The impetus comes from the individual seeking to convert to this religion. It is not an easy road travelled but there are those who have some sort of a calling and feel that this is what they want to do. Interfaith Rabbis have come about especially because there is a need for those wanting to marry out of their faith and require a Jewish ceremony where one of the couple is not Jewish whilst the other would like that special feel to their celebration.
Orthodox or religious Judaism still does not accept and it is not recognised as a total commitment by just having an interfaith wedding. One has to go through a process of becoming a Jew which can take years to accomplish. This is the way to go if looking to marry someone who is not of the faith and allowing him and her to embark on this process.
A court of Law is called a Beth Din which translates to House of Judgement. Here all the laws that govern each and every individual within this faith, are adhered to and enforced. This is especially so for laws concerning dietary laws called Kashrut. This governs laws and practices so that any food that is bought off the shelf, be it animal or other, has the Beth Din stamp of approval for consumption.
Before partaking of any food, a strict check is done whether the food being eaten has passed the dietary requirements as stipulated by the Beth Din. Booklets can be bought that cover all the products that are kosher in a particular area. Apart from this, an emblem can found on the product itself that shows which Beth Din has okayed the product for consumption.
A Hechsher is the seal of approval and when wanting to purchase products, it is necessary that there be one on the product itself. Apart from this, many Beth Dins worldwide, put out a book month on month listing all the products that are permissible for consumption. This is just a small fraction of the bigger whole as it means to be a practicing Jew.
It is not an easy road and it requires a change in lifestyle. It is a beautiful and peaceful religion and it is one that is adored by all who practice it. It is a means in coming closer to the Maker of all things and it is one that teaches compassion, love, patience and contentment. When so to speak, graduating, one takes on a new soul and is incorporated as a member in the house of Israel.
Rabbis are learned. They are there to help. Find one and start the journey.
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