Chabad Myths or Facts

×  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 majority of people who participate at Chabad are not Orthodox. Our teachings are imbued with the renowned Chassidic spirit and joy — but commitment to an Orthodox lifestyle is in no way a prerequisite to being welcomed at Chabad functions.

×  Myth

Chabad's goal is to make me Orthodox.

✓  Fact

Chabad is an educational organization dedicated to helping every Jew — regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance — increase their Jewish knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment. We invite you to explore Jewish religion, tradition, and practice in an open-minded, non-judgmental atmosphere. Each individual makes their own religious and lifestyle decisions at their own pace.

×  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 us. Jewish Law has traditionally considered anyone born of a Jewish mother — or converted in accordance with Halacha — to be a Jew, regardless of their degree of observance. 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 accept converts.

✓  Fact

Chabad follows traditional Jewish Law, which states that any non-Jew sincerely convinced of the beauty and relevance of Torah — and prepared to follow the traditions of Israel — is welcomed as a convert. The process requires immersion in a kosher mikvah, circumcision for men, and acceptance of the disciplines and practices of Judaism, all under authorized rabbinic supervision.

×  Myth

Chabad does not support the State of Israel.

✓  Fact

Chabad — and the Lubavitcher Rebbe in particular — strongly support Israel and have been deeply involved in defending its value and right to exist. Many Chabadniks serve in the IDF, and others contribute practical and spiritual support to the troops. Chabad has over 150 centers in Israel, alongside dozens of educational facilities. Lubavitch-trained rabbis often complete their training in Israeli yeshivot.

×  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 raised locally. No money is sent to international headquarters in New York — every dollar donated stays right here in our community. Nor are we funded by central headquarters.