Question QUESTION: I was wondering why it is that the jewish people do not carry out the sacrificial laws in the old testament. does this not count as a sin- to not do them? if it is not a sin, why not? how can the people be sure that they are not wronging God?
Also, if i was fully willing (and PLEASE dont give me the shpeel about how you have to be REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY WILLING) i mean REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY willing, and i lived in london, how would i go about becoming an orthodox jew and joining a community there? would i be provided with work?
ANSWER: Han,
Thank you for your question. Deuteronomy 12:11 is clear that the sacrifices can only take place in the Temple. The Temple was destroyed in 70 CE. The prophets, who can suspend the law temporarily in cases of great need (they cannot, however, forever change it!) had decreed that until the Temple can be rebuilt (and doing so today would cause WWIII) that good works (treating others justly and with compassion) and prayer take the place of the sacrifices (I Samuel 15:22, Micah 6:8, Deuteronomy 10:12, etc.). It is important to note however that sacrifices NEVER caused forgiveness of sin. Only true repentance and restitution where possible, coupled with G-d's omnipotent compassion can do that (Ezekiel 33:14-15,19, 18:27). The sacrifices atoned for the sin of the people and allowed G-d's presence to abide with them. They restored the equilibrium between heaven and earth, so to speak.
As far as your second question goes, you appear not only defensive but even somewhat offensive toward Rabbinical Judaism. Added to the fact that you already have an opinion about us "wronging G-d Jews", I doubt this would be a good fit. Remain in your faith and practice it. Shalom!
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QUESTION: ah! i didnt mean to say "wronging G-d jews" i plead for you to know i meant the question objectively and it was answered objectively! - it's because the prophets say its okay! believe me, that answer is good enough for me, i don't have any ox or sheep handy at the moment!
Answer Hon,
Conversion to Judaism is a lengthy process and a lifetime commitment. It takes years of study even for someone who is already familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures. It is not something to be taken lightly. Your first step would be to contact a local Orthodox Rabbi and ask him about conversion. Yes, you will probably to turned away a time or two because Rabbis are not interested in converting someone who is just doing this by whim or with the wrong intentions. Be persistent and go to some services. Let him see that you are serious and you can see if this is something you are seriously wanting to pursue. It won't be easy and you won't be spoon-fed in conversion classes. It is worth it though for the serious searcher. Why would they provide you with work? We are the representatives of G-d on earth, not the Peace Corps. All the best in your search. Shalom!
