Although I am not affiliated with Chabad, I have tremendous respect for the devotion and work of the shluchim (emissaries) around the world. They are probably the best Jewish outreach organization on the planet. That being said, I’m beginning to wonder if they will continue to be “Jewish.”
In the April 15 Jewish Week there were two full-page advertisements placed by Chabad. The first from the Chabads of Westchester explained nicely about Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson and his history. Unfortunately, the second from an organization labeling itself “Kabbolas Hamalchus” wants readers to declare that the rebbe, may he rest in peace, is the King Moshiach. The last time Jews recognized a dead person as the Moshiach was 2,011 years ago and it cost many millions of Jewish lives.
To think that the rebbe, who died over a decade ago, could possibly be the Moshiach is against accepted Orthodox Jewish teachings. This places this group beyond the pale.
Accepting advertisements of this nature is no different than accepting advertising from Jews for Jesus. There is no room for this group even under The Jewish Week’s large umbrella.
The New York Jewish Week brings you the stories behind the headlines, keeping you connected to Jewish life in New York. Help sustain the reporting you trust by donating today.
