The Philosophy

Chabad-Lubavitch is a philosophy, a movement, and a worldwide network of educational and community institutions dedicated to strengthening Jewish life and Jewish identity.

The word "Chabad" is an acronym for the Hebrew words Chochmah (wisdom), Binah (understanding), and Da'as (knowledge). These three faculties form the foundation of Chabad's approach to Jewish life, emphasizing not only faith and inspiration, but also thoughtful learning and personal understanding.

Chabad teaches that every person has a unique purpose and that Jewish values should inspire every aspect of daily life. Through study, reflection, and action, individuals can develop a deeper relationship with G‑d, with others, and with themselves.

The word "Lubavitch" is the name of the town in present-day Belarus where the movement was headquartered for more than a century. In Russian, Lubavitch means "city of brotherly love"—a fitting name for a movement whose central message is love, responsibility, and concern for every Jew.

The Movement

Founded more than 250 years ago, Chabad-Lubavitch is one of the major movements within Chassidic Judaism.

From its beginnings in Eastern Europe, Chabad spread throughout Russia and neighboring countries, bringing the teachings of Jewish mysticism and Chassidic thought to both scholars and ordinary Jews alike. Its message emphasized that every Jew, regardless of background or level of knowledge, possesses inherent spiritual worth and a unique connection to G‑d.

Over the generations, the teachings and influence of Chabad-Lubavitch spread far beyond its original communities, ultimately reaching Jewish populations around the globe and impacting virtually every area of Jewish life.

Leadership

Chabad-Lubavitch has been guided by seven generations of leaders, known as Rebbes, beginning with Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (1745–1812), the founder of Chabad.

Each Rebbe expanded and developed the teachings of Chabad, producing an extraordinary body of scholarship in Jewish law, Chassidic philosophy, and Jewish mysticism. At the same time, they devoted themselves to the practical and spiritual needs of Jewish communities everywhere.

The seventh and current Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, known worldwide simply as "The Rebbe," transformed Chabad-Lubavitch into a global movement. Through his vision, leadership, and unwavering concern for every individual, he inspired thousands of families to establish Jewish educational, social, and humanitarian institutions around the world.

Today, the teachings and guidance of the Rebbe continue to inspire Chabad's work in communities across the globe.

The Organization

The modern Chabad-Lubavitch organization traces its roots to the early 1940s, when Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the sixth and previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, established educational and social service organizations that would serve as the foundation for Chabad's future growth.

Under the leadership of our Rebbe, these efforts expanded dramatically. Motivated by a profound love for every Jew and an unwavering belief in the power of each individual to make a difference, the Rebbe encouraged the establishment of schools, synagogues, community centers, youth programs, educational initiatives, social services, and outreach efforts throughout the world.

Today, thousands of Chabad emissary families serve in cities, suburbs, college campuses, small towns, and remote communities across the globe, providing educational, spiritual, and humanitarian services to millions of people each year.

Learn More About Chabad

Explore the different aspects of our mission and work around the world.

We Are One

One of the foundational teachings of Chabad-Lubavitch is that every Jew is part of a single family.

This idea is rooted in the teachings of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, founder of the Chassidic movement, who taught that every Jew possesses a precious soul and immeasurable spiritual value. A person's worth is not determined by scholarship, background, observance, or social status. Every Jew is cherished because every Jew is a child of G‑d.

Throughout Jewish history there have been times when divisions separated one group of Jews from another. The Chassidic movement worked to break down those barriers, emphasizing unity, mutual responsibility, and genuine love for one's fellow Jew.

In modern times, Chabad has carried this message forward through its outreach efforts around the world. Whether meeting someone in a synagogue, on a college campus, in a hospital, at a community event, or simply on the street, the guiding principle remains the same: every Jew matters.

This belief explains why Chabad invests so much effort in helping people perform mitzvot, learn Torah, celebrate Jewish holidays, and connect with their heritage. These opportunities are not offered because someone may become more observant in the future, but because Judaism already belongs to them today.

As the Rebbe often emphasized, no Jew should ever be considered distant. Beneath every circumstance lies an eternal bond that unites the entire Jewish people.

The Rebbe

A Brief Biography

Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, known simply as "The Rebbe," is the seventh and current leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement and one of the most influential Jewish leaders of modern times.

Born in Nikolayev, Russia, to Rabbi Levi Yitzchak and Rebbetzin Chana Schneerson, the Rebbe displayed exceptional intellectual gifts from an early age. He studied Torah intensively in his youth and later pursued advanced studies in Berlin and Paris, developing a broad knowledge of both traditional Jewish scholarship and the sciences.

In 1928, he married Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, daughter of the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn.

The Rebbe and Rebbetzin escaped war-torn Europe and arrived in the United States in 1941. There, he assumed leadership roles within the educational, publishing, and social service organizations established by his father-in-law.

Following the passing of the Previous Rebbe, in 1950, the Rebbe accepted the leadership of Chabad-Lubavitch. Under his guidance, what had been a relatively small movement grew into a worldwide network of Jewish educational, humanitarian, and community institutions.

The Rebbe believes that every individual possesses unique strengths and a Divine purpose. He encouraged people not only to improve themselves, but also to positively influence those around them. His message was simple yet powerful: every person can make a difference, and every good deed has the power to transform the world.

Today, the Rebbe's teachings continue to inspire millions through his books, talks, letters, videos, and the countless institutions established in his spirit throughout the world.

The Approach

Chabad's approach is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: every Jew is precious, and every positive act has value.

Rather than focusing on labels, backgrounds, or levels of observance, Chabad focuses on the individual. The goal is not to judge where a person is on their Jewish journey, but to help them take the next step forward, however large or small that step may be.

This philosophy is based on the teaching that every mitzvah has infinite value. A single act of kindness, a moment of prayer, the lighting of Shabbat candles, or the study of a Torah lesson can have a lasting impact on both the individual and the world around them.

For this reason, Chabad emphasizes encouragement over criticism, inspiration over pressure, and personal relationships over programs alone. Every Jew is welcomed as they are, and every positive connection to Judaism is celebrated.

This approach has enabled Chabad to build meaningful relationships with Jews of every background, creating communities where people feel comfortable exploring their heritage and growing at their own pace.

The Emissary

The Shliach and Shlucha

At the heart of Chabad's worldwide growth is the concept of shlichus—doing the Rebbe's mission to reach out to fellow Jews with warmth, care, and respect.

Chabad emissaries, known as shluchim and shluchos, are husband-and-wife teams—the Rebbe's Emissaries, the representatives of Lubavitch, the messengers of Chabad—who dedicate their lives to serving Jewish communities around the world. They often move far from family, friends, and familiar surroundings to establish Jewish centers in places where Jewish resources may be limited or entirely unavailable.

Their work includes teaching, counseling, organizing community events, visiting the sick, supporting families, helping those in need, and creating opportunities for Jewish learning and celebration.

The approach of a Chabad emissary is not to pressure or judge, but to welcome and encourage. Through friendship, hospitality, and genuine concern for others, they help people connect with their Jewish heritage in a meaningful and personal way.

Today, thousands of emissary families serve communities across six continents, united by a shared mission: to ensure that every Jew has access to Jewish life, learning, and community.

Chabad House

A Chabad House is more than a synagogue. It is a Jewish home away from home.

Established by Chabad emissaries, Chabad Houses serve as community centers where people of all backgrounds can learn, celebrate, pray, and connect. Whether someone is highly knowledgeable or just beginning to explore Judaism, they are welcomed with warmth and respect.

Chabad Houses host holiday celebrations, Shabbat dinners, Torah classes, youth programs, social events, educational opportunities, and community services. They also provide guidance, friendship, and support during both joyous and challenging times.

The Rebbe envisioned a world in which every Jew could find a welcoming Jewish home wherever they lived or traveled. Today, Chabad Houses can be found in major cities, suburban neighborhoods, college campuses, small towns, and even remote corners of the world.

Their doors remain open to anyone seeking connection, community, or a meaningful Jewish experience.

The Campaigns

Bringing Judaism Into Everyday Life

In the late 1960s and 1970s, the Rebbe introduced a series of public awareness initiatives that became known as the "Mivtzoyim" or "Mitzvah Campaigns".

The goal was simple: encourage Jews to perform practical mitzvos and strengthen their connection to Jewish life.

These campaigns focused on core Jewish practices such as laying tefillin, lighting Shabbos candles, affixing mezuzos, studying Torah, observing kosher, giving charity, and celebrating Jewish holidays.

What made these efforts unique was their visibility. Instead of waiting for people to come through the synagogue doors, Chabad brought Judaism into public spaces—city streets, shopping centers, workplaces, college campuses, military bases, hospitals, and wherever Jews could be found.

For many people, a brief encounter with a Chabad volunteer offering tefillin, Shabbos candles, or a holiday mitzvah became the first step toward deeper Jewish involvement.

Today these campaigns continue worldwide, helping millions of Jews strengthen their connection to Jewish tradition one mitzvah at a time.

Torah Learning

Torah Learning for Everyone

Torah study has always been at the heart of Chabad-Lubavitch.

From advanced yeshivot and rabbinical institutions to beginner-level classes and online learning opportunities, Chabad believes that every Jew should have access to Torah study regardless of background or prior knowledge.

Chabad's educational institutions are known for their rigorous scholarship in Talmud, Jewish law, Chassidic philosophy, and Jewish thought. At the same time, Chabad places equal importance on making Torah understandable, relevant, and accessible to everyday life.

A central inspiration for this emphasis on learning was the Rebbe himself, whose teachings span hundreds of published volumes covering virtually every area of Torah scholarship. His talks and writings continue to be studied by scholars, students, and laypeople around the world.

One of the Rebbe's most far-reaching educational initiatives was the worldwide study of the Mishneh Torah of Maimonides. Through a daily learning cycle, Jews across the globe study the same sections together, creating a unique bond of shared Torah learning that continues to this day.

For Chabad, Torah is not merely a subject to be studied. It is a living guide for personal growth, spiritual development, and meaningful Jewish living.

Youth Programs

Investing in the Future

Children and teenagers have always been a central focus of Chabad-Lubavitch.

The Rebbe often spoke about the unique power and potential of young people, describing them not merely as the leaders of tomorrow, but as leaders today. He encouraged communities everywhere to invest in Jewish education and to provide children with positive Jewish experiences from their earliest years.

Today, Chabad operates one of the world's largest networks of Jewish educational programs, including preschools, Hebrew schools, day schools, summer camps, youth clubs, teen programs, and educational retreats.

These programs seek to instill a love for Judaism, a sense of Jewish pride, and an appreciation for Jewish values in a warm, engaging, and welcoming environment.

For Chabad, educating a child is about more than teaching information. It is about nurturing character, strengthening identity, and helping each young person recognize the unique gifts and purpose they bring to the world.

Campus Life

Jewish Life on Campus

For many young adults, college is the first time they are living away from home and making independent decisions about their future, their values, and their identity.

Recognizing both the opportunities and challenges of campus life, Chabad established a network of centers serving Jewish students at colleges and universities around the world.

Chabad on Campus provides students with a welcoming home away from home through Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, educational programs, social events, leadership opportunities, and one-on-one mentorship.

Whether a student is deeply involved in Jewish life or has never attended a Jewish program before, they are welcomed with open arms and without expectations.

Today, hundreds of Chabad centers serve campuses across North America and around the world, helping students strengthen their Jewish identity while navigating one of life's most transformative stages.

To find a Chabad on Campus click here.

Women's Leadership

The Power of Jewish Women

From the earliest days of Chabad-Lubavitch, women have played a central role in strengthening Jewish life, family life, and community life.

The Rebbe consistently emphasized the unique strengths and contributions of Jewish women, encouraging their leadership in education, community building, acts of kindness, and the transmission of Jewish values from generation to generation.

Today, Chabad women lead educational programs, social initiatives, community projects, holiday events, and charitable efforts in communities around the world. Chabad emissaries, known as shluchos, stand alongside their husbands as full partners in building Jewish communities and serving the needs of others.

Through their dedication, creativity, and leadership, Jewish women continue to shape families, communities, and the future of the Jewish people.

For more about the Jewish/Chassidic view on femininity, visit GotChabad.com/Women

The Elderly

Honoring Those Who Came Before Us

Judaism teaches that age brings wisdom, experience, and perspective. Caring for older adults and ensuring that they remain connected to community life has long been an important priority for Chabad.

Throughout the world, Chabad centers organize visitation programs, educational opportunities, holiday celebrations, social activities, and practical assistance for seniors living independently, in assisted living facilities, or in nursing homes.

Many older adults face loneliness and isolation. Chabad's goal is to ensure that every person feels valued, remembered, and connected.

Whether through a holiday visit, a Torah class, a helping hand, or simply a friendly conversation, these efforts help strengthen dignity, purpose, and community at every stage of life.

Reaching Everyone

Reaching Every Jew

One of the hallmarks of Chabad-Lubavitch is its commitment to reaching Jews wherever they may be—even in places often overlooked by others.

Chabad operates programs in hospitals, prisons, military bases, remote communities, and other locations where Jewish resources may be limited or unavailable.

These efforts are based on the belief that no Jew should feel forgotten or alone. Every person deserves access to Jewish life, spiritual support, and a caring community regardless of circumstance.

Whether delivering holiday supplies to a patient in a hospital, providing religious services in correctional facilities, supporting military personnel stationed far from home, or helping isolated families connect with their heritage, Chabad seeks to ensure that every Jew remains part of the larger Jewish family.

Sometimes that means organizing a large public event. Sometimes it means showing up for one person. Both matter.

Israel

Supporting and Strengthening Jewish Life

"The land upon which the eyes of G‑d your G‑d constantly gaze…" (Deuteronomy 11:12)

Chabad's connection to the Land of Israel dates back generations, with Chabad communities established there long before the founding of the modern State of Israel.

Today, Chabad operates one of the country's largest networks of educational, social service, and outreach programs. Hundreds of Chabad centers serve cities, towns, villages, military bases, hospitals, universities, and tourist destinations throughout Israel.

Chabad institutions provide educational programs, youth activities, holiday celebrations, humanitarian assistance, counseling services, and support for individuals and families facing personal or financial challenges.

During times of war, terrorism, and national crisis, Chabad centers are often among the first to provide practical assistance, emotional support, and emergency relief to those in need.

From the largest cities to the smallest communities, Chabad's mission in Israel remains the same: to strengthen Jewish life, support the Jewish people, and ensure that every Jew has access to community, tradition, and spiritual connection.

Former Soviet Union

A Remarkable Revival

For much of the twentieth century, Jewish life throughout the Soviet Union faced extraordinary challenges. Religious practice was restricted, Jewish education was suppressed, and generations grew up with limited access to their heritage.

Yet despite those difficulties, many Jews worked quietly and courageously to preserve Jewish traditions and identity.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Chabad played a major role in rebuilding Jewish life throughout the region. Schools, synagogues, community centers, summer camps, humanitarian programs, and educational institutions were established across Russia and the former Soviet republics.

Today, thousands of children receive Jewish educations, families participate in Jewish communal life, and communities that once struggled simply to survive are once again thriving.

The revival of Jewish life across the former Soviet Union stands as one of the most remarkable chapters in modern Jewish history.

Beyond Our Community

A Positive Influence on Society

While Chabad's primary mission is to serve the Jewish people, its impact often extends far beyond the Jewish community.

The Rebbe teaches that every person is created in the image of G‑d and that society is strengthened when people embrace moral responsibility, kindness, education, and respect for one another.

A central part of this vision is the promotion of the Seven Noahide Laws—the universal moral principles that Judaism teaches were given by G‑d for all humanity. These timeless values provide a foundation for a just, ethical, and compassionate society.

Over the years, Chabad has worked with civic leaders, educators, elected officials, and community organizations to promote these values and encourage greater personal responsibility, integrity, and concern for others.

Educational initiatives inspired by the Rebbe have been recognized by governments and public institutions around the world. In the United States, Congress established Education and Sharing Day USA in recognition of the Rebbe's contributions to education and moral development.

Through acts of kindness, humanitarian assistance, educational programs, and community partnerships, Chabad seeks to contribute positively to the broader society while remaining firmly rooted in its Jewish mission.

As the Rebbe often emphasized, even one additional act of goodness and kindness can help illuminate the world.

Looking Forward

More than two centuries after its founding, Chabad-Lubavitch continues to grow and evolve while remaining faithful to its core mission: strengthening Jewish life, sharing the wisdom of Torah, and helping every Jew connect to their heritage and purpose.

Through thousands of centers, schools, synagogues, educational programs, and humanitarian initiatives across the globe, Chabad continues to bring Jewish learning, celebration, and community to millions of people each year.

Underlying all of these efforts is the vision articulated by the Rebbe: to prepare ourselves and the world for the coming of Moshiach through acts of goodness and kindness, the study of Torah, and the performance of mitzvos.

Chabad believes that every positive action matters. Every mitzvah, every act of kindness, every moment of learning, and every step toward greater unity helps bring the world closer to the era of peace, harmony, and Divine awareness promised by the prophets.

Until that day arrives, the work continues—one person, one mitzvah, and one act of goodness at a time.