Can a Convert Say 'Our Fathers' in Prayer?
This question and answer were automatically translated using our trained AI and have not yet been reviewed by a qualified rabbi. Please treat this translation with caution.
go to original →
Question
Hello Rabbi, In Makkot 19a, Rav Ashi discusses that a convert cannot fulfill the mitzvah of reciting during the offering of the first fruits, as the verse mentions 'our fathers'. Is this accepted in Halacha? And if so, how does a convert say in the Amidah 'Our God and God of our fathers'? Or in the blessings after the Shema in the morning 'True that You are the Lord our God and God of our fathers'?
Answer
Hello Rabbi,
According to Halacha, a convert can say 'God of our fathers' because Abraham is called 'the father of many nations'.
This ruling is applied when the convert prays in public, such as when serving as a chazan, but when praying alone, it is better to say 'God of the fathers of Israel'.
Source
Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim Siman 53 Se'if 19, and Mishnah Berurah Se'if Katan 49