Portal:Rebbes of Chabad/Introduction
Throughout Jewish History, the Jewish People have always had a leader. A singular individual entrusted with the Spiritual and physical wellbeing of the Jewish People, their head both spiritually and figuratively. From the times of Moses through Kings David and Solomon until today there has always been a solitary figure who is called the Leader of the Generation (Nasi HaDor) From the times of the Baal Shem Tov, the Leader of the Generation, also called the Rebbe, has been tasked not only with ensuring the welfare of the Jewish people, but also in revealing the internal, hidden aspect of the Torah (Pnimiyut HaTorah or Chassidus) to the Jewish People and the world at large.
The Baal Shem Tov was succeeded by his foremost student, Rabbi DovBer of Mezritch, whose student the Alter Rebbe founded the school of thought known as Chassidus Chabad. Starting a dynasty of 7 generations until today with the last of the Rebbeim being Our Rebbe.
The Rebbe’s followers (Chassidim) relate to the Rebbe in a way of absolute belief and devotion, their service of G-d is guided by the Rebbe, their focus in Torah learning is directed by the Rebbe. They involve themselves in his initiatives and they pay special attention to his actions and affairs. The Rebbe is the central figure in the history and culture of Chassidus.
Chassidim connect to the Rebbe not by just believing in him and being in his presence, but also by asking his advice in personal matters, following his instructions, requesting his blessing and delving into his teachings both in Toras HaChassidus and in Toras HaNigla. With an emphasis on his Chassidic Discourses {Maamarim) and abbreviated talks (Sichos).
The primary role of the Rebbe is strengthening Chassidus and its institutions as well as guiding his followers, and also spreading the influence of Chassidus to all streams of Judaism. In addition to all this, the Rebbe maintains his function as the leader of the Jewish People and concerns himself with the general issues affecting the Jewish people; Learning Torah, Doing Mitzvot and Jewish Education.