'Whither Thou Goest ...'
July 8, 2008
Hillel Halkin displays a superficial understanding of the conversion controversy in Israel based on a superficial understanding of the Book of Ruth [Oped, "Whither Thou Goest ...," June 10, 2008].
In fact, Ruth did have a formal conversion in the rabbinical court headed by Boaz even before she had any thoughts of marrying him.
Ruth's conversion was extremely controversial, so much so that King David's enemies dogged him about his lineage throughout his monarchy.
More important, the title quote expresses the true essence of a sincere convert — the acceptance of the laws of Judaism.
MICHAEL MILLER
Brooklyn, N.Y.
