Knowledge Base
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Because it's needed. The growing Chabad population needs new communities for our young families to live in, and the world needs more light and dynamic centers for Jewish education. The Rebbe saw this need almost seventy years ago, and requested that such a village be built. We are fortunate that we get to bring this vision to life.
Traditionally, in Israel new communities are established by seed groups called a “garin.” Ohr Chabad is being established by a garin of Chabad families, under the umbrella and spiritual guidance of Agudas Chassidei Chabad in Israel. OR Movement has partnered with the Ohr Chabad families to guide the development of the yishuv.
Ohr Chabad is being built in a clearing in the Yatir forest, between the rolling hills and beautiful trees, next to the historical Yatir ruins. Yatir is mentioned in the Torah as one of the cities given to Kalev Ben Yefunah, and designated as a Levite City.
We are currently in the very early stages of pioneering, beginning to develop the land. The first group of families will move into temporary prefab housing as the yishuv infrastructure is being built. Permanent homes will follow as planning and construction progress.
The nearest grocery store and medical clinic are within a 15-minute drive, and everything else you need is about 30 minutes away in Be'er Sheva. On the yishuv itself, there will be a first-aid station and a small convenience shop from the early stages.
Ohr Chabad will have its own schools, starting with early childhood education. Until those are established, children attend Chabad schools in Be'er Sheva or Arad, which are within commuting distance.
The spiritual advisory board is headed by Rabbi Zalman Gorelik. The community is currently seeking a mashpia, and future elections for community Rav are planned as the community grows.
Financial
The project is funded through a combination of members' personal funds, support from the OR Movement, and generous donors. The Israeli government covers major infrastructure costs. Fundraising is needed for community buildings such as shuls, schools, and mikvaos.
Yes. We are seeking investors who prioritize the community's success and are committed to keeping housing affordable for young families.
Yes. Shuls, streets, mikvehs, schools, and playgrounds all await naming sponsors. This is a unique opportunity to have your name or the name of a loved one associated with a historic community in Eretz Yisroel.
Please sign up for our waitlist to be notified when plots become available for purchase.
Olim (new immigrants) receive significant benefits from the Israeli government including paid flights, absorption basket allowances, and rental assistance. Nefesh B'Nefesh offers additional financial benefits and guidance for North American and British olim.
Joining
Stage 1 (2023) consists of approximately 30 families, and a few spaces still remain. Stage 2 will welcome around 100 families who will purchase plots and build homes. Over time, an additional 400 families will join the community.
In the early stages, there will be no rental options. Homes will be built through a single contractor, which allows costs to be up to 30% lower than market rate. There are four home size models available to suit different family needs.
The local economy will be based on tourism, high-tech, and education. However, early pioneers should arrive with a thorough financial plan, as the local job market will take time to develop.
Conflicts are resolved through mediation with love. Unresolved cases are referred to the Chabad Beis Din.
Yes. In keeping with the values of the community, homes must look humble and may not exceed two stories.
Ohr Chabad is a community of Chabad families committed to living a chassidic lifestyle and sharing it with guests and visitors from around the world.
Safety
Ohr Chabad is located quite far from Gaza, in a very quiet area. A security committee is active and working with regional authorities. The Rebbe assured us that Eretz Yisroel is the safest place for a Jew to be.
Ohr Chabad has a zero tolerance policy toward any form of child abuse. A history of abuse disqualifies an applicant from residency. Any suspicions are reported directly to the police.
Governance
Ohr Chabad will be a legal yishuv under the Interior Ministry, as part of the Tamar Regional Council. Community members will vote on decisions, and a board will be elected every four years.
A Rav will be elected by the community. Currently the shul is run by community members chosen by Aguch's advisory board.
Need Help?
We'd love to hear from you. Reach out to the Ohr Chabad team and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
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