Hillel the Elder was a prominent Jewish scholar and leader who lived during the late 1st century BCE and early 1st century CE. He is best known for his contributions to Rabbinic Judaism and for founding the House of Hillel, a school of thought that emphasized compassion and understanding in interpreting Jewish law. Hillel is famous for his teachings, including the well-known principle, "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor." His influence on Jewish thought and ethics has endured through the centuries, making him a revered figure in both Judaism and broader philosophical discussions.