Question:
An older couple, each about 80 years old, recently changed their lives to become frum. They have been married for 80 years but no halachic chuppa and kiddushin. We are arranging a wedding for them. Must we investigate their status as Jews - to "make sure" they are Jewish. Or can we rely upon their knowledge of their lineages? If we must investigate what can we do?
Answer:
Hello,
There are several ways to assess whether someone claims to be Jewish, though none are conclusive proof. However, some of these factors can help. For example, verify where their parents, etc., are buried. Which town did they come from? Are there records there? What is the understanding in their families? Is it that they are Jewish? What is written in the official records or the county clerk's records? It often says there if they are Jewish. It is preferable to have more than one of these factors.
Best wishes
