Book excerpt: A Jewish intellectual asked the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe: Would Chabad philosophy be helpful to an academically-inclined person, estranged from Judaism, who wanted to learn about his heritage? This free translation of the Rebbe's response probes deeply into the scope and significance of Chabad while emphasizing the importance of simplicity and sincerity in the performance of mitzvot. An essay on the general nature of Chabad Chasidic teachings and their impact on Jewish life and thought. The Rebbe explains that it is a "divine philosophy that opens the portals of wisdom and understanding" to the knowledge of G-d, indicating the path for every individual according to his capabilities. Discussing the importance of studying the inner, esoteric aspects of Torah, this essay demonstrates conclusively that anyone, regardless of background or "natural" intellectual faculties, can comprehend and benefit immeasurably from Chabad Chasidic philosophy. Includes fascinating facts of early Chabad-Lubavitch history.