Turning Judaism Outwards: A Biography of the Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson

by Chaim Miller

Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson (1902-1994), the Lubavitcher Rebbe, took an insular Chasidic group that was almost decimated by the Holocaust and transformed it into one of the most influential and controversial forces in world Jewry. This superbly crafted biography draws on recently uncovered documents and archives of personal correspondence, painting an exceptionally human and charming portrait of a man who was well known but little understood. With a sharp attention to detail and an effortless style, Chaim Miller takes us on a soaring journey through the life, mind and struggles of one of the most interesting religious personalities of the Twentieth Century. “Only truly great biographers have been able to accomplish what Chaim Miller has with this book... I am awed by his work, and am now even more awed than ever before by the Rebbe’s personality and prodigious accomplishments.” —Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb, Executive Vice President Emeritus, Orthodox Union; Editor-in-Chief, Koren-Steinsaltz Talmud "A riveting biography…. this will prove to be a fascinating read even for those distant from Chabad or who knew little about this dominant figure in Jewish life." Malcolm Hoenlein, Executive Vice Chairman, Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations.

Genres: Judaism, History, Jewish, Biography

592 pages, Paperback

First published May 29, 2014

About the author

Rabbi Chaim Miller is one of the leading international authorities for the interpretation of the Torah-related works of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. His laudable publications and significant original contributions to the field of Jewish education have garnered unprecedented attention for the Chabad-Lubavitch Movement. Rabbi Miller's achievement as an international scholar is substantiated by the vast dissemination of his works as well as the acclaim and prestige they have won him amongst his colleagues and in the educational and religious communities in which his works circulate.

Reviews

[Sara Goldenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, Rabbi Miller is just incredible. Anything he's involved in, is going to be something super special. If you can ever hear him speak or read what he's written, you're in for a treat.

Now, on to the book.

I expected a lot from it, and it did not disappoint. Pictures. Footnotes galore. Tidbits and facts that I never heard before, and make life ever so much richer to know.

It paints a clear picture of Lubavitch, and not just from Ye Olden Days, but relates to current times as well. Parts of it just flow, like a story, but it's real - so real - that you think you're truly part of the inner circle. The part about the Previous Rebbes funeral ... was so haunting. Read it with a box of tissues!

The cliché - I laughed, I cried, it became a part of me - is a cliché because it's true. This book is truly part of me. I am so much more informed about Lubavitch now.

THANK YOU RABBI MILLER!

[Rivkah Green-hoek · Rating 5 out of 5]

After having read the other great book about the Lubavitcher leader, titled Rebbe, I thought nothing new could be learned. But Chaim Miller came with different aspects of the life of the great genius. It showed at the one hand the longing for a simple retreated life but once being convinced to accept the leadership he did so in full force, making the Chabad Movement strong spread around the whole globe. Not only that but making all of his emissaries leaders of their own, independent of him, making their own decisions becoming influential. They have become indeed his heritage. The author described in details with examples of several personal anecdotes the enormous knowledge in many fields, apart from Judaism, in education, in the military, science and many more. We learn how he advised or tried to do so the famous leaders of the world and Israel. How he was concerned with every Jew and Gentiles as well about their personal lives and trying to advance the spirituality on earth. He answered the thousands of letters he received on a monthly if not weekly basis. I wouldn't call it a biography but a very historical document, clearly but sophistical written.

[Lori Ben-ezra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't be turned away by this book's thickness. It is an easy to read, thoroughly enjoyable biography of a 20th century spiritual leader. There is so much to learn from the Rebbe and his biography provides insight into his leadership and global vision.

[The Jewish Book Council]

Review by Wallace Green for the Jewish Book Council.

[Stan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This biography of the last Lubavitcher (Chabad) Rebbe is well written and for the most part quite interesting. It sometimes lapses into a kind of listing of events that don't necessarily give us much insight, but still overall the book gives us a good overview of the rebbe's life and career and how that affected his followers and others. It is pretty worshipful towards the rebbe, but without bringing up (lightly) some controversies. In general, however, it is quite informative. While not recently, I've had a fair amount of interaction with Chabad, an most of it was positive. I liked their action, but was (and am) incapable to giving myself over to their belief system.
Anyway, for those interested in an important religious phenomenon of the 20th century, this book is a satisfying read.

[Shuey Mirkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The absolute best book on a fascinating and hugely influential figure. Even if you have nothing to do with Chabad or Judaism, this is an inspiring book about a man who lived completely for other people, and accomplished tremendous things in the face of tremendous adversity.

[Gabriel Kaufman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the single greatest book on who The Rebbe really was. In order to get a real glimpse into the greatest leader of the 21st century it is important to get the perspective of one of his followers.

[Terry Feix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent biography of Menachem Schneerson, the 7th Lubavitcher Rebbe

[Will Whitmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating book and meticulously researched. Absolutely no critique of the Rebbe. While their doesn’t has to be, it is very pro-Schneerson

[Asi Spiegel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very impressed by this book for many reasons.

The story of the Rebbe's life and teachings is written in a captivating way.

The author researched the topic thoroughly and the footnotes are very helpful.

Anyone who is interested in the Rebbe's life will benefit immensely from reading this book. Even those who consider themselves knowledgeable about the topic will discover some new insights and references.

Much more to say...