The Beginner's Guide: Embracing Judaism? Start with These 4 Tips

Rabbi Dan Tiomkin, from the "Maaneh" organization that assists those returning to Judaism, was asked how to begin the journey of returning to Judaism. Rabbi Tiomkin addressed various possible answers, noting: there is no single correct path. All paths towards closeness are good.

Torah

Some say the first steps in starting this journey must be: Torah, Torah, and more Torah—"Only through Torah can one truly know Hashem and build a realistic spiritual ladder. Therefore, it is crucial to listen to Torah lectures and to study from books, as this is truly the most important thing, and 'the study of Torah is equal to all,'" explains Rabbi Tiomkin as one possible approach.

Prayer

Some say the essence is undoubtedly prayer—"In prayer, you stand before the King, and without this sense of closeness, any connection to Hashem is merely technical," explains Rabbi Tiomkin. "Prayer is essential, whether it be the Amidah(silent prayer) or private meditation and conversation with Hashem in your own words, but it is definitely one of the initial steps necessary for those wishing to draw close to Hashem."

Torah Atmosphere

Some say the key is to surround yourself with a Torah environment—"When you are alone, everything is difficult, and the challenges are immense," Rabbi Tiomkin explains. "That's why it is most important to find a supportive framework of friends on the same journey who are growing, because 'a man will support his friend', and the power of the environment and community is enormous, truly helping to overcome the initial difficulties."

Shabbat

Some say the key is Shabbat. "Such a wonderful gift. A day of holiness, of delight," explains Rabbi Tiomkin. "If you manage to get invited to families or places where you can savor the flavor of Shabbat, it will provide the strength, both spiritual and physical, to continue searching and finding your path within."

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Kashrut

Some say the key is kashrut—"As long as you consume questionable food, it dulls the senses and doesn’t allow holiness to enter the heart. The moment you start to detach, avoid, and develop awareness of issues like insects in leafy vegetables, guavas, figs, strawberries, and cauliflower, you start to soar," explains Rabbi Tiomkin, supporting the view that maintaining kashrut is the beginning of a proper approach to Judaism.

"These are some of the answers I've heard. I'm sure they are all correct, but I believe no answer is complete. The fact that there are so many answers indicates many gateways to holiness, and it's difficult to define fixed rules here. Everyone has their own inner strengths and their own path inward,".

There is a risk of imbalance in any path and it is therefore worthwhile to remember that despite our intelligence, we lack experience at the beginning of the journey, which is a significant disadvantage. Even if we believe we have found the perfect way in the world of repentance, it is not always accurate because we still lack the relevant tools, experience, and practical understanding.

To ensure that we are on the right path:

1. Find a Rabbi, a class, a framework

Surround yourself with Torah and form a true connection with Torah study. One learns Torah only from whom one's heart desires. Effort should be made to find a Rabbi, a class, a framework that provides suitable tools for this brave journey.

2. Do not give up on yourself along the way

Do not give up on yourself along the way and maintain a personal conversation, even daily, with Hashem, who will help you find your personal path to Him.

3. Never stop

Never stop searching for the way of truth. Always strive to be a seeker, not merely someone with answers. Do not become fixed or rigid.

4. Stay in tune with your intuition

Stay alert to intuition. Many intuitions hold truth; they are our wings to soar and find our personal connection with the Creator of the world, and they should not be clipped!