Is what you think about Chabad MYTH or FACT?
You
may be surprised. Take a few minutes to browse through this page and
you'll 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 an
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 Halacha 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 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 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 Judaism - 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 Chabadnicks serve in the IDF and others contribute practical and
spiritual support to the troops. Chabad has over 150 centers in Israel,
as well as dozens 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 the survival of
Judaism. Historically woman have served as leaders, prophetesses,
educators, and yes, mothers. Jewish woman 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
fulfills 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
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.