Joel Teitelbaum was a prominent American rabbi and a key figure in the Hasidic movement. Born in 1912, he became the founder of the Satmar Hasidic dynasty, which is known for its strict adherence to Jewish law and traditions. Teitelbaum was a strong advocate for the preservation of Yiddish culture and the Orthodox Jewish way of life. In addition to his religious leadership, Teitelbaum was a vocal critic of Zionism, believing that the establishment of a Jewish state should only occur with the coming of the Messiah. He authored several works on Jewish law and philosophy, leaving a lasting impact on his followers and the broader Jewish community.