jewish education.
This typically includes classes on Jewish beliefs, Jewish holidays, the Hebrew language, prayer, Torah study, Jewish ethics, and much more. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of Judaism and begin integrating it into your daily life.

Your rabbi will guide you on the specific courses or materials that are recommended.
In some cases, you may need to complete a formal course of study, such as a “conversion class” that covers the fundamentals of Judaism.

Step 3: Finding a Religious Host Family

This section is relevant only in certain communities/countries, and you should consult with your community rabbi to see if it applies to you.

A religious Jewish host family is a family that is willing to host you on Shabbat and holidays and guide you throughout your conversion process. The host family’s purpose is to help you understand Jewish practices – such as observing Shabbat, celebrating holidays, keeping kosher, etc.—and to provide support for any questions you may have.

Whether or not having a host family is required in your community, I recommend finding one that is willing to host you, so that you don’t feel confused or uncertain about what you need to do, and so you’re not alone during holidays and Shabbat. It’s also a great way to integrate into the community without feeling overly awkward.

Step 4: ‘Beit Din’ (Rabbinic Court)

The Beit Din is a panel of three rabbis who will evaluate your sincerity, knowledge, and commitment to Judaism.
You will meet with the Beit Din to discuss your journey, your understanding of Judaism, and your readiness for conversion. The Beit Din will ask you questions about your faith, practice, and understanding of Jewish life.

In some countries/communities, there is one meeting at the end of the process, while in others, there are several meetings with the Beit Din throughout the process to assess progress and assist with any difficulties.

Once the Beit Din is satisfied with your readiness, they will grant you approval to convert.

Step 5: ‘Brit Mila’ – Circumcision (males only)

This symbolizes the covenant between the Jewish people and God, a practice that dates back to the time of Abraham. During conversion, if the male convert is not already circumcised, he must undergo the procedure of Brit Milah:

The actual procedure involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis, which is done in a sterile and medical environment. This is performed by a ‘Mohel’, who is both a religious expert and a trained medical professional.

If the person is already circumcised, a symbolic act called hatafat dam (the drawing of a drop of blood) is typically performed to fulfill this requirement.

The brit milah marks a physical and spiritual commitment to the Jewish faith.

Step 6: The ‘Mikveh’ (Ritual Immersion)

The mikvah is the final stage of the conversion process. It is a small pool filled with pure rainwater, and it is found in every Jewish community. The mikvah symbolizes a process of purification and a new beginning—similar to a baby being born into a new and exciting world.

In the mikvah, you immerse yourself in front of three judges who ensure that the immersion is valid.

And that’s it! Once you exit the mikvah, you are an official Jew.

Q & A

How long does the process take?

The conversion process varies between different denominations, communities, countries, and individuals, and depends on various factors. It is impossible to know in advance how long the process will take; it ends when the Beit Din decides that you are ready. On average, it takes between one and a half to three years, but again, it’s important to clarify that it cannot be predicted in advance.

How much do I need to pay for the studies?

There is no fixed price. The cost varies between different communities and rabbis, so it’s a good idea to compare prices if you have several rabbis or programs that assist converts in your community.

Is the immersion in the ‘Mikveh’ with no clothes?

As mentioned above, immersion in the mikvah is done in front of three Rabbis who ensure its validity.

Men – immerse in the mikvah nude.

Women – immerse in the mikveh nude in front of a female rabbi who ensures the immersion is valid, and then they put on a large robe that covers their entire body before immersing a second time in front of the three Rabbis.

Does the ‘Brit Milah’ (circumcision) hurt?

The brit milah (circumcision) in the conversion process is typically performed under local anesthesia, so the individual undergoing the procedure does not feel pain during the procedure itself. However, like any medical procedure, there may be some discomfort, and pain could persist for a few days afterward. After the circumcision, it is recommended to follow the doctor’s or mohel’s instructions for proper care to prevent infection and ease the healing process.

Good luck and welcome to the family!

If you would love to read my conversion journey, you are welcome to click here.