Title: Leaving Bacon Behind: A How to Guide to Jewish Conversion

Author: Melvin S. Marsh

Genre: Religion

 

Melvin Marsh knew from an early age that he was different. Despite being born and raised Roman Catholic, he identified as being Jewish. He resided in South Florida, where a sizable portion of the population practices Judaism. As Melvin matured and came to embrace who he was, he began to explore fully converting to Judaism. He knew this wasn’t a small task, but he was determined to do what was necessary to convert from Catholicism. His will was strong despite the skepticism among family and friends. Melvin’s spiritual quest would take 16 years and would involve much hard work and sacrifice, but his commitment would never waver.

Melvin Marsh has assumed the role of a learned scholar in chronicling the long path to conversion. While his words are meant to provide educational assistance, they also provide inspiration as well as guidance for future converts. The charisma inherent in Melvin’s story is in his self-deprecation. His desire to become a member of the Jewish faith was so strong, but his education was admittedly limited. His resources were sparse, but he persevered. His book serves as a comprehensive reference guide for future neophytes.

Enlightenment is one of the primary themes that arises from Melvin’s memoir/guide. In his case, Melvin gained his insight at a shockingly early age. To enter Judaism by choice, Melvin would need to commit time and money to achieve his goal. Melvin would need to study the languages, prayers, and theological beliefs before he moved on to the next step. In choosing a new spiritual way forward, Melvin would need to decide which denomination was appropriate (e.g. Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist). The Enlightenment isn’t one-sided, as Melvin elucidates many of the canon that the faithful must adhere to in their belief.

A secondary but no less significant theme in the book is tolerance. Melvin’s disillusionment with Christianity and Roman Catholicism began with the seeming intolerance of the religion towards various groups. One of the poignant aspects of Melvin’s life journey is how certain relatives reacted with disdain and intolerance to his choice, while others embraced him. Melvin points out how one of the merits of a majority of the Jewish people is tolerance. Anti-Semitism is a hurdle that Melvin navigated on his way to Judaism and one that he speaks out against with a heavy heart. The first step towards tolerance begins with understanding the values and beliefs of the faith.

Melvin was and continues to be a student in his newfound faith. Yet, his articulation shows how he has assumed the role of an empathetic teacher with time.

The story of an individual’s often harrowing track to a new religion is thorough and uplifting. Melvin’s handbook is instructional and vital, yet the book would be aided with a few more personal anecdotes and pictures.

Leaving Bacon Behind provides a wealth of educational tools to aid future converts. However, Melvin’s story possesses a broad appeal that will resonate with those who are seeking metaphysical insight to those looking to walk a similar path.

 

 

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.