Our Vision
Chabad Jewish Center of West Marin is a warm hub for people to gather and explore the joy and beauty of their Judaism - without judgement or labels.
We believe that Judaism and one's relationship with G-d should be dynamic, meaningful, and deeply personal. Join us in creating a vibrant community; participate in events, connect with others, delve into the timeless wisdom of the Torah, and discover Jewish life that is authentic, relevant, and exciting.
Together, we hope to make this world a kinder, holier, and more wholesome place.
Looking forward to welcoming you soon!
❤️ Rabbi Moshe & Hadassa Berkowitz
*Serving Fairfax and its surrounding communities.
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 his awareness of his own hidden wealth and motivates a desire to fulfill his true potential.
FAQ
Q: ARE CHABAD PROGRAMS ONLY FOR ORTHODOX JEWS?
A: Chabad is inclusive and non-judgmental, and our programs are open to all Jews. In fact, the majority of people who participate in programs at Chabad are not Orthodox. Chabad avoids labeling since it tends to divide and create barriers between us. The teachings of Chabad are imbued with the renowned Chassidic spirit and joy, but in no way is the commitment to an Orthodox lifestyle a prerequisite to one's acceptance at Chabad functions.
Q: IS THE GOAL OF CHABAD TO MAKE ME ORTHODOX?
A: Chabad is not here to make one Orthodox. Chabad invites each individual to explore authentic Jewish tradition and practice in an open-minded atmosphere. One need not fully commit to a religious lifestyle to be in an active relationship with G-d; every mitzvah stands on its own, with infinite merit and value.
Q: IS CHABAD OF WEST MARIN FINANCED BY ITS HEADQUARTERS IN NEW YORK?
A: 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.