Myths and Facts
Is what you think about Chabad MYTH or FACT? You may be surprised. Take a few minutes to browse through this and you will have a better understanding of what Chabad is all about?
1. MYTH
You have to be Orthodox to participate in programs offered by Chabad
FACT
Chabad is inclusive and non-judgmental, and their programs are open to all Jews. In fact, the majority of people who participate in programs at Chabad are not orthodox. The teachings of Chabad are imbued with the renowned Chassidic spirit and joy, but in no way is the commitment to all Orthodox or Ultra-Orthodox lifestyle a prerequisite to one's acceptance at Chabad functions.
2. MYTH
Chabad's goal is to make me Orthodox
FACT
Chabad is not out to make one Orthodox. Chabad is an educational organization dedicated to helping every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance, to increase their level of Jewish knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment. Chabad invites you to explore the complex areas of Jewish religion, tradition and practice in an open minded and non-judgmental atmosphere. All of Chabad's classes, programs, and services are designed to heighten the awareness and lend valuable insight into one's heritage, traditions, religious practice, laws and rituals. Each individual is invited to participate, study and learn. Each individual makes his or her own respective religious lifestyle decisions at his or her own pace.
3. MYTH
Chabad does not consider Reform, Conservative, or non-practicing Jews as "real" Jews.
FACT
Chabad avoids labeling other Jews, since it tends to divide and create barriers between us. Jewish Law has traditionally considered anyone born of a Jewish mother or converted in accordance with Halachah to be a Jew, regardless of his or her degree of observance. The Lubavitcher Rebbe delivered a stinging rebuke to Orthodox elements in the USA and Israel for publicly belittling non-Orthodox Jews.
4. MYTH
Chabad dos not accept converts
FACT
Chabad follows traditional Jewish Law which states that any non-Jew who feels sincerely convinced of the beauty and relevance of Torah, who is prepared to follow the traditions of Israel, and therefore, wishes to join the community of Israel, is welcomed as a convert. The conversion process requires immersion in a kosher mikvah, circumcision for men, and acceptance of the disciplines and practices of Judiasim-all under authorized rabbinic supervision.
5.MYTH
Chabad does not support the State of Israel
FACT
Chabad, and the Lubavitcher Rebbe in particular, strongly support Israel and is deeply involved in defending its value and right to exist. Many Chabdnicks serve in the IDF and the others contribute practical and spiritual support to the troops. Chabad has over 150 centers in Israel as well as dozen of educational facilities around the country. Lubavitch trained Rabbis often complete their training iN Israeli yeshivot.
6. MYTH
Women occupy a secondary position in Chabad philosophy
FACT
Different, yes. Secondary? No! the high standing of Jewish women in Chabad is central to survival of Judaism. As the cornerstone of Jewish family life, the woman can attain a profound and meaningful spirituality, one that fulfills her deepest needs and aspirations opening fresh perspectives on self-understanding, growth and Torah knowledge. Ignorance, misconceptions, and outright myths about Jewish women and prevailed until very recently, turning many people away form appreciation of Torah and traditional Jewish lifestyle.
Chabad is working to correct those misconceptions.
7. MYTH
Chabad is financed by its headquarters in New York
FACT
It is Chabad policy that each center is supported by the community it serves. All funding for local Chabad programs is solicited locally. No money is sent to international Chabad headquarters in New York. All funds donated remain right here in our community. Neither are we funded or financially supported by our central headquarters.
An Overview of the philosophy and activities of Chabad
Chabad has more than 2,500 centers around the glove. Chabad is today's largest international organization involved with Jewish education and outreach programs. Embracing the philosophy of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement, which originated in the town of Lubavitch in White Russia during the 18th century. Chabad's underlying doctrine is "Ahavat Yisrael" (love for a fellow Jew). Chabad recognizes no differences between Jews; its goal is to serve the spiritual and physical needs of each jew regardless of affiliation, wherever he or she may be, with understanding and with love.
By means of a rare combination that blends traditional Judaism with modern day techniques , Chabad has found the formula to develop a rapport with the most alienated of Jews and to enhance their outlook. By arousing an intellectual and/or emotional interest in our faith, Chabad has become the catalyst to connect Jews with their Jewish roots and revive the sparks of Jewish consciousness in the hearts and minds of each Jew.
Chabad does not recognize the false labels of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform. "A Jew is a Jew- Period." We have gotten too carried away with the adjectives-the noun is universal-Jew. We have one Torah, we are one people, we have one G‑d and one land. Chabad endeavors to bring unity among the Jewish community through our common bond of Jewish faith and observance..
There are no prerequisites for getting involved with Chabad, whether you are affiliated or not, have much Jewish background or none, you are always welcome to try one or all of our programs. We are here to serve you and we will do our best to help you and your family. You do not have to be a member at Chabad, you do not even have to agree with everything Chabad says or does-you just have to be Jewish-and you automatically belong.