There are many important steps in becoming a Rabbi, with the most important being a great desire to undertake the responsibility. If becoming a Rabbi is something that you are interested in knowing more about, read on for three important steps you will need to take. 1: Follow the Jewish Faith In order to be a Rabbi, you must be Jewish or convert to Judaism. A Rabbi must know the Jewish faith well, as well as the rituals within it. If you are converting to Judaism, keep in mind the process can take several years, so you will need time and patience. Be aware that there are different branches of Judaism, in which different forms of lifestyle and worship is practiced. Make sure that you are aware of what form you are following, and what the differences are. The two main differing forms of Judaism are Rabbinic Judaism and Alternative Judaism. The main branches of Rabbinic Judaism are Chasidic, Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist. The main branches of Alternative Judaism are Karaite Judaism, Jewish Renewal, and Humanistic Judaism. There are other independent forms of Judaism including Messianic Judaism. Find out which branch you wish to follow first. 2: Attend a rabbinical school With most rabbinical schools, what you major in is not important, for rabbinical schools look more for qualities that make you stand out as a spiritual leader. You will be judged on your commitment to Judaism, your personal character, and your rabbinical qualifications. Most branches of Judaism rabbinical training will expect you to undertake between four and seven years of training. Each branch has different requirements, but normally will evaluate a potential rabbi based on academic success alongside internship programs and experiences (such as time spent in Israel). The rabbinical curriculum will normally cover topics such as Torah studies and torah classes, Mishnah studies, Talmud studies, Hebrew language studies, Jewish history studies, psychology, and education methods. You will also be trained in public appearance and public speaking techniques. 3: Undertake your first role Once you have graduated from a rabbinical school, expect to work as a Rabbi in a small scale capacity. Usually you will be expected to become an assistant to a Rabbi or a leader of a small congregation. Or, you can become a Rabbi teacher at a college or university. Many Rabbis have other jobs, and view their role as a Rabbi as a second career. In this way they can maintain a lifestyle that they desire, as well as satisfy their religious calling. A successful Rabbi must have compassionate qualities and a strong desire to help the community. They must be caring, understanding, and have good listening skills. For many, a Rabbi is someone you can confide in and seek support and counseling from. A Rabbi is expected to have a great many skills with regards to dealing with the public. They are also expected to conduct themselves appropriately at all times, and be a pillar in their community. There are many expectations on a Rabbi, so only undertake studies to be one if you truly believe you can live up to what will be expected of you. Torah studies are essentially taken by those interested in Jewish tradition and faith, to better understand the minute aspects of this religion or into converting to a rabbi. To better understand the process of conversion, browse this website.
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