Baal teshuva (Hebrew: ; for a woman: , baalat teshuva; plural: , baalei teshuva), sometimes abbreviated to BT, is a Hebrew term referring to a person who has repented. Baal teshuva can be translated idiomatically as "one who has done repentance." Informally, it is often contrasted with "FFB," i.e Frum From Birth.

The term historically referred to a Jew who had transgressed the Halakha ("Jewish law") and completed a process of introspection and "returned" to the straight path. However, in contemporary times, the phrase is primarily used to refer to a Jew from a secular background who has become religiously observant (normally in an orthodox fashion) later in life. (The alternative term "chozer b'teshuva" () is more common in Israel). There are numerous baal teshuva movements and organisations that seek to encourage this.

The Talmud expresses high regard of Baalei teshuva, by stating that "the position where Baalei teshuva attain; even Tzadikim gemurim (those who were always righteous) cannot attain".

See also

• Orthodox Jewish outreach

External links

• The Baal Teshuva and the Jewish Community: Re-entry Problems - includes issues relating to ''ben niddah''

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