Ten Ranks. Ten Sefirot.
Every belt level at JCA corresponds to one of the ten Sefirot — a dual progression of combat mastery and Torah character.
What You Will Learn
Striking & Kicking
Punches, palm strikes, hammer fists, elbows, front kicks, roundhouse kicks, side kicks, and knee strikes — all drilled for real-world effectiveness.
Grappling & Defense
Clinch work, takedown defense, ground escapes, wrist releases, choke defenses, and basic submission awareness.
Weapons Awareness
Defense against knife, stick, and firearm threats — awareness, distance management, and disarm principles.
Fitness & Conditioning
Strength, endurance, agility, and flexibility training integrated into every class to build a capable, durable warrior body.
From Malkhut to Keter
Each Sefira represents a divine attribute. As students advance through the belts, they develop both the physical and spiritual quality of that Sefira.
The Etz Chaim — Tree of Life — maps the ten divine attributes through which creation flows. In JCA, a student's journey begins at Malchut — the foundation — and ascends through each Sefirah until reaching Keter, the crown of mastery. Tap any Sefirah to explore its full curriculum.
Belt Ranks — Sequential Order
Belt ranks must be earned in order — Rank 1 (White) through Rank 10 (Black). Each rank builds on the technical and character foundations of the one before it. No rank may be skipped. Advancement is evaluated and awarded by Rabbi Hartford.
Merits — At Your Own Pace
The 100-Merit System runs parallel to your belt track but is not required for belt advancement. Merits may be earned in any order, across any belt cycle, with no time pressure. Strongly recommended — they develop the complete JCA practitioner beyond combatives alone.
Belt Progression
Tap any rank in the tree or legend to view its full curriculum, techniques, and youth adaptations.
The 100-Merit System runs in parallel with your belt rank — earning merits in each Sefirot category to develop character, discipline, and ethical growth alongside technical skill.
Explore the Merit SystemReady to Begin Your Ascent?
The path from Malchut to Keter begins with a single step. Book your free trial class and start earning your first rank under Rabbi Hartford's guidance.