When I decided that I wanted to convert to Orthodox Judaism, I had no idea what to expect. I researched as much as I could online but there was very little information on what the process looks like. The people that I knew who were Jewish gave me answers but most were just hearsay and vague explanations.

Typically, the process should take anywhere from one to two years. In order for you to be fully prepared to live a Jewish lifestyle, it’s imperative for you to experience a full cycle of the Jewish holidays in a Jewish community.

Participation at a local Orthodox synagogue is equally important to your studies. With the support of a community, you will be able to gain hands-on experience living a Jewish life and connect with others who hold the same beliefs as you do.

Rabbi’s are not searching to reject you but have different methods of determining your level of seriousness which can feel personal but it is all a part of the process. Many rabbi’s also do not have experience in conversions so finding the right sponsor rabbi can take time.

Qualifying for an Orthodox conversion requires effort, focus and dedication.

This process must be a combination of learning the necessary material but also implementation into daily life.

Rabbinical courts are preferred when performing and establishing the validity of a conversion but they are not required. Proof of Judaism simply requires a form signed by a rabbi which confirms that an applicant is potentially entitled to Aliyah benefits and citizenship under the Law Of Return.

A list of “recognized” non-Israeli rabbis entitled to testify and provide proof of Judaism acceptable to the Israeli Chief Rabbinate was published in 2018. The Rabbinate originally refused to make the list publicly available until ordered to do so after a lawsuit. However, the law does not define exactly what documents are needed to prove that someone is Jewish. There’s no public list of Rabbis who have the authority to provide recommendations for Aliyah and certify conversion to Judaism. The Chief Rabbinate’s list is often updated, and the Rabbinate has no obligation to publicize the updates.

As long as the rabbi is not on the “blacklist” of rabbis whose testimony is considered invalid by default, you can contact the Ministry of Interior with a document they provided, even if they are not on the list of recognized rabbis.

Converting to Judaism can be highly emotional and you may be surprised that this path is more than laws and theology. When releasing any religious baggage you may be carrying with you, it can feel at times that you’re putting your soul in the washing machine. You may feel like a fish out of water at times but only when we look within and decide what’s worth carrying forward can we truly establish the relationship with Torah that we are searching for.

The process of becoming Jewish is rewarding in every way. If you are dedicated, you have the opportunity to not only expand your knowledge and understanding of Jewish law and belief but you will be considered a part of a tradition that spans over a millennia. Living a Torah observant lifestyle will expand your awareness to yourself and the world around you.