Wondering Jews with Mijal and Noam You Think You Know Chabad? Think Again — With Rabbi YY Jacobson (#2 Staff Pick)
Jan 14, 2026
Rabbi YY Jacobson, a renowned Chabad scholar, dives deep into the legacy of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. He explores how Chabad's teachings can provide healing in today's fractured world. With poignant stories and insights, he shares the Rebbe's emphasis on love, purpose, and reclaiming Jewish identity amidst challenges. Jacobson also offers practical responses to antisemitism while highlighting the Rebbe’s unique view on Zionism. Ultimately, he encourages everyone to embrace their potential for redemption and light in daily life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Chabad's Core Mission
- Chabad aims to reveal the world's oneness and infinite love connecting people vertically to God and horizontally to each other.
- Rabbi YY Jacobson frames Chabad as a passionate, authentic mission to communicate humanity's spiritual purpose.
Reframing Jewish Postwar Identity
- The Lubavitcher Rebbe reframed Jewish history post-Holocaust toward healing, pride, and outward-facing purpose.
- He taught that every person matters and tasked followers to "hunt down every Jew in love" to restore dignity.
Little Girl's "I Love You" Moment
- Rabbi YY Jacobson recounts a little girl telling the Lubavitcher Rebbe, "I love you," and the Rebbe giving her a dollar "for your love."
- The exchange revealed the Rebbe's humility and his ability to make every person feel infinitely valued.