Do I have to be Jewish?

B"H

Question: I heard the Rabbi of Shtiebel on The Hill believe that everyone must become Jewish to observe the Torah?

I also heard from someome that he also said, "its better to be Jewish..."

No, the Rabbi believes it is not necessary for everyone to convert to observe Torah or its better to be Jewish...

However, for those who wish to live by its teachings, identifying as Jewish or as an “Israelite,” as stated in Biblical and Rabbinic texts, is preferable.

I.E. Can someone Amish practice Catholism and be apart of a catholic church?

No, the Amish doesn't follow Catholic Doctrine.

Amish are connected to the reformation via The Mennonites which is an group of Anabaptist Christian communities tracing their roots to the epoch of the Radical Reformation.

The name Mennonites is derived from the cleric Menno Simons...

I.E. Jews observe Torah

Torah was given specifically to the Jewish/Israelite people, making authentic observance naturally aligned within The Bible’s framework...

So yes if you are choosing to observe Torah, its better to be Jewish (through conversion) or consider yourself Jewish....

Introduction

Torah observance is not merely about following a set of rules or ethical guidelines; it is an embodiment of a covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. This unique relationship, established at Mount Sinai, forms the foundation of Jewish identity, culture, and spirituality.

As a result, Torah observance, when practiced by Jews, carries deep historical, spiritual, and communal significance. However, with the rise of Christianity and the spread of Torah teachings beyond Jewish communities, many non-Jews have sought to incorporate aspects of Torah into their lives. While this may stem from a genuine desire to engage with sacred teachings, the question arises: Is it appropriate or even effective for non-Jews, particularly Christians, to observe Torah as Jews do? This essay explores the perspectives on Torah observance within the Jewish context, examines the stance of Paul (Sha'ul HaTarsus) regarding the Torah for Gentiles, and discusses the potential challenges of non-Jews observing Torah outside of the Jewish covenant.

The Torah: A Covenant with the Jewish People

The Torah, as the foundational text of Judaism, was given to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai. This event marked the beginning of a unique covenant between Am Yisrael (the People of Israel) and HaKadosh Baruch Hu(the Holy One, Blessed Be He), setting Jews apart with a specific mission and a system of laws designed to govern every aspect of life. The Torah includes not only moral and ethical teachings but also a wide range of commandments (mitzvot) that regulate daily behavior, relationships, and the way Jews relate to Hashem.

In Exodus 19:5, Hashem says to the Jewish people, "Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession." The Torah was not given to all humanity but specifically to the Jewish people, as part of their special covenant with God. This covenant marks Jews as His chosen people, with specific responsibilities to follow His commandments and to be a light to the nations (see Isaiah 42:6). Torah observance is deeply connected to Jewish identity. It is not simply a personal choice to follow a set of ethical guidelines, but rather an essential aspect of being a part of the Jewish nation. Observing the mitzvot is an expression of belonging to a people bound by covenant, tasked with the mission of sanctifying the world through their actions. The mitzvot are meant to bring the Jewish people closer to Hashem, both individually and collectively, and to transform their lives and the world around them.

Because Torah observance is so intertwined with Jewish identity and purpose, it is an obligation and privilege reserved for the Jewish people. While non-Jews can certainly gain wisdom and insight from the Torah, the observance of its commandments—especially those that are uniquely tied to Jewish identity, such as Shabbat observance, kashrut (dietary laws), and brit milah(circumcision)—is part of the Jewish mission and responsibility.

Paul’s Teachings on Torah and Salvation

In the early years of Christianity, Sha'ul HaTarsus (Paul) played a pivotal role in spreading the teachings of Yeshua (Jesus) to the Gentiles. Paul’s letters, particularly in the Epistle to the Galatians and the Epistle to the Romans, address the relationship between Torah observance and the new covenant brought by Yeshua. For Paul, the key issue was whether Gentile followers of Yeshua needed to fully observe the Torah, including the mitzvotthat were traditionally practiced by Jews.

Paul argued that salvation was not achieved through the observance of the Torah, but rather through emunah (faith) in Yeshua. In Romans 3:28, he famously writes, "For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law." According to Paul, the Torah was never meant to be a means of salvation but rather a “tutor” that pointed people to the need for a Messiah. In Galatians 3:24, Paul explains that "the law was our guardian until Christ came, that we might be justified by faith." With the arrival of Yeshua, the need for Torah observance as the primary means of righteousness was fulfilled.

In Philippians 3:9, Paul writes, "Not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith." Paul emphasizes that faith in Yeshua, not adherence to the Torah, is the means by which one is made righteous before God.

Paul’s teachings also reflect a concern for the inclusion of Gentiles into the emerging Christian community. He believed that Gentile followers of Yeshua were not bound by the Torah’s specific commandments, particularly those that marked the Jewish people as distinct, such as circumcision and dietary laws. Paul taught that the new covenant through Yeshua allowed Gentiles to be grafted into the spiritual promises of Israel without the need to adhere to the full observance of Jewish law. In Galatians 5:1, he wrote, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free," emphasizing that the freedom from the law was central to the Christian understanding of salvation.

While Paul acknowledged the Torah’s holiness and importance, he saw it as something that pointed to a greater truth—faith in Yeshua—not as an ongoing requirement for Gentiles. His teachings thus placed the focus on spiritual transformation through the Messiah rather than legal observance.

Where Paul is Incorrect Regarding Yeshua's Teachings on Torah

Paul’s position on Torah observance for Gentiles stands in contrast to the teachings of Yeshua, who, in his own words, upheld the Torah. In Matthew 5:17, Yeshua says, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Yeshua’s mission was not to negate the Torah but to bring its full meaning to light, offering a deeper spiritual understanding of its commandments. He emphasized that true obedience to the Torah requires a transformation of the heart and spirit, not just external compliance with the law.

Further, in John 14:15, Yeshua states, "If you love me, keep my commandments." This reflects his consistent teaching that Torah observance is integral to being his disciple. Yeshua’s followers were expected to live in accordance with the Torah, and this was a key aspect of his teachings.

Paul, however, argues that faith in Yeshua replaces the need for Torah observance, which is not consistent with the example set by Yeshua. Yeshua, a Rabbi, fully observed the Torah throughout his life, and he encouraged his followers to do the same. His teachings suggest that following the Torah is essential to being part of the covenantal community, not something that is to be set aside in favor of faith alone. This discrepancy suggests that Paul’s understanding of the relationship between Torah and salvation may have been shaped more by his theological agenda rather than the authentic teachings of Yeshua.

The Challenges of Non-Jews Observing Torah

When Christians or other non-Jews attempt to observe Torah, they face significant challenges. While the desire to connect with the teachings of the Torah is admirable, it is important to recognize that Torah observance is not simply about following laws or ethical guidelines; it is also about belonging to the Jewish people and living out the covenant given to them. Non-Jews, regardless of how sincerely they wish to follow the Torah, do not share in the same covenant or communal responsibility that Jews do.

One key issue with non-Jews observing Torah is that it may inadvertently lead to a misrepresentation or superficial adoption of Jewish practices. The mitzvot are deeply intertwined with Jewish identity and history, and without understanding their full meaning within the Jewish tradition, non-Jews may risk observing them out of context. For example, practicing Shabbat or kashrutwithout fully embracing Jewish communal life or the theological understanding behind these practices can result in them being seen as disconnected rituals rather than part of the larger Jewish spiritual framework.

Moreover, non-Jews observing Torah outside of the Jewish community can also create confusion or even disrespect. It may come across as an appropriation of Jewish practices, especially if done without sensitivity to their historical and cultural context. It is one thing for non-Jews to learn from Torah, appreciate its teachings, and even adopt some of its ethical principles, but it is another to adopt the full range of Jewish commandments without understanding the deep covenantal significance they hold for Jews.

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Shtiebel on the Hill

for more info on our study of British Israelism

go to :

https://www.shtiebelonthehill.org/who-and-where-are-the-children-of-ephraim-and-manasseh-

The Case for Christians, Messianic and Hebrew Roots/Restorationist movements Torah Observance

In a free society like the United States, individuals have the right to explore and practice elements of any faith, including Torah observance, as a means of enriching their spirituality. Some Christians, particularly those within Messianic and Hebrew Roots/Restorationist movements, argue that following Torah is a personal choice that fosters moral growth and connects them more deeply to God, drawing inspiration from biblical verses like, “For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations” (Isaiah 56:7). They view Torah principles as universal, meant to guide all who pursue justice and righteousness, regardless of religious or ethnic background.

Furthermore, Gentiles/Christians who are a part of the Messianic and Hebrew Roots/Restorationist movements and embrace Torah; may feel they are stepping into the broader biblical narrative, seeing practices like the Sabbath or dietary laws as ways to connect with a divine blueprint laid out in scripture.

This observance, they argue, both respects religious freedom and enhances faith.

Christians, particularly those within Messianic and Hebrew Roots/Restorationist movements, assert that each individual can pursue the daily life, wisdom, and ethics within Torah, agreeing with us Jews that its values are timeless, relevant, and beneficial for moral development in any community. Observing Torah, we agree, cultivates virtues such as discipline,

compassion, and reverence for the Creator, enhancing one’s spiritual life while respecting diverse paths to holiness. However, according to the core of the Torah, all their efforts ultimately lack the foundation of an authentic Biblical framework

Note...The U.S. Constitution safeguarding their right to interpret and embody these teachings in ways that hold personal significance.

The Importance of Jewish Context for Torah Observance

The Torah is inseparable from the Jewish people. It is the blueprint for Jewish life and provides the means for Jews to fulfill their mission in the world. For this reason, observing Torah within the context of Jewish identity and greater community is essential. Torah observance is not just about following laws; it is about living as a part of the Jewish people, participating in the collective mission, and being bound by the covenant with Hashem.

For non-Jews who wish to engage with Torah, the most respectful and authentic approach is to learn from it, appreciate its teachings, and adopt the moral and ethical principles it conveys. However, to pursue a life of true Torah observance, it is essential to either fully embrace Jewish identity through a formal halachic conversion or openly identify with the Jewish/Israelite people and heritage. This choice acknowledges and honors the unique covenantal bond that Torah observance demands, thereby aligning with the sacred traditions and responsibilities that Torah imposes.

If one does not feel prepared to take on this commitment, then returning to The Church may be more appropriate. For such individuals, observing universal principles of ethics and spirituality within their existing tradition can still bring personal growth and alignment with divine values, without taking on the full weight and responsibilities of Jewish covenantal observance.

While it is natural to feel drawn to the depth and wisdom of Torah, adopting its teachings should be undertaken with deep reverence for the Jewish mission. Judaism, through the mitzvot, provides a structured path for Jews to embody divine principles in a uniquely Jewish context. For those outside this covenant who admire Torah, engaging with its ethical insights and learning from its teachings within their current spiritual identity often allows for a respectful and meaningful relationship with the Jewish faith and its wisdom. In this way, one may contribute to the world’s sanctification without misappropriating a path that was specifically intended to guide the Jewish people in their unique role as a “light to the nations.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, while non-Jews may gain inspiration and insight from the Torah, its full observance remains intimately connected to Jewish identity and the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish/Israelite people. For Jews, observing the Torah is central to their mission and relationship with Hashem, forming an essential part of their spiritual and communal life. When non-Jews adopt Jewish practices outside the framework of Jewish identity, it can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, misrepresentation, or even unintended disrespect.

The Torah’s deepest significance emerges within the context of Jewish peoplehood, where its commandments are fully realized. Thus, while Jews fulfill the Torah through dedicated observance, non-Jews are encouraged to honor its wisdom by appreciating its teachings in ways that respect its origins and purpose.

If you have been with us for a while, and read all of our past essays, you will see its better to become Jewish since you chose a Torah path. So know we promote Judaism and Traditional Jews obervance for everyone. Even though you most of you follow Yeshua, because you believe he was your King. A Jew and a Rabbi whom followed traditional Judaism...

It makes the most sense, especially if you read the following series:

https://www.shtiebelonthehill.org/the-messiah-vs-the-christ

https://www.shtiebelonthehill.org/how-to-live-like-daniel-today

https://www.shtiebelonthehill.org/there-is-three-of-them-hrmr-vs-messianic-noun-vs-messianic-adjective

https://www.shtiebelonthehill.org/are-rabbnic-enactments-the-oral-law-truly-traditions-of-men

https://www.shtiebelonthehill.org/is-enoch-or-his-calendar-apart-of-the-torah

and many more.

However for those non-Jews who do not feel called toward Judaism or consider themselves Jewish/Israelite by taking the covenant of Torah like the Israelites on Mount Sinai; integrating into their local traditional church community is a more meaningful path.

A list of recognized traditional denominations is provided here:

https://www.shtiebelonthehill.org/we-are-traditionalist

But for those whom choose Judaism, please come; your life will never be the same....