Is what you think about Chabad

MYTH or FACT?

You may be surprised.

1. MYTH:

You have to be Orthodox to participate in programs offered by Chabad.

FACT:

Chabad is inclusive and non-judgmental, and our programs are open to all Jews. 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 a religious lifestyle a prerequisite to one's acceptance at Chabad functions.

2. MYTH:

Chabad's goal is to make you Orthodox.

FACT:

Chabad is not here to make you Orthodox. Chabad is an organization dedicated to helping every Jew – regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance.

Chabad invites you to explore all areas of Judaism, its traditions and practices in an open-minded and non-judgmental setting. Ask the difficult questions. Get honest, useful answers that are always thought-provoking and never patronizing.

Chabad's programs and services are designed to heighten the awareness of and lend valuable insight into our heritage, traditions, religious practice, laws and rituals. Every Jew is invited to participate, learn and grow at his or her own pace.

3. MYTH:

Chabad does not consider Reform, Conservative, or non-practicing Jews as "real" Jews.

FACT:

Heaven forefend!

A Jew is a Jew is a Jew. Period. Level of observance is not a factor in one’s “Jewishness.” In fact, Chabad avoids labeling Jews altogether, since it serves only to divide and create barriers between us. The Lubavitcher Rebbe delivered a stinging rebuke to ‘Orthodox’ elements in the USA and Israel for publicly belittling non-Orthodox Jews.

4. MYTH:

Chabad does 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 Jewish tradition and wishes to join the community of Israel, is welcomed as a convert. The conversion process requires acceptance of the disciplines and practices of Judaism - all under the guidance of a qualified rabbi.

5. MYTH:

Do women occupy a secondary position in Chabad philosophy and communal life?

FACT:
A position different from the position of men, yes. Secondary to the status of men, No!  The high standing position of Jewish women in Chabad is central to the survival of Judaism; historically women have served as leaders, prophetesses, educators, and yes, mothers. Jewish women are the cornerstone of the Jewish family-whether they have another career outside the home or not. In turn, the Jewish family is the cornerstone of Jewish life and survival.

Through pathways unique to women, Judaism offers women equal potential to attain a profound and meaningful spirituality, one that fulfils her deepest needs and aspirations opening fresh perspectives on self-understanding, growth and Torah knowledge. Ignorance, misconceptions, and outright myths about Jewish women have prevailed until very recently, turning many people away from an appreciation of Torah and a traditional Jewish lifestyle. Chabad is working to correct those misconceptions.

6. 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. Chabad 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. For more info click here.

7. MYTH:

Chabad is financed by its headquarters in New York.

FACT:

It is the policy of the worldwide Chabad movement that each center is supported by the community it serves. Funding for local Chabad programs is solicited locally. None of the money contributed in the Temecula Valley is sent to international Chabad headquarters in New York - all funds donated remain right here in our community. Likewise, we do not receive funding from a central headquarters. Rather, we are funded by those who wish to support our goal of helping Jewish People, and/or benefit from our services.