that would be interesting.

You mean Israel HASN'T had a DNA database until now? Are you for real? The story here is how are rapists and other criminals convicted? How many are free because there was no database, and how many are wrongfully in jail? The story is how you MISSED this story!

Mike, the answer to your question is both yes and no. The 'Yes' would apply to males bearing the Cohen/Levy Y chromosome which if present suggests a Jewish ancestor. It will not attest to whether the individual's belief system is Jewish or non-Jewish. The reverse is also true: namely, the lack of that Y chromosome does not mean the individual is not Jewish (i.e. male or female child of a non Jewish male and a Jewish female).

Mike, there's an author of a book called,( I believe) "The origins of Man", his name is, Spencer Wells, USC I think is his university. (It's also online a thumbnail sketch) He's done extensive DNA tests( he is a DNA expert, a former child prodigy) of the remotest of villages worldwide to determine some of these questions. I haven't read the book yet but, it seemed fascinating when I saw the featured story of his work on PBS. It may answer some of your questions. Otheres have determined the DNA connection to some African tribes who claim to be Jews, ( they were!) Seems the state of Israel gives us the best avenue for identity, the mother. Mothers carry most of the chromosomes that determine many of the DNA passed onto the offspring. You'll find more answers as those already posted. Wells, has been able to prove our first known humans come from Africa, then, a second group from the ME. Looks very interesting. I must get the book first to know more. Fascinating stuff. DNA has been refered to as, G-ds finger prints".

Better late than never. Israels been too busy with her 'politicians". Sharons in a coma and Olmert should be. DNA is a phenominal tool for identifying people. Finger prints are nearly passe' as the interpretation is left as the ultimate deciding factor and is many times wrong. Don't worry, she's learning. Look at US and we've known for many years also and are still babes in the woods. It's a new technology for many.

We've taken in converts over the millennia, and continue to do so. Several frequent our minyan in DC, one is currently teaching in Israel. Their DNA would give no clue to their "Jewishness". Nor does even the Cohen/Levy chromosome do more than provide a historic link. Former Defense Secretary Cohen, even if he carried that gene, did not have a Jewish mother, did not marry Jewish, and does not self-identify as Jewish.

and maybe get your boy paqid in on the action. good times.

How can a citizen voluntarily get his DNA onto the database?