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When can beis din convert a minor without his consent? The gemara (גמרא) establishes that conversion must be a benefit (zechus), not a burden (chovah). Three approaches emerge: family unity makes it beneficial, parental approval adds value to the equation, or circumstances determine whether Jewish life is advantageous.
The shiur analyzes the fundamental question in Kesubos 11a regarding when beis din can convert a minor (ger katan) without his consent, focusing on the principle that one can only act for another's benefit (zachin l'adam shelo befanav) but not to impose a burden (chovah). The gemara (גמרא) presents the case where a minor converts along with his parents versus when only his mother brings him for conversion. Rabbi Zweig examines why conversion is considered a zechus when done with parents but potentially a chovah when done alone. Three primary explanations are developed: First, following Shmuel's approach, when converting with family, there's a benefit of maintaining family unity - separation from parents would be worse than any burden of Jewish observance. Second, Boaz's approach suggests that parental approval itself adds value to the equation - the child gains something meaningful from doing what his parents want and receiving their approval.
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Kesubos 11a
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