What Is Judaism?: Or, a Few Words to the Jews

"What Is Judaism?: Or, A Few Words To The Jews" by Raphael De Cordova Lewin. In this 19th-century reform tract, Lewin argues for Judaism as a universal, rational religion grounded in Reason, Nature, and Revelation, and outlines Judaism's dual eternal and temporal phases. He critiques orthodox and proselytizing Christian efforts to convert Jews, advocates religious liberty, and emphasizes that true religion is life and Spirit, not mere ritual. The book defines God, world, and human nature, and lays out duties to God and neighbor, the Sabbath and Holy Festivals, and the evolution of Jewish practice from sacrifice toward ethical living. It urges Jews to study and promote Judaism as a universal faith and mission, while maintaining Hebrew learning and multilingual worship to unite Jews and Gentiles under a shared moral law. It also discusses the role of prophets, the unity of God, and the Jew’s responsibility as a light to the nations, aiming to reconcile tradition with modern thought.