Myths & Facts

Is what you think about Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan MYTH or FACT? You may be surprised.  Take a few minutes to browse through these FAQs and you'll have a better understanding of what Chabad Japan is all about.

MYTH: You have to be religious to participate in programs offered by Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan.

FACT: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan  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 Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan are not Orthodox. The teachings of Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan are imbued with the renowned Chassidic spirit and joy, but in no way is the commitment to a religious lifestyle a prerequisite to one's acceptance at Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan functions.

MYTH: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan goal's is to make me religious.

FACT: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan is not out to make people religious. Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan is an educational organization dedicated to helping every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance, to increase his or her level of Jewish knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment. Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan invites you to explore the complex areas of Jewish religion, tradition, and practice in an open-minded and non-judgmental atmosphere.  All of Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan 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.

MYTH: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan does not consider Reform, Conservative, or non-practicing Jews as "real" Jews.

FACT: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan 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.

MYTH: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan does not accept converts.

FACT: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan 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 most importantly, acceptance of the disciplines and practices of Judaism - all under authorized rabbinic supervision.

MYTH: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan does not support Israel.

FACT: Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan is deeply involved in defending Israel and its right to exist, throughout all its boundaries.  Many Chabadniks 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 is Israeli yeshivot. The Rebbe himself encouraged support of the UJA.

MYTH: Women occupy a secondary position in Chabad philosophy.

FACT: Different, yes. Secondary? Definitely not! 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 fulfils 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.

 

If you have more question in regardes please feel free to contact us at Chabad Lubabitch of Tokyo, Japan.