Conversion

Question:

Hello, Rabbi. I am interested in learning about Judaism. I have practically fallen in love with your faith. However, whenever I try to speak with a rabbi or a member of the Jewish community, they talk to me about the Noahide laws, as if a Gentile's conversion or faith has no value.
But the Tanakh says in Ruth 1:16-17: 'Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.' Furthermore, Midrash Tanchuma (Lekh Lekha 6) states: 'Who is dearer to the Holy One, Blessed be He? The Israelite who stood at the foot of Mount Sinai, or the convert who did not see the miracles or witness the Divine manifestation, but on their own came to take refuge under the wings of the Shechinah?'
What do you recommend to me, and what words of encouragement can you offer?"

Answer:

Hello,

If you sincerely want to convert, by all means, that is best. However, it isn’t easy and requires significant sacrifices on your part. Leaving your family, society, your old values, and accepting upon yourself all the mitzvos, Rabbinical ordinances, and Jewish customs is quite a lot, but if you still want to do it, great.

You are not obligated to convert, and it is better to live your life as a good gentile than as a Jew who sins. Additionally, in contrast to other religions, Judaism is not looking to convert others. If someone wants to convert and can live up to it, great. They will be rewarded more than a regular Jew, because of all the self-sacrifice that is involved in converting and living your life as a converted Jew.

I don’t know what you mean when you say a gentile’s faith has no value. It sure does. A gentile is, in fact, obligated to believe that Hashem created the world, and a gentile who keeps the Noahide laws will be rewarded in the world to come for it. Not on the same level as a Jew, but nevertheless he will be rewarded. Therefore, a gentile’s faith is very valuable; in fact, it is priceless.

Have a good day, and good luck with your decision.