Becoming a Jew

by Maurice Lamm

Describes the odyssey of the convert to the Jewish faith, introducing the laws and traditions of Judaism, its life cycle events and holidays, and its ideals and values.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Religion, Nonfiction, Judaica

495 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1991

Reviews

[Tipper]

This is meaty, so don't drink milk while reading it (lol - kosher joke). It'll be daunting in one paragraph and uplifting in the next, and it's the sort of book that will either cement your resolve or make you turn tail. For me, it was the former. This is very definitely written from an Orthodox perspective. The organization leaves something to be desired, but the information contained is solid and the prose is readable, yet artful. There are tons of footnotes and a large bibliography, though since this was written some time ago, most of the referenced books are quite old. (Thankfully, Judaism doesn't really get outdated.)

[Jordon Gyarmathy]

Becoming A Jew has put into words so much of what I needed to hear as a conversion student. I was elated to read the first hand accounts and to see other jews by choice who converted for a reason besides marriage. I was also really fond of all of the in text citations and direct quotes from the Tanakh and Talmud that explained traditions and customs about conversion. This is by far the most comprehensive and helpful guide to conversion that I have read. Insanely informative and very accessible.

[Simcha York]

Maurice Lamm's Becoming a Jew is an excellent introduction to Judaism and a must-read for anyone considering conversion. Although, Lamm is writing specifically with regard to conversion to Orthodox Judaism, I would recommend this book to any potential convert, no matter which particular denomination they are seeking conversion to.

Becoming a Jew makes a passionate case for approaching Judaism not as simply a religion, but as a way of life, an approach that, as the author argues, is ultimately necessary for anyone who hopes to accept and maintain a serious commitment to Judaism. For Lamm, Judaism and its attendant obligations must be taken or left in their entirety -- there is no picking and choosing here, no making for oneself just another religion of convenience.

Lamm's love for and devotion to Judaism ("the most God-intoxicated religion in history") is evident on every page of this book. Yet, this is not a light-hearted piece of inspirational confectionary. While written for those who may yet have little or no knowledge of Jewish law and theology, Lamm's book is scholarly and informative. Most potential converts should find in this book a useful (and uplifting) resource that will help ease them into the demanding (but rewarding) life of the halachically observant Jew.

[Jenny]

Not on the required reading list for conversion, but should be. A great overview of the process both academically and emotionally.

[Kristin]

Really great intro to orthodoxy and the conversion process.

[Nicole]

Really helpful - the only book I've read so far that actually walks through the conversion process instead of just talking about the tenets of Judaism. Points off for being slightly dated.

[(Lau)(ren)]

4.5 stars

Exhaustive and invaluable.

[Phil]

If you are thinking of converting, this explains the process well.

[Lisa]

Firstly, this book came highly recommended from Convert.org. I think the title is a little off in the use of "Jew", perhaps even a little derogatory Obviously, if a Jewish person wrote the book, then it's not mean to be, but I just dont hear many Jewish people refer to themselves as "Jews", they say "Jewish". Anywho, that's just my 2 cents. The book is full of great content, however, I found the tone of the book to be unwelcoming and stern - especially to someone like me who's interested in converting. There are better books out there - like Introduction to Conversion. GREAT book.

[Patricia Joynton]

This is not a short read. I read a chapter or so every day and then think about it. It will be the one on my list for a long time. Sorta like reading the Bible. A little is far too much.


This does not have such a kind feeling as the Kuscher books, but it is detailed and interprets some laws and holidays differently, if not in a legal way at least an emotional way.

It's a pretty good reference book to keep though.

[Matt West]

As a convert to Judaism, I found this book very helpful. It spelled out the conversion process clearly and I felt a little more at ease going before the Beit Din having a better idea of what was coming.

[Inessa]

lovely thoughts on judaism in modern life and the beauty of the religion and people.