Judaism…?

Vasilly: Judaism…?
Here’s my thing: I’ve been reading up on Judaism on and off for the last couple of years and i’ve decided to take the next step and talk to a rabbi. But I’m so fearful of taking that next step and not belonging because I’m black. I don’t think all or most Jews are racist or anything. But some people might not understand why I want to be a jew. (Out of a growing love for it and not to try to get to heaven or anything like that.) Any tips from Jews or converts or even people thinking of converting? I really appreciate and thanks in advance.

Answers and Views:

Answer by gwhiz1052
no tips, I have never wanted to convert,just go ahead and talk with a rabbi.The Famous,Sammy
Davis Jr. was black and He became Jewish.

Answer by joey120746
If it was good enough for Sammy Davis, Jr., it’s good enough for you!!!

Seriously, though, talk to a rabbi. He will explain things and alleviate your fears. Rabbis are some of the most profound people I’ve ever met. (And I was raised as a Catholic.)

Answer by mel
frankly, pl conduct more independent investigation of religious truth and you will see different insights. judaism is good so are the other religions. so pl make sure you learn to appreciate all other religions and then stick to one…..so pl start searching. there are many other religions that comes after judaism. and dont confuse the religion and its followers. its usually the followers / clergy that taint the religion with their bigoted views and practices and rituals. this undermines God’s sense of love for us. so pl be careful

Answer by JT
“Put on your yamukah
Here comes Hannukah
So much funnukah
To celebrate Hannukah”

Ask Sammy Davis, Jr.

Answer by JewishGirl
the best thing for you to do is demonstrate your seriousness and commitment. you can do this by volunteering at the synagogue, attending services regularly, supporting the other jews in your community, etc. probably the biggest reservation jews have about converts is that they are just in it for a lark, and as soon as they get bored of it they’ll move on to something else thats more convenient and doesn’t require as much work and effort as judaism does. you just need to show that you won’t be that person.

Answer by יעל *Jael*
Mon cheri…don’t be afraid! Moshe, Avraham, Sholomo and every one else was BLACK…

Answer by question_grl
there is NO REASON why a synogogue would not let you join just because of your skin color. judaism is a religion and not specific to anyone’s skin color. the last president of our congregation was black and his wife (who is white) converted. this is just an example. if you dont think people will understand your reasoning then you just have to explain it to them. i’m sure some people will understand and can help you if you have trouble explaining. talking to a rabbi would be a very good idea because he or she can probably answer any questions you have. i dont know if you have decided to talk to any specific rabbi but i suggest a reform one because they are more accepting in this respect. (orthodox people are more strict about many things.)

i have been a jew my whole life.

Answer by Meri
You’re not alone. In fact, there is a group of Jews called the falash who are from Ethiopia. I’ll include some links below about their history.

As for converting, expect to be turned away. DON’T take it personally! It’s not because you’re black. It’s because Rabbi’s are trained to discourage a person from wanting to convert. They want to know that you are sincere and determined to live your life as a Jew. There is an unfortunate undercurrent of racism in some Jewish denominations but this has lessened greatly over the years as people have become more aware of Jews in Africa, Asia, India, and the South American continent.

Before approaching a Rabbi, you may want to start getting involved at a synagogue. If you’re not sure what demonination you wish to convert with, this is a good time to find out what the differences between Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, and all the ones inbetwee are. Go to services, take a few classes, attend some social events. Most Jews are willing to share their life with a respectful and interested outsider. This “face time” in the synagogue will go a long way towards proving your sincerety to the Rabbi!