INTRO TO JUDAISM

Jewish conversion is a comprehensive spiritual journey involving:

• Educational study with a Beth Sholom rabbi

• Demonstrating understanding of Jewish beliefs and traditions

• Taking part in the Jewish community (religious services, holidays, programs and more!)

• Personal commitment to Jewish ritual and practice

Candidates must:

• Be sincere in their desire to join the Jewish community

• Have no active commitments or beliefs to another religious tradition

• Be prepared and willing to embrace Jewish religious practices

Conversion students typically:

• Complete the Introduction to Judaism class at Beth Sholom

• Read recommended Jewish texts and literature

• Complete 1-2 years of structured Jewish learning (this can be in tandem or separate from the class)

  • This includes regular meetings with a Beth Sholom rabbi and a series of reading and writing
    assignments to reflect on certain topics

• Learn the basics of the Hebrew language (letters, vowels and basic decoding)

This is a marathon, not a sprint. Taking on rituals and practices is an educational and spiritual process
that is not expected to happen overnight. Conversion candidates should be working towards:

• Observing Jewish holidays and lifecycle events

• Practicing Shabbat and holiday traditions

• Following kosher dietary laws

• Actively participating in Jewish community life

• Developing a personal connection with Jewish spirituality

Conversion typically takes 1-2 years for comprehensive preparation. The timeline varies by the
individual's background and dedication. This is your journey — it can happen at your own pace.

• Introduction to Judaism class course fees and workbook

• Donation to the SF Mikvah: the Mikvah sustains itself by community support and donations. They ask for a suggested donation of $54-$72 for using the Mikvah.

• Congregation Beth Sholom membership: connection to Jewish community is one of the highest priorities for being able to build and sustain a Jewish life. We hope that by choosing Beth Sholom and our rabbis, you will also choose Beth Sholom as your spiritual home. This is not a strict requirement, but a topic that we will discuss at some point during the process.

• Meeting with a Beit Din (rabbinic court of three rabbis)

• Ritual immersion in a mikvah

• For men: hatafat dam brit (ritual drop of blood — see more) OR circumcision

A Jew-by-choice can (and should!):

• Fully participate in Jewish religious life

• Be recognized as Jewish by the community

• Enjoy all religious and cultural traditions

• Continue their journey of lifelong learning