Reb Yontl the Male Yenta; or, Reb Yontl Ben Yenta (to Poppa Bar Abba). If I’m not mistaken, the Mussar Movement, founded by R’ Yisroel Salanter is less than 200 Years old. (Approximately 160 Years.). The “Mussar” movement’s principles are built on Middos.(Bein Odom l’Chaveiro.) And self-discipline and deprivation. Chassidus (Which preceded the Mussar movement by about 60-70 Years), in its Generic form worked towards the same goals but with a different approach. Countering the elitist stance of the “Lomdish/Misnagdish” movement, which alienated the uneducated masses (Hamon Am.) who, in their simple ways felt that their form of Avodas Hashem was not appreciated, Chassidus put emphasis on Emuna and Love for Hashem and less importance on studying and knowledge of Shulchan Aruch. It was a revolutionary approach. But under the circumstances, it was the right thing to do. It lifted them up from despair and motivated them to continue with their Emuna.
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