Myths & Facts
Is what you think about Chabad myth or fact?
You may be surprised!
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. In fact, the vast 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 an Orthodox or Ultra-Orthodox lifestyle a prerequisite to one’s acceptance at Chabad functions.
MYTH:
Chabad’s goal is to make me Orthodox.
FACT:
Chabad is not out to make one Orthodox. Chabad is an organization dedicated to engaging every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance, and providing resources to help 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.
MYTH:
Chabad does not consider Reform, Conservative, or non-practicing Jews as "real" Jews.
FACT:
At Chabad a Jew is a Jew is a Jew. Chabad avoids labeling other Jews, since it tends to divide and create artificial barriers between us. Sine the days of Moses, Jewish Law has considered anyone born of a Jewish mother or converted in accordance with Halacha to be a Jew, regardless of his or her degree of observance. In fact, the leader of Chabad, the Lubavitcher Rebbe delivered a stinging rebuke to Orthodox elements in the USA and Israel for publicly belittling non-Orthodox Jews.
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 “Chabadniks” serve in the Israeli Defense Forces and others contribute practical and spiritual support to the troops. Lubavitch trained Rabbis often complete their training in Israeli Yeshivas. Chabad has a network of over 220 centers throughout the length and breath of Israel.
In response to current spate of Palestinian violence and terror, Chabad’s Victim of Terror program offers support and comfort to victims of terror and their families by providing financial, spiritual and emotional assistance as needed. Chabad has a network of emergency response teams that intervene with victims and their families within hours after an attack and continues with long term, community-based assistance and activities provided by Chabad Houses located in the victim’s community.
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. Thus, funding for local Chabad programs is generated locally. No money or dues are 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.