FAQ's
Is what you think about Chabad MYTH or FACT?
You may be surprised.
Q. What is Chabad?
A. Chabad of Massapequa is one of more than 3,000 branches of today's largest
international organization involved with Jewish education and outreach programs.
Chabad and Lubavitch are in fact synonomous terms referrring to the same organization.
Embracing the philosophy of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement, which originated in the town
of Lubavitch in White Russia during the 18th century, Chabad's underlying doctrine is
"Ahavat Yisrael" (love for a fellow Jew). Chabad recognizes no differences between Jews; its goal
is to serve the spiritual and physical needs of each Jew regardless of affiliation, wherever he or
she may be, with understanding and with love.
By means of a rare combination that blends traditional Judaism with modern day
techniques, Chabad has found the formula to develop a rapport with the most alienated of Jews
and to enhance their outlook. By arousing an intellectual and/or emotional interest in
our faith, Chabad has become the catalyst to connect Jews with their Jewish roots and revive
the sparks of Jewish consciousness in the hearts and minds of each Jew.
There are no prerequisites for getting involved with Chabad, whether you are affiliated or not,
have much Jewish background or none, you are always welcome to try one or all of our
programs. We are here to serve you and we will do our best to help you and your family. You do
not have to be a member at Chabad, you do not even have to agree with everything Chabad says
or does - you just have to be Jewish - and you automatically belong.
Q. Do you have to be Orthodox to participate in programsoffered by Chabad?
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. 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 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.
Each mitzvah stands on its own as an important step in ones personal growth.
Q: Does Chabad consider Reform, Conservative, or non-practicing Jews as "real" Jews?
A: A Jew is a Jew is a Jew – period. 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. We have one Torah, we are one People, and we have one G‑d.
Chabad endeavors to bring unity among the Jewish community through our common bond of
Jewish faith and observance.
Q: Does Chabad support Israel?
A: Chabad is deeply involved in defending Israel and its right to exist, throughout all its
boundaries. Many Chabadnicks serve in the IDF and others contribute practical and
spiritual support to the troops. Chabad has over 200 centers in Israel, as well as dozens
of educational facilities around the country. Chabad trained Rabbis often complete their training
is Israeli yeshivot. The Rebbe himself encouraged support of the UJA.
Q: Is the Chabad of the Delta financed by its headquarters in New York?
A: It is Chabad 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 World Headquarters nor are any locally raised funds sent to Chabad World Headquarters in New York.
All funds donated remain right here in our community.
Q: Do women occupy a secondary position in Chabad philosophy?
A: Secondary? No! The high standing of Jewish women in Chabad is central to the survival
of Judaism. As the cornerstone of Jewish family life, the woman can 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.