What is Judaism?

Judaism presents itself not simply as a religion but as a complete way of life encompassing the thought, ethics, spirituality, social relations, and history of a people. In the very opening of the Mishnah, compiled by Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi, a fundamental principle is established: “All Israel has a share in the World to Come.”

This phrase is not merely eschatological; it expresses that every member of the people possesses a responsibility but also an equal spiritual dignity, for every soul in Israel is a spark of the Divine.

Thus, understanding Judaism begins with understanding this eternal covenant between God and Israel, a covenant that is translated into concrete life by three pillars:Torah, Avodah (service), and Chesed (kindness), as taught in the Talmud (Avot 1:2). In addition, we will also look at the identity of Israel, which is the source of Judaism.

#Number (1)- The Torah: Foundation of Identity and Light of Wisdom

The Talmud proclaims: “Talmud Torah keneged kulam”—the study of Torah is equivalent to all the mitzvot (Peach 1:1).

According to the Ben Ish Chai, the study of Torah is not an intellectual exercise but a light that purifies the soul, sharpens the moral conscience, and opens the heart to the fear of God. The Torah then becomes not only a text but also a path, a derekh, that guides one in the details of one’s existence.

This centrality of study is therefore not merely academic: it is character building, the activation of Hebrew identity, and a permanent connection with the divine will. This is why Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi, despite his wealth and status, declared: “I have found no pleasure in this world” (Ketubot 104a)—his true pleasure lay in the Torah.

#Number (2)- Avodah: Transforming the Heart into a Sanctuary

Judaism does not conceive of prayer as a mechanical recitation. The Talmud states:The All-Merciful asks for the heart (Sanhedrin 106b)

Avodah, therefore, is the ability to stand before God with sincerity, clarity, and profound intention (kavanah).Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi taught that prayer should be uttered “like a poor person pleading.” This is not a weakness but a spiritual strength: recognizing total dependence on the Creator.

The Ben Ish Chai, in his halakhot, elaborates at length on the importance of inner preparation before prayer, emphasizing that one must purify their mind as one prepares a sanctuary. Thus, Avodah becomes an art of living where the heart, intentions, and actions are aligned.

#Number (3)- Chesed: The Sanctification of Social Ethics

If Torah shapes the mind and Avodah molds the heart, Chesed transforms society.The Talmud teaches:“The world rests upon three things: Torah, Avodah, and acts of kindness” (Avot 1:2)

This means that the Jewish faith would be incomplete without the practice of Chesed.Judaism is not only a ritual system; it is also an embodied ethic, visible in human relationships: in justice, mutual support, compassion, and respect for others.

For the Ben Ish Chai, acts of kindness reveal true spiritual greatness, for they manifest the Tzelem Elohim, the divine image in every human being.Thus is forged the vocation of Israel: to be “Or LaGoyim,” a moral and spiritual light for the nations.

#Number (4)- The Identity of Israel: Particularism and Universality

A fundamental teaching of the Talmud states:“You are called Adam” (Yevamot 61a).

The Sages explain that the people of Israel bear a unique collective identity, not to separate themselves from the world, but to carry out a universal mission.Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi brings together in his Mishnah not only laws but also a vision of the people of Israel: a people entrusted with a living Torah, guardians of social justice, and witnesses to the divine Presence in history.

Judaism connects the particular (the holiness of Israel) and the universal (the elevation of humanity), thus articulating the covenant and ethics.

In conclusion, Judaism can be described as a Total Spiritual Project. According to Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi, the Talmud, and the Ben Ish Chai, Judaism is a project of transformation, which comprises of the following:

Transformation of the mind through Torah,
Transformation of the heart through Avodah (service),
Transformation of the world through Chesed (kindness).

This coherent system aims to create an enlightened, responsible human being, connected to their Creator and benevolent toward their fellow human beings.Ultimately, Judaism is a living covenant, a path of light, and a constant call to elevate daily life in holiness, justice, and kindness.

About The Author

Haïm Israël Mpodol

Rabbi Haïm Israël Mpodol is a Cameroonian rabbi, community leader, and tribal chief from the Nyon-Ekele region. A graduate of one of the prestigious yeshivot in Jerusalem, he serves as the spiritual leader of the Beth Goshen Jewish Community in Cameroon, a congregation of Bantu Israelites dedicated to Torah learning and cultural heritage. A kabbalist and man of deep wisdom, Rabbi Mpodol opens his doors to the underprivileged, guiding them through Torah study while promoting dignity, compassion, and spiritual growth.
Alongside his rabbinic responsibilities, he is a business law specialist, human resources manager, and anthropological researcher, with expertise in Bantu history, oral lineage transmission, and the cultural traditions of the Bassa tribe. His work bridges Jewish identity and African heritage, strengthening the spiritual and historical foundations of emerging Jewish communities across the continent.

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