The world headquarters of the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic movement in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, a site of deep religious significance, became a scene of unexpected conflict this week. A clandestine tunnel, discovered beneath the historic synagogue, sparked a community dispute that culminated in a clash between worshippers and police, leaving the iconic building barricaded and under investigation.
This Gothic Revival structure, instantly recognizable to Chabad adherents worldwide and inspiring numerous replicas, stands as a beacon for thousands of annual visitors, including international students and religious leaders. However, its sanctity was disrupted by the discovery of the unauthorized tunnel, raising questions about its purpose and the motivations of those involved.
Alt: NYPD officers establish a perimeter around the Chabad-Lubavitch synagogue in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, following the discovery of a secret tunnel and ensuing unrest.
The Unraveling of a Secret
The tunnel, believed to have originated in the basement of a vacant apartment building behind the headquarters, reportedly wound its way beneath offices and lecture halls before connecting to the synagogue. Motti Seligson, a Chabad spokesperson, described its construction as an act of vandalism by a group of “misguided young men,” condemning the “extremists” for breaching the synagogue wall and disrupting the sanctuary.
However, supporters of the tunnel offered a different narrative. They claim the passage was part of an “expansion” plan envisioned by the late Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the revered leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement who passed away in 1994. Citing overcrowding in the basement synagogue, they argued the tunnel was a necessary measure to annex additional space, a process they felt was moving too slowly. Many of these supporters hold the messianic belief that Schneerson is still alive.
Zalmy Grossman, a 21-year-old Brooklyn resident, asserted that the tunnel project, initiated late last year, aimed to connect the synagogue with the “empty space” behind it, echoing Schneerson’s supposed wishes. “That’s what the rabbi wants, that’s what everybody wants,” Grossman stated.
While Chabad leaders remained silent on when they discovered the tunnel, worshippers confirmed that rumors of its existence had circulated for weeks. The situation escalated dramatically on Monday when a cement truck arrived to seal the opening. Tunnel proponents protested, tearing off the synagogue’s wooden siding in defiance.
Confrontation and Arrests
The NYPD responded to reports of trespassing and property damage. Witnesses recount officers pleading with the young men to vacate the tunnel entrance for several hours. When their appeals were ignored, police shielded the area with a curtain and entered the tunnel to apprehend the protesters.
Baruch Dahan, a 21-year-old student at the synagogue who filmed the incident, explained, “When they took the first person out with zip ties, that’s when the outburst happened. Almost everyone was against what they did, but as soon as people saw the handcuffs there was confusion and pushing.”
Social media footage reveals chaotic scenes of young men jeering at community affairs officers, throwing furniture, and scattering prayer books. An officer appears to deploy an irritant spray to control the crowd.
Nine individuals, aged 19 to 22, were arrested on charges including criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, and obstructing governmental administration. Three others received summonses for disorderly conduct.
Alt: A chaotic scene unfolds outside the Chabad-Lubavitch synagogue as Hasidic Jewish worshippers clash with NYPD officers during the tunnel dispute.
Aftermath and Uncertainty
As of Tuesday evening, the synagogue remained closed, pending the results of a Department of Buildings inspection to assess potential structural damage. Worshippers conducted their prayers outside in the rain, reflecting the somber mood in the community.
“The community feels terrible,” Dahan lamented. “It’s a disgrace, instead of expanding, they destroyed.”
A Community Divided
The incident highlights the complex interplay of tradition, faith, and authority within the Chabad-Lubavitch community. The clandestine tunnel project, presented by some as an act of faith fulfilling the Rebbe’s vision, is viewed by others as an act of vandalism and defiance. The clash with law enforcement further exacerbates tensions, leaving the community grappling with the aftermath and the uncertain future of their cherished synagogue.
The incident underscores the challenges faced by tight-knit religious communities navigating internal disagreements and interpreting the legacy of their leaders. The investigation into the tunnel’s construction and the legal proceedings against those arrested will likely shed further light on the motivations and consequences of this unprecedented event. The incident also raises questions about the balance between religious freedom and the rule of law, particularly in densely populated urban environments. The Chabad-Lubavitch community, known for its global outreach and emphasis on unity, now faces the difficult task of reconciling internal divisions and restoring a sense of peace to their sacred space.
The incident at the Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters serves as a stark reminder of the potential for conflict even within communities bound by shared faith. The investigation into the tunnel’s construction and the ensuing legal proceedings will undoubtedly shape the future of this historic synagogue and the community it serves. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the focus remains on healing, understanding, and rebuilding trust in the wake of this disruptive event.
