Shneur Zalman of Liadi was a prominent Jewish scholar and the founder of the Chabad movement, also known as Chabad-Lubavitch. Born in 1745 in what is now Belarus, he was a disciple of Dov Ber of Mezeritch, a leading figure in the Hasidic movement. Shneur Zalman is best known for his work, the Tanya, which outlines the philosophy and teachings of Chabad Hasidism. He emphasized the importance of both intellectual understanding and emotional connection to God. Shneur Zalman's teachings focus on the relationship between the soul and the divine, promoting a path of spiritual growth through study and prayer. He passed away in 1812, leaving a lasting legacy in Jewish thought and practice.