Do women occupy a secondary position in Chabad philosophy and communal life?
A position different from the position of men, yes. Secondary to the status of men, No! The high standing position of Jewish women in Chabad is central to the survival of Judaism; historically women have served as leaders, prophetesses, educators, and yes, mothers. Jewish women are the cornerstone of the Jewish family-whether they have another career outside the home or not. In turn, the Jewish family is the cornerstone of Jewish life and survival. Through pathways unique to women, Judaism offers women equal potential to attain a profound and meaningful spirituality, one that fulfills her deepest needs and aspirations opening fresh perspectives on self-understanding, growth and Torah knowledge. Ignorance, misconceptions, and outright myths about Jewish women have prevailed until very recently, turning many people away from an appreciation of Torah and a traditional Jewish lifestyle. Chabad is working to correct those misconceptions.
