ט״ו אלול ה׳תשפ״ו | August 28, 2026
Not Everywhere is Kfar Chabad on Simchas Torah
A grand ‘Erev Chabad’ in Caesarea featured Chassidim singing nigunim and dancing, with some amusing by dancing on their heads. But in a yechidus that followed, the Rebbe explained that not everything that works on Simchas Torah in Kfar Chabad is suitable for the wider public.
One of the most revolutionary projects of Tzach in Eretz Yisroel during its early years was Erev Chabad. Held in dozens of kibbutzim, these evenings consisted of Chabad niggunim, with speakers explaining their deeper meaning and sharing ideas of Chassidus and Yiddishkeit. Through them, hundreds upon hundreds became exposed to Chabad.
In Elul 5725, a major Erev Chabad was held at the amphitheater in Caesarea, complete with a full orchestra. The event included a performance of dancing Chassidim, including while standing on their heads – something that was ridiculed by some in both the frum and secular press.
When Tzach director Rabbi Yisroel Leibov was in yechidus that Tishrei, the Rebbe raised the subject.
“You need to understand that what is appropriate for Sichas Torah in Kfar Chabad on Simchas Torah is not appropriate for a public event,” the Rebbe told him. “I’m referring to the dancing while standing on their heads, which raised criticism in the newspapers.”
After Rabbi Leibov expressed his anguish over what had happened, the Rebbe added, “There’s no need to be upset, just to make sure not to do it again.”
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