What is Chabad?
A philosophy, a movement, and an organization. It is widely considered to be the most dynamic force in Jewish life today, with over:
3,500 centers in 85 countries, dedicated to the welfare of the Jewish people worldwide.
A Deeper Look
Chabad-Lubavitch is a Hasidic movement influenced by the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, a scholar and mystic of 18th-century Eastern Europe who loved his people with an immeasurable passion. Following the progroms of 1648, a schism developed between the uneducated, yet sincere Jews, and the great scholars, who looked askance at their ignorance. The Baal Shem Tov healed this rift by teaching the importance of looking beyond a person’s outward behavior and into the depths of his heart to find the divine spark and reveal it with unconditional love.
The mystical, yet practical teachings of Chabad penetrate to the core of reality. They teach understanding and recognition of the Creator, the role and purpose of Creation, and the unique mission of each human being. That one is tasked with transforming materiality instead of escaping from it. That G-d isn’t confined to the heavens, rather, it is in this world and our “mundane” lives that He desires a home.
This knowledge empowers one to lead a life of joy, purpose, and enthusiasm.
Leadership
The Chabad-Lubavitch movement is guided by the teachings of its seven leaders ("Rebbes"), beginning with Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, of righteous memory (1745-1812). These leaders expounded upon the most refined and delicate aspects of Jewish mysticism, creating a corpus of study thousands of books strong. They personified the age-old, Biblical qualities of piety and leadership. No person or detail was too small or insignificant for their love and dedication.
In our generation, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, known simply as "the Rebbe,” lifted the global Jewish community from the ashes of the Holocaust and launched an unprecedented range of Jewish institutions, outreach programs and social services.
The Rebbe taught that every Jew — indeed every human being — has a unique role to play in the greater scheme of things and is an integral part of the tapestry of G-d's creation.With profound love and extraordinary insight, the Rebbe perceived the wealth of potential in each person. His inspiration, accessible through his writings and videos, boosts one’s self-perception, ignites their awareness of their own hidden wealth and motivates a desire to fulfill their true potential.
FAQ
Q: ARE CHABAD PROGRAMS ONLY FOR ORTHODOX JEWS?
A: No. In fact, the majority of participants at Chabad do not consider themselves Orthodox. Chabad's mission is to make Judaism accessible to every Jewish individual regardless of lifestyle or commitment, because we beilive our souls come from the same place and carry equal, inherent worth.
Q: IS THE GOAL OF CHABAD TO MAKE ME ORTHODOX?
A: Chabad is not here to make anyone Orthodox or add titles to their name. Each Chabad serves the physical and spiritual needs of its community and invites every individual to explore authentic Jewish tradition in a warm, welcoming environment. One does not need to commit to a fully religious lifestyle to have a meaningful relationship with G-d; every mitzvah stands on its own, with infinite value and merit.
Q: IS CHABAD OF WEST MARIN FINANCED BY ITS HEADQUARTERS IN NEW YORK?
A: No. It is Chabad’s policy that each center is supported by the community it serves. All funding for local Chabad programs is solicited locally. No funds are received from Chabad Central Office nor are any locally raised funds sent to Chabad Central Office in New York. All funds donated remain right here in our community.