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Conservative Judaism/Sabbath observance for non-Jews

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Expert: - 11/17/2011


Question
Hello Rabbi Dov, I am a former Christian who is planning to convert to Judaism. I have believed for much of my life that non-Jews were also to observe the Sabbath, since it was blessed and sanctified by God at Creation. I believe that, yes, the Jews were given additional reasons and perhaps regulations to observe on the Sabbath, but it is not exclusively theirs to observe. The only reason it wasn't "enforced" so to speak, among non-Jews was because they were not monotheists, for the most part. What would be the point of observing a Sabbath if one did not believe in the one true God alone? Also, they might be observing it in a manner that would offend God instead of pleasing him, so they would have to be instructed in the proper ways of observance. This is one of the reasons the Jewish people were to be an example to others and a light unto the world. I believe my conclusions are scriptural. Am I wrong? Please advise. Your opinions are much appreciated. Thanks so much.

Answer
Dear Eden,

Thanks for writing.

Obviously you would do best to meet with a local Rabbi to begin a discussion about the elements that constitute Judaism - many more items than Shabbat observance.

Please let me know where you live that I can refer you to a reliable and caring colleague.

Best wishes

Rabbi Dov

Conservative Judaism

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Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner

Expertise

Write to me with questions about Jewish customs and law, history, philosophy and tradition for answers from a Conservative perspective or conversion. I am a graduate of The Jewish Theological Seminary and a member of the Conservative Rabbinical Assembly. Having served in congregational pulpits since 1970, I now am President of the Foundation For Family Education, Inc. a non-profit educational endeavor. I established it to create new formats of hands-on programs and provide free educational downloads at www.jewishfreeware.org. In addition to general informational questions I welcome your questions about programs for social action, outreach to dual-faith families, inter-faith clergy projects, healing services, education for conversion, adult education for the congregation and the community. If you have questions about Informal and Formal Education I am ready to share my extensive experience with Youth Activities, Camping and Religious School/Hebrew High School on a congregational, community and national/international level.

Experience

I have served on the National Youth Commission for more than 25 years and serve on the Boards of the Conservative Zionist movement MERCAZ and the World Council of Synagogues. I have always dual-families and taught candidates for conversion with a great sense of fulfillment. I am very proud of 25 years on the Jewish camping staff of Camps Ramah. My greatest source of pride is my family! Ask me about them, please!:-)

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