The Chabad.org Blog

New Section: The Baal Shem Tov

2010-05-16T13:01:00.001-04:00

The first day of Shavuot this year – Sivan 6, 5770 - May 19, 2010 – marks the 250th anniversary of passing of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, founder of the chassidic movement.

Through his teachings – and perhaps even more so through his passionate love – the Baal Shem Tov permanently transformed the Jewish landscape. Forevermore changed was the Jewish perspective on G-d, the Torah, the Jewish nation, and every one of G-d’s creations—and the essential unity within all these previously-thought-to-be disparate components.

Click here to visit this new section about The Baal Shem Tov.

New Photo Blog: Pictures with a Purpose

2010-04-30T13:25:00.002-04:00

The Baal Shem Tov taught that "everything a person sees is a lesson in the service of G-d." Join Michoel on a weekly photo shoot to explore the wisdom of Torah and Chassidic thought through the camera's lens.

Click here to view thew new photo blog "Pictures with a Purpose".

New Online Course: Talmud for Beginners

2010-04-14T09:54:00.009-04:00

Newly Revamped and Redesigned Section: Moshiach and the Future Redemption

2010-04-03T20:44:00.003-04:00

Two of the most fundamental tenets of the Jewish faith – as listed by Maimonides among the Thirteen Principles of the Jewish Faith – are the belief in the ultimate redemption, an awaited era of world peace, prosperity and wisdom, and the belief that the dead will be resurrected at that time.

In conjunction with Merkos L’inyonei Chinuch’s Moshiach Campaign we have launched a newly revamped and redesigned section containing a comprehensive, in-depth exploration of the Jewish idea of Moshiach and the future redemption.

Click here to visit the newly revamped and redesigned "Moshiach and the Future Redemption" section.

New Section: Education and Sharing Day U.S.A.

2010-03-25T11:53:00.002-04:00

To emphasize the vital role of education in society, the United States annually marks "Education and Sharing Day U.S.A."

Established in 1978 by a joint Congressional resolution, Education Day U.S.A. focuses on the very foundation of meaningful education: instructing our youth in the ways of morality and ethics, and teaching them an appreciation for divine inviolable values.

The Presidents, in conjunction with the Washington, D.C. based American Friends of Lubavitch, designate annually Education and Sharing Day U.S.A. on the anniversary of the birth of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, who dedicated his life to the cause of education.

In this section we present you with a blueprint for meaningful education, some of the Rebbe's talks on the importance of education and a brief history of the establishment and yearly commemoration of "Education and Sharing Day U.S.A."

Click here to visit this new section.

New Itche Kadoozy Passover Mini-Series

2010-03-17T10:14:00.002-04:00

Rabbi Kadoozy desperately tries to prepare for the Passover Seder despite his flooded synagogue while Jono searches for Passover inspiration. And there's a clown. Hilarity ensues.

Click here to watch the Itche Kadoozy Passover Mini-Series.

New Feature: Women's Prayer Exchange

2010-03-14T09:19:00.003-04:00

TheJewishWoman.org strives to create a virtual community for all women—a venue for discussing our joys, accomplishments and lessons we’ve learned. But we also share our pain, sorrow, and challenges.

We should never be alone when we struggle. We may not be able to always physically help another in need, but we definitely can help spiritually—through prayer. When we have someone in our prayers, we give her support and strength in a very powerful way. And for the one in need of the prayers, it makes a tremendous difference knowing that there are people whom she never met who are thinking of her.

With this in mind we have created the Women’s Prayer Exchange to provide a place for women to pray for the needs of others and to ask others to pray for her needs. So please look through the various sections (Health, Marriage, Children, and Financial) and add your name or the name of anyone who is in need of our prayers and support in any of these areas. Feel free to write a few lines detailing your situation, or just your name if that is what you prefer. Also feel free to use the comment section to offer suggestions or advice.

May we have all of our prayers answered, in a clear and revealed way, and may we merit the ultimate blessing, that of the final redemption, immediately!

Click here to post a new listing to the Women's Prayer Exchange.

Portuguese version of Chabad.org launched!

2010-03-10T13:31:00.001-05:00

We are pleased to release a Portuguese version of Chabad.org, http://pt.chabad.org! This new language version joins French, Hebrew, Spanish, Russian and German in the Chabad.org family of sites and continues our initiative to reach out to as many people as possible is their native language.

This site has its own editor, and contains many articles not found in other language versions of Chabad.org.

We hope you enjoy!

New Feature: The Jewish Audio Bible

2010-02-09T14:38:00.003-05:00

The Jewish Audio Bible is a masterful delivery of the Kol Menachem Chumash - a much loved, best-selling translation of the Five Books of Moses.

The Jewish Audio Bible skillfully waves classic Rabbinic interpretations into the translation offering a timeless perception of the sacred text's multiple layers.

Enjoy hours of inspirational learning with this soul stirring audio presentation by one of America's most talented voice artists.

Translated by Rabbi Chaim Miller
Narrated by Dan Lenard
Produced by Yisroel Bernath

Click here to visit this new feature.

New Section: Sixty Years - Marking Six Decades of the Rebbe's Leadership and Impact

2010-01-24T13:18:00.002-05:00

Sixty years ago, upon the passing of the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, of righteous memory, leadership of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement passed on to his illustrious son-in-law, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory.

In the following decades, the Rebbe educated, inspired, and touched people around the world through his positive vision and revolutionary ideas.

Here’s a small sampling of articles and stories that illustrate the Rebbe’s impact.

New Blog: Window To Our World

2010-01-17T09:22:00.002-05:00

Friendship Circle is today's fastest growing Jewish organization for children with special needs. With over 76 locations worldwide Friendship Circle has cultivated friendships between 5,000 special children and close to 11,000 teen volunteers.

The unique vision of the Rebbe that "none of us are complete unless all of us are included" provides our motivation to bridge the gap between families of children with special needs and the general community while providing today’s teens with a productive and enjoyable focus.

Window To Our World, presented by Friendship Circle International, will share with you the inside perspective of special children, their families, volunteers, community members and Friendship Circle coordinators who bring them together.

Click here to read "Window To Our World".

New Section: The Upsherin

2009-11-22T19:11:00.001-05:00

For the first three years of life, children absorbs their parents' love. Then, their education takes a leap—they are ready to produce and share their unique gifts.

For a Jewish boy, this transition is marked with a haircutting ceremony—an "upsherin"—on his third Jewish birthday.

Click here to visit our new section about the Upsherin.

Think Jewish now available for home delivery!

2009-11-20T13:09:00.002-05:00

Think Jewish, Chabad.org's weekly print publication, is now available for home delivery.

Each Issue Features:

Weekly Commentary on more meaningful daily living
Not Just A Story an inspiring Chassidic story
Just A Minute weekly meditation
Just Think insights from the Lubavitcher Rebbe
Just Do It! a mini guide to Jewish traditions
Questions & Answers on relevant Jewish topics
Parshah in a Nutshell

Click here for more information and to subscribe online.

New Section: Legacy of Mumbai

2009-11-17T12:32:00.002-05:00

Chabad.org has launched a new special section in honor of the first anniversary since the cruel murders, of Gavriel (Gabi) and Rivky Holtzberg, beloved directors of Chabad of Mumbai.

In the course of their short lives, Rabbi Gavriel and Rivkah Holtzberg, Chabad emissaries in Mumbai, India, radiated love, kindness and inspiration to their surroundings.

With their cruel murder by forces of darkness, their light exploded into a million points of light that now illuminate across the globe.

Here’s the story of a legacy that lives on. »»

KabbalaToons in the New York Pulse

2009-11-17T09:46:00.003-05:00

On Kabbala Toons, an animated rabbi offers "cosmic consciousness"
By Leslie Hart for the NY Pulse

As he plummets toward earth at 300 miles per hour after jumping out of a plane, Rabbi Infinity serenely irons a sock in freefall while expressing confidence that his parachute will open in time. “When life sends you spiraling downward, stay calm and rely on the creator of life for a smooth landing,” he says.

Whether skydiving or sifting for gold, Infinity teaches adults and children Jewish mysticism as the two-dimensional narrator of “Kabbala Toons.” He promises a limitless return for a small investment of time. “Give me one minute,’’ he says, “I’ll give you cosmic consciousness.”

Rabbi Infinity’s mission is to engage and enlighten his followers through “Kabbala Toons,” a biweekly series of Web cartoons that present the teachings of religious philosophy with the ease and access of YouTube. Viewers subscribe to the free videos on Chabad.org, the Web site of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, and share their favorite “webisodes” via Facebook. Rabbi Infinity is the animated alter ego of real-life Rabbi Tzvi Freeman of Toronto, Canada. Each webisode and corresponding blog is written by Freeman and animated by Pilar Newton of Park Slope, Brooklyn.

With more than 900,000 unique visitors per month, Crown Heights-based Chabad.org is the most prominent Jewish educational and informational portal on the Web, according to an August 2009 study by 4Wall, a Jewish media strategy firm. “Kabbala Toons” reach 19,000 subscribers from Montevideo, Uruguay to Melbourne, Australia.

Article continued

Watch the International Conference of Shluchim Online

2009-11-14T19:26:00.002-05:00

As the 25th-annual International Conference of Chabad-Lubavitch Emissaries draws to a close, the almost 3,000 attendees – who flew in from locations spanning the globe – will meet up with their visiting lay leaders and make their way from the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn, N.Y., to the New York State National Guard Armory for the conference’s concluding banquet.

Traditionally the highlight of the conference, this year’s banquet – which will be simulcast live on Jewish.tv, a streaming video project of the Web site Chabad.org – will feature an address from Professor David Luchins, chair of Touro College’s department of political science and a longtime advisor to the late New York Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, about his own family’s interactions with the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory. The keynote speech will be delivered by Rabbi Yehuda Shemtov, director of Chabad of Bucks County, Pa.

The newly-knighted Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin of Ilford, England, and conference administrator Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, vice chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch, the educational arm of Chabad-Lubavitch, will also speak.

The banquet, which will celebrate 70 years of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement’s activities being directed from the United States, will begin Sunday at 5:00 p.m. Eastern time.

To view the banquet’s proceedings on Jewish.tv, click here.

New Section: Kabbalah Online

2009-11-10T16:46:00.002-05:00

Kosher Kabbalah from the holy city of Safed, Israel. In Partnership with Ascent of Safed.

Become a fan of Chabad.org on Facebook

2009-10-27T17:44:00.005-04:00

Become a fan of Chabad.org on Facebook by going to http://www.facebook.com/ChabadOrg and click on the "Become a Fan" button on the top.

Once you have joined, invite your friends as well using the "Suggest to Friends" link on the left side of the fan page!

Click here to become a fan of Chabad.org on Facebook.

New Weekly Parshah Columnist: Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson

2009-10-20T21:49:00.003-04:00

One of the Rebbe’s uniquenesses was the sheer relevance of his teachings. Yes, he imparted tremendous scholarship, but in doing so he never lost sight of his audience. Nothing remained on the level of abstract theory, there was always a pertinent and personal moral.

We’d like to introduce our new weekly Parshah columnist, Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson, whose column brings us the Rebbe's teachings, with a focus on the angle the Rebbe himself always stressed: What does it mean for me? Today?

Last week he discussed our quest for perfection. This week he discusses the mirror theory, which, as it turns out, isn’t theoretical at all.

Stay tuned for more!

Click here to all of Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson's articles on Chabad.org.

Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev

2009-10-13T08:32:00.002-04:00

Today is the 200th yartzeit (anniversary of passing) of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (1740-1809), a Chassidic leader, one of the foremost disciples of the Maggid of Mezritch and renowned for his all-encompassing love and compassion for the Jewish people and for every individual Jew.

Read a brief biography, stories and his teachings.

New Design For High Holidays & Sukkot / Simchat Torah Sections

2009-09-23T17:26:00.003-04:00

A new design has been made for our High Holidays section which includes the month of Elul, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur - http://www.chabad.org/HighHolidays and our Sukkot / Simchat Torah section - http://www.chabad.org/984606. Features include Guides, Stories, Study, Kids Zone, Recipes, Audio classes, Songs and Videos.

The Mystical Significance of the Star of David

2009-09-22T10:56:00.005-04:00

Discover the mystical significance of the Star of David (Magen David). The double triangle of the Star of David symbolizes the connection of both the inner and external dimensions of G-d, Torah and Israel.

Click here to read "What is the Mystical Significance of the Star of David?".

New What If Episode!

2009-09-22T00:05:00.001-04:00

What If We Built the World’s Greatest Sukkah? In this episode, Ezy, Eli, Dina and the newest character, Rina, try to come up with ideas to make the world's greatest sukkah and learn an important lesson in the process. This installment also features an online game, a do-it-yourself experiment, questions to think about and a history & facts video -- all revolving around the themes of the month of Tishrei.

Click here to watch this new episode.

Mobile App Sends Prayers Half a World Away

2009-09-20T23:25:00.002-04:00

With the release of an application promising to send a prayer to holy sites thousands of miles away, iPhone aficionados need not worry about their distance from the Western Wall in Jerusalem and the Cambria Heights, N.Y., resting place of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory.

Munera, a Silicon Valley-based startup specializing in mobile application development, partnered with the Jewish Web site Chabad.org to make its new iPhone application, Send a Prayer – Western Wall, widely available.

With a price of $0.99 and the ability to compose prayers in English, French or Spanish on any iPhone or iPod Touch, both organizations expect the application to be used extensively in the immediate run-up to Rosh Hashanah and in the days before Yom Kippur. Upon receipt of the prayers, Chabad-Lubavitch representatives will place them in between the stones of the Western Wall and beside the Rebbe’s resting place.

“We are very excited about this partnership,” said Munera founder Na’ama Moran, who envisions the application gaining popularity in communities worldwide.

Said Rabbi Meir Simcha Kogan, managing director of Chabad.org: “When technology is utilized to span geographic space and connect people, we are then realizing the ultimate purpose of the energy latent in Creation. By connecting people with holy sites half a world away, this application helps us all live on a higher, holier plane.”

The Send a Prayer application can be downloaded by clicking here.

High Holidays Trailer

2009-09-15T10:02:00.003-04:00

High Holidays Trailer - A preview of the stimulating and moving events of the month of Tishrei, the Jewish New Year.

Click here to watch this new video.

Firsts - A Rosh Hashanah Short

2009-09-10T23:08:00.002-04:00

That first day of school, your first job interview, your first day in your own home, the first day of the rest of your life...

Click here to watch this new Rosh Hashanah video.

New Weekly Column: Parshah Halachah

2009-09-02T11:29:00.002-04:00

A new weekly column has been added by Rabbi Aryeh Citron which will contain discussions of laws related to daily Jewish living as sourced in the weekly Torah readings.

Click here to read this new column.

A "McKinsey Study" on the Jewish Web

2009-08-21T10:10:00.000-04:00

A “McKinsey Study” on the Jewish Web
by Mark Pearlman

...In the education/information category there are a number of strong sites, with Chabad emerging as a brand leader. Chabad’s main website consistently serves as an example of what a successful educational/informational Web presence can look like. Over the past year its traffic rose by 37 percent and is now significantly above the other sites studied. In contrast, the Web presence of other religious movements – Reform, Conservative and Orthodox Judaism – was much poorer, though OU.org does moderately well.

Jewish educational and informational sites are also taking advantage of social media – with My Jewish Learning’s “jewlearn” Twitter account and Aish’s YouTube presence as successful examples – but none has a more focused brand across social media than Chabad. Chabad has leveraged its international identity in coordination with its local chapters to create a social web experience that is both down on a local level and part of something “larger.” The result is quite compelling...

Click here to read the full story.

Jewish Meditations in Prayer

2009-08-06T08:14:00.003-04:00

A new video series on Jewish meditations in prayer by Tzvi Freeman has been launched.

In order to give one's words wings with which they may fly, we endeavor to infuse them with meditative intentions. Learning to inspire prayer with meditation greatly enhances the experience and imbues it with enhanced meaning and reach. This series offers guided meditations appropriate to everyday prayer.

Click here to visit the new Jewish meditations in prayer section.

New "What If..." Episode

2009-08-02T00:47:00.003-04:00

Click here to watch "What if we hunted for Jewish treasure?"

Chabad.org on Twitter

2009-07-27T11:18:00.001-04:00

Chabad.org is now on Twitter!

http://twitter.com/Chabad

If you have a Twitter account, follow us! We will be posting short updates about the site and its constant updates, in the short format that only Twitter can do best!

Live Siyumim Online

2009-07-22T11:50:00.003-04:00

It is customary to participate in a "siyum" celebrating the completion of a section in Torah during the days that we mourn the Temple's destruction.

Chabad.org will be offering live siyumim, by a variety of well-known and dynamic speakers, throughout the Nine Days and will continue until the 15th of Av--the holiday which celebrates the "upward rebound" from Tisha b'Av.

The Rebbe spoke of the need to shine a beacon of light on these days of darkness through participation in a siyum, and encouraged the use of radio to allow those outside the room to participate too, multiplying the a thousand-fold.

The siyumim will begin at 7 p.m. EST Sunday through Thursday, Friday at 12PM, and on Motzei Shabbos at 10:15 pm EST. They will also be accessible in archived form.

Click here to participate in the online siyumim.

Rabbinical Students on the Loose

2009-07-16T11:02:00.002-04:00

What is it like to be an air-traffic controller?

A video-game tester?

An x-ray technician for zoo animals?

A taster for a chocolate factory?

Ah, if only all the holders of unusual job titles and doers of unusual things had blogs so we could get the inside scoop.

Luckily, a cadre of these rare individuals are stepping into the breach, providing a window into their world. Who are these folk?

Job title: Roving Rabbi.

Job description: Rabbinical students are paired up two-by-two by Lubavitch World Headquarters, and hit the road. Armed with kosher food, idealism, and humor, they fan out across continents and visit Jews in thousands of communities.

What's it like? Read all about it. Blog posts are supplied by rovers worldwide, from Croatia to the Caribbean.

P.S. The number one reason to check it out--there are pictures!

How Do You Define A Leader?

2009-06-24T14:07:00.002-04:00

This Thursday, the 3rd of Tammuz, is the 15th yahrtzeit (anniversary of passing) of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory. In honor of this day, we present a special section that offers a glimpse of the Rebbe’s life and work, through essays, first-person accounts, pictures, video clips and more.

The Rebbe touched the lives of millions. He taught, advised, encouraged, and gave meaning to the lives of so many. And, most of all, he cared for every human being, and dearly loved every Jew.

This Wednesday night and Thursday, during the Rebbe's yahrtzeit, is a particularly auspicious time for all of us to reflect on the extraordinary lessons of the Rebbe's life and to try and perpetuate his enormous legacy of contagious love to all.

On this auspicious day, please join Jews worldwide in increasing in Torah study, prayer, and acts of charity. And in the merit of millions of acts of goodness, may we see the coming of Moshiach immediately.

New Section: Pidyon Haben - Redeeming the Firstborn Son

2009-06-20T23:39:00.002-04:00

A Pidyon Haben, or "redemption of the firstborn son," is a ceremony wherein the father of a firstborn male redeems his son by giving a kohen (a priestly descendant of Aaron) five silver coins, thirty days after the baby's birth.

Join us as we guide you through this biblical rite. Our new Pidyon Haben Section has the What & Why we observe this ritual, it explains exactly when it is done and which firstborns "qualify" for redemption. We also describe the actual ceremony and have a "More..." folder with texts, tips, insights and multimedia.

Click here to visit the new Pidyon Haben section.

New Blog: An Archivist Discovers the Rebbe

2009-06-17T16:12:00.004-04:00

Many have struggled to describe Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, the seventh leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. A task so daunting due to the multifariousness of the Rebbe's personality and achievements.

Rather than attempting to describe the Rebbe, this forum will share hitherto unknown tidbits of information about his life and teachings—information that was recorded in writing, audio and video.

Join us as we explore the Rebbe's life and teachings. Manuscripts, letters, firsthand experiences and more.

Click here to read the new blog.

Click here to subscribe to TheRebbe.org and stay up to date on the latest content and features

New Section: Prayer in Judaism

2009-06-04T12:35:00.001-04:00

We have launched a new Jewish Prayer Section. Some of the features this section offers:

* An introduction to the concept of prayer as viewed in Jewish tradition
* A folder of articles entitled "Talking with G-d," probing the phenomenon of a finite mortal attempting to converse with an infinite Creator
* In-depth essays and insights on the various aspects of prayer
* Prayer stories and experiences
* Audio classes, videos, and a selection of prayers available for listening, with musical accompaniment.
* A selection of prayer and blessing texts.
* A virtual tour of the synagogue.

Click here to visit this new Jewish Prayer section.

New Section: Birkat Kohanim

2009-05-24T21:46:00.003-04:00

In preparation for Shavuot, Chabad.org has launched a new comprehensive section on Birkas Kohanim. This section contains a detailed guide to Birkas Kohanim: when it’s done, both in Israel and the Diaspora; the kohanim’s preparations; the procedure of the brachah; and the congregation’s role. Also included is a deeper look at Birkas Kohanim through the lens of chassidic thought.

Click here to visit the new Birkat Kohanim section.

New Section: Maimonides - Rabbi Moses ben Maimon

2009-05-21T00:07:00.004-04:00

The most renowned of the Jewish medieval scholars, Maimonides indelibly changed the face of Judaism. In commemoration of 25 years of the annual Maimonides daily study cycle, we have launched a new section about his scholarship and achievements, and the modern-day global campaign to incorporate his teachings into every Jew’s daily study schedule.

Click here to visit the new section.

New Blog: To Light A Spark - A Spiritual Journey Toward Our Very Essence

2009-05-08T19:08:00.003-04:00

People travel around the world searching for it. They starve themselves for it. They scream, they cry and they beg for it.

“It” is that little thing called meaning. Truth.

Wouldn't it be nice if we could just bang two rocks together and find It? What if we could save money on airplane tickets and seminars and find that meaning in our own lives?

Join Elad Nehorai on his journey through the infinite without even resorting to a midlife crisis.

About Elad Nehorai Elad Nehorai is an alumnus of Arizona State University and Mayanot yeshiva. You can find Elad wandering around America, gallivanting around Israel, or getting lost in the clouds. His favorite things to do include reading, writing and conversing with G-d.

Click here to visit the new blog.

New Russian Email Magazine

2009-05-07T00:08:00.002-04:00

We are starting a new Russian-site Email Magazine. It's a new subscription that visitors to the Russian site can sign up for so that they can get updates on new articles in the Russian site. It's a nicely designed HTML email in an easy-to-read format.

Click here to subscribe to the Russian email magazine.

Jerusalem Post: For Chabad.org, failure is not an option

2009-04-21T21:15:00.006-04:00

For Chabad.org, failure is not an option
By Matthew Wagner
Published April 22, 2009

"These days I look upon you as my own personal rabbi," wrote Roger H., in an e-mail to the Ask the Rabbi team at Chabad.org, a popular Internet site for Jewish content. "You have never forgotten me and every time you write I feel as if my soul has been kindled anew."

In this post-modern age of virtual reality, in which Jews are not the only world citizens and extreme individualism has resulted in the disintegration of communities, a good Internet site sometimes stands in for a concrete synagogue and a flesh-and blood rabbi, especially in places where there are none.

But the very real financial crisis that has pounded the world economy world has threatened Chabad.org, which supplies Jewish-related news, spiritual and moral support, in-depth information on Jewish holidays and life-cycle events, and a myriad of other services - including how to find kosher food in, say, China - in six languages.

One of the world's most important Internet sites for traditional Jewish content, outreach, and on-line interaction is struggling for cash, Chabad.org director Rabbi Zalman Shmotkin said this week.

"From the perspective of our funding, yes, we're contending with significant challenges," he said.

"On the other hand, failure is not an option. No matter what hardships we endure, we know we must persevere. There are simply way too many Jews whose Jewish involvement is riding on our work."

Click here to read the rest of the article.

Russian version of Chabad.org launched!

2009-04-13T22:52:00.001-04:00

We are pleased to release a Russian version of Chabad.org, http://ru.chabad.org! This new language version joins French, Hebrew, Spanish and German in the Chabad.org family of sites and continues our initiative to reach out to as many people as possible is their native language.

This site has its own editor, and contains many articles not found in other language versions of Chabad.org.

We hope you enjoy!

New Feature: Passover Greeting Cards

2009-04-07T12:34:00.002-04:00

Chabad.org has launched a new Passover Greeting cards section. Choose from our selection of cards and personalize it. Then upload your contacts from Outlook, Gmail, or many other popular email programs—and with once click send to ALL your family and friends.

Click here to send a Passover greeting card.

Blessing of the Sun Ceremonies Around the World

2009-04-06T12:22:00.002-04:00

Once in Twenty Eight Year Mitzvah to be Broadcast Live!

On Tuesday and Wednesday, April 7 and 8, watch live broadcasts of "Birkat Hachamah" ceremonies being held around the world.

Follow the sun as it travels through the following time zones: New Zealand, Australia, Jerusalem, England, New York, Colorado and Hawaii.

Click here for a complete schedule.

There will also be a live feed from the Western Wall in Jerusalem for the entire 24 hour period.

Watch the Live Coverage Here

New Feature: "What if?"

2009-03-27T12:51:00.003-04:00

"What if?" is a brand new feature from Chabad.org that gives families a place to watch, learn, play, and talk about Jewish ideas. Centered around a computer-animated adventure through imagination, "What if?" follows the whimsical imaginings of Eli, Ezi and Dina, as they ponder such questions as: "What if we never left Egypt?" Each "episode" is really a complete experience including videos, hands on experiments, games and discussion starters—making "What if?" a truly unique and immersive Jewish experience.

Click here to visit the new "What if?" section.

New Blog: Parshah Dashboard

2009-03-25T14:42:00.002-04:00

Each week, Joel Cohen poses questions on the weekly Parshah (Torah reading). These questions are addressed by Rabbis Adam Mintz and Eli Popack.

About the Participants:
Joel Cohen, a former federal and state prosecutor, practices criminal defense law at a prominent NYC law firm, and is an Adjunct Professor of Professional Responsibility at Fordham Law School. He also authors a column at the New York Law Journal.

Rabbi Adam Mintz is an adjunct professor in Jewish History at Queens College, the immediate past president of the New York Board of Rabbis, and lectures widely on a variety of topics. Rabbi Mintz served in the pulpit rabbinate for over twenty years.

Rabbi Eli Popack grew up in South Africa, and is the founder and president of Map International, a socially responsible business engaged in Electronic Financial Infrastructure in Africa. In the summer he serves as spiritual guide to the Beach Minyan in Westhampton Beach, NY.

Click here to read the new Parshah Dashboard blog.

Birthday Thought

2009-03-20T11:31:00.001-04:00

This Shabbat, the 25th of Adar, marks the birthday, in 1901, of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson of righteous memory, wife of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory. On this date in 1988, only a few weeks after her passing, the Rebbe launched a Birthday Campaign.

The Rebbe encouraged everyone to use this personally auspicious day to express gratitude to G-d for the most precious gift of life that He granted on this date; to rejoice—together with family and friends; and to take some time to reflect upon the past year—to assess what we’ve done well and what should be redressed, and to commit to do so much more in the coming year.

There’s more:

Visit our Jewish Birthday Section to find the date of your Jewish birthday, learn more about these special birthday observances, and discover the spiritual significance of your “personal Rosh Hashanah.”

New Feature: mobile.chabad.org

2009-03-12T12:48:00.002-04:00

Chabad.org has launched a mobile simulator to help visitors get acquainted with their mobile site – m.chabad.org.

The feature simulates how Chabad.org’s mobile site would appear on a mobile device, such as Black Berry, Treo or pocket PC, giving visitors the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the mobile site from the comfort of their desktop.

The mobile site features articles from a number of sections on Chabad.org including Jewish Holidays, Society & Living, Spirituality, Parshah, Jewish Women, Chabad News and Daily Dose. The site also offers a number of features that can be accessed from mobile devices including ask the rabbi, find a center, shabbat times, date converter, zmanim and site search.

Click here to access the mobile simulator.

Thinking of Summer

2009-03-11T15:39:00.003-04:00

This past Saturday night we moved our clocks forward one hour—Daylight Saving Time. The warm days are not far away. The question many parents are asking around this time of year is: What will occupy my children during the interminable summer vacation? How can I provide them with a fun yet educational experience?

Camp Gan Israel is the largest Jewish camp network, with chapters in hundreds of cities in more than forty countries. At Gan Israel, children of all backgrounds experience firsthand the excitement and warmth of Judaism—in a fun, activity- and trip-filled setting.

If you want your child to be inspired and excited about his or her Jewish heritage, this is a good place to start. Click here to check out our Global Camp Directory, there’s probably one not far from you!

Purim and the Surprisingly United Nation

2009-03-09T12:02:00.002-04:00

"There is one nation," Haman declared to King Ahasuerus, "scattered and dispersed between the nations . . . if it pleases the King, let it be written that they be annihilated." The wicked Haman wished to capitalize on (what he perceived to be) the Jews' lack of unity, a byproduct of their global dispersion.

How wrong he was. The Jewish People united in prayer and resolve, and a miraculous victory soon followed. To this day, we celebrate Purim by strengthening Jewish unity -- charity to the poor, food gifts to friends, and large celebratory feasts. (There are more Purim and pre-Purim observances. Check them out in our Purim guide.)

We may live on different continents and speak different languages, but as Jews, we are one -- one G-d and one Torah.

In that spirit, we offer you Purim in:

English: Purim
Français: Pourim
Deutsch: Purim
Español: Purim
Русский: Пурим
עברית: פורים

Many languages. One message.

L'chaim (that’s a universal word...)!

Happy Purim to you and yours!

Birkat Hachamah in English, Hebrew, French, German, Spanish and Russian

2009-03-07T22:00:00.004-05:00

Every 28 years the sun returns to the exact position, at the same time of the week, that it occupied at the time of its creation—at the beginning of the fourth day of creation. A special blessing – called Birkat Hachamah, "the sun blessing" – is recited to mark this event. Due to the rarity of this event, this blessing is customarily recited amid large public gatherings of men, women and children.

This year, 5769, we will perform this special mitzvah on the morning of April 8 (the morning before Passover).

A detailed guide has been made available on Chabad.org in 6 languages:
English: Birkat Hachamah
עברית : ברכת החמה
Français: Birkat Ha'Hamah
Deutsch: Birkat Hachama
Español: Birkat HaJama
Русский: Биркат-Ахама

New Kabbala Toons: Purim Secrets

2009-03-01T09:57:00.003-05:00

Click here to watch "Purim Secrets".

Rabbi David B. Hollander

2009-02-20T12:14:00.003-05:00

In time for the end of the thirtieth day of mourning period of Rabbi David B. Hollander, our very own Dovid Zaklikowski wrote an article about Rabbi Hollander on the Chabad-Lubavitch News site: Rabbi David B. Hollander, Defender of Jewish Faith and Practice, Passes Away

A video was also posted: Rabbi Hollander Speaks the "Language of Lubavitch"

Here are two additional videos on the Rebbe site, in partnership with Jewish Educational Media, from the Living Torah series.

The first is of Rabbi Hollander receiving a dollar from the Rebbe where the Rebbe speaks to him about an article he wanted to write: Communicating for History

And in the second Rabbi Hollander describes an audience he had with the Rebbe when he wanted to retire from his position as Rabbi at the Hebrew Alliance synagogue: “A Rabbi for Life”

The Rebbe on Financial Difficulty

2009-02-18T13:34:00.003-05:00

Zalmon Jaffe, Mel Landow and Jeffery Kimball whose letters from the Rebbe, amongst others, are featured on Chabad.org

Businessmen from all walks of life would write to the Rebbe seeking advice on their business endeavors. Chabad.org collected the Rebbe’s correspondence to some of these individuals in response to their questions during times of financial crisis.

The correspondence covers, amongst other topics, how to cope when business is down, should one stop giving Tzedakah when business is slow, how to make a business decision when in doubt and should one retire when there is a financial crisis in the world.

You could read the letters in their entirety by clicking here

Tu B'Shevat - The New Year for Trees

2009-02-08T19:40:00.003-05:00

Tu B'Shevat, the 15th of Shevat on the Jewish calendar -- celebrated this year on Monday, February 9, 2009 -- is the day that marks the beginning of a "New Year for Trees." This is the season in which the earliest-blooming trees in the Land of Israel emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

Follow the following links for more information about this holiday and the ideas it represents:

Tu B'Shevat - The New Year for Trees

Tu B'Shevat in a Minute

The Tree - a story from the Talmud

Branches (or: People are Not Cars)

A Tree's New Year Resolution

Blossoms in the Winter?

The Human Tree

Tu B'Shevat for Kids

Shevat 10: A Day of Two Rebbes

2009-02-04T12:13:00.003-05:00

Today is the 10th of Shevat, the yahrtzeit (anniversary of passing) of the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, of righteous memory, who passed away in 1950. On that fateful day, leadership of the world-wide Chabad-Lubavitch movement passed on to his son-in-law and successor, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, universally known as “the Rebbe.”

For the Rebbe’s countless followers and admirers, this is a day for introspection and recommitment to the ideals that the Rebbe championed throughout the decades of his leadership: love of G-d, Torah, and every Jew; and utilizing these tools to bring holiness and meaning to every corner of the world.

Please click here to visit our Yud Shevat section for more about the significance of this historic day, as well as suggested observances.

New Section: Economy - Surviving and surmounting the current financial crunch

2009-02-03T20:11:00.002-05:00

Due to the continuing economic crisis which is unfortunately first and foremost on so many people’s minds these days, Chabad.org has launched a special Economy Section devoted to presenting the Jewish perspective on the difficult situation.

This site includes: Several specially produced videos and animations, embedded into the section’s homepage; numerous inspirational articles on the topics of money, the economy, and coping with difficult times, including a selection of letters from the Rebbe on the topic; a section on tzedakah, with emphasis on giving during hard times, and a folder with timely stories.

A special feature of this section is the practical tips section, containing both suggestions submitted by our readers, as well as articles penned by experts.

We also have greeting cards created specifically for tough financial times.

Click here to visit this new section.

New Section: Birkat Hachamah

2009-01-29T15:06:00.003-05:00

Chabad.org has launched a new section devoted to the once-in-28-years mitzvah that will be performed this April 8, the morning of the eve of Passover: the “Blessing of the Sun.”

This blessing – called Birkat Hachamah – is recited when the sun returns to the exact position, at the same time of the week, which it occupied at the time of its creation—at the beginning of the fourth day of creation. Due to the rarity of this event, this blessing is customarily recited amid large public gatherings of men, women and children.

This comprehensive section contains an overview of this rare ceremony, the procedure, FAQs, as well as in-depth information on the astronomical calculations involved in computing the date.

More features will, G-d willing, be added in the coming days and weeks. Including: Global Birkat Hachamah Service Locator, all the texts of the Birkat Hachamah ceremony, an informational video, and more.

Click here to visit this new section.

The Story of Life - In Twelve Short Chapters

2009-01-27T13:09:00.002-05:00

We are delighted to offer a new ‘monthly mp3 download feature’ from Rabbi Manis Friedman's ever so popular lecture series titled ‘The Story of Life: In Twelve Short Chapters’. The series expounds upon twelve passages from the written and oral Torah that the Lubavitcher Rebbe chose for children to learn.

Rabbi Friedman explains these verses as laying the groundwork for a wholesome Jewish life. He delves into such topics as living without doubt, self respect, optimism, living without constraints, knowing your true nature, the cure for narcissism, the world is yours to fix, and much more…

The first six verses are about our character and identity. The second six are about our responsibility to the world. Although this was begun as a campaign geared to children, the principles contained in these verses can change the lives of people of all ages.

Click here to download these new classes.

New Section on the Economy: Your Input Needed

2009-01-19T12:27:00.001-05:00

By the Grace of G-d

Dear Reader,

The continuing global economic crisis is, unfortunately, first and foremost on people's minds these days, with so many of us feeling the pinch.

As Jews, we always turn to the ageless teachings of the Torah for guidance—particularly when times are tough. To this end, we plan on dedicating the week of February 1-7 to discussing the multi-angled Jewish perspective on money crunches.

While our editors, writers and multimedia teams are currently producing some of the varied content for this section, we would like to devote a significant part of this section to submissions by you, our talented reader.

* Do you have any practical ideas on how to stay afloat during this crisis? Suggestions on budgeting, cutting back, ideas small and big—for the home, children, recreation, etc.? Please click here to share.
* Do you have any positive personal experiences you'd like to share? Perhaps about the affect the economy is having on you and your family, an incident of overt Divine Providence, the refocusing of values the situation has caused? Please click here to share.
* Do you have any helpful or inspirational thoughts or insights on the economy? Please click here to share.
* Or perhaps you have another idea or manner of expression altogether. Please tell us, we'd love to hear about it!

If possible, please include a brief bio of yourself along with your submission.

Looking forward to hearing from you, and with prayers for an abundance of blessings for you, yours, and everyone in need.

Sincerely,

The Chabad.org Team

P.S. Here are some of the angles we plan on delving into in this section:

* Do we define ourselves based on our monetary value? What's the alternative?
* Moving from a consumer society to a planned buying society
* Realignment of communal and personal values
* Experts: They didn't foresee this calamity. Do we need them?
* Faith: Huh! How? In this climate?!
* Reexamining your relationship with your spouse after you've/he's/she's lost your/his/her money
* The global village; how interdependent we are
* What do we tell kids?

Please click here to submit your feedback about this.

Monthly Recovery On Sale

2009-01-15T22:02:00.004-05:00

Monthly Recovery On Sale

Everyone loves a bargain. Try tapping into the Jewish calendar's spiritual energy as you work the Steps; it's bound to aid in Jewish Recovery.

By Susan T.

Jewish months don’t always correlate with the secular calendar. Somehow, though, they come close. Thus, during January, the Hebrew lunar month is mostly Tevet. February will coincide with Shevat, March with Adar, and so on. Judaism teaches that time has spiritual significance; Shabbat, holidays, and even months have distinct sanctity and spiritual messages. A closer look at these monthly messages shows intriguing correlations to 12 Step work. There are no coincidences in G-d’s world. Perhaps we Jews in recovery can draw strength from what our tradition teaches us about our place in cosmic time as we work the Steps.

Step One: January/Tevet - Powerlessness.

The main event of the month of Tevet is the siege of Jerusalem, which occurred about 2500 years ago, and ultimately led to the destruction of the Holy Temple. The tenth of Tevet marks the day that the protective walls around Jerusalem were breached. Think about it: foreign armies surround your city, depriving you of water, food, dignity. It’s unmanageable! Your walls can no longer protect you. You can’t live like this! Powerless!

Click here to continue reading this article.

Solidarity Photos & Reports

2009-01-14T21:38:00.002-05:00

The first pictures of the soldiers who have received letters of solidarity and support from all over the world have arrived.

Gallery 1

Gallery 2

Gallery 3

Gallery 4

Gallery 5

Volunteers Report from the Field - Reports from those delivering the letters you wrote and the packages you sent...

Chabad.org on News 12

2009-01-11T09:12:00.005-05:00

Web site set up to send e-mails to Middle East

(01/09/09) BROOKLYN HEIGHTS - Residents say a new Web site was set up to allow them to show support for civilians and soldiers caught in the Gaza conflict.

According to one Brooklyn family with relatives in Tel Aviv, the Web site letter-writing campaign helps them feel connected to their family members. They send several e-mails a day to show their support for their relatives and to acknowledge their awareness of the situation.

Brooklyn residents say the Web site helps them feel like they are making a difference in the lives of those in Gaza and Israel. Even though they can’t physically help them cope with the violence, neighbors say their messages give their friends and relatives in the Middle East hope.

Send your own letter here

Send a Package

2009-01-09T13:46:00.001-05:00

Send Care Packages to IDF Soldiers and Families in Affected Areas

The courageous soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces are putting their lives on the line every day that the Gaza War rages. It is essential that we let them know that we all deeply appreciate their bravery and their heroic defense of the Jewish homeland.

With people spending increasing amounts of time in bomb shelters, the needs of the elderly, sick, and those below the poverty line have become an urgent priority. They need help with food, medicine and warm clothing.

Schools in the targeted areas of Israel have closed and the children spend a great deal of time in bomb shelters. The isolation and boredom increase their fear and anxiety.

Click here to provide an emergency care packages to be delivered to an IDF soldier, an affected Israeli family, or a child in a bomb shelter.

Stay Focused

2009-01-09T12:14:00.001-05:00

With the Gaza offensive now well into its second week, it is natural for the feelings of deep concern we all initially felt to subside somewhat. Life resumes...

But life as normal has not resumed for our brethren in Israel. And as a united people, we must make an exerted effort to keep our minds and hearts focused on our brothers and sisters who find themselves in distress.

We urge you to visit our Gaza War section on a frequent basis. It is updated daily with new stories and perspectives, and you’ll find ways to show your support for the soldiers and affected citizens—spiritually, emotionally, and materially.

With blessings for lasting peace in the Holy Land.

Show Your Solidarity!

2009-01-05T21:34:00.002-05:00

It's time to show them that we care. That we are in awe of their heroism and brimming with admiration for their courage. That all of us across the world are hoping, praying, learning and doing extra good deeds for their safety.

Write your thoughts to an IDF soldier, or to an Israeli living in an area where rockets are falling. We will hand-deliver your words of encouragement, and if you choose, your picture as well. Simply demonstrating your solidarity by mail is a mitzvah on its own. Taking on another mitzvah or learning some Torah on their behalf will accomplish even more.

Be there with them, hand in hand, providing even more strength and courage.

Click here to show your solidarity!

Front Line Blog - Dispatches From a Soldier on the Front

2009-01-01T11:41:00.001-05:00

First Sergeant Yared M. Ben-Caro is a combat soldier in the Israel Defense Force. Born in Los Angeles, he immigrated to Israel in September, 2006, at the age of 21 after studying English, Pharmaceuticals, and Financial Management. As of January, 2009, he is serving in Paratrooper Battalion 890 in the Heavy Weapons & Recon Company as Lead Sharpshooter and Missile Specialist.

From his position on the Gaza front, Ben Caro is taking some time each day to text us updates from the field of operations.

Click here to read this new blog.

War in Gaza

2009-01-01T11:30:00.001-05:00

As we follow the situation in Israel with concern, we would like to let you know about a new section put together addressing the situation in Gaza.

The section includes news, video, personal stories, "call to action", and more. Exclusive to Chabad.org is a paratrooper's text-message updates from the front.

Click here to visit this new section.

Chabad.org News in the NY Times

2008-12-27T18:25:00.004-05:00

Chabad.org News was featured in today's NY Times.

If It Involves Jews, Chabad’s Tiny but Far-Flung News Organization Is on It
By ALAN FEUER
Published: December 27, 2008

When the news broke on Thursday of a freakish traffic accident that injured several people at the Chanukah Wonderland workshop run by the Lubavitch community of Woodmere, on Long Island, the story was picked up by the usual suspects: Newsday, The Daily News, The New York Post and The Associated Press. It also happened to be that day’s top North American offering of a much smaller — and somewhat more specialized — journalistic venture: Chabad.org News.

Written and produced from a small home office in Israel by a husband-and-wife team, Chabad.org News is a nonprofit international reporting operation that focuses on stories of interest to Jews — and more specifically the Lubavitch community — around the globe. On any given day, it might cover the opening of a new kosher cafeteria at the University of Miami or a fatal bus crash in Eilat, Israel. Its headlines reflect the tenets of the movement and the interests of its readers: “Light Again Issues Forth from Mumbai Chabad House” or “Mountaintop Circumcision a First for Southeastern Peru.”

Click here to read the rest of the article.

Click here to visit Chabad.org News.

Yes, We Can!

2008-12-16T10:54:00.002-05:00

It was the phrase that kept our hopes alive during history's harshest times...Light your menorah this year on December 21-29.

33 Days

2008-12-15T16:52:00.001-05:00

How far can your Chanukah candle go? Light your menorah this year on December 21-29, 2008.

Click here to learn more about Chanukah.

Chanukah E-Cards Made Easy

2008-12-13T20:52:00.002-05:00

We know that the oil that was supposed to last for one day miraculously lasted for eight. With our busy schedules, how often do we wish that we could stretch one hour into eight? While we can’t promise you such a miracle, we did make one often time-consuming Chanukah tradition much easier and shorter. Maybe even eight times shorter...

Chanukah e-greeting cards!

Click on the link and choose from our selection of cards. Then upload your contacts from Outlook, Gmail, or many other popular email programs—and with once click send to ALL your family and friends.

Spread the light!

Click here to send your personalized Chanukah cards.

Candle Time: A Hanukkah Video

2008-12-11T12:55:00.001-05:00

Visit http://www.hanukkah.org for more information about Chanukah, events, games and more.

Light Up Your World!

2008-12-10T11:56:00.002-05:00

New from Chabad.org:

This year, illuminate your home with your very own complete Chanukah kit.

Your complimentary Chanukah kit includes a menorah, candles, an instructional pamphlet and even a dreidel for some traditional Chanukah fun!

Just fill out a form and we'll rush you your kit.

Tip: Parents, be sure to send a kit to your kids away at college!

Click here to order your Chanukah kit.

Rabbi YY Kazen - 1954-1998

2008-12-09T11:30:00.002-05:00

In honor of the tenth yahrtzeit (anniversary of passing) of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak (“YY”) Kazen, of blessed memory, on the 12th of Kislev (December 9th, 2008), Chabad.org unveiled a special section to memorialize its legendary founder.

Well before most people – or any Jewish organization – knew of its use or potential, Rabbi Kazen used the fledgling internet to reach Jews throughout the world. Many were profoundly touched by YYK in those early years when he pioneered Chabad In Cyberspace – later to become Chabad.org – when he rightfully earned the title: "Father of the Jewish Internet."

The section contains a brief biography, memories from some who interacted with Rabbi Kazen, media reports about this internet pioneer, and “Chabad.org Today”—a look at the continuation of Rabbi Kazen’s selfless work.

Click here to visit this new section.

Tragedy in Mumbai

2008-11-30T10:32:00.004-05:00

Chabad.org staff have been up the night compiling breaking news and editorials, answering tough questions and providing hope to broken hearts.

Click here to visit the new section devoted to the Mumbai massacre and find what you can do to help.

Memorializing a Legend

2008-11-26T20:13:00.000-05:00

This December 9th, Kislev 12, will mark ten years since the passing of Rabbi Y.Y. Kazen--affectionately known by his signature, "YYK".

Rabbi Kazen used the fledgling internet to reach Jews throughout the world, well before most people -- or any Jewish organization -- knew its use or potential. Many were profoundly touched by YYK in those early years when he pioneered Chabad In Cyberspace, when he rightfully earned the title: "Father of the Jewish Internet."

We would like to create a special memorial section in time for his yahrtzeit (anniversary of passing), and we know there are lots of memories stored away in the minds of those who communicated with him. If you have a memory or revealing anecdote to share, please take a few moments to write it down and send it to our editors at Chabad.org.

Click here to submit your "YYK" memory.

Let's Watch Them Dance!

2008-11-19T21:36:00.002-05:00

This week's Torah reading talks of the first Jewish wedding, between our Patriarch Issac and our Matriarch Rebecca. In traditional Jewish fashion, the match was facilitated by a matchmaker—Abraham's trusted servant Eliezer.

In the spirit of this reading, “matchmakers” will gather this weekend for an annual international conference at Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters in New York. But matchmakers of a different sort: thousands of Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries from all corners of the globe who work day and night to unite the eminent groom, our Father in Heaven, with His beloved bride, every single Jew.

The conference reaches its climax at a gala banquet this upcoming Sunday evening at 5:30pm ET. Chabad.org will be offering a live broadcast from this sure-to-be inspiring and uplifting event (www.chabad.org/221818). Don't miss it!

Click here to watch the live broadcast.

New! Chabad.org in Russian

2008-11-18T14:03:00.004-05:00

We are pleased to announce the launch of Chabad.org in Russian! It can be accessed by going to http://ru.chabad.org. This new site is operated by Chabad.org and includes Chabad.org tools, content and many other features.

Click here to visit the new site.

Stick Figure Vignettes

2008-10-27T17:48:00.002-04:00

We have launched a new animated series called “Stick Figure Vignettes.”

Here’s what the series’ creator Dovid Taub had to say about it: "Watch it. A lot. It’s funny. And weird. I’m actually not sure I completely get them myself, but I like watching stick figures react to things. Supposedly I’m teaching deep concepts of Jewish philosophy in a whimsical and ironic fashion. I hope that’s true.

"There’s gonna be one for each parshah, so this first one is about creation. Or a little stick dude on the subway. Either way, it’s like 45 seconds less time you spent doing whatever it is you would have been doing instead of watching cartoons on chabad.org. Oh, and it's for grown ups. Cuz sometimes there are long pauses and stuff that I put there for comedic timing purposes that adults would find funny but kids might just get up and walk away."

First Episode - The Creator
Second Episode - Words

Hakhel - Gather the Nation

2008-10-12T14:13:00.003-04:00

Sukkot is a celebration of Jewish unity. The holiday’s primary mitzvah, sitting in the sukkah, is fulfilled collectively by family and friends. The other mitzvah unique to Sukkot, taking the Four Kinds, symbolizes the intrinsic unity of the (externally) diverse segments of our nation.

This Sukkot, however, the focus on Jewish unity is further accentuated. This year is “Hakhel,” when in ancient times all the Jews -- men, women and children -- would assemble in the Holy Temple on Sukkot and listen as the Jewish king inspired the nation to fear G-d and observe His Mitzvot.

Contact your local Chabad center and find out where and when there will be a Sukkot Hakhel event in your area. Let us join together, let us rejoice together. As the Psalmist writes, “Behold, how beautiful and pleasant it is for brothers to sit together!”

Wishing you and yours an uplifting, joyous and unifying holiday.

Sukkot Event Directory

2008-10-11T22:15:00.004-04:00

Looking for a place to celebrate Sukkot?

Find community Sukkot dinners, public sukkahs, celebrations and more.

From Alabama to Wisconsin, Abidjan to Zurich, join us and celebrate the holidays with friends!

Click here to find Sukkot events near you.

New Mini-Site - Jewish Recovery

2008-10-06T12:53:00.000-04:00

Chabad.org, in conjunction with Friendship House, has just launched a new mini-site - Jewish Recovery.

Spearheaded and run by Rabbi Yisrael Pinson of West Bloomfield, MI, this new section brings together the best of Chabad-Lubavitch's Shluchim who work in this growing and very important field, offering information, resources, inspiration and support for recovering addicts.

Click here to visit this new section.

Your Opinion Wanted

2008-09-16T10:25:00.001-04:00

The staff of Chabad.org strives to serve every Jew, no matter where he or she may be, with quality Jewish information and inspiration—and a dose of entertainment, too.

In recent days, our geographically scattered editorial team gathered in New York City for a two-day conference. During our time together we asked lots of questions, shared lots of ideas, and charted some of the future course of our website. With G-d's help, in the coming months you should notice improvements and new projects emanating from these discussions.

However, the bulk of our decisions are still waiting for you to weigh in on, as this site is yours:

How can we improve the site for you? What content are you seeking but cannot find? What can we do to make our presentation more user-friendly for you? How would you like to see Chabad.org develop and expand in the future?

Let your voice be heard. We assure you that we will read and consider seriously every suggestion.

Please click here to share you suggestions.

My Little Princess

2008-09-09T16:05:00.002-04:00

Do you recognize the voice of the scared child calling out in the middle of the night? "My Little Princess" is a short animated clip produced by Chana Weisberg, drawing parallels between the frightened child who wakes up at night yearning for her mother's closeness, and the frightened child within each of us.

Click here to watch "My Little Princess"

It's time to share

2008-08-13T16:30:00.001-04:00

Sharing the content on Chabad.org with your circle of family and acquaintances has never been simpler. This past week, our programmers added a "Share" button to the top of every article on our site. With the click of the button you will be able to share articles with your friends using eighteen sites, such as Facebook, MySpace, del.icio.us, StumbleUpon and more.

Make your personal page an epicenter of holiness whose rippling waves affect your friends, their friends, the country, the world, and the cosmos...

Download Candle Lighting Times in iCal Format

2008-08-11T20:41:00.002-04:00

A new tool has been added to our Candle Lighting section that allows users to download their candle lighting times in iCal format which is compatible with Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook and much more.

Users can download up to a year of Shabbat and Holiday start and end times at a time using this feature and easily upload it to their personal Google Calendar.

You can find this new feature, among our other Candle Lighting gadgets below the candle lighting times result page.

Click here to visit the candle lighting section.

New Divorce Section

2008-08-07T19:30:00.003-04:00

Chabad.org has rolled out a new section devoted to Jewish divorce. Though a painful subject to cover, unfortunately divorces do occur, and this section provides guidance and insight for people undergoing this painful process.

This section covers the basics of the divorce ceremony as well as in-depth study of the various issues involved. It also supplies insight as to the Jewish approach to divorce, and exactly when it is called for.

Also contained in this section is a section of readings and essays on divorce, and a comprehensive article on the tragic agunah issue.

Click here to view the new Divorce section.

Itche Kadoozy Show Launches the Parsha Challenge

2008-08-02T21:45:00.002-04:00

What can a disgruntled seventh grade teacher learn from Moses? What do stickers have to do with the Israelites? How do you get a puppet to draw pictures? Ever asked these questions? You will after you play the Parshah Challenge. So put on your thinking-kippa and get your finger on the buzzer for the Ultimate game of Jewish Knowledge/Puppet antics.

Rabbi Itche Kadoozy and his wacky neighbor Jonathan Weinsteinstein are proud to announce the launch of their brand new interactive weekly game show. Through the simple mis-use of complicated question generating algorithms, Jono has been able to come up with the most absurd questions possible for any given Parshah. Wanna check it out? Click here

Hebrew School Directory

2008-07-20T17:54:00.002-04:00

Imagine a Hebrew School where kids don't want to miss a day. They come in with a smile and leave humming a Hebrew song. Walking through the halls, you can hear the sounds of lively discussion, of singing, laughter and prayer. Imagine a child who feels the warmth and spirit of Judaism. Imagine the pride of his or her parents.

Welcome to Chabad Hebrew Schools!

Click here, for a directory of Chabad Hebrew Schools around the world. You can also search for after-school programs, pre-schools, Bat Mitzvah Clubs and more.

The Festival of Liberation

2008-07-15T13:00:00.003-04:00

12-13 Tammuz (today and tomorrow) is the anniversary of the liberation of the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, from Soviet prisons in 1927. He was incarcerated for the "crime" of creating an underground network of Jewish schools, mikvahs, and other Jewish institutions. Click here to read a personal account of his arrest, imprisonment and subsequent liberation.

Roving Rabbis

2008-07-10T12:28:00.009-04:00

Chabad.org, in conjunction with Merkos L'Inyonei Chinuch's Merkos Shlichus division, has launched a Merkos Shlichus "Roving Rabbis" site.

The site (www.RovingRabbis.com) features a world map listing the locations where rabbis of Chabad's Rabbinical Student Visitation Program, will be traveling over the summer. Upon clicking on any of the tags on the map, visitors to the site can tip off the roving rabbis of Jews that they should meet in the regions they are visiting.

The site will include blog updates and notes on the activities, interactions and interesting happenings from the roving rabbis who are currently around world visiting small Jewish communities.

Click here to visit the Roving Rabbis site.

Jewish Recovery - New Blog

2008-07-08T23:42:00.002-04:00

Chabad.org has launched a new blog which will be a place for Jewish recovering addicts to meet, communicate and support each other in their recovery.

The blog will feature posts by Rabbi Ben A. and Rabbi Yisrael Pinson. The blog will eventually graduate to a full fledged mini site, with sections on Judaism and recovery, voices of recovery where Jewish recovering addicts will share their experience, strength and hope, resources and links, and a place to connect with a local Jewish recovery community.

Rabbi Yisrael Pinson is the Director of the Daniel B. Sobel Friendship House in West Bloomfield, MI. Since joining the Friendship House in May, 2002 he has helped create a local Jewish recovery community where recovering addicts are helped through support, guidance, friendship and community. Rabbi Yisrael facilitates Jewish recovery meetings, where recovering addicts from all 12-step programs meet and share regularly. He also teaches classes on Judaism & recovery.

Rabbi Ben A. is the most famous anonymous Rabbi. Under his AA pen name, Ben A. draws from his personal experience in recovery to incorporate unique Chassidic philosophy into the practice of the 12 steps.

Click here to read the new blog.

3 Tammuz

2008-07-03T21:23:00.003-04:00

The year was 1950. The prognosticators weren't painting a rosy picture. One third of our nation had gone up in the smoke of the Nazi crematoria; the European shtetl, the longtime bastion of religious Jewry, was irreparably destroyed; and the traffic between religious and secular life traveled down a one-way street. We were clearly a nation in decline.

In Brooklyn, N.Y., a just-installed chassidic Rebbe dared to disagree. To him, it seems, our nation was a multi-branched candelabra. Indeed, many of the wicks had been extinguished, many more were sputtering—but the candles all remained perfect and beautiful. The Rebbe envisioned the day when the candles would be brilliantly ablaze, illuminating and warming a cold and dark world.

One at a time, the Rebbe inspired souls, kindled wicks. The flickering candles regained strength, their flames grew steadier, their light brighter. And they, in turn, lit up others.

This was the Rebbe's life, to which he devoted every moment of his day and night. Today, countless thousands carry on his work. Here at Chabad.org we feel that every time we ignite a soul, the Rebbe's life continues. What an awesome responsibility. What a special responsibility.

Below are some selected articles from our revamped web portal commemorating the Yahrtzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory.

The Rebbe

3 Tammuz – 14th anniversary of passing of the Lubavitcher Rebbe

The Man and the Century - A Biography of Ideas

3 Tammuz 1994: Transmission

How Jacques Lipchitz Found G-d

Teacher and Leader for All Jews

The Eternal Jew

Sending A Letter to the Rebbe

Multimedia

"He, too, is Alive"

Return of the Souls: Yechidus

Prayer Service with the Rebbe

Lessons in Leadership

In Touch - New Video Blog

2008-06-30T19:33:00.006-04:00

Life's perpetual hectic pace makes getting in touch so difficult. What should be so natural - being in touch with self, family and purpose - is often elusive. Multi-tasking, however, has an advantage too. Every one of these multiple tasks is a signpost, another lesson-waiting-to-be-uncovered, another compass showing you how to get back in touch.

Chabad.org has just launched Chana Weisberg's new weekly video-blog, called "In Touch". In it, Chana unmasks some of these signposts. Maybe you can learn the technique too!

Click here to watch the new video-blog.

New section on Pirkei Avot

2008-06-18T16:18:00.004-04:00

Our section on Pirkei Avot, "Ethics of the Fathers," went live this past week. The confluence of ethics and religion is an intriguing topic—are the two inherently intertwined, or are they independent domains? Judaism has long maintained that one cannot thrive without the other. See below for links to this section, and discover for yourself why “If there is no Torah, there is no common decency; if there is no common decency, there is no Torah” (Ethics 3:17).

Pirkei Avot - Ethics of the Fathers

About Ethics of our Fathers

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

The Translated Text

Underage Underwriters - Shavuot Video

2008-05-30T15:31:00.003-04:00

New 60 second Shavuot video.

The Mitzvah ATM is about to dispense the Torah in honor of the holiday of Shavuot. One snag, though: It wants trustworthy guarantors...

Click here to watch it in English.

Click here to watch it in Hebrew.

Moses For President

2008-05-28T16:42:00.003-04:00

Jono Weinsteinstein is one of the stars of the "Itche Kadoozy show" web-video series, and has appeared in nearly 100 episodes (click here to watch online now!).

But today he wouldl like to take a moment to speak to the American people about his latest and most ambitious undertaking -- The Moses '08 presidential campaign -- as featured in the Shavuot edition of the Tzivos Hashem Kids! magazine.

Click here to watch.

Pesach Sheni and Lag BaOmer

2008-05-19T14:53:00.000-04:00

This workweek starts and ends on a high note. Today, Monday, is a semi-holiday called Pesach Sheni (the “Second Passover”). This Friday is another mini-holiday, Lag BaOmer, the anniversary of the passing of the author of the Zohar, the day when the floodgates of Jewish mysticism were opened wide.

While neither of these holidays are ritual-heavy, they both are laden with meaning and inspiration. Browse the links below to discover the inner meaning of second chances - the theme of Pesach Sheni - and the enriching powers of the Torah’s mystical teachings.

And as always, enjoy another week of browsing Chabad.org!

Pesach Sheni

Holiday Mini-Site: The Second Passover

A Second Chance

Lag BaOmer

Holiday Mini-Site: Revealing the Esoteric Soul of Torah

Lag BaOmer Event Search

What Is Kabbalah?

Lag BaOmer Parades