What is Chabad?
"Chabad" is an acronym for Chochmah, Binah, Da'at — Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge — reflecting a Jewish tradition that prizes thought as much as practice. The name "Lubavitch" comes from a town in Eastern Europe where the movement took root for over a century.
Today, Chabad-Lubavitch operates in more than 100 countries. At its center is a single guiding principle: Ahavat Yisrael — unconditional love for every Jew, without exception.
Chabad of Southwest Beverly Hills exists to be a place where every Jew is genuinely welcome, every question is respected, and every moment of Jewish connection counts. None of it happens on its own — it's built, year after year, by people who choose to be part of it.
Do I have to be Orthodox to participate?
No. Most people who come to our programs aren't Orthodox — and there's no expectation that you will be.
Whether you're exploring Judaism for the first time, reconnecting after years away, or simply looking for a warm Shabbat table, you're welcome exactly as you are. That open door is the whole point — and keeping it open is something we do together.
Is the goal to make me Orthodox?
No. Our goal is not to change your label.
Chabad's role is to offer access — to learning, to community, to experience — and to let each person's journey unfold at its own pace. Every mitzvah, every question, every step toward connection is valued in its own right. Where you go from there is yours to decide.
Does Chabad consider Reform, Conservative, or non-practicing Jews to be "real" Jews?
Absolutely, without reservation.
A Jew is a Jew. Chabad doesn't categorize people by denomination, observance level, or synagogue affiliation. According to Jewish law, anyone born to a Jewish mother or properly converted according to Halacha is Jewish.
Every Jew carries inherent worth, a unique soul, and an irreplaceable place in the Jewish story. Our focus is not on differences. It's on connection.
What is Chabad's view of non-Jews?
Judaism teaches that every human being is created in the image of G-d — and that a person doesn't need to be Jewish to live a meaningful, G-dly life. The Torah describes a universal moral framework for all humanity, the Seven Noahide Laws, built around justice, ethics, and reverence for the divine.
Righteousness is fully accessible to every person. For this reason, Judaism doesn't actively seek converts — though sincere conversion pursued according to Jewish law is deeply respected.
Is Chabad funded by headquarters in New York?
No. We are independently operated and entirely locally supported.
Every program, class, and celebration here is made possible by individuals and families in this community. No funding comes from Chabad headquarters — everything raised locally stays local, supporting the people of Southwest Beverly Hills.
That's also why your support matters so directly. See how to partner with us →
Do women have a secondary role in Chabad?
No. Women are central — not secondary — to Jewish life and to Chabad specifically.
Women are the foundation of Jewish family, education, and continuity. Chabad actively supports women's scholarship, leadership, and participation. Far from occupying a secondary role, women are recognized as essential partners in shaping the Jewish present and future.
Do I need to become a member to attend?
While membership is not required to attend prayer services, it helps make them possible.
The Chai Club is a community of passionate monthly donors, coming together to create a space for celebration, tradition, and fellowship — and to ensure the continuity and vibrancy of our Jewish community in Southwest Beverly Hills.
Your monthly gift provides a reliable source of support, allowing us to plan and implement programs and resources that make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. It's the quiet foundation under every Shabbat dinner, every class, every holiday that fills this place with life.
What if I know very little about Judaism?
You're in good company. Many people who walk through our doors are exploring for the first time or returning after a long absence.
Questions are encouraged. Learning moves at your pace. And wherever you are in your journey, there's a place here for you.
Be part of keeping this community open
Every Shabbat table, every class, every child's first Hebrew letter and every quiet visit to someone who needs one — all of it is here because people in this community chose to make it possible. When you give, you're not funding an organization. You're bringing light to the community in a very real way.
Become a partnerJoin the Chai Club — give monthly or give one time.