Rabbi Shammai was a prominent Jewish scholar and a leading figure in the Tannaic period, known for his strict interpretations of Jewish law. He lived during the first century CE and was one of the founders of the House of Shammai, a school of thought that often contrasted with the more lenient views of Rabbi Hillel. Shammai's teachings emphasized the importance of following the law rigorously, and he was known for his strong opinions on various religious practices. His debates with Rabbi Hillel significantly shaped Jewish legal discourse, influencing later generations of scholars and the development of Rabbinic Judaism.