Rebbe

The Life and Teachings of Menachem M. Schneerson, the Most Influential Rabbi in Modern History

By: Joseph Telushkin

Narrated by: Rich Topol

In this enlightening biography, Joseph Telushkin offers a captivating portrait of the late Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, a towering figure who saw beyond conventional boundaries to turn his movement, Chabad-Lubavitch, into one of the most dynamic and widespread organizations ever seen in the Jewish world. At once an incisive work of history and a compendium of Rabbi Schneerson's teachings, Rebbe is the definitive guide to understanding one of the most vital, intriguing figures of the last centuries.

From his modest headquarters in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, the Rebbe advised some of the world's greatest leaders and shaped matters of state and society. Statesmen and artists as diverse as Ronald Reagan, Robert F. Kennedy, Yitzchak Rabin, Menachem Begin, Elie Wiesel, and Bob Dylan span the spectrum of those who sought his counsel. The Rebbe was the only rabbi ever to receive the Congressional Gold Medal and to have an American national day, Education and Sharing Day, proclaimed in his honor. No one has succeeded him in his position. Nevertheless, 20 years after his death, his movement has doubled in size, spreading to more than 80 countries, and his impact resonates still. But what was the secret of the Rebbe's success and influence? What principles of leadership guided him? And how did he rally such extraordinary devotion and resolve?

Rebbe explores Schneerson's overarching philosophies against the backdrop of treacherous history, revealing his clandestine operations to rescue and sustain Jews in the Soviet Union and his critical role in the expansion of the food stamp program throughout the United States. More broadly it examines how he became in effect an ambassador for Jews globally and how he came to be viewed by many as not only a spiritual archetype but a savior.

©2015 Joseph Telushkin (P)2015 HarperCollins Publishers

A great overview of the rebbe

A great overview of one of the most important people in modern Jewish history

Also had a great voice performance

Outstanding narrator; fascinating book.

Any additional comments?

First, I praise Rich Topol whose brilliant reading captured the tone of the book and whose pronunciation of Hebrew and Yiddish words was excellent.

As to the book itself, once again Rabbi Joseph Telushkin has written a highly informative and inspiring volume. One must recognize that this is not an analysis of the Rebbe or the kind of biography that plumbs the psychological or historical reasons that made him what he was. Instead it focuses on the lessons one can glean from the Rebbe's actions and values. These are not only informative, they are inspiring and will likely influence readers to adopt these lessons and improve their lives and characters.

If something is significant, do not delay. Argue against ideas, not against people. Be concerned about your own group but not to the exclusion of concern for all. Focus on education. Even a single good deed or worthy action is worthwhile as it can lead to more good deeds. These are some of the Rebbe's lessons demonstrated by his actions.

Five stars across the board and highly recommended.

Engaging biography of important figure in history.

A thoroughly engaging and well-written biography of an important figure in religious studies. The narration is expressive without being overly-dramatic. The discussion is fair and avoids hagiography making it welcome to both faithful and secular audiences. Highly enjoyable and stimulating to thought. Recommended to a wide audience.

New to Chabad - I needed this!

I am new to Chabad and wanted to learn about Rebbe. This was a tremendous audiobook. Well, narrated absolutely terrific in-depth story wonderful inspirational tails definitely glad I was able to get this. 

Life changing

We are still connected to the spirit of the Rebbe, and his work and life still influences us to bring loving kindness into the world.

Incredible!

A true inspriation. Well done! Absolutely loved the book and the voice recording was masterful.

Awesome

We should all strive to bring goodness and peace to this world.
The Rebbe showed us by example.

Great way to learn about what the Rebbe stood for

As an observant Modern Orthodox Jew I of course knew of the Lubavitcher Rebbe but had only a vague idea of what made him so unique. The book is filled with well documented conversations and events involving not only his Chassidim but Jews of all streams and many non-Jews as well. I came away with a much deeper understanding of not only the Rebbe's great gifts and contributions but of what he stood for and how the Lubavitcher movement blossomed under his direction. A great listen for almost anybody

Enlightening, Moving, Engaging, Inspiring!

This book makes you feel as if you personally met the Rebbe, through a prism of three dimensions of Chabad - wisdom, understanding and knowledge. For someone with Jewish roots but without Jewish upbringing it is especially rewarding as it tactfully guides you through rich historical and personal context of one extraordinary life. The performer, Rich Topol, masterfully interprets Rebbe's voice and several languages. This book is an inspiration for deep inner reflection and for positive action.

the subtitle says it all

the author does a fascinating job at encapsulating - to the extent possible - a life that is much alrger than life.