Teaching Torah to an Uncircumcised Prospective Convert

From: Rabbi Akiva Eiger

To: Rabbi Yaakov

Description

A non-Jew seeking conversion, whom Rabbi Yaakov could not circumcise due to Prussian government restrictions, asked to be taught Scripture and prayers beforehand. Rabbi Akiva Eiger declines to permit teaching Torah to the prospective convert, arguing that the Maharsha's permissive ruling relies on an interpretation of Hillel's converts that is undermined by Tosfos in Yevamos, and concludes that he lacks the authority to issue a leniency.

Source: Shu"t Rabbi Akiva Eiger §41

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