Chabad — Attraction in New York

B"H

3/5 Stars 770 Eastern Parkway – A Unique Yet Troubling Experience

770 Eastern Parkway, the iconic central synagogue of Chabad-Lubavitch, is undoubtedly a place of immense historical and spiritual significance. As a hub for learning, prayer, and global Jewish connection, it offers a vibrant atmosphere that attracts visitors and scholars from all over the world. The energy is palpable, the dedication of the attendees is impressive, and the sheer sense of history within its walls is undeniable.

That being said, my experience here has been marred by serious concerns regarding behavior from certain individuals within the community, particularly some of the self-appointed gabbaim. One individual, Meir Moshe Altman, once aggressively tried to physically restrain me in an attempt to take my phone when I was recording a situation involving other students harassing someone. This person was being targeted for claiming to be Moshiach—a claim that appeared to threaten the community's messianic narrative. Such incidents, unfortunately, aren’t isolated.

Violence and verbal harassment by other students are alarmingly frequent, often under the guise of enforcing rules or traditions. For example, there is a "path" reserved for the late Rebbe, and anyone crossing it risks physical confrontation. On more than one occasion, I have seen people beaten up for coming too close to the Rebbe's chair, sometimes to the extent of requiring hospitalization.

While the spiritual and communal aspects of 770 are deeply inspiring, these troubling behaviors cannot be overlooked. It is unfortunate that such a sacred space, meant to embody holiness and unity, is sometimes overshadowed by acts of violence and intimidation. Greater oversight and accountability are desperately needed to ensure that everyone, regardless of their beliefs or actions, can experience the beauty and sanctity of this...

Holyist place on earth! When the exile from Israel happend (in the year 3338) the diaspora was sent to Babalon (Perssia). from there we fled again. and then again. Some fled to germany and poland, while others fled to italy and spain. those in germany took the name "Ashkanazim", while those in Spain took the name "Sefardim". then after the spanish inquisition the jews fled to germany. by the holocaust the Jews fled to New York. Now: the Shechinah (divine precince) resides with the Jews wherever they go, even in exile. But where? the answer is that it is in the synagogue of the Leader of world Jewry. the Leader of world Jewry is the Rebbe of Lubavitch, and so the Shechina which was in the "Beis Hamikdash" (holy temple) followed the Jews from Judea to New...

The quintessential boiler room of Chabad-Lubavitch. From this building the Rebbe led a community and provided spiritual guidance to visitors from every background. Ask a rabbinical student for a detailed tour, they will be happy to oblige and it will be an educational informative experience.

It is from here that the Chabad Shluchim figuratively march on to conquer the world. Their mission entails being a beacon of light to spread goodness, kindness and the warmth of Judaism. You can find a Chabad Shliach on virtually every far-flung corner of the earth, but deep in their hearts they call this their home. Here is the power source where they return to recharge, to give them energy to forge ahead and ignite the...