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How can a Jewish court convert a minor without the child's consent? The Gemara (גמרא) establishes that conversion is a privilege (zechus) for a child since 'we may benefit someone in their absence.' The analysis explores why this only works for children, not adults who have 'tasted forbidden pleasure.'
The shiur provides an in-depth analysis of Gemara (גמרא) Kesubos 11a regarding the conversion of minor children (ger katan). The discussion begins with Rashi (רש"י)'s interpretation that the case involves a child without a father, examining what difference having a father would make to the conversion process. The central issue addressed is how conversion can be performed on a minor who cannot give consent. The Gemara resolves this through the principle of 'zachin l'adam shelo b'fanav' (we may benefit someone in their absence), establishing that conversion is considered a zechus (privilege/benefit) for the child. However, this raises the question of why conversion would be considered beneficial.
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Kesubos 11a
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