Rabbi Chaim Amsalem
A Revolution in Orthodox Conversion
Rabbi Chaim Amsalem is an outstanding Jewish thinker, politician, and reformer who heads the private rabbinical court Ahavat HaGer. Through his work, he aims to make the conversion process accessible and fair for all who sincerely aspire to become part of the Jewish people. His years of experience and deep understanding of Jewish law allow him to implement innovative approaches and reforms that have already changed many lives.
Career Path
Rabbi Amsalem was first elected to the Knesset in 2009 as part of the Shas faction. During his career, he faced conflict with Shas leader Aryeh Deri due to differing views on Halacha (Jewish law). Rabbi Amsalem believed that traditional approaches to conversion and other aspects of Jewish life needed review and updating. In 2012, he left the Shas party and created the “Am Shalem” movement, seeking to reform the conversion process and make it more accessible and fair. Later, he was a member of the Likud and Bayit Yehudi parties, and before the elections to the 21st Knesset, he joined the Zehut party.
His activities in the Knesset were aimed at improving relations between religious and secular Jews, as well as enhancing the integration of immigrants from different countries into Israeli society. He actively worked on changing laws to make the Orthodox conversion process less bureaucratic and more accessible to all who desire it.
Approach to Conversion
Rabbi Amsalem is known for his tolerant and innovative approach to Halacha. He believes that the Orthodox conversion process should be based on sincerity and the desire to become part of the Jewish people, rather than strict observance of commandments. His goal is to make the conversion process quick, friendly, and fair, removing bureaucratic obstacles and providing everyone with the opportunity to become part of the Jewish community.
Key Principles
Individual approach: Rabbi Amsalem emphasizes the importance of a personalized approach to each candidate, taking into account their unique needs and circumstances. He believes that everyone should have the opportunity to undergo conversion in Israel in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Support and Mentorship
He and his team provide full support and guidance at every stage of the conversion journey. At the Keter Shem Tov Conversion School, candidates can count on the help of rabbis and mentors who are always ready to answer questions and help overcome any difficulties.
Social Integration
Organizing educational and cultural events helps candidates gain a deeper understanding and feel for Jewish culture and traditions. Rabbi Amsalem believes that integration into the Jewish community is an important aspect of the conversion process.
Accessibility of the Process
Rabbi Amsalem strives to make the Orthodox conversion process as accessible as possible, removing bureaucratic barriers and easing the path to embracing Judaism. He works to ensure that anyone who wishes to undergo conversion can do so without unnecessary complications and obstacles.
Views on Religion and State
Rabbi Amsalem supports the idea of partial separation of religion and state, believing that this is better for religion, as faith should come from the heart and not be imposed by laws. He also actively works on changing the Law of Return and integrating descendants of Jews into the Jewish community. In his opinion, religion should be a matter of personal choice, not state policy.
Rabbi Amsalem believes that creating a more flexible and accessible conversion system will help avoid rejection and alienation among those seeking to become part of the Jewish people. His reforms are aimed at making the conversion process more humane and candidate-oriented.
Under the leadership of Rabbi Chaim Amsalem, the Keter Shem Tov Conversion School strives to ensure that every candidate feels like a welcome and valued member of the Jewish people. His vision and innovative approach make the conversion process more accessible, friendly, and fair. We are proud to work under the guidance of such an outstanding leader and continue to follow his principles in our daily work.
Rabbi Amsalem continues to actively work on implementing his reforms, aiming to improve the conversion process and make it more accessible to all. His efforts are directed towards creating an inclusive and supportive community where everyone who wishes can find their place and feel part of the Jewish community.