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This is a general question, though it pertains to me on an individual level.
For years, I've felt a "draw" to Judaism (the teachings, community, traditions) as well as Israel. I was raised the son of a Christian minister and years ago became Buddhist (philosophically). I still have a thread tied to my Christian roots and attend Episcopal mass every so often. I do keep coming back to Judaism, though, and even "chose" a Hebrew name (my user name here). One day, I hope to visit Israel and am learning Hebrew slow, but sure!
With that said, I am not asking if you think I, personally, am being called, but if you think it does happen.
Jews do not proselytize. However, regarding a calling: Before G-d gave us the Torah, he presented it to the nations of the world, asking if they wanted to accept it. They refused. However, amongst the nations there were individuals who did want to accept the Torah. Those people end up converts.
I don't think I would describe it being "called", but I do think that some of us are certainly drawn toward Judaism. For me, there came a point in my studies where I started to see things through a more Jewish perspective and I felt like it was the only place I could feel at home. While people convert for many reasons, I do think think that some of us, for what ever reason, identify most strongly with it.
It's written that every Jew who "ever was, is, or will be" was present at Sinai, which would include those of us who choose to become Jewish. I don't know; maybe we're born with Jewish souls.
Yes. I was always drawn to Judaism. My mother told me she was born Jewish, but I know no history beyond that. Then I kept coming back to it and eventually converted.
This is a general question, though it pertains to me on an individual level.
For years, I've felt a "draw" to Judaism (the teachings, community, traditions) as well as Israel. I was raised the son of a Christian minister and years ago became Buddhist (philosophically). I still have a thread tied to my Christian roots and attend Episcopal mass every so often. I do keep coming back to Judaism, though, and even "chose" a Hebrew name (my user name here). One day, I hope to visit Israel and am learning Hebrew slow, but sure!
With that said, I am not asking if you think I, personally, am being called, but if you think it does happen.
Yes, I think some gentiles are strongly compelled/called to convert for a variety of reasons. And many Reform temples have formal conversion programs. They do not solicit converts but welcome them with open arms if they are approached.
I'm not sure if gentiles are "called" or not, but keep in mind, to become a Jew means to give up all unkosher food, keep the Sabbath, follow the laws of family purity, and well, 610 other rules as well.
I would suggest you google the phrase "b'nei Noach," and there, I suspect, you will find the proper solution.
Yes G_d can open one's eyes to things that will promote conversion and a change of belief system.
I doubt G-d wants more people to become Jews. We just need to be better at being Jews. If you're non Jewish, you're most likely fine the way you are. It's only the very rare and very special gentile who is a real candidate for becoming Jewish.
I think God does want more Jews, but through giving birth to more Jews (pru ur'vu) rather than through converting non-Jews.
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