1860 CE–1920 CE · Modern · Lubavitch
Sholom DovBer Schneersohn (1860–1920) was the fifth Rebbe of the Chabad movement and is known in Chabad tradition as the Rashab. He led the Chabad community from Lubavitch during a period of significant upheaval in Russian Jewish life, including pogroms and the early stirrings of Jewish nationalism. The Rashab is remembered for his deep mystical teachings, particularly his elaboration of Chabad philosophy through the lens of intellectual contemplation and the refinement of character. He established the Tomchei Temimim network of yeshivas, which became central to Chabad education and training of leaders. His written works, especially the Hemshech Samech-Vav, represent extensive Hasidic homilies on Torah and Hasidic thought. He was known for combining rigorous intellectual engagement with Kabbalah and Hasidic teaching, and for his emphasis on the importance of a mature, thoughtful approach to spiritual life.
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Assumed leadership of Chabad-Lubavitch upon the passing of his father Rabbi Shmuel Schneersohn in 1882 at age 21, though he delayed official acceptance of the rebbe title for eleven years. Founded Yeshivat Tomchei Temimim in 1897, the first yeshiva to integrate Chassidic teachings with Talmud and halacha, emphasizing kavanna in tefilla. Sent mashpia Rabbi Shmuel Levitin to the Caucasus in support of mountain Jews, establishing institutions for education and Orthodox observance; organized aid including matzot for Jewish soldiers during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904–1905 and efforts to halt pogroms in 1906.
Seat of the Chabad dynasty from the second Rebbe (Dov Baer Schneuri) onward.
Lubavitch · 1894
A foundational Chabad Chassidic discourse on the nature of the soul and divine service; a key text in Chabad philosophy establishing the intellectual framework of Chabad Chassidism.
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Lubavitch · 1900
Collected talks and teachings of the Rashab on Torah and Chassidic topics, compiled from oral teachings and letters.
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