Question: If I convert to Judaism, can I become a Jew without becoming an Israeli?
Dear Rabbi Lerner,
I would like to become a convert providing I could be a practicing Jew in America with no political ties to the State of Israel. I believe that Israel has a right to exist, but I do not believe in some kind of dual citizenship. I personally believe that Jews were better off during the days of the Diaspora than they are today. Christian, Muslims, Buddahists and most other religions are not associated with some kind of national loyalty. I believe that the day of nationalism must come to an end, espcially when it is tied up with religion. Can I become a Jew without also becoming an Israeli?
Thanks, Don
Answer: Dear Don,
Judaism is a faith, and the Jewish People are a faith community. Conversion to Judaism does not include an automatic commitment to political Zionism or Israeli citizenship. Not all Jews are Zionists, and only about half of the world's Jewish population have Israeli citizenship.
I say this even as I have a son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren living in Israel. They all have dual citizenship, American and Israeli, with dual passports and dual sets of responsibilities that have not and will never (I pray) confict or call for choice.
If you wish to begin your studies of Judaism as a potential faith for yourself, then the first step will be to find a teacher.
Best wishes,
Rabbi Dov
