Question: Can I convert back to Judaism after my Jewish grandparents become Christian?
Rabbi,
I am of Jewish descent. My grandparents were Jews from Istanbul who came to Romania and converted to Christianity.
Now I want to convert back to Judaism. I live in Brasov, a city in Central Romania. Since there is no Bet Din and only a Reform Temple in my city, I am unable to convert. Can I participate in the prayers - especially on the Sabbath - and in the Tamlud Torah courses without being converted to Judaism?
Toda, Staretu
Answer: Dear Staretu,
According to Jewish law, a person is Jewish as long as he or she has been born to a Jewish woman. Indeed, this chain cannot be broken under any circumstances.
For example, if your mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, etc, etc, were all Jewish, then you too are Jewish regardless of what you do now. There is no way to convert out of Judaism. A Jew who sins remains a Jew.
If you fit into the above category then you are Jewish and should commence practicing as a Jew.
If however you are truly in need of a conversion to become Jewish, you will be required to move to a major city with an organized Jewish community. One of the prerequisites for undergoing an orthodox Jewish conversion is the obligation to live in an orthodox Jewish community. If you are really serious about converting, you will have no option other than to move to such a place.
Best of luck in your journey to Judaism!
Rabbi Ari Enkin
Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel
