To the Editor:

Laura Miller's review of Francine du Plessix Gray's book ''Simone Weil'' (Aug. 5) gave incomplete attention to a vital point. Since Weil was raised without religion in a family of secular Jews, and embraced Christianity in adulthood, it is no wonder that her perception was convoluted.

There is nothing arrogant, bearing on exclusivity, in the idea of Jews as a chosen people. ''Chosen'' does not signify superiority. It merely means that the ancient Hebrews were tasked with setting a good example, through deeds, for others. They were to promote justice, morality and charity, while aiding the poor. Given this scheme of things, there is no irony in the fact that they did not seek to convert their neighbors to Judaism. If Weil had been broader in her understanding and more willing to learn, she might not have adopted an erroneous conclusion.

Elliott A. Cohen

Santa Barbara, Calif.