Amongst chassidim there were two dominant types: “intellectuals” (maskilim), who would spend hours contemplating the subtleties of chassidic thought; and “servers” (ovdim), who put the greater emphasis on their service of the Almighty, laboring to refine their character and perfect their behavior.
On one occasion, Rabbi Sholom DovBer of Lubavitch said:
A maskil walks on his head; an oved walks with his feet. Walking on one’s head is a spectacular feat. Everyone notices, and is extremely impressed by the skill displayed by the walking skull. But if you want to get somewhere, walk with your feet.
Adapted from the teachings of the Rebbe by Yanki Tauber
This is funny!