Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Chabad?

A: Chabad is a worldwide movement that spreads Jewish awareness to all Jews whether male or female, old or young. Its roots are in White Russia in a small town by the name of Lubavitch. The word Chabad is an acronym for Chachmah, Binah, Daas, which means wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. The idea is to turn intellect to action. Simply put, Chabad's message is "don't just think it, do it". This is exactly what Chabad does. Chabad Houses can be found in every part of the world, such as, Tasmania, Russia, Hawaii, and Bangkok and in each one of those places Chabad is doing everything it can to help Jews lead a more meaningful Jewish life. Today, there are over 2600 Chabad centers in 46 states and 60 countries.

Q: What does Chabad do on campus?

A: Chabad helps provide Jewish students with their social, cultural and educational spiritual needs. Chabad provides kosher Shabbat and holiday meals free of charge to students (we think that they’re the best meals in town!). Chabad's Rabbi Nosson Meretsky has incredible knowledge in all areas of Judaism, ready to listen to your concerns and answer your questions. Most importantly, Chabad is your home away from home.

Q: Do only religious people come to Chabad?

A: Ha! Chabad is a place for all Jews regardless of their affiliations or ties. Many of the students who come to Chabad are not religious, some with a little Jewish education, and others with none at all. One of the exciting things about Chabad is one can meet people from all walks of life.

Q: What happens if I don't know what to do?

A: Don't worry, everyone is learning and one has to start sometime, and what better place than at Chabad? There is always someone willing to help you.

Q: What purpose do the labels 'Orthodox', 'Conservative' and 'Reform' serve?

A: The truth is that a Jew is truly a Jew, and that G-d truly wants a Jew to do Mitzvot. Beyond that, labels are totally meaningless at best, and at worst, divisive. Read the article "Was Moses Orthodox?" for more.

Q: All this is great, but how do I join?

A: We're open to every Jewish student that moves! Email us at campusrabbi@psu.edu if you want to be added to our email list and find out about all the resources we have available for you.

Q: But wait!! How much does it cost?

A: College students have very busy lives and this is completely understood. Some students come to dinner and stay for a few minutes while others stay for a few hours. Everyone is welcome.

Q: So how much time do I have to dedicate to Chabad activities?