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Why is converting a minor gentile considered a merit (zechus) rather than a burden (chov)? The shiur examines the Gemara (גמרא)'s assumption that taking on 613 mitzvos should be burdensome and explores why the Gemara focuses on eved befker nichale instead of addressing the more fundamental issue of mitzvah (מצוה) obligations.
This shiur analyzes the Gemara (גמרא) in Kesubos 11a discussing why converting a ger katan (minor gentile) is considered a zechus (merit) rather than a chov (burden). The central question emerges: why doesn't the Gemara address the obvious burden of suddenly becoming obligated in 613 mitzvos? Instead, it focuses on the concept of eved befker nichale (being hefker and abandoned). The shiur presents a fundamental kashya: the Gemara should have identified the primary chov as kabbalas mitzvos (accepting the mitzvos) rather than befker nichale. After all, a gentile has only seven Noachide laws, while a Jew must observe 613 commandments. This represents a massive increase in religious obligations and restrictions.
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Kesubos 11a
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