The Previous Rebbe and the Rebbe

Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the previous Rebbe, bravely led the Jewish people during very difficult times, fighting to keep Judaism alive under Soviet and Nazi rule. His son-in-law, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, later became the seventh Rebbe. He was a great Torah scholar and also had a strong background in science and engineering. The two began working together in the 1920s and continued after escaping Europe during World War II.

Together, they helped save and rebuild Jewish life. Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak gave strength during times of danger, and Rabbi Menachem Mendel brought hope, growth, and inspiration to Jews all over the world. Their leadership still shapes Chabad and Jewish life today.

Journey to 770 board game celebrates their lives, challenges, achievements, and teachings—inviting players to learn, be inspired, and connect with their incredible legacy in a fun and meaningful way.

Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn (1880–1950), known as the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, led the Chabad movement through one of its most perilous eras. Born in Lubavitch, Russia, he became Rebbe in 1920, during the early years of the Soviet regime, and emerged as a fearless defender of Jewish religious life under Communist oppression. Despite repeated arrests, harsh interrogations, and the threat of execution, he boldly resisted Soviet efforts to suppress Judaism—organizing underground yeshivas, mikvahs, and schools across the USSR.

After being arrested in 1927 and miraculously released due to international pressure, he was exiled from the Soviet Union. He settled in Poland, where he continued his leadership through the rise of Nazism, and eventually escaped Nazi-occupied Warsaw in 1940, making his way via Sweden and Portugal to New York.

The previous Rebbe's unshakable commitment to Jewish continuity in the face of totalitarian regimes laid the foundation for Chabad's global resurgence. His legacy was carried forward by his son-in-law and successor, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.

The Previous Rebbe's journey of perseverance, courage, and devotion is brought to life through questions in the game.

Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson (1902–1994), known simply as "the Rebbe," was the seventh and most influential leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Born in Nikolaev, Ukraine, in 1902, he witnessed some of the most turbulent events of the 20th century. 

He studied in Berlin until 1933, where he saw the rise of the Nazi regime, and then in Paris at the Sorbonne until the outbreak of World War II. In June 1941, he escaped Vichy France via Lisbon, arriving safely in New York, just as the Holocaust was intensifying in Europe.

Drawing from both deep Torah scholarship and firsthand experience of modern threats to Jewish life, the Rebbe built Chabad into a worldwide movement of Jewish outreach, education, and revival, ultimately becoming one of the most transformative Jewish leaders in modern history.

His teachings on purpose, moral responsibility, and the power of every individual continue to resonate today, guiding Jews and non-Jews alike in a complex and rapidly changing world.

The game explores the Rebbe’s journey of strength, deep wisdom, and teachings through insightful questions.