Lubavitcher

Lubavitcher refers to followers of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, a branch of Hasidic Judaism within Orthodox Judaism. The name derives from Lubavich (Lyubavichi), a town in the former Russian Empire where the movement’s leadership resided in the 19th and 20th centuries. The movement traces its origins to Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the Alter Rebbe, who founded Chabad Hasidism in the 18th century.

It centers on Chabad philosophy, a synthesis of study, mysticism, and action. Core ideas include the inner dimension of Torah, the performance of mitzvot, and the belief in the unity of God. The movement emphasizes outreach (shlichus) to Jews of all backgrounds, with a global network of centers that promote Jewish learning, prayer, and acts of kindness.

Leadership has been a dynastic line of rebbes beginning with the Alter Rebbe and culminating in Menachem Mendel Schneerson, who led from 1950 to 1994. Since his death, there is no universally recognized head, and guidance has become decentralized, with emphasis on the Rebbe’s writings and the community’s emissaries.

Global presence: Chabad-Lubavitch operates thousands of centers worldwide, including synagogues and schools, run by emissaries known as shluchim. Its central headquarters are in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Activities include education, holiday outreach such as public menorah lightings during Hanukkah, and publishing programs that disseminate Chabad philosophy and practice.

Contemporary usage: Lubavitcher is used to describe adherents of the movement. While some followers previously maintained beliefs that the Rebbe was the Messiah, the movement generally emphasizes ongoing messianic expectation while avoiding official doctrinal statements.