Chabad

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A Hasidic movement originating in the late 18th century that emphasizes the intellectual study of Jewish mysticism
2. A sect within Hasidism known for its teachings on Chabad philosophy, which integrates reason with spiritual practices
3. A Jewish religious group that focuses on outreach, education, and the dissemination of Kabbalistic teachings in modern society

Etymology: Chabad is an acronym. Its letters, ח, ב and ד, stand for three Hebrew words: "khokhmah" (wisdom), "binah" (understanding) and "da'at" (knowledge). Together they name the three intellectual faculties that the movement's teachings treat as the route to a closer relationship with God. The name was borrowed into English from Hebrew as "khabad," and the spelling "Chabad" is the common transliteration used for the movement. The acronym is a compact statement of purpose. Rather than naming a founder or a place, the movement took its identity from a set of ideas: that understanding God through study and reflection is a religious duty, not merely an intellectual pursuit. Hasidism itself is a Jewish revival movement, and Chabad is one of its best-known branches, distinguished by this emphasis on intellectual engagement with faith.

Synonyms: hasidic movement, jewish sect