Known variously as Reb Yoelische and the
Satmar Rav, Rabbi
Joel Teitelbaum was a prominent leader in
Orthodox Judaism. He was most widely known for his opposition of
Zionism, following the opinions of his father and predecessor Rabbi Moses Teitelbaum and other prominent
Hasidic Rabbis. He encouraged his followers to form self-sufficient communities outside of
Israel and forbade engagement with the
State of Israel.
His most famous work is a book length exposition of his belief that Zionism is prohibited by halakha entitled "Yoel Moshe." Other works include collections of responsa and novela entitled "Divrei Yoel" and "Al HaGeulah V'Al HaTemurah."