In response to many inquiries about my position on the Lubavitch movement vis-a-vis its Messianic beliefs.

Before the passing of the Rebbe, I included myself among those who believed that the Rebbe was worthy of being the Moshiach. I strongly believe that had we - particularly the Orthodox community - been united, we would have merited to see the complete Redemption. Insofar as the belief held by many in Lubavitch, based in part on similar statements made by the Rebbe himself concerning his predecessor the Previous Rebbe - including prominent Rabbonim and Roshei Yeshivah, that the Rebbe can still be Moshiach, in light of the Gemara in Sanhedrin, the Zohar, Abarbanel, Kisvei HaArizal, Sdei Chemed and other sources, it cannot be dismissed as a belief that is outside the pale of Orthodoxy. Any cynical attempt at utilizing a legitimate disagreement of interpretation concerning this matter, to besmirch and to damage the Lubavitch movement - that was, and continues to be, in the forefront of those who are battling the Missionaries, assimilation and indifference - can only contribute to the regrettable discord that already plagues the Jewish and particularly, Torah community.

The Torah community should galvanize all of its energies to unite in the true spirit of Ahavat Yisrael, to battle the true enemies of Israel. I repudiate and call for an end to all efforts to discredit Lubavitch or any other legitimate movement within Torah Judaism.

Aharon Soloveichik