From fighting food insecurity to fundraising for the vulnerable with healthcare, the Chabad movement makes a tangible difference in the lives of many. Colel Chabad was founded by Rabbi Schneur Zalman, the visionary behind the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, in 1788 and has since evolved into a global force for Jewish education, outreach, and community building.
His teachings, along with other esteemed Chabad Rebbes, historical religious leaders, and sages like Rabbi Meir Baal Haness, shaped the Hasidic religion as it’s known today.
In this blog post, we’ll look at the world-changing work of prominent Rebbes and explain their role in shaping the history of Jewish charity.
The Chabad Movement
The Chabad movement emerged in the late 18th century. Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi grounded it in the teachings of Hasidic Judaism, which originated in Russia and then extended into neighboring countries.
Chabad focuses on making Jewish wisdom and traditions accessible to people from all walks of life. It gifted scholars with enlightening answers and bestowed farmers a love that had long eluded them. The Chabad movement is the foundation of many Jewish non-profit charity organizations.
Over time, this philosophy reached virtually every corner of the globe, leaving an indelible mark on nearly every aspect of Jewish life.
The Role of Chabad Rebbes on Jewish History
Central to the Chabad movement are spiritual leaders known as Rebbes. These revered figures serve as guides, mentors, and sources of inspiration to their followers. The relationship between a Rebbe and their Chasidim is characterized by a profound personal connection, offering both spiritual and practical guidance. Read below to learn about some of the most significant Rebbe leaders in the Jewish faith.
Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (1745-1812)
Known as the Alter Rebbe, he founded Chabad Chassidus and authored the Tanya and Shulchan Aruch HaRav, shaping the Chabad philosophy that continues to influence Jewish people globally.
Rabbi Dov Ber Schneuri (1773-1827)
The eldest among three sons, Rabbi Dov Ber assumed the leadership of the Chabad Chassidim, succeeding his father in this esteemed role. The Mitteler Rebbe expanded and systematized Chabad philosophy, embodying the spirit of Chesed through charitable programs that supported Jewish families.
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneersohn (1789-1866)
Tzemach Tzedek, the third Rebbe, significantly contributed to the development of Chabad Chassidus, emphasizing the act of kindness (Chesed) and the principle of Tzedakah. His impact on Chassidic thought was distinguished by inventive contextualization and synthesis, with the melodies he crafted encompassing the full spectrum of human emotion and experience.
Rabbi Shalom Dovber Schneersohn (1860-1920)
The Rebbe Rashab, the fifth Rebbe, deepened the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of Chabad philosophy of the Chabad Rebbes, influencing Jewish non-profit organizations. Devoting his efforts to fortifying communities in distant regions, he orchestrated a Jewish corps dedicated to supporting the education of both Jewish children and adults.
Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn (1880-1950)
The sixth Rebbe, the Frierdiker Rebbe, played a crucial role in preserving Chabad during tumultuous times, emphasizing the importance of charitable giving to support Israel and its people. Led the movement’s resistance against Communist efforts to suppress religion in Russia and facilitated the relocation of the movement to the United States during World War II.
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson (1902-1994)
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, also known as the Seventh Rebbe and the Lubavitcher Rebbe, expanded Chabad globally, advocating for Jewish philanthropy and charitable giving. He is considered the most phenomenal Jewish personality of modern times.
Donate to a Jewish Charity That Makes a Difference
Chabad Rebbes have played a pivotal role in spreading acts of kindness and now many Jewish organizations and Israel charities are doing profound work in the same vein as the Chabad movement. Find out how to volunteer or discover the best ways to donate to Jewish charities and help Israel.
Colel Chabad is the longest-running Jewish non-profit organization in Israel. We strive to create positive outcomes through acts of service, donations, volunteer programs, and other means of charitable initiatives.
We dedicate ourselves to being one of the most impactful Israeli charities.
Colel Chabad has an extensive history of serving families in poverty, orphaned children, and widowed women. Our Israeli charity is the oldest of its kind and its work connects to every corner of the community.
Your online charitable donations can make a lasting impact on Jewish charities in Israel. Join us as we honor the history and beliefs of Judaism, donate today.