Question:
Hello, I want to convert to judaism, what books of torah can I learn? Can I learn talmud and/or mishna?
I am not near a community currently but certainly I believe and trust that God will help me to convert whenever the time comes for it. I am currently trying to always keep the 7 laws of Noach.
Answer:
Hello,
It is nice that you want to convert, but it is important for you to know that it isn’t such an easy process, and to have a proper orthodox conversion it will take time. In general, a gentile should not study Torah, which would include Talmud or Mishna, however he may learn the books of the prophets, and the practical laws that are needed for daily living, in order to know what to do after converting. I would suggest that you buy what is called Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, which contains many of the pertinent laws that you would need to know, without getting into the reasons, and scholarly discussion. There are numerous editions of Kitzur Shulchan Aruch in English, which you would be able to buy online.
Have a good day.
Sources:
תפארת ישראל זבחים פיד משנה ד', מהרש"א שבת לא ע"א, עוד בשו"ת אגרות משה ח"ג סי' צ שנקט להלכה להקל בזה כשיטת המהרש"א, וכ"פ בס' משנת הגר פ"א אות כ"ז וכ"ח.
