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Conversion and Conservative Judaism

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Conservative Judaism's approach to conversion remains deeply rooted in Jewish tradition while navigating modern realities - a position challenged by ongoing Israeli debates over the Law of Return and what constitutes conversion "according to Halakhah." Through analysis of Talmudic sources, responsa literature, and contemporary rabbinical decisions, Friedman demonstrates that three contentious aspects of Conservative conversion practice align with historical precedent: accepting converts whose motivation includes marriage, not requiring absolute commitment to all commandments, and allowing conversion tribunals staffed by qualified rabbis rather than comprehensive halakhic experts. Detailed examination of major halakhic authorities including Maimonides, the Shulkhan Arukh, and contemporary responsa reveals that these Conservative positions maintain legitimate interpretations of Jewish law while differing from both Orthodox restrictionism and Reform liberalization. The research shows that Conservative conversions, which preserve core requirements like ritual immersion and circumcision, face opposition primarily from institutional politics rather than substantive halakhic concerns. These findings support the establishment of ecumenical conversion boards and broader recognition of Conservative conversions to preserve Jewish communal unity in an era of denominational division.

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    Published 1974

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    Theodore Friedman