it m * 4 ■Wo* HH9i . -, ,--... ..,•';;,'■ i& ...•." ^H £ L>* Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2007 with funding from Microsoft Corporation http://www.archive.org/details/eminentisraeliteOOmorarich EMINENT ISRAELITES NINETEENTH CENTURY. ERRATA. Page 69, line 7, and page 90, line 25, for " Delitsch," read "Delitzsch." " 139, line 1, after " and " insert " other." " 156, line 24, for " 1878," read " 1877." " 169, line 26, for " Creiznach," read *« Creizenach." " 235, lines 12 and 13, omit fti The Pilgrimage to Ploermel' and." M 327, line 11, for " Luria," read " Loria." <( 336, line 21, for " Ne," read " No." " 347, line 10, omit "and Lebanon." PHILADELPHIA: EDWARD STERN & CO. 1880. EMINENT ISRAELITES NINETEENTH CENTURY. A Series of Biographical Sketches. BY HENRY SAMUEL MORAIS. .7. : ••■■* ■■■, . PHILADELPHIA: EDWARD STERN & CO. 1880. 1HL&L* MSZ^ Copyright, 1879, By HENRY SAMUEL MORA IS. . < • /.'.' .%• :« ..:.*••••./ PREFACE. The following pages form a work which is be- lieved unique in the English language. Several productions of the same scope and nature, in foreign tongues, have emanated from very able pens. Their authors are assuredly entitled to gratitude, for hav- ing endeavored to instil into the hearts of Hebrews, a love for their religion and people, and, at the same time, to awaken a desire for the study of a rich and vast literature. Besides, such publications must tend, in a great degree, to uproot prejudice, and to call forth among non-Israelites, sentiments of respect for the ancient race. To lend a helping hand to this laudable undertaking, has been the author's cherished wish. Considerable information, appearing in the vol- ume here presented, was derived from a close in- spection of cyclopaedias and scattered biographical notices. The principal authorities, however, are persons whose knowledge of the lives and characters described is undoubted, and with whom an active correspondence has been conducted. The writer has clothed his sketches — seventy of which appeared seriatim in The Jewish Record, and have since been 445491 IV PREFACE. carefully revised — in a garb that he hopes will prove attractive, the length of each article being in ac- cordance with the materials collected. In the limits assigned to this series, it would be impossible to include as many names as can fully lay claim to attention ; but it has been the author's constant aim and effort to offer clear and unvar- nished records of all that are embraced in his de- sign. This much by way of explanation, an extended preface being neither needful nor desirable. Still, he who traces these lines must avail him- self of the privilege to express his sincere acknowl- edgments to those who have aided this enterprise. He is particularly indebted to his honored father, the Rev. S. Morais, whose untiring assistance has greatly facilitated the task ; to Dr. Abram S. Isaacs, the talented editor of The Jewish Messenger ; to Simon A. Stern, Esq., of Philadelphia ; to the Rev. Dr. Henry W. Schneeberger, of Baltimore, Md. ; to the Rev. Dr. Henry Vidaver, of San Francisco, Cal. ; to Dr. Mark Blumenthal, of New York ; to James Picciotto, Esq., the distinguished Anglo-Jewish his- torian ; also to the Jewish press for kind words of encouragement, and likewise to all who have shown their practical approval of his endeavors. Without further remark, the author submits his work to the judgment of a discerning public. CONTENTS. i. Nathan Marcus Adler, . . 9 11. Grace Aguilar, 12 in. Benjamin Artom, . . . . . 15 IV. BERTHOLD AUERBACH, . . . 1 8 v. Ludwig Bamberger, . . .21 vi. Elias Benamozegh, . . . . 23 vii. Samuel Cahen . . . ' . .27 viii. Jacob Da Silva Solis Cohen, . . 29 ix. Albert Cohn, . . . . : 33 x. Isaac Adolphe Cremieux, . . -39 xi. Arthur Lumley Davids, . 42 xii. Lelio Della Torre, .... 44 xiii. Joseph Derenbourg, . . . .48 xiv. David Aaron De Sola, ... 50 xv. Abraham De Sola, 53 xvi. Emanuel Oscar Menahem Deutsch, . 57 xvii. Isaac D'Israeli, . . . . . 61 xviii. David Einhorn, . . . .66 xix; Herschell Filipowski, ... . 71 XX. ACHILLE FOULD, 74 xxi. Adolphe Franck, 77 xxn. Zach arias Frankel, . ... . 8 1 xxiii. Ludwig August Frankl, ... 86 VI CONTENTS. PAGE xxiv. Julius Furst, 89 xxv. Abraham Geiger, .... 92 xxvi. Goldsmid (Aaron, Benjamin and Abraham, Isaac Lyon, and Francis Henry), . 96 xxvn. Hirsch Graetz, . . . . .104 xxvni. Rebecca Gratz, . . . . 109 xxix. Jacques Francois Fromental Elie Halevy, 113 xxx. Joseph Halevy, . . . . 116 xxxi. Numa Edward Hartog, . . .119 xxxii. Isaac Hays, 123 xxxiii. Phineas Mendel Heilprin, . . .126 xxxiv. Michael Henry, . . . . 130 xxxv. Levi Herzfeld, 133 xxxvi. Israel Hildesheimer, . . . 135 xxxvil Samson Raphael Hirsch, . . .138 xxxviii. Solomon Hirschel, . . . . 142 xxxix. Samuel Holdheim, . . . 145 xl. Rebekah Hyneman, . . . . 149 xli. Samuel Myer Isaacs, . . . .153 xlii. Adolph Jellinek, . . . .157 xliii. George Jessel, . . . . .160 xliv. Joseph Joachim, . . . . 163 xlv. Michael Josephs, . . . .165 xlvi. Isaac Marcus Jost, . . . . 167 xlvii. Marcus M. Kalisch 170 xlviii. Moses Kayserling, . . . . 173 xlix. Minna Kleeberg, . ; . .176 CONTENTS. VII L, Nachman Krochmal, . . . 1 80 li. Edward Lasker, . .. . .184 186 . 192 195 . 20t 205 . 208 211 . 218 221 lii. Emma Lazarus, liii. Moritz Lazarus,, liv. Isaac Leeser, . lv. Maximilian Letteris, lvi. Uriah Phillips Levy, lvii. Louis Loewe, lviii. Samuel David Luzzatto, lix. Philoxene Luzzatto, . lx. Robert Lyon, lxi. David Woolf Marks, . . .223 Lxii. Isaac Pesaro Maurogonato, . . 228 lxiii. Raphael Meldola, .... 230 lxiv. Giacomo Meyerbeer, . . . 233 lxv. Moses Montefiore, .... 236 lxvi. Judith Montefiore, . . . 240 lxvii. Ignaz Moscheles, .... 243 lxviii. Salomon Hermann Mosenthal, . 245 lxix. Salomon Munk, 247 lxx. Selig Newman, . . . . 252 lxxi. Mordecai Manuel Noah, . . -255 lxxii. Jacques Offenbach, . ' . . 258 lxxiii. Jules Oppert, 261 lxxiv. Daniel Levy Maduro Peixotto, . 265 lxxv. Benjamin Franklin Peixotto, . . 267 lxxvi, Emile Pereire, . . . .'271 lxxvii. Ludwig Philippson, .... 273 VIII CONTENTS. PAGE lxxviii. Benjamin Samuel Phillips, . . 277 LXXIX. SlMCHA PlNSKER, . . . . 279 lxxx. Elisabeth Rachel (Felix), . • . . 285 lxxxi. Morris Jacob Raphall, . . .287 Lxxxii. Salomon Loew Rapoport, . . 291 lxxxiii. Isaac Samuel Reggio, . . . 296 lxxxiv. Robert Remak, . . '. . 301 lxxxv. Gabriel Riesser, .... 303 lxxxvi. Rothschild (Meyer Anselm, Nathan Meyer, Lionel Nathan, and An- thony), . .... 308 lxxxvii. Michael Sachs, . •'••"'• • • 3 1 5 lxxxviii. David Salomons, . . ,. . 318 lxxxix. Joseph Salvador, ... . . .321 xc. Flaminio Servi, . . . . 325 xci. Moritz Steinschneider, . . .328 xcii. Heymann Steinthal, . . -333 xciii. Judah Touro, 335 xciv. Emanuel Veneziani, . . . 339 xcv. Gustav Weil, . . . . . 342 xcvi. Naphtali Hartwig Wessely, . . 344 xcvii. Isaac Mayer Wise, .... 349 xcviii. Simon Wolf, . , . . . 354 xcix. Henry de Worms, . . . -3*57 c. Leopold Zunz, . . . . . 360 Index, 367 I MINENT ISRAELITES OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. NATHAN MARCUS ADLER. The lamented Dr. Hirschel could not have had a more worthy successor to the dignity of the Rabbinate than Dr. Nathan Marcus Adler. An un- interrupted period of thirty-five years has demon- strated to the British Jews of the Ashkenaz ritual the character and scholarship united in their eccle_ siastical chief. Those who pressed his selection have not been balked in their expectations. The man of their choice, grown old in the execution of sacred duties, still enjoys the confidence and ap- preciation of an entire community. The Rev. Dr. Nathan Marcus Adler was born at Hanover, Germany, in 1803. He received his theo- logical education at the Universities of Gbttingen Erlangen, and Wurzburg, respectively. Before ar- riving at manhood, he displayed abilities peculiarly adapted to the discharge of Rabbinical functions. > ■> > > 1 ■> i , > r I r • r r t « c. IO EMINENT ISRAELITES OF In 1829 Dr. Adler was appointed Chief Rabbi of Oldenburg, and so satisfactorily did he meet his official requirements that, in 1830, his jurisdiction was transferred to Hanover, and all its provinces. Dr. Adler, in ministering to his flock, used his talents and efforts to improve their religious state, urging upon all a strict adherence to the doctrines and precepts of Judaism. His fame travelled far beyond the Rhine, and reached England just when its Hebrew population stood in great need of a spiritual leader. In 1844 an election took place for Chief Rabbi of the German Congregations. Other eminent scho- lars were among the candidates for the position ; but Dr. Adler secured the majority of votes. He was inducted into office on July 9th, 1845. Until very recently, the Rabbi has given unre- mitting attention to the demands of his station. He has preached in the principal Synagogue, and in the various houses of worship subject to his au- thority ; has presided at the sittings of the Beth Ha- Midr ash 1 and at meetings for religious pur- poses. When, a few months ago, the Doctor desired to be relieved of active duties, by reason of advanced age, a very efficient assistant was already at hand in his son, Dr. Hermann Adler. This gentleman, who reckons among his teachers the renowned THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. II Rapoport, and who, since 1864, has been minister- ially connected with the Bayswater Synagogue, is favorably known for some learned writings. A spirited reply to Prof. Goldwin Smith's charge that Jews cannot be patriots, has specially commended the author to his brethren, and has given his essay a wide circulation in Europe and America. It is fortunate that one so gifted, and so zealous for the honor of his people, should be chosen as aid to the Chief Rabbi. Still the opinions and decisions of Dr. Nathan Marcus Adler will continue to be asked, and they will be deemed authoritative. No act of which he disapproves will receive strength and validity. Onerous occupations have not prevented the Chief Rabbi from penning excellent literary produc- tions. In addition to " Sermons on the Jewish Faith," he has written several works in Hebrew, the principal of which is Nethina La-Ger, a com- mentary on the Targum of Onkelos, unfolding new ideas on the history of that famous Aramaic ver- sion of the Pentateuch. Now that his mind is at rest from the constant pressure of ecclesiastical obligations, the venerable scholar may devote his leisure hours to pursuits which will prove acquisitions to Jewish literature, and shed further lustre on his name. 12 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF GRACE AGUILAR. What is known needs no introduction. English- speaking Israelites must be acquainted with a writer who, from the very days of childhood, made time subservient to the cause of Judaism. The tal- ented authoress, whose life — of too short duration- — we are about to sketch, has built for herself a monu- ment which all see, and ages will not destroy. Grace Aguilar was born at Hackney, England, June 2d, 1816. She was the only daughter of Emanuel Aguilar, a descendant of a family of Jew- ish merchants who fled from Spain, on account of religious persecution, and found a refuge in Eng- land. From her birth,. Grace never enjoyed good health, a circumstance in direct contrast to the strength of her mind. She received instruction at home, and early exhibited a fondness for reading. The attention she devoted to her books was something extraordinary in a child. When only seven, she began to keep a diary. The first composition from her pen, was a short drama, " Gustavus Vasa," written at the age of twelve years, but not published. This was soon fol- lowed by " The Magic Wreath," a collection of poems, issued anonymously. A profound student of the faith in which she had been born, and an ar- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 3 dent admirer of its principles, for which many had rushed exultingly to death, Miss Aguilar produced " The Vale of Cedars, or The Martyr," a romance of the Jews in Spain, and which some consider her best work. " The Spirit of Judaism," a volume in- tensely religious, and " Israel Defended," the latter being a translation from the French, appeared sub- sequently. Then came " The Days of Bruce," a story from Scottish history, in two volumes; "Jew- ish Faith," in which the moral beauties of Judaism are clearly set forth ; " Women of Israel," an elab- orate description of celebrated daughters of our race, in two volumes ; " Home Scenes and Heart Studies " ; " Home Influence " ; " Josephine, or The Edict and Escape"; " The Mother's Recompense"; " Woman's Friendship " ; and a short " History of the Jews in England." Miss Aguilar's works have been extensively read and admired, and of the many favorable criticisms 'we quote the follow- ing : " Grace Aguilar knew the female heart better than any writer of our day, and in every fiction from her pen we trace the same masterly analy- sis and development of the motives and feelings of woman's nature." This is the opinion of a non- Israelite. It would, perhaps, be of interest to review at length some of the most important writings which won the subject of our sketch renown ; but when 14 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF abler persons have frequently commented thereon, we must remain silent. We could not add a tittle to what is so truthfully uttered by an author: "The ambition of Grace Aguilar was neither for wealth, reputation, nor distinction. The pure consciousness of raising the literary and religious character of the Jewish race, and of her own sex in particular, was at the same time her guiding motive and her re- ward." Miss Aguilar was a lover of music, and she be- came a skilful performer on the piano and harp. Her singing was also admired. Family troubles soon told upon the delicate frame. In 1835 ner father, who had long been in failing health, breathed his last. Two brothers, tenderly endeared to her, were obliged to leave home, on ac- count of their professions. The duty now devolved upon the single daughter, to minister to the com- fort of her widowed mother, who had also been an invalid. This, together with the continued severe strain on her mental powers, broke down the al- ready impaired constitution. She was advised by her physician to try the baths and mineral waters at Schwalbach, whither she repaired, but without success. After a prostrating illness of three weeks' duration, she expired at Frankfort-on-the-Main, on the 1 6th of September, 1847, when only thirty-one years of age. Her dying words were, " Though He THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I 5 slay me, yet will I trust in Him," plainly showing the deep religious feeling that always pervaded her heart and occupied her thoughts, even unto the end. She was interred in the Jewish cemetery at Frank- fort. The mother of Grace, Mrs. Sarah Aguilar, has written a memoir of her daughter's life, and prefaces to several of her works. She was instrumental in bringing the productions of her child to the atten- tion of the American public. All, regardless of creed, join in the encomiums bestowed upon one of the noblest women in Israel ; a steadfast and effective laborer in the cause of education and progress. BENJAMIN ARTOM. By the side of Nieto and Meldola, Chief Rabbis of the Portuguese-Jewish community of Great Britain, may be placed Artom, their countryman and succes- sor. Possibly, he may not have rivalled the first- named, in vastness of erudition, nor the second, in the knowledge of Talmudical and casuistical writers. But he surpassed both in one of the elements, considered, at the present time, most essential in the fulfilment of Rabbinical duties — preaching. Dr. Artom's ser- mons, marked by an unusual flow of eloquence, were delivered in a language which affords wide scope 1 6 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF for oratorical powers — English. In the pulpit he showed the strength of his character, and the earn- estness with which he meant to elevate Israel. The Rev. Dr. Benjamin Artom was born at Asti, in Piedmont, Italy, in 1834. A relationship with Chevalier Isaac Artom — Private Secretary of the renowned statesman, Count Cavour, and Sena- tor of Italy — has been claimed for the subject of our sketch. Having been left fatherless when a .child, his maternal uncle supervised his training. A theological education was given him by Rabbi Mark Tedeschi. On completing his course of studies un- der that preceptor, he was awarded a diploma at- testing his signal proficiency. For a while, Dr. Artom officiated as minister of the congregation at Saluzzo. He then betook him- self to Naples, and became the Rabbi of that city. In this' capacity, his stirring addresses forcibly im- pressed his auditors. It so happened that Miss Anna Maria Goldsmid, the well-known writer, while travelling through the peninsula, stopped at Naples. She had occasion to hear Dr. Artom lecture, and was so much delighted that she sought a personal introduction. On her return to London, Miss Goldsmid spoke of the learned Doctor in high terms. The well-bestowed encomium soon took a practical shape. Dr. Artom, who, in 1866, had journeyed from Italy to France THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. \*J was, on his arrival in Paris, apprised of the favora- ble reception he would likely meet in London. He proceeded thereto, and, by invitation, preached in the metropolis. Shortly after, he was chosen Ha- ham of the Spanish and Portuguese Congregations of the United Kingdom, for life. This honorable post had been vacant since the death of the Rev. Dr. Raphael Meldola in 1828; questions on Jewish law being decided by an Ecclesiastical Board. Dr. Artom formally assumed his office on the 1 6th of December,- 1866. He married a lady of the family of Sir Albert Sassoon, the merchant-prince of Bom- bay, Hindostan. When first elected, the Rabbi could not venture to address his flock in English, and his discourses were, therefore, delivered in French. But in one year he mastered the # vernacular, and then poured forth that impassioned eloquence which kindled every feature of the preacher's splendid physique. Dr. Artom introduced wholesome reforms in the schools of his community, and abolished several un- necessary offices in the Synagogue. In principles, the Doctor, though liberal, was strictly Orthodox. Through his instrumentality, the barrier that had long separated the Portuguese and German Jews, received its strongest blow. Dr. Artom enjoyed the friendship of both the Rev. Dr. N. M. Adler, Chief Rabbi of the Ashkenazim, and the Rev. Prof. D. W. Marks, head of the Reform Israelites of England. 1 8 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Some of the Hahatrts sermons were published at the request of his congregation. The Rabbi wrote a number of prayers in Hebrew, sundry pieces of poetry in Italian, and contributed to different journals of the Continent. The esteem which Dr. Artom secured, he was not permitted many years to experience in this nether world, though his healthy appearance seemed to indicate a long and useful career. While at Brighton, England, he was seized with a fatal dis- ease, that brought a sudden termination to his ex- istence, on January 6th, 1879, when only forty- five years of age. His remains were brought to London, and interred in the Mile End Cemetery, amidst the lamentations of those who had benefited by his ministrations, and evidences of the sorrow of the entire population of British Jews. BERTHOLD AUERBACH. Tales, full of extravagance, untrue to nature and offensive to good taste, are warping the minds of the young. The need of descriptions, borrowed from liv- ing surroundings, and imparting freshness and elas- ticity to the developing intellect, is universally felt. Berthold Auerbach has understood this, and has achieved great ends, alike as a novelist and miscel- laneous writer. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 9 Berthold Auerbach was born at Nordstetten, in the Black Forest of Wurtemberg, Germany, Febru- ary 28th, 1812. Evincing a preference for Jewish theology, he was sent to Hechingen, and afterwards to Carlsruhe, where he actively pursued his studies. In 1832 he completed his course at the Gymna- sium of Stuttgardt. From that year until 1835, he- attended the universities at Tubingen, Munich and Heidelberg. Shortly after, he abandoned Jewish the- ology, and sedulously applied himself to philosophy, history and literature. His first work, " The Jewish Nation, and Its Re- cent Literature," appeared in 1836. It was followed the next year by a novel, " Poet and Merchant." Mr. Auerbach's sincere attachment to the doctrines of Spinoza, led him to publish a work on that phil- osopher's system in 1839, and a biography of the same author in 1841, accompanied by a translation of his complete writings. But Mr. Auerbach ob- tained great popularity in 1842 and 1843, when he issued " Educated Citizens ; a Book for the Thinking Middle Classes," and " Village Tales from the Black Forest." Both of these productions were read with avidity, and were rendered into the English, Dutch and Swedish languages. One of his most finished poems, inserted in a novel entitled " The Professor's Wife," and brought forth in 1848, was subsequently dramatized. In 1845-6, he prepared and published 20 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF an almanac, entitled " The Godfather," after the style of Dr. Franklin's " Poor Richard's Almanac," which was perused by all classes. Mr. Auerbach has proved his strenuous advocacy of popular education in his many writings. Seve- ral novels and other compositions have emanated from his pen within the last decade. Notably, " The Villa on the Rhine," in three volumes, 1869, which met with extraordinary success, and was translated into English; "Ours Again," in 1 87 1, affording a full account of the current opinions and different cir- cumstances that marked the commencement of the war, then pending between France and Germany; "The Good Hour, or Evening Holiday;" "On the Heights;" and " Waldfried." The two last mentioned have been offered in an English garb, by Simon A. Stern, Esq., of Philadelphia. A new edition of Mr. Auerbach's complete works was published at Stutt- gardt in 1 87 1. Of the notabilities whose intimate acquaintance Mr. Auerbach formed, may be named the late United States Minister to Germany, the Hon. Bayard Taylor, who won for himself an immortal name, by his scholarly attainments and multifarious literary labors. The subject of this sketch was selected to de- liver an oration at the grave of the lamented Ameri- can, as the exponent of the deep grief, which the people of Germany felt at the demise of one whom THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 21 they had every reason to respect and love. It is needless to say that the tribute was worthy of the melancholy, but soul-stirring event. Mr. Auerbach continues to enrich the literature of our day with important contributions, in the shape of new and interesting books which are always ap- preciated, and which tend ' to elevate their author in the opinion of the world. LUDWIG BAMBERGER. A reaction, strange and unaccountable, has taken place in lately liberalized Germany. The indomit- able Chancellor, who planned the greatness of the Empire, knits his brows at any opposition. Jews, loyal to the Vaterland, mostly side with the Liberals. They approve of consolidation, but pro- test against centralization of power, and that, under the lead of a man elated by success. Hence, per- sons who made the walls of Parliament ring with their voices raised in the defence of the people, were left out at the last election. Bamberger was justly considered, next to Lasker, the most dis- tinguished Jewish member of the Reichstag. The influence he wielded was brought to bear on all important questions. Dr. Ludwig Bamberger was born at Mayence, Hesse-Darmstadt, July 22d, 1823. He studied in 22 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF turn at Giessen, Heidelberg and Gottingen, and passed an examination in law at Mayence, where he took his last degree. The revolutionary move- ment of 1848, found in the patriotic Israelite an active participant. He gave assistance, besides, to those who were struggling for their rights, in Bava- ria and in Baden. An attempt to coerce the au- thorities by force of arms into more lenient mea- sures failed, and Dr. Bamberger was obliged to flee from the country. He travelled through Switzer- land, England, Belgium and Holland. In 1853 he settled at Paris, and there became the manager of a banking-house. Upon the establishment of the North-German Confederation, a political amnesty was proclaimed, which enabled Dr. Bamberger to return home. During his stay in foreign lands, the ideas he cher- ished had not altered. Fully aware of the necessity of an improved form of government, he at once decided to devote his abilities to securing a change for the better. His voice and pen soon told how staunch was his adherence to the cause espoused. Dr. Bamberger was chosen, in 1868, to represent Mayence, his birth-place, in the Customs Parliament, and, in 1 87 1, Deputy to the German Reichstag. Like his friend, Lasker, Dr. Bamberger at first supported Prince Bismarck's policy. But his liberal views prompted him, of late, to act in opposition to THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2 J the Prime Minister, who endeavored to obtain the enforcement of acts hostile to freedom. To this is doubtless due the defeat he met at the Parliamen- tary election of 1879. Dr. Bamberger's immense practical knowledge of economical affairs, gives his opinions a weight which does not at all depend upon the occupancy of a seat in the legislative hall. The Doctor is a polished speaker, endowed by nature with remarkable capa- tities. Dr. Bamberger has acquired considerable of his fame as a journalist and political writer. In addi- tion to articles inserted in various periodicals, he has published pamphlets on "The Labor Ques- tion," " The Bank and Coinage Question," and other subjects, evincing in all a thorough understanding of European politics, and the tact of a consistent re- former. ELIAS BENAMOZEGH. The Rabbinical profession in Italy is still repre- sented by men who wield the pen with readiness and classical ability. In many instances, the pres- sure of official duties prevents a disclosure of that fact. But, not unfrequently, learned volumes prove that the country which gave birth to an Azariah De Rossi, is not destitute of men who have inherited his versatility. To cite a few cases in point, when 24 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF a large number rises before the mind, might seem invidious. Yet, it may be said, without the least reflection on others, that Mortara of Mantua, Levi of Ferrara, Tedeschi of Trieste, Lattes of Venice, and Benamozegh of Leghorn, are Rabbis who have found time to contribute to the advancement of sa- cred literature. It is of the last-named, however, that we purpose presenting some special character- istics. His wonderful activity has secured to him a degree of prominence, which is not given to all to attain. Rabbi Prof. Elias Benamozegh, Chevalier of the Crown of Italy, was born at Leghorn, in 1822. His parents had emigrated from Fez, Morocco, once so famous as the native place of grammarians and theologians. Basnage, in his Histoire des Juifs, makes mention of a certain Joshua Benamozegh who was promoted to a high rank by the Emperor of Morocco. Elias had the misfortune of losing his father when only four years old. But that lamentable cir- cumstance did. not involve the consequences often attending it. Under the tuition of his maternal uncle, Rabbi M. H. Curiat, the lad received He- brew instruction of a peculiar nature. Cabbalism formed an element which arrested the thought of the young student. It gave a bent to his intellect, that a perusal of any of his multifarious productions THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 25 cannot fail to show. When but a child, he would intelligently and fluently recite whole pages of the Zohur. His precocity became the subject of remark among the Jewish inhabitants of Leghorn, and some of the most literary sought his company. For the youth employed modern languages and general lit- erature, as aids to his knowledge of Biblical and Rabbinical writings. A desire to obtain a lucrative position led Ben- amozegh to a counting-house, where he remained for' several years; but, clearly, commerce was not his mission. He relinquished it, to devote himself to the career in which he has gained celebrity. At the examination for the title of Maskil, preparatory to that of Rabbi, he acquitted himself in a man- ner that impressed the community most favorably. He afterward frequented the Franco institution, where men of learning daily congregated to cultivate the knowledge of the Talmud, and, at the same time, pursued by himself secular studies. A Rabbi and an author, a philosopher and a publisher, the name of Elias Benamozegh has spread far and wide. But the feature which distinguishes him from his contemporaries, is the blending of Cabbalism, or as he terms it " Theosophy," with the dogmas, traditions, tenets and observances of Juda- ism. According to the views he entertains and expounds, what the supposititious work of Simeon 26 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Ben Jochai, and the writings of the men of the school of Luria have imparted, form an essential in the Mosaic faith, deprived of which it cannot stand. There was a time in the life of the Leghorn Rabbi, when he felt disposed to cast aside this speculative science, on which the illustrious Prof. Adolphe Franck has built his theories. But it was a period of transi- tion that gave away before a never-flagging advocacy of his Theosophy. The sacred books of the Orient, the Hellenistic Gnosticism, the emanations of Philo, and transcendental philosophy, exercised a mighty influence, and developed the Titan who fights the battles of Cabbalism, almost single-handed. He- brew, French and Italian he makes subservient to his designs, and his language is terse and in- cisive. Though an officiating Rabbi in the city of his birth, and Professor at the High School of Theolo- gy, Benamozegh does not allow his engagements to check the rapidity of his pen. He writes continu- ously, and contributes to a number of journals. Ol his most noted books are (in Hebrew): Emat Maf- giang, a refutation of the anti-Cabbalistic work of Leon de Modena, entitled Ari Nohem ; Em La-mikra y a commentary on the Pentateuch, with elucidations based on philosophical, critical, archaeological and scientific researches ; Tangant Leschad, a dialogue on Cabbalism, it being intended as a reply to a dia- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2*J logue on the same subject by Prof. S. D. Luzzatto; (in French) : Morale Juive et Morale Chr'etienne, which won the prize offered by the Alliance Israel- ite Universelle ; and (in Italian) Teologia Dogmati- ca e Apologetica, on metaphysics, revealing a profound acquaintance with the schools of Ancient and Mod- ern Philosophy. We might continue at great length, and name pamphlets and volumes that Rabbi Benamozegh has brought forth. But what has been said will sup- port the assertion, that Jewish science can claim him as an ardent and steadfast devotee. SAMUEL CAHEN. Literature has undergone a thorough revolution, within a comparatively short period. Critical re- searches in all branches of learning disclose this re- markable fact. Hebrew lore has most sensibly felt the effect of the change, for never before was it put to such a test. The student will perceive that the more he reads, the more striking is the diversity of exposition between the commentators of the Mid- dle Ages and those of our century. Some may question the necessity of the many explanatory works, especially on Holy Writ, which are constantly aug- menting. But as each author invariably presents new features, the reason becomes obvious. That Samuel 28 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Cahen was a Hebraist of no mean calibre, as well as a journalist of great powers, the subjoined will show. Samuel Cahen was born at Metz, France, August 4th, 1796. He spent his youth in Mayence, Hesse- Darmstadt, being destined to pursue a course of Rabbinical studies. His eagerness for knowledge was soon observed. He devoted much attention to mod- ern languages and literature, and his excellent ac- quaintance therewith evidenced a steadiness of pur- pose in cultivating innate faculties. After completing his education, Cahen was en- gaged as a private tutor in Germany. In 1822 he went to Paris, and assumed the directorship of the Jewish consistorial school of that city, holding the position for a number of years. Identified altogether with Jewish matters, he deemed it of special import- ance for his fellow-believers in France to have an organ to represent their views, and also to give pub- licity to the numerous works that gradually swell the size of Hebrew literature. Impressed with that opinion, M. Cahen brought out, in 1840, his fortnight- ly periodical, known throughout Europe as the Arch- ives Israelites. As its editor he gained a wide-spread reputation, and the magazine, so ably directed, took a prominent station among Jewish publications. Teem- ing with instructive articles, it also contained light compositions pleasing to the generality of readers. The circulation increased, and to this day the peri- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 29 odical flourishes and retains its influence under M, Isidore Cahen, son of its founder. The Archives has warmly espoused the objects of that noble organiza- tion, the Alliance Israelite Universelle, and has boldly- spoken in behalf of oppressed Hebrews in the East. In addition to lectures, and various writings on the Hebrew language and history, M. Cahen issued several works. A translation of the Bible into French, with the Hebrew on opposite pages, and critical notes and dissertations by himself and others, may be ac- counted his principal labor. The entire edition, con- sisting of eighteen volumes, appeared in 1851. De- spite adverse criticism, it must be admitted that the undertaking was heavy and difficult, and that it was performed with diligence and wisdom. M. Cahen died at Paris, France, January 8th, 1862. His chief literary product, of which we have just spoken, not less than his journalistic efforts, will, doubtless, serve to commend him to all who can rightly appreciate the services, of a well-spent life. JACOB DA SILVA SOLIS COHEN. The assertion that Elisha, who cured the poison- ous taste of the pottage of wild gourds, and that Isaiah, who healed the diseased King of Judah by the application of a fig-plaster, were adepts in med- ical science, might sound extravagant, if not hereti- cal. Not so the statement that Jews have, in 30 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF all ages, excelled as physicians. Unbiased historians have set forth, as the result of their own investiga- tions, a vast array of men among the descendants of the Prophets, who may divide honors with Hippo- crates. It may be still further averred that, in the Middle Ages, the lives of monarchs were entrusted into the hands of those who had first studied the laws of hygiene, as recorded by Moses. That no deterioration on that score can be detected, a cursory glance at the list of the medical faculty of any city will suffice to prove. Philadelphia gives an enviable standing to a practitioner whose skill in the treatment of an important specialty is as great, as his adherence to the ancestral belief is unques- tioned. Jacob Da Silva Solis Cohen, M. D., was born in the city of New York, on the 28th of February, 1838. His parents having settled in Philadelphia, the boy obtained preparatory instruction in its public schools. He completed his studies at the Central High School, graduating from that institution, as Bachelor of Arts, in February, 1855. The next year the youth attended lectures at the Jefferson Medical College, and from 1859-60 at the Medical Department of the University of Pennsylvania, where he received his degree of M. D. For a time, Dr. Cohen resided in Memphis, Ten- nessee, and again in Philadelphia, and in New York. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 3 1 But finally, in 1866, he chose Philadelphia as his permanent home, and there he has since steadily followed the profession for which he had been designed by natural qualifications. Without abandoning general practice, Dr. Cohen took up the diseases of the throat and chest. He attained so much success in this specialty that it led to his being selected as lecturer on laryngo- scopy and diseases of the throat and chest, in the Jefferson Medical College, a position he still fills with credit. His services in the branch to which he mostly devotes his attention are eagerly sought after, and the opinion he expresses on matters ap- pertaining thereto is regarded as an undisputed au- thority. On the outbreak of the Civil War, Dr. Cohen became assistant surgeon of the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Regiment, the first mustered into the service of the Government. He was subsequently appointed acting assistant surgeon in the United States Navy, and detailed to the steamer Florida, in which vessel he accompanied Commodore Dn- pont's expedition to Port Royal. The Doctor re- mained in the South Atlantic blockading squadron until January, 1864, when he resigned. At the re- quest of the medical authorities, he afterwards tended the wounded in the army hospitals at Phila- delphia. 32 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Of the numerous organizations with which Dr. Cohen is connected, there may be named the Phila- delphia College of Physicians, to which he is also Mutter lecturer; the Northern Medical Association of Philadelphia, of which he has been Vice-Presi- dent and President ; the Philadelphia County Medi- cal Society; the Pathological Society; the Pennsyl- vania State Medical Society ; the American Medical Association; the Franklin Institute; and the Phila- delphia Academy of Natural Sciences. He has oc- cupied a post in the Philadelphia Hospital ; also on the staff of the Northern Dispensary, and of the Jewish Hospital, both of Philadelphia. He is now attending physician to the German Hospital, and to the Jefferson Medical College Hospital. Dr. Cohen has published some valuable works on medicine, which evidence thorough searching and abilities of a high order. Among them are "A Trea- tise on Inhalation ;" " Diseases of the Throat," a labor which has particularly met with universal approval ; "Croup in its Relations to Tracheotomy;" several minor monographs, and a number of papers inserted in leading medical journals, and Transactions of med- ical societies. The Doctor has likewise done good work as one of the translators of Ziemssen's Cyclo- paedia. The past, serving as a criterion, predicts a future of uninterrupted usefulness. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 33 ALBERT COHN. Only three years have passed away, since the la- mented scholar and philanthropist, Albert Cohn, was laid to rest in the silent grave. But though decades may glide by, the memory of the virtues which this far-famed Hebrew possessed will not be effaced. For as numerous as the admirers of his excellencies, are the evidences of his enlarged benevolence. Albert Cohn was born at Presburg, Hungary, on the 14th of September, 1814. At the age of twelve he went to Vienna, where, for two years, he pur- sued his studies. The medical profession was in- tended for his future vocation, but he early showed a decided aversion to it, and a desire for philology and philosophy. He obtained instruction in theology, archaeology, and several Oriental languages, and, with but the aid of a dictionary, he mastered the Arabic and Syriac. Young Cohn's talents attracted the no- tice of Prof. Wernich, of the Protestant Seminary, a distinguished Orientalist, who took a great in- terest in the Jewish youth, and often assisted him with good counsel. At the instance of the afore- named, Cohn was appointed to teach Hebrew in the Seminary. He held the position for two years, to the satisfaction of both pupils and professors. It must be borne in mind that, even at this late 34 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF period, Jews were excluded from the learned profes- sions, in several countries of Europe. It became clear to Albert Cohn that the avenues to promo- tion would be closed against him, if he remained in Austria, and he was advised to go to Paris. He accordingly left Vienna in June, 1836, provided with letters of recommendation from noted celebrities. Reaching Frankfort-on-the-Main, he was favored with an introduction to the Rothschilds, who treated him very courteously. At Paris, he again applied him- self to study, and spent much of his time in the public libraries. Before long, he had become familiar with the German, French, English, Spanish, Italian, Hebrew and Arabic languages. Cohn studied Per- sian under the well-known scholar, Sylvestre de Sacy, and, whenever at leisure, he bestowed his at- tention on works of theology. Private tuition af- forded him the means of support. In 1838 the Rothschilds invited Albert Cohn to accompany them on a tour through Italy. He ac- cepted the invitation, and visited several cities of interest to Israelites, specially Leghorn, where he was presented with a copy of a Samaritan letter, ad- dressed to the Jewish community of that city. Pope Gregory XVI. gave him permission to etablish an industrial school in Rome. The sight of the Ghetto — the place wherein Hebrews were compelled to live amid suffering and misery — made a painful and last- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 35 ing impression upon M. Cohn. Happily, he lived to see that horrid quarter torn down by the arm of freedom, and his brethren released from the oppres- sion of ages. His knowledge of Oriental languages led the scholar frequently to confer with that won- derful linguist, Cardinal Mezzofante. The year 1839 found M. Cohn at Naples. From thence he travelled through Switzerland and Austria, visited Presburg, his native city, and returned to Paris, after an absence of twelve months. From that period he remained . closely associated with the Rothschilds, and dedicated his life to the service of mankind. At religious meet- ings he imparted instruction to the Jewish pupils of the schools. In charitable and in educational socie- ties his influence was sensibly felt. With the name of Rothschild as his standard, all obstacles were over- come. The mere mention of the many organizations of various natures, which M. Cohn either established or gave his valuable aid to, would unduly extend the limits of a single sketch. Suffice it to say, that all had an aim which emanated from the noblest source of philanthropy. Albert Cohn was looked upon as a great bene- factor, who made learning and wealth the servants of righteousness. Chosen as orator on import- ant occasions, his ability as such won him un- stinted praise. In Synagogues and at colleges, his eloquence flowed naturally, and at the funerals of 36 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Prof. Munk, and of the Barons Solomon and James de Rothschild, his remarks were reverentially lis- . tened to. As a member of the Alliance Israelite Universelle, he did much to further its progress. He was one of a deputation that waited upon the Shah of Persia, on July 12th, 1873, to present to his Majesty an appeal on behalf of the Jews of Persia. M. Cohn devoted a large portion of his life to ameliorate the condition of his fellow-believ- ers in the East. Acting conjointly with Sir Moses Montefiore, Sir Anthony de Rothschild, Dr. Lud- wig Philippson and others, he obtained a recog- nition of the rights of Israelites in Turkey. His efficient assistance was given towards bettering the condition Jof the down-trodden Hebrews of Pales- tine, and he himself journeyed to Jerusalem, in 1854, to seek out the cause of their distress. He found the Jewish community there sadly in need of educational as well as other institutions, the lack of which had contributed to its deplorable state. He set to work, and before leaving the Holy Land he had the pleasure of seeing a hospital erected, and schools founded. In his projects he was, of course, materially aided by the Rothschilds, through whom the Emperor of Austria lent his royal influence. M. Cohn's linguistic attainments proved of great advantage to him in his travels, and on his way THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2>7 to and from the East he stopped at several cities to ascertain the condition of Israelitish inhabitants. At Constantinople, he was successful in establishing schools for Jewish children. On arriving at Vienna the Emperor received him with high favor, and gave him the assurance of his protection to the He- brews of the Orient. He celebrated his return to Paris by a donation of sixty thousand francs to dif- ferent institutions of benevolence. Shortly after he went to London, to consult with the Chief Rabbi, Dr. N. M. Adler ; Sir Moses Montefiore, Baron Lionel N. de Rothschild and Sir David Salomons, about the most advisable course to be followed for the elevation of Palestinian Jews. In 1856 Albert Cohn again visited Jerusalem, effecting, as on the former occasion, much good. In many cities of the East where Jews resided, he suc- ceeded in establishing schools, and asylums for the homeless, for the sick, and for the poor. In i860 he exerted himself to allay the tribulations of per- secuted Christians in Syria, for whom liberal sub- scriptions were given by Jews. Hebrews were ready to shed their blood for the cause of religious tolera- tion. M. Cohn made two more journeys to the Holy Land, in 1864 and 1869, and noted with pleasure the advancement of his Eastern brethren, chiefly due to his personal endeavors. The indefatigable Hebrew never tired, and, availing himself of the protection 38 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF of the French Government, he improved the moral status of his co-religionists in Algeria, and in other portions of the Barbary States. Notwithstanding these manifold labors, Albert Cohn cultivated literature and science, and he was ever ready to pecuniarily assist authors, in the publication of useful works. He wrote learned ar- ticles for the Archives Israelites and other peri- odicals, and brought forth his " Jewish Letters," descriptive of his travels, besides minor produc- tions. He was strongly attached to Prof. Munk, and proved to the latter a friend in need. In recognition of his unwearied endeavors, the French Government, in 1867, created him a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. His restless activity during the last Franco-German war, and the excitement of those stirring times, served to weaken his con- stitution. But not until the spring of 1876 did a disease, that soon developed into alarming propor- tions, force him to retire from customary pursuits. Still his interest in the welfare of the societies with which he had been closely identified, was manifested to the last. On the 17th of March, 1877, when not sixty- three years old, Albert Cohn was summoned to the realms of bliss, there to receive an eternal re- ward. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 39 ISAAC ADOLPHE CREMIEUX. The saying of the Biblical moralist, that " a hoary head is a crown of glory," has been beautifully illus- trated in one whose personal history is interwoven with the annals of his country. That man, who wore the precious diadem which age put on, first opened his eyes to the light of day to see France revolutionize a political system, effete and insup- portably burdensome. Every breath he drew was amidst surroundings inspiring love of freedom, and detestation of tyranny. Under such influences the child grew to become what the whole world knew him to be — an honor to the human race, the boast of his people. Isaac Adolphe Cremieux was born at Nimes, April 30th, 1796. He early adopted the law as a profession, and was admitted to the Bar in 1817. Eloquence and thorough legal knowledge soon brought him to public notice. He removed to Paris, and there was engaged as counsel for the de- fence in the celebrated case of Guernon-Ranville, a minister of Charles X., charged with having been one of the authors ot the ordinances issued in July, 1830. He afterwards defended Raspail, Marrast, and other republicans, prosecuted by the government. M. Cremieux accompanied Sir Moses Montefiore 40 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF to the East in 1840, and became instrumental in alleviating the sufferings of his brethren. In 1842 he was chosen a member of the Chamber of Dep- uties, for the Left. He encouraged the Revolution of 1848, and advised. Louis Philippe to quit France. Under the provisional government he held the im- portant office of Minister of Justice, but soon re- signed, to act as counsel for Louis Blanc, in his de- fence against the government. While a member of the Assembly, M. Cremieux voted for Louis Napoleon as President of France. Soon, however, consistently with the liberal views en- tertained, he changed side, and opposed the usurp- er's policy. When Napoleon, forswearing himself, mounted the throne, Cremieux, together with Thiers and a host of patriots who resisted the the out- rageous suppression of freedom, was imprisoned. But the course of events soon compelled the parvenu to liberate the advocates of equality. M. Cremieux continued antagonistic to the arbi- trary measures of Napoleon III. After the sur- render of the latter at Sedan he again became Minister of Justice, and was subsequently one of the members of the delegation at Tours and Bor- deaux. He resigned February 10th, 1871. The payment of the war-debt to Germany was strongly urged by him, his own donation to the fund being one hundred thousand francs. The city of Algiers THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 4 1 recognized Cremieux's worth, by electing him to the National Assembly in 1873, while the land of his birth titled him a life-Senator. The French statesman ever lent effective help towards improving the condition of his fellow-believ- ers of the Orient. When the Alliance Israelite Uni- verselle was organized he became its President, and filled the position to the ever-increasing success of the objects cherished by the association. The International Jewish Conference, convened at Paris in June, 1878, and, graced by leading men in Israel from near and far, exalted itself when it placed the venerable Cremieux in the Presidential chair. His greeting was an outburst of fiery elo- quence. It electrified the august assemblage. As he depicted the unity of the Hebrew race, the martyrdom of the past, and the glories of the future, the thundering applause which the words elicited told of the speaker's powers, and of the philanthro- pist's undying compassion for the oppressed. The voice that moved multitudes is now hushed in deatk. On the 1st of February, 1880, Cremieux experienced a sorrow, the intensity of which may have occasioned the loss that France and Israel now bemoan. His consort, distinguished for social, not less than for domestic virtues, she who' had shared his toils and spurred him on to deeds of greatness, passed away. On the 10th of February Cremieux was no more. 42 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ARTHUR LUMLEY DAVIDS. Not unfrequently has the Jewish community been called upon to mourn the loss of faithful members who devoted long and useful lives solely to benefit their race. But how much greater the sorrow, when individuals of surprising attainments are stricken down in the bloom of youth. Arthur Lumley Davids was born in England, in 1811. Little is recorded of his early days, save of his intense application to reading. He had made considerable progress in the study of the law, but, as he possessed a competence, he did not adopt the legal profession. At the age of fifteen, Davids began the prepara- tion of a work of vast magnitude, a " Biblical Ency- clopaedia ;" while, at the same time, he kept actively engaged in acquiring the knowledge of the Turkish and other foreign languages. Wishing to help a movement for the withdrawal of Jewish disabilities, he contributed several learned articles to The Times upon that subject. A short time elapsed ere the Hebrews of Great Britain were made aware that there existed in their midst a young man who exercised his extensive abilities to elevate society ; and ©avids at once be- came the cynosure of all eyes. But marks of ap- proval for what had been already accomplished, did THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 43 not at all abate his energies. On December 23d, 1830, when only nineteen years old, he delivered a lecture on the •" Philosophy of the Jews," before the Society for the Cultivation of Hebrew Litera- ture. To say it was a great effort, would but faintly represent facts. The fame of Davids soon spread abroad, and his reputation increased by the appearance of A Grammar of the Turkish Language, with a Pre- liminary Discourse o?i the Language and Literature of the Turkish Nation, etc. The London Literary Gazette, an acknowledged authority in those days, spoke of it in the following terms : " We are in- formed that the author of this volume has not yet completed his twenty-first year ; and if we were disposed to think very highly indeed of the learn- ing and research which it displays, even had they marked the labor of grey hairs, how much more must we prize and estimate them, when we learn that the extraordinary effort proceeds from the verge of boyhood." The Sultan of Turkey, Mahmoud II., to whom the aforenamed production was dedicated, expressed his high approbation thereof; and, at the death of the author, sent the bereaved mother a splendid diamond ring, accompanied by a letter of condo- lence on the irreparable loss sustained. Merely a few of the good and sterling qualities 44 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF adorning the character of Arthur Lumley Davids have been here enumerated. Short, but brilliant, was the career which closed on the 19th of July, 1832, — a model that every youth should strive to copy. LELIO DELLA TORRE. The great Zunz stated in one of his writings that sacred oratory is unknown among the Hebrews of the Italian peninsula ; that Cabbalistic subtleties form the most important part of the sermons delivered in the Synagogues. The profound critic obviously labored under a misapprehension. While he so as- serted, Rabbi Aaron Lattes — to cite but one instance, — at Venice, preached in choice words and faultless rhetoric. But the sweeping charge hurt the feelings of a man who had directed his energies to the ele- vation of the art of public speaking, and who san- guinely anticipated happy results. The belief that he could bring these to pass, won his election to a responsible position. He was to train Talmudic scholars, by rule and by practice, to preach accept- ably before large audiences. Prof. Lelio Delia Torre was born at Cuneo, Italy, on January nth, 1805. Left fatherless when only two years old, the child found shelter at the home of his grandparents. After a time, his maternal uncle, the venerated Rabbi and admired preacher, THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 45 S. G. Treves, took the boy in charge. It was en- tirely to him that the nephew owed his advance- ment. For the kind relative generously offered the lad support and education. In touching language, Delia Torre has repeatedly acknowledged his in- debtedness. But nature had largely provided for the reception of a fruitful tuition. In his eighteenth year, the youth was chosen to teach Hebrew and Biblical exegesis at a college in Turin. Over a hundred students attended that institute, and there, for six consecutive years, a numerous class listened to elucidations of the con- struction and meaning of Holy Writ. During one half of that period, the young preceptor performed likewise the duties of assistant Rabbi. In 1829 Padua, famous in the annals of secular literature, became also a high seat of sacred lore. The Austrian Government — then ruling Lombardy and Venice — encouraged and subsidized a college, and many among the faithful contributed to the maintenance thereof. Delia Torre now saw bearded men bend to receive what flowed from his richly- stored intellect. His influence raised the standard of Talmudical, studies, for logic .and system dis- lodged hair-splitting sophistry or Pilpulism. Persons who had pored over volumes of the Gemara and found the task irksome, travelled far to learn afresh what is demanded of those who wish to exercise the Rabbinate, suitably to the needs of the present age. 46 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF In an erudite discourse, delivered soon- after the opening of the institute, the Professor explained how theology, based on the books of tradition, can be made a science attractive to the minds of the thoughtful. He promised to accomplish, in the de- partment assigned to-^him, what his already distin- guished colleague, Samuel David Luzzatto, would do in Scriptural hermeneutics. That declaration was carried out to the end, as proved by the testimony of many disciples now officiating in various cities throughout Italy and in foreign lands. Like the Sages of old, Prof. Delia Torre com- municated his teachings orally. None of his illus- trations found their way into the press. He has r however, bequeathed to posterity writings which evidence great linguistic acquirements, a ready pen and a polished style. We will mention some, pub- lished both prior to and after his death. A volume of sermons, with a preface, in which the author pleads for pulpit instruction, and for the dissemination of good lectures based on solid Jew- ish grounds, was issued at Padua. This work be- came the starting-point in the course which the Pro- fessor seemed delighted to pursue. Homiletics found in him a staunch devotee, and he inspired his pu- pils with love for that important branch of litera- ture. In addition to many addresses, orations and panegyrics, there appeared " Thoughts on the Sec- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 47 tions of the Pentateuch for the Sabbath," comprising forty-nine lectures, which may serve as a pattern to students. There was also published an Italian ren- dition of the Book of Psalms, with explanatory head- ings. A volume of notes to this production, through various mishaps, did not come out till a number of years later, and then only incomplete. An Italian translation of the liturgy, and an essay, " Woman Among the Hebrews," emanated from the same source. A selection of Hebrew poems, entitled Tal Yalduth, was subsequently given to the public. It contains effusions suggested by circumstances which happened in the author's early life, besides rhythmi- cal versions of Latin, Italian, and German compo- sitions, and a valuable introduction. Delia Torre showed his admiration for Moses Mendelssohn, Isaac Noah Mannheimer and Grace Aguilar, by inditing separate sketches of the lives and deeds of those illustrious members of the He- brew race. The ease with which he employed foreign languages made his learned articles a desideratum in periodicals issued in France and Germany. His con- tributions, if put together, would form a book of considerable size. Closely watching every movement in the religi- ous community of his Italian brethren, the Pro- fessor made himself heard, through different journals, in his native land, on subjects relating to the Syna- gogue and the ritual. 48 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF An existence of sixty-six years closed at Padua, Italy, on July 9th, 1871. The sons of Prof. Delia Torre, who have turned aside from engrossing occupations to bring to light much that their father left unpublished, assert that a number of Hebiew manuscripts, principally on cas- uistical questions, are among the paternal relics. Let us hope that they may not be lost in the ravages of time. Should they have gone to Pesth, whose Rab- binical college possesses the superb library of the Italian literator, men like Prof. Dr. David Kauf- mann will know how to turn writings so valuable to good account. JOSEPH DERENBOURG. The life of a Hebrew who has searched deep and brought forth what has given his co-religionists just cause for glory, should be descanted - upon. De- prived of the satisfaction of following a strong in- clination, we hope that the little about to be said will serve to create an idea — however faint — of the acquisitions of a singularly-gifted intellect. Prof. Joseph Derenbourg was born at Mayence, in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, in 181 1. He re- ceived preliminary instruction in his native city. When sufficiently advanced to enter a University, he repaired to Giessen ; but it was at Bonn that he completed his studies. The scholar's mental powers had now developed to a wide extent. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 49 M. Derenbourg spent a number of years at Am- sterdam, Holland. There he became known by his literary endeavors. These comprised a number of essays exhibiting deep penetration and the grasp of a thorough critic. Arriving in France, he asso- ciated himself with Munk and Albert Cohn, those two great and good Israelites who aimed with single- ness of purpose at the improvement of their people. Derenbourg demonstrated how beneficially he could employ his talents, by founding an educa- tional institute for boys, and by contributing numer- ous articles to French, German and Dutch magazines; among these were the Orientalia, the Asiatic Jour- nal, Jost's Annals, and one of Geiger's publications. Our author also took a prominent part in collating the Catalogue of Hebrew Manuscripts in the Impe- rial Library. The French Government has, on several occas- ions, recognized M. Derenbourg's services. With other co-religionists, he shares the distinction of wear- ing the decoration of the Legion of Honor. For two years this eminent Israelite has filled the chair of Rabbinical Hebrew, in a school established and maintained by the public. As a reward to the earnest worker the Academy of Inscriptions and Belles Lettres inscribed his name on the roll of its members. The productions of M. Derenbourg are chiefly on subjects connected with the history and litera- 50 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ture of the East, and they are authoritative on the questions treated. Notes on the Last Passover of Jesus; and on the Ancient Hebrew Grammar — 1841, were followed by an edition of Lokman, with a French translation — 1850; the second edition of the seances of Harriii, conjointly with M. Reinaud — 1852; " History and Geography of Palestine" — 1867 ; "Notes on Epigraphy" — 1868-69; " Hebrew Grammar" — 1875 > etc -> etc - A revised edition of several minor writings of Jona ibn Ganach is now being prepared, and it will, in all likelihood, appear in a short time. Though nearing an age which calls for repose, Joseph Derenbourg does not depart from his orig- inal resolve. He will continue in the same goodly path, until he reaches the terminus of life's journey. DAVID AARON DE SOLA. Holland, where the famous Menasseh Ben Is- rael was reared, has considerably lengthened the list of Jewish literators with the names of her chil- dren. There Saul Levi Morteira wrote ; there Solo- mon De Oliveira and David Franco Mendes issued their poetical effusions ; and from the midst thereof proceeded some who held honored positions abroad, both as ministers and authors. The career of Mr. De Sola affords a striking example. The Rev. David Aaron De Sola was a descend- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 5T ant of an ancient family who had emigrated from Spain, on the expulsion of the Jews by Ferdinand and Isabella, in 1492, and settled in The Nether- lands. He was born at Amsterdam, on the 26th of December, 1796. The desire of his relations had been to train him for the medical profession, but he exhibited a preference for Hebrew theology. When rather young — eleven years old — he gained admission into the Jewish Seminary of his native city. He remained there nine years, during which time he was promoted to the highest scholarship. In 181 8 the Portuguese Congregation of Lon- don decided to elect a second Hazan or minister — the Rev. Isaac Almosnino being the first — and Mr. De Sola became a candidate for the office. He arrived in England on the 9th of July of the same year, and was duly chosen on the 12th of August following. Notwithstanding the arduous duties attending the ministry, Mr. De Sola actively engaged in lit- erary pursuits. The work he first published, " The Blessings," with an introductory Essay on Thanks- giving, originated with Sir Moses Montefiore, to whom he acknowledged himself deeply indebted. The book was designed to convey religious infor- mation, regarding the various precepts, etc. Mr. De Sola began to preach in March, 1831, and his occasional English sermons — then quite a novelty 52 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF in the Portuguese Synagogue — created a very favor- able impression. The Society for the Cultivation of the Hebrew Language and Literature numbered him among its ardent laborers. Before it, he de- livered a course of lectures on " Sacred Biography as Connected with Hebrew Literature." One of the most important tasks of Mr. De Sola was a rendition into English of the complete Portuguese Jewish Prayers, — a decided improvement on the versions of A. Alexander (London, 1771), and David Levi (London, 1791). In conjunction with the Rev. Dr. M. J. Raphall, he presented an English translation of eighteen treatises of the *? Mishna ;" and began the publication of an edi- tion of the Bible, with the same gentleman and Mr. I. L. Lindenthal. Owing to the removal of Dr. Raphall to Birmingham, the enterprise was abandoned after the Book of Genesis had appeared. On the death of the Rev. Mr. Almosnino, in 1843, Mr. De Sola was appointed senior-minister, which position he occupied during the remainder of his life, his colleague being the Rev. David Piza. He evinced a lively interest in the establishment of an Association for the promotion of Jewish Literature, and lent his aid in the the issue of several of Miss Aguilar's works. Mrs. Charlotte Monteflore and Miss Miriam Mendes Belisario likewise secured his able assistance, when preparing their various productions. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 53* Mr. De Sola brought forth, in 1855, a biogra- phy of the celebrated Italian scholar, Isaac Samuel Reggio, in the Dutch language, and which has since received an English translation from the late Rev. Jacob J. Peres. In addition to a number of miscellaneous writings and contributions to the press, he published u The Ancient Melodies of the Spanish and Portuguese Jews," an important work, in connec- tion with Mr. Emanuel Aguilar, a musician of note and a brother of the gifted authoress. Ap- pended to this was "An Historical Essay on the Poets, Poetry and Melodies of the Sephardic Lit- urgy." Mr. De Sola left behind him a mass of literary correspondence with some of the master minds of the Jewish people, whose confidence he enjoyed. He expired on the 29th of October, i860, lamented by all who had valued his friendship and pro- fited by his knowledge. ABRAHAM DE SOLA. At a time when the Jewish inhabitants of America needed able expounders of the religion of the Hebrew Bible and traditions — persons whose characters could impart dignity to the ancestral wor- ship — a young man arrived on this continent. He was peculiarly fitted, by training and early asso- "54 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ciations, for the sacred undertaking, which had led him far away from home. In the school and at. the Synagogue, he had learnt that the history of the chosen race must be presented in an attractive, but not meretricious, garb; that the service of God's people must be solemn, but not strained. Thus furnished with the means for giving a healthy im- petus to what he wished to preserve, the new comer set himself to work. What follows will show ' how the community benefited by the endeavors of this public servant. The Rev. Prof. Abraham De Sola, LL.D., was born at London, England, on the 18th of September, 1825. His father, the Rev. David Aaron De Sola, -enjoyed a high reputation as a divine and scholar. Young De Sola received a careful education, under paternal supervision. After having finished his academical studies', he took to Hebrew, Literature and Theology. Diligence and perseverance soon produced the results which always attend them. Be- fore reaching manhood, Mr. De Sola was urged by many who recognized his worth to apply for a ministerial office in his native city. But a wider sphere of action had been opened for him in the New World. In 1847 ne responded to a call from the Portuguese Hebrew Congregation, of Montreal, Canada. There began Dr. De Sola's steadfast labors. In THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 55 the first year of his residence at Montreal, he lec- tured before the Mercantile Library Association, on the " History of the Jews of England," and that his efforts were duly appreciated is evidenced by his having been requested to address the same so- ciety, as well as the Mechanics' Institute, every suc- ceeding winter during which a course of lectures was given. The Doctor was chosen President of the Natural History Society, of Montreal, a posi- tion he still retains. Before that organization, he has delivered very interesting lectures on Jewish history, and on the zoology, cosmogony, and botany of the Scriptures; displaying in all a rare scholar- ship, and a thorough acquaintance with the sub- jects. In a short space. of time Dr. De Sola's talents had brought him out so prominently, that in 1848 he was appointed Professor of Hebrew and Semi- tic Literature in M'Gill College. The duties at- tached to that honorable office he has discharged with commendable zeal. So ■ popular he became in the said institution that the degree of Doctor of Laws was conferred on him, and he was selected to address the graduates, on behalf of the Faculty, at one of the commencements, — a token of distinc- tion accorded only to preceptors of marked abilities. Prof. De Sola has labored for the welfare of his brethren as a minister, but more particularly as a 56 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF writer. Many articles from his pen have graced the columns of the secular and the Jewish press, and the drift thereof has been the exaltation of the religion of Israel, and the exposing to view of the grand literature of our people. The author's style is clear and choice, and his logical arguments leave a deep impression. Of the Professor's writings we may mention " Notes on the Jews of .Persia," "Com- mentary on Samuel Hannagid's Introduction to the Talmud," " Peritsol's Cosmography," " Life of Sha- bethai Tsevi," M History of the Jews of Poland," " History of the Jews of France ;" and also, in con- junction with the late Rev. Jacques J. Lyons, of New York, " The Jewish Calendar." Dr. De Sola, who was in close literary relations with the Rev. Isaac Leeser, purchased from the lat- ter's executors the plates of all his works, and re- issued several of these, principally the forms of prayer, according to both the Spanish and Portuguese, and the German rituals. But recently the Doctor has pub- lished, in six volumes, a revised translation of the liturgy exclusively in use among the Sephardim, a labor undertaken at the instance of the late Rev. Dr. Benjamin Artom, Chief Rabbi of the Spanish and Portuguese Congregations of the British Em- pire, and dedicated to Sir Moses Montefiore and to the memory of his lamented consort, Lady Ju- dith. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 57 In addition to all this, Dr. De Sola has constant- ly identified himself with educational, charitable and literary associations, alike of his fellow-believers and of Christians, who hold him in high regard. On the 9th of January, 1872, Prof. De Sola was granted the privilege of opening the United States House of Representatives with prayer, he being the first foreign clergyman to invoke the Divine blessing within the halls of Congress. His outpourings elicited favorable comments, by reason of their broad and humanitarian character, free from the least tincture of sectarianism. Several voyages to Europe have tended to in- crease Prof. DeSola's popularity in the Old World, and, at the same time, proved a benefit to his health, and a restorative to his mental powers ; as de- sired by all who hope to see him long engaged in the service of his brethren. EMANUEL OSCAR MENAHEM DEUTSCH. It has been truly said that there is no intellectual movement for the advancement of the masses, in which Israelites do not figure conspicuously. The correctness of this assertion can be ascertained by glancing at the careers of numbers of Hebrews who devoted their best energies to the accomplish- ment of a sole object, viz. : the general diffusion of 58 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF knowledge. Thus Jews and Gentiles are largely in- indebted to the literary research of Dr. Emanuel Oscar Menahem Deutsch for the revelation of import- ant facts regarding a work which will outlive pos- terity — the Talmud. Dr. Deutsch was born at Neisse, in the province of Silesia, Prussia, on the 28th of October, 1829. When but six years old, he attended the gymna- sium of his birth-place, and continued there some time. The boy's uncle, David Deutsch, of Mislowitz, desired to be entrusted with his nephew's education, and in compliance with the wish expressed, Emanuel remained under the charge of that relative until his thirteenth year. The lad was subjected to a rather stern discipline, being obliged to rise daily at five o'clock, having but half an hour for re- creation, as the rest of the time had to be entirely spent in hard study. This continued strain, though it laid the foundation of an accurate scholarship, proved a severe blow to the health of the student in after years. On returning home, young Deutsch again proceeded to the gymnasium, where he was en- rolled in the highest class. At the age of sixteen he went to the Berlin University, where theology and the Talmud mainly occupied his thoughts. Deutsch supported himself by teaching, and he wrote several stories and poems for magazines. It was not long before he completely mastered the English language and its literature. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 59 In 1855 Dr. Deutsch was appointed assistant in the library of the British Museum, which position afforded him the opportunity to largely exercise his talents. He contributed numerous papers to Chambers' Encyclopedia, essays to Kitto's and Smith's Bible Dictionaries, and articles to different journals. His principal aim, however, was a treatise on the Talmud — the ideal of his childhood. This took a practical form in October, 1867, when his article on the above-named work appeared in the London Quarterly Review. The great merit of the production at once established his fame, and within twelvemonths it was translated into French, German Russian, Swedish, Dutch, and Danish. Dr. Deutsch having conceived a strong affection for the East, was granted leave of absence for ten weeks. He left England on the 7th of March, 1869, and visited, among other places, Palestine, remain- ing awhile in Jerusalem. Profound emotions seized his heart, when he stood by the ruins of the an- cient Temple (called " The Wailing-Place of the Jews "), the spot where the faithful, on each eve of the Sabbath, bemoan the loss of the Hebrew na- tionality. The rapidity and fatigue of Dr. Deutsch's journey to the Orient, seriously impaired his consti- stitution. He reached England on the 10th of May, submitted a valuable report of his travels to the trustees of the British Museum, and delivered 60 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF a number of lectures, chiefly on Phoenicia. In Octo- ber, 1869, his article on "Islam," was published in the Quarterly Review. Overwork, together with ill-health and the death of attached friends, caused much depression of spir- its, and the old longing for the East revived with greater force. Towards the close of 1872, Dr. Deutsch obtained six months' vacation, and set out for Italy and Egypt. But his physical powers were now entirely exhausted, and the severity of the winter helped to weaken his already broken-down frame. He reached Cairo on the 30th of March, 1873, and was thence removed to Alexandria. All efforts to restore him became of no avail, and on the 1 2th of May following he breathed his last. He was interred in the Jewish Cemetery of Alex- andria, where a granite stone marks the grave of this lamented author. Dr. Deutsch added to his remarkable knowledge of European languages, and of Hebrew, a thorough acquaintance with the Sanscrit, Chaldaic, Aramaic and Phoenician tongues. Of his connection with the British Museum, he thus speaks : " For nigh twenty years, it was my privilege to dwell in the very midst of that pantheon called the British Museum, the treasures whereof, be they Egyptian, Homeric, palimpsest, or Babylonian cuneiforms, the mutilated glories of the Parthenon, or the Etruscan mysteri- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 6 1 ous grotesqueness, were all at my beck and call, all days, all hours." A large accumulation of manuscripts was found after Dr. Deutsch's death, containing parts of the Talmud, copied or translated, beginning in a child's hand-writing, and reaching down to a comparatively late period. His Literary Remains, consisting of nineteen papers on such subjects as " The Tal- mud " and " Islam," before mentioned; " Semitic Culture," " Egypt, Ancient and Modern," " Semitic Languages," " The Targums," " The Samaritan Pen- tateuch," and ■" Arabic Poetry," edited by Lady Strangford, appeared in 1874. A void, not easily filled, was created in the world of letters, when he, that surpassed many of his coevals in the accomplishment of extraordinary designs, was summoned from the sphere of his ac- tivity. ISAAC DISRAELI. Few of England's prose-writers have acquired as much distinction as Isaac D'Israeli. The fact may be attributed to the wide interest which his writings command, and likewise to their character- istic elegance and purity of style. Mr. D'Israeli, though never professing a strict adherence to Jew- ish observances, always considered it an especial pride to be numbered among the descendants of 62 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Abraham ; nor did his religious convictions waver. Isaac D'Israeli was born at Enfield, in May, 1766. He belonged to a Hebrew family that had been driven from Spain by the Inquisition, and had settled at Venice. His father, Benjamin D'Israeli, removed to England in 1748, at the age of eigh- teen, and there became a prominent merchant, amassing, in a short time, a considerable fortune. Isaac, when a small child, displayed a precocity which promised a brilliant future. His time was entirely occupied with books, and he evinced a de- cided aversion to worldly pursuits, which action his parents by no means sustained. In order to change the bent of the boy's mind, his father sent him to school at Amsterdam, where he remained four or five years. Bayle, Voltaire, and Rousseau were his favorite studies. Before returning to England, he wrote a long poem against commerce, which was submitted to Dr. Samuel Johnson, but the death of the latter prevented its examination. Mr. D'Israeli intended to place his son in a commercial house at Bordeaux, but the opposition with which he met, induced the father to give up his purpose, and the youth was allowed to follow his own disposition. He travelled in France, and spent some months in Paris, in the society of men devoted to literary pursuits, which formed the delight of young D'Israeli. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 63 Coming home in 1788, he published an anony- mous poem, " On the Abuse of Satire," after the manner of Pope. It was intended as an attack on " Peter Pindar" (Dr. John Wolcot) and the favor it obtained laid the corner-stone of Mr. D'Israeli's literary fame. Much speculation was indulged in as to its authorship, and such were the merits of the poetic effusion, that several popular writers received the credit, ere the name of its real author leaked out. Mr. Disraeli's mind was now wholly engrossed in the preparation of the work by which he is best known. The first volume of the " Curiosities of Literature," appeared in 1791 ; the second in 1793; and the third, which completed the series, in 181 7. "Miscellanies, or Literary Recreations," in 1796; "Calamities of Authors," in 181 2; and "Quarrels of Authors," in 18 14, fully sustained the writer's high reputation. It would take many pages to enumerate the various productions of a pen so fer- tile. Suffice the mention of " Despotism, or the Fall of the Jesuits," a novel (2 vols.); ".Vaurien, or Sketches of the Times," a philosophical novel (2 vols.) ; apologetic of the " Character of James I. ;" "The Literary Character," an essay; and " Commen- tary on the Life and Reign of Charles I." The work last mentioned gained for Mr. D'Israeli the title of D. C. L., from the University of Oxford, in acknowledgment of his abilities as an historian. 64 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF In July, 1820, he contributed an article to the London Quarterly Review, in defence of Pope. It created quite a sensation, there being at that period a spirited controversy as to the merits and demerits of the English poet. A proof of the esteem for Mr. D'Israeli as a man of letters, is a remark of Lord Byron, who alluded to him as " that most en- tertaining and searching writer." It is fitting now to refer to several momentous inci- dents in the life of Mr. D'Israeli, which had an important bearing on his career, and exercised much influence in the rearing of his family. Ben- jamin D'Israeli, the father of Isaac, on arriving in England, joined the Portuguese Synagogue. Though not a strict conformant to the tenets of his religion, he, nevertheless, contributed a yearly sum to the support of the congregation. His son, Isaac, married Maria Basevi, sister of George Basevi, the architect, all being members of the Portuguese Synagogue. Mr. Isaac D'Israeli seldom attended worship, but paid regularly his finta or tax of £10 per annum. On October 3d, 181 3, he was elected Parnass or Warden of the Bevis Marks Synagogue, which position he declined with thanks; at the same time expressing his readiness to con- tinue giving his mite, without assuming any active part. No notice was taken of his action, and, pursuant to the rules, he was fined £40. This THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 65 drew from him an interesting letter, which plainly shows the injustice against which he strongly pro- tested.* The determination of the elders of the Synagogue was not shaken by this communication, and he was informed, " that, in accordance with the present laws, it is not possible to grant him the exemptions he desires." When Mr. DTsraeli received his annual account in March, 1814, he refused to pay the fine for his- non-acceptance of office, though he showed his willingness to discharge the usual tax. The un- pleasant circumstance occasioned several summonses to meetings of the congregation, which elicited fur- ther correspondence. In March, 18 17, the matter terminated, in Mr. D'Israeli withdrawing from the Synagogue ; his brother-in-law, Mr. Basevi, also sev- ering his connection. How the Jewish community was injuriously affected by what has just been nar- rated, we shall proceed to demonstrate. The sons of Mr. DTsraeli, — Benjamin, Ralph, and James, — all born prior to the dispute mentioned, were admitted into the Abrahamic covenant, and the daughter, Sarah, was bred in her parents' faith. But the Right Hon. Benjamin Disraeli (who has so altered his surname) became affiliated to the Church of England, through the influence of a Christian friend, — the poet, Samuel Rogers. *See Picciotto's " Sketches of Anglo- Jewish History," p. 297. 66 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF The history of the present Premier of Great Britain is as familiar as a household word, and late events have amply testified to his controlling power in European affairs. The Earl of Beaconsfield has published a com- plete edition of his father's writings, and prefaced it with an introduction, in the course of which this passage occurs : " He was a complete liter- ary character, a man who really passed his life in his library,"^ — a graphic description of him whose life has been sketched. Isaac D'Israeli's estrangement from a people whose very appellation his predecessors had cho- sen as a distinctive family name, must needs be lamented ; but his attachment to the principles of the ancestral faith is proven in his excellent work, entitled " Genius of Judaism." Mr. D'Israeli died on the 19th of January, 1848, having approached the ripe age of eighty-two years, bequeathing to the world the fruits of his long literary labors. DAVID EINHORN. The extreme wing of Reform in Judaism has pro- minent leaders in America. But one lately removed from among the living, displayed a skill that caused many to confide in his generalship. Ar- dent, fearless, uncompromising, his word, always ut- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 67 tered with intense earnestness, sounded like a com- mand that dared not be disobeyed. From the very- outset, he directed his steps in a path which he deemed progressive. With unabated vigor he en- tered the lists against the opponents of his views, and struggled for a victorious issue. But we must not anticipate the narrative of Dr. Einhorn's his- tory. Let that tell of the iron will exhibited through- out a checkered life. The Rev. Dr. David Einhorn was born at Dis- peck, in Bavaria, Germany, on November I oth, 1809. Enjoying the advantage which not all students possess — that of having a home supplied with com- forts — he could gratify a natural love for books. His extraordinary talents early developed under care- ful tuition. In his ninth year, Einhorn gained admission into the Rabbinical High School at Furth, then in charge of the widely-known Rabbi Wolf Hamburger. It was a great pleasure for the instructor to count among his pupils, a lad so apt that he could learn almost intuitively. Observing the quickness with which young Einhorn settled the sharp disputations raised in the Talmud, to the astonishment of the whole class, the unsophisticated Rabbi formed, perchance, hopes which were not to be realized. He may have imagined that he had discovered in that Bachur, a successor who would shine brilliantly as a champion 68 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF of the old school. The title of Rabbi is not gen- erally conferred on beardless youths, but Einhorn obtained it when only sixteen years of age. The same eagerness the young man had felt for the pursuit of religious studies, he experienced when cultivating branches of secular learning. At the Un- iversity of Wurzburg, and subsequently at that of Miinchen, he fathomed the depths of philosophy, while his mind was disciplined by Mathematics, and exalted by the classics. At the end of four years he quitted college, as Doctor of Philosophy ', amid the congratulations of his preceptors. Then began the real battle of life. Schelling had displaced what Hamburger fancied he had firm- ly set in. Einhorn warmly espoused the cause of radical Reform. But in those days the promises of success to a minister who turned aside from Orthodoxy were anything but encouraging. Our preacher, notwithstanding his eloquence, met with refusals when in quest of a position. After hot dis- cussions, and even legal proceedings had been re- sorted to, Einhorn finally found a Rabbinical office in the town of Hopstadten. While officiating there, he attended the second conference of Reform Rabbis at Frankfort-on-the-Main in 1845, an ^ made his mark by incisive arguments and scholastic learning. A little later, Dr. Einhorn succeeded Dr. Samuel Holdheim, as Chief Rabbi of the Grand Puchy of THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 69 Mecklenburg-Schwerin. A warm friendship sprung up between the two congenial spirits, but Einhorn, more than once, arose to combat the opinion of that foe of the Talmud, who sought to support his extreme views by quoting the very work he wished to demolish. The Doctor was also led to oppose the theory of Prof. Delitsch, the very scholarly Chris- tian, who maintained that a male child of Jewish parents cannot be considered an Israelite, unless he is admitted into the covenant of Abraham. Dr. Einhorn was destined to encounter a still stronger antagonism at Pesth. He had been called and welcomed there as Rabbi in 185 1, and those who shared his convictions listened admiringly to his sermons. But a storm was raised by the Con- servative party. Availing themselves of the reaction in politics, throughout Europe, the adversaries of Reform, represented the Synagogue of the emphatic preacher as a nursery of revolutionary doctrines. The Austrian Government therefore ordered the Temple to be closed, despite Einhorn's protestations and en- treaties. About this period appeared " Principles of Mosaism," in which the author endeavors to prove that the statutes of the Pentateuch are not unchange- able ; that, while the truths enunciated therein must remain and rule Israel everywhere, the ceremonial code may be modified and altered, or even abro- gated, agreeably to times and circumstances. 70 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF In 1855 Dr. Einhorn responded to an invita- tion from the Har Sinai Congregation of Balti- more, to become its spiritual guide. America and its institutions had always possessed a charm for the liberal German. During his incumbency as pastor in the afore-named city, he published his prayer-book, ' Olath Tamid, which was received with much favor by many Reform Temples. There he also issued a monthly magazine, called Sinai, in the interest of radical Reform. But at the outbreak of the Civil War, in 1861, the editor scourged with his pen and tongue the defenders of Negro- slavery. Such boldness in a place decidedly South- ern in its proclivities, rendered his stay danger- ous. It is even reported that the Doctor's life had been threatened, and consequently he sought Philadelphia as a refuge, where he soon became Rabbi of the Congregation Keneseth Israel. In that city he brought out Ner Tamid, a catechism which has been adopted by schools conducted in accord- ance with the principles he advocated. In 1866 Dr. Einhorn repaired to New York, where a larger scope was offered to his efforts in the Adath Jeshurun Congregation. This influential body united, in 1874, with the old Anshe Chesed Congregation/and formed the present Beth-El. Dr. Einhorn continued his ministration till within a short period of his demise. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 7 1 The controlling idea of the man manifested itself in his forcible and eloquent addresses, and in his general demeanor. At a convention held in Philadelphia, in 1869, he urged the acceptance of rules aiming to abolish Jewish divorce regulations, the Leviratical law, and other observances. In the summer of 1879 Dr. Einhorn resolved to retire from office. On Sabbath, July 12th, of that year, he delivered his farewell sermon, in which he re- viewed his career. In the course of his remarks, he exhorted his flock to cling to the principles he had strenuously maintained, and to stand by his successor and son-in-law, the Rev. Dr. Kaufmann Kohler, "who," the speaker remarked, "though young in years, is rich in theological lore." David Einhorn did not long survive to enjoy the earthly rest which he had sought. On Novem- ber 2d, 1879, he departed for "the undiscovered country, from whose bourn no traveller returns." A collection of the inedited writings of Dr. Ein- horn might be a valuable addition to American Jewish literature. HERSCHELL FILIPOWSKL* The writings of the first Hebrew Grammarians and Lexicographers lay buried for ages in oblivion. *Mr. Denizen H. Filipowski has furnished useful information towards the preparation of this sketch of his father's life. 72 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF At different periods in this century the endeavors of men like Dukes, Blumenfeld, and Goldberg, un- earthed what proved of value. But that which was brought forth served only to excite a keen wish for seeing more. To gratify that laudable desire an organization, known as the Hebrew Antiquarian So- ciety, engaged the capacities of a learned Israelite — Herschell Filipowski. He ransacked libraries, and availing himself of the light which his predecessors — principally Prof. Luzzatto — had furnished, drew out a volume of primary importance in the history of Biblical exegesis. It was the work of no less a writer than Menahem Ben Saruk. Mr. Filipowski arranged it in a complete form, and made it still more interesting by his abridged English version, and by the narrative of a stirring episode in the life of the Spanish author. The scholar of our day who labored so acceptably is the subject of the remarks here appended. Herschell Filipowski was born in Poland, in 1 8 17. He gave early promise of attaining an eminent position. When only fifteen, he published "An Almanac for One Hundred Years," both in the Polish and Russian tongues. In 1840 he went to England, and received the appointment of Teacher of Hebrew and Oriental Languages in the Jews' College, Finsbury Square. Subsequently, he became connected w ; th the Colonial and Standard Life Offices THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 73 of Edinburgh, remaining in that city a number of years. It was during his residence in the cap- ital of Scotland, that Mr. Filipowski issued some excellent works. Our author brought out, in 1849, a production that secured his fame among Actuaries, namely, that on Anti-Logarithms. This was followed, in 1854, by a condensed translation of " The First Hebrew and Chaldaic Lexicon to the Old Testament," in- dited in the tenth century by Menahem Ben Saruk, to which allusion has already been made; in 1857, by a rendition into English, from the Latin, of "Napier's Canon of Logarithms"; and, in 1864 and 1866, by an edition, in two volumes, of "Baily's Doctrine of Life Annuities and Assurances." The Actuarial Magazine, a monthly, devoted to tables of different kinds, was edited by Mr.' Filipowski for a short time. An extensive knowledge of typography proved of great service in the publication of his works. The industrious laborer invented a font of Hebrew type, with points attached to each letter, from which a Hebrew and English Prayer-book was printed in 1862. Mr. Filipowski made another journalistic attempt in 1867, when The Hebrew National appeared. In a short existence of six months, it presented articles from the pens of many well-known scholars, besides the contributions of its talented editor. But its dis- 74 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF continuance did not put an end to the unceasing exertions of Mr. Filipowski. He published a num- ber of productions in Hebrew and Chaldaic, and shortly before his death, which occurred on the 12th of July, 1872, he had completed a " Hebrew and Roman Almanac," from the year 1 A. C. E. to perpetuity. This book exhibits a vast amount of learning and tact, as a mere glance will reveal. The date of any event, together with other instructive matter, can be found therein, thus making the volume almost indispensable. Mr. Filipowski's linguistic powers may be judged from the assertion that he was conversant with Polish, Russian, Latin, Hebrew, Arabic, Spanish, French, English, German and Chinese. But believ- ing that great advantages in the relations of man- kind would be derived from a universal language, he urged its adoption in his various writings. The idea, certainly Utopian, evinces, nevertheless, a spirit of benevolence and broad humanitarianism. ACHILLE FOULD. Modern governments have not failed to notice, the tact and skill characteristic of the Jew. High offices of trust have therefore been confided to mem- bers of • the ancient race, and the integrity and sagacity displayed in the discharge thereof, en- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 75 sured a share of respect, proportionate to the respon- sibilities of the positions. Before our vision stands a Hebrew who was justly recognized as a leading financier and statesman. For the most intricate questions, relative to the stability of a government, were unravelled and settled by his keen discern- ment. Achille Fould was born at Paris, France, Nov- vember 17th, 1800. He early associated with his father in the banking business, ' which he afterwards managed alone. Besides receiving a very careful and varied education, he travelled for self-improve- ment through portions of Europe and the East. A lover of the beautiful, he spent some time in Italy, and visited the Eastern coasts of the Mediterran- ean, to develop his knowledge of the fine arts. M. Fould entered political life in 1842, as a member of the Chamber of Deputies for the de- partment of Tarbes. In that body he became a conspicuous figure from his thorough acquaintance with economical and financial matters. He secured a re- election in 1846, and two years later sat in the Constituent Assembly. He acquiesced in the Revo- lution of 1848, and his ideas on finance exercised a decided weight on the then Provisional Govern- ment. Under the presidency of Louis Napoleon, M. Fould was four times Minister of Finance. He took y6 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF a leading part in the movements to reform com- merce. His disagreements with the president, how- ever, led him twice to retire from office, but he was each time re-appointed. Strongly opposed to free trade, and firm in his conservative tendencies, he hailed the establishment of the new Empire. On the 25th of January, 1852, in consequence of the decree confiscating the property of the Orleans family, M. Fould relinquished the ministry of finance, but he was, on the same day, made Senator, and, soon after, he rejoined the Government, as Minister of State, and of the Imperial Household. In that capacity, he directed the Paris Exhibition of 1855. The events of November, i860, urged him once more to resign, but he was recalled to the ministry of finance, in November of the following year. On the promulgation of the order of the 19th of Janu- ary, 1867, making changes in the administration of affairs, he retired from office, and did not thereaf- ter accept any position. While in the Cabinet, M. Fould reduced the floating debt, which the Mexican war had increased, by the negotiation ot a loan of three hundred mil- lions of francs. Whatever his political proclivities may have been, none will deny that he discharged his duties with zeal and fidelity. M. Fould was created a Commander of the Le- gion of Honor in 1852, and an honorary member THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. JJ of the Academy of Fine Arts, in 1857. During his public career, he issued several pamphlets on finance, of which may be mentioned Pas a" As- sign ats, and Opinion de M. A. Fould sur les As- signats, both against the use of paper money. He died at Tarbes, France, October 5 th, 1867. The various monetary schemes and other public measures introduced by M. Fould have been attended with the happiest results, both in contributing to the prosperity of his native country, and in extending his fame as a financier of exceptional ability. ADOLPHE FRANCK. Philosophy, in its literal definition, is coeval with human thought. The mind has always gone in search of wisdom. But the introduction of the term in its multifarious applications is due to the Greeks. To attempt to define at present the meaning which that word conveys, would be to engage in a description of all that is known and knowable of the heavens above, and of the earth beneath. There was, in- deed, a period, in which the world regarded one single individual as having compassed all, and hav- ing given, not merely an outline of the learning implied by philosophy, but a full and unquestionable delineation. Aristotle enjoyed the reputation of be- ing the very quintessence of wisdom. Any branch 78 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF of science, treated in a manner at variance with that of the Stagirite, had perforce to be declared faulty. But the sceptre of even that monarch of know- ledge passed into the hands of others, who, in their turn, wielded it with more or less pretension. What then is philosophy; or which branch thereof can lay claim to perfection? The question grows more per- plexing every day. Its solution will long remain problematic. Herein is presented the record of an eclectic phil- osopher, who, nothwithstanding the mystical nature of some of the subjects discussed, writes with ele- gance and perspicuity. Prof. Adolphe Franck, was born at Liocourt, in the department of Meurthe, France, October 9th, 1809. At Nancy and Toulouse he pursued studies with signal success. Determined to become an in- structor, possessed, in every way, of the necessary qualifications, he held fast to his industrious habits, and at the examination in 1832, he obtained the highest average in philosophy, over many competi- tors. This achievement added strength to his will. Franck taught for a while in provincial towns. But such abilities as he commanded, could not be cramped. They must be allowed free scope. The man's writings soon made him famous. In 1840 M. Franck was called to Paris, as Pro- fessor of Philosophy at Charlemagne College. Alive THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 79 to the importance of the position, he applied him- self to deeper studies, and with so much diligence, that it occasioned a severe illness, which forced a withdrawal from active duties in 1843, an d a de- mand for relaxation in sunny Italy. Prior to this untoward event, M. Franck had been appointed to a high office in the Royal Library. He devoted his leisure hours to meditation and authorship. Several literary productions tended to his being chosen a member of the Academy of Moral and Political Sci- ences, in 1844. Restored to health, he returned home, and undertook, in conjuction with others, the publica- tion of " The Dictionary of Philosophical Sciences," in six volumes — 1844-' 5 2, an erudite and valuable work, in which many excellent articles emanate from the subject of this sketch. Having taught social science with success, M. Franck was requested by M. Barthelemy, in 1849, to substitute him as Saint Hilaire Professor of Greek and Latin Philosophy in the College of France. This post he occupied until 1852. In 1854 he was selected to fill the Chair of International Law in the same institution, though he did not receive the degree of Professor until 1856. He still adorns that station, and the inestimable services rendered, have met with the entire appreciation of his associates, and the community at large. The capacities of M. Franck must have been obviously manifest, since 80 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF he could, in the midst of an assemblage of literati, earn so decisive a triumph. M. Franck's earnest endeavors as a teacher, and his frequent publications, illustrate his activity. The Professor is identified with the eclectic school of philo- sophy. His doctrines cannot, therefore, strictly claim originality, but they are advanced in a clear diction, as the results of conscientious meditations, and they evince sincerity in the expression of opinions long entertained. In addition to the articles furnished the Journal des D'ebats, and the Annals of the Acad- emy of Sciences, and essays on Thomas Moore, Bo- din, Machiavelli, and other noted personages, the following works have proceeded from his pen : " A Sketch of the History of Logic"— 1838; "The Cab- bala, or Religious Philosophy of the Hebrews " — 1843, a production in which the author's tendencies are distinctly shown, and which has been translated into German by the celebrated scholar, Dr. Adolph Jellinek of Vienna ; " Communism Judged by His- tory " — 1849, wherein the ideas set forth by vision- aries meet a vigorous opposition ; " Philosophy of Penal Laws" — 1864; "Philosophy of Ecclesiastical Laws" — 1864; "Mystic Philosophy in France to- wards the Close of the Eighteenth Century" — 1866; etc., etc. For two decades, Prof. Franck has been a mem- ber of the Superior Council of Public Instruction. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 8 1 As Vice-President of the Israelitish Consistory at Paris, he displayed much interest in the workings of that body, but resigned his position in 1873. The dec- oration of the Legion of Honor was conferred on the Professor in 1869. The noble son of France is still concerned in the welfare of his brethren. What inures to their spirit- ual benefit, can never cease to excite the sympathy of him whose labors have so eminently contributed to raise their social standing. ZACHARIAS FRANKEL. A difficult task would it be, to portray the char- acteristics of a man whose depth of intellect and im- mense practical knowledge, placed him on a level with the most renowned scholars of his day. But not- withstanding this fact, to remain altogether silent, might justly be deemed an unpardonable omission. Our inability to rise equal to the subject must se- cure the indulgence of the public, in the little that will be related of the literary merits and personal traits of an honored Israelite. Dr. Zacharias Frankel was born at Prague, in Bo- hemia, Austria, on. the 1st of October, 180 1, of a family noted for piety and erudition. He early show- ed a strong desire for mental culture, and, when but a lad, his training in Jewish lore gained him the 82 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF reputation of a Talmudist. Young Frankel's atten- tion, however, was not given solely to the Tal- mud. He frequented the Gymnasium, where clas- sical literature occupied his time and thoughts. At the University of Pesth, he principally studied mathe- matics, thus completing the course, and in 1831 he received the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. In 1832 Dr. Frankel was chosen District-Rabbi of Leitmeritz, in Bohemia, where he first introduced preaching in the German language; and, in 1836, Chief Rabbi of Dresden and Leipsic. His active labors now began. The Jews of Dresden, besides suffering from political disabilities, stood greatly in need of enlightenment in their own faith. Frankel not only became their spiritual guide, but he pub- licly defended their cause, and with so much vigor, that he obtained for them their rights as citizens. His work, " The Jewish Oath from a Theological and Historical Standpoint," published in 1840, wherein he calls upon the authorities to judge equitably, and not from ill-formed opinions, at the same time making an earnest appeal for freedom, had an im- portant effect in the accomplishment of the noble purpose. Another production, entitled : " The Mo- saic-Talmudic Law of Evidence," brought forth in 1846, strongly rebukes and condemns the practice of de- claring it illegal for a Jew to be witness in a case, or take an oath in court. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 83 It will thus be seen that Frankel's first efforts were used to procure full equality for his co-relig- ionists. Having won this victory, he turned to the moral and religious condition of the Jews of Dres- den. He found that the want of educational insti- tutions, was the main cause of their unsettled state. But Frankel, never tiring, soon roused his fellow- believers to a sense of their duty. Ere long, a Syna- gogue was erected, and dedicated to God's worship, in the presence of many who had formerly shown their hostility to Judaism, but whose opinions, through the benign influence of Zacharias Frankel, had un- dergone a decided change. The valuable assistance rendered to Frankel, by his friend Dr. Bernhard Beer, must not be overlooked, for it greatly en- couraged the former, in the carrying out of his schemes. Dr. Frankel's labors in the field of Jewish theo- logy and literature, have principally built up his world-wide fame. Profound thoughts and a complete mastery of the subject, are revealed in every one of his writings. Thus, for example, his work on the Septuagint, in which he traces the origin, development and character of Jewish law, evinces patient research, and wonderful acquaintance with ancient and modern literature. This production earned for him an envi- able reputation in learned circles. In 1844 Frankel started, conjointly with others, the Magazine for the 84 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Religious biter ests of Judaism, which, though it lasted but three years, contained articles of great merit, from the pens of acknowledged scholars. In 1852 the Monatschrift first appeared, and continued under Dr. Frankel's management until 1868, when Prof. Dr. H. Graetz, the great historian, assumed the editor- ship. In the second year of the Monatsclirift, Dr. Frankel issued a call for the establishment of a Jew- ish College. This led to his appointment in 1854 as Director of the Theological Seminary at Breslau, in Silesia, Prussia, an institution erected through the munificence of Jonas Fraenckel. All agreed as to the excellence of the choice, and that the public voice confirmed it, may be shown by the fact that, in a short time, Frankel had endeared himself both to professors and stu- dents. It would fill many pages to speak of his activity at the Breslau Seminary; how he raised the standard and usefulness of that seat of learn- ing, until it became as famous as its Director. But we may still name a few of the important works, written during this period. Dr. Frankel brought forth "The Palestinian and Alexandrian Bible Criticism," in 1859, and " Mosaic-Talmudic Marriage Laws," in i860. There also appeared his " Introduction to the Mishna," written in Hebrew, and a " Sketch of the History of the Literature of Post-Talmudic Decisions." But his most extensive THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 85 labor was accomplished in his old age, viz. : " In- troduction to the Jerusalem Talmud," in Hebrew, published in 1870; followed, in 1874, by the first part of said Talmud with exhaustive commen- taries. The introduction to the second part was finished the day prior to Frankel's death. For ob- vious reasons, no attempt has been made here to give a notice of these remarkable writings. Dr. Frankel, liberal in his views, held firmly to historical Judaism. He battled, however, against bigots, as well as radicals, for he accepted the tenets without superstition, and without new notions en- grafted thereon. Nevertheless, Frankel was looked upon with reverential esteem by all parties, and the teachings of the Sage were reflected in the ardor of his students. On the 13th of February, 1875, tne earthly pil- grimage of Zacharias Frankel suddenly ended. He went to rest on the Sabbath, a proper day for the righteous to be translated to the land of spirits. Of all those representatives of Israel's glory who have departed from this sublunary scene within the last quarter of a century, we do not think there has been one more lamented than Zacharias Frankel, whose vast acquirements and many virtues have reserved for him a golden page in the history of his people. "86 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF LUDWIG AUGUST FRANKL. " What comes from the heart goes to the heart," is a trite adage. In any language which man may choose for expressing his thoughts, he will sway mul- titudes, when the utterances of his lips bear the impress of earnestness. But if the speaker or writer can clothe his words in the golden garb of poe- try, that is, if he can borrow from nature illustra- tions which give his feelings a life-like aspect, the effect will be electrical. For a sympathetic current is thus opened that reaches and stirs the very soul. Truly, such emotional language may dispense with th£ accompaniment of rhythm ; flowing verses can- not lend it vigor. Yet, an inexplicable leaning to a metrical form seems innate in man. For, like song, it possesses a softening influence. Hebrews of Teutonic nations, whose achievements in literature in the present age have few parallels in history, can also boast of their poets who know how to embalm their sublime ideas in sweet rhymes. Among those who have excelled, Ludwig August Frankl may worthily be mentioned. Herr Frankl was born at Chrast, in Bohemia, Austria, on the 3d of February, 18 10. Thirsting for knowledge, he travelled to Italy and pursued medical studies. On the completion of his course, in 1837, he received a diploma, bearing testimony THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 87 to high qualifications. The newly-recognized phys- ician did not, however, exclusively confine himself to the practice of his profession. A yearning for journalism led him to seize the pen, which he could so gracefully wield. Frankl rendered valuable services as Secretary and Archivist of the Hebrew community in Vienna. His cultured and richly-endowed mind was daily dispensing of its resources. How fitting that he who had shown intense love for the beautiful, should be chosen Professor of ^Esthetics in the city of his resid- ence. But in the East, whose historic associations possess a magnetic influence, Frankl devised plans for the elevation of the lowly. Beholding the state of abjection into which his fellow-believers of the Holy Land had sunk, through untoward circum- stances, he opened a school in Jerusalem. The pitiful condition of those Hebrews, owing to misgovernment and internal dissensions, is graphically depicted in his Nach Jerusalem, which appeared in 1858. An- other work on the Hebrews of the Orient, entitled Aus ALgypten, was published in 1 860. Of Frankl's productions, his short poem, Die Uni- versitdt, deserves special attention. It came out in 1 848, immediately after the abolition of the censorship in Austria, and so eager was the desire to read it, that, within a short period, five hundred thousand copies were sold. Zur Geschichte der Juden in Wien y 88 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF on the history of the Jews in Vienna, in two volumes, was issued in i847-'53. An anonymous writing, Magyar enkbnig, in 1850, made Frankl very popular with the Hungarians, whose defence he undertook; but the Austrian authorities in Pesth, destroyed the edition. Ahnenbilder and Libanon, two later works, include poems, descriptive of the author's impressions of the East. Helden und Lie der buck, (Hero and Song- Book) contains short pieces. Frankl's epic poems, Cristoforo Colombo, Don Juan d 'Austria, and Der Primator, confessedly deserve to take a stand among the finest of that class. They mirror forth the spirit of a poet. Grandeur of con- ception, and elegance of diction, are discernible throughout. » Herr Frankl has translated into German, several of the lofty creations of Moore and Byron ; and also some Servian ballads, under the title of Gusle. The compatriots of Ludwig August Frankl have paid homage to a prolific writer. The volumes, with which his versatility increased the size of modern literature, have found a place, in different versions, in private and public libraries. But every one who has formed an acquaintance with the German language, should seek the original to obtain the instruction and recreation which Frankl's works readily offer. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 89 JULIUS FURST. A dire dispersion has not impaired Israel's mental vigor. Under the most distressing circumstances the intellect has asserted its supremacy. But the growth and expansion of knowledge have been singu- larly noticeable during the present age. A matchless band of scholars have enlarged the Temple of Fame within late years. We survey the spot, and find Julius Fiirst occupying a lofty seat. Thus are we led to relate the following incidents. Dr. Julius Fiirst was born at Zerkowo, in the pro- vince of Posen, Prussian Poland, on the 12th of May, 1805. Designed for a Rabbi, he studied the Bible and Talmud with energy and zeal, so that when very young, he had gained an extensive acquaintance with the language of the Scriptures, and with the writings of the Sages. At fifteen, he entered the Berlin gym- nasium, whence he passed to the University in 1825. But pecuniary troubles forced him to return home, long before the completion of his studies. To satisfy pressing wants, he accepted the position of teacher in the Jewish school of his native city. But the bigotry of the Hassidim and the intolerance of the ultra-Rabbinists made the young man disgusted with his surroundings. In 1827 Fiirst went to Breslau, where he resumed his collegiate course, and pursued theology and On- 90 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ental philology. He removed to Halle in 1839, and listened to the erudite elucidations of Gesenius, Weg- scheider, and Tholuck. Taking up his residence at Leipsic, he gave private instruction until 1839, when his talents were requited by an appointment as lec- turer in the University. A wide field was now open to our scholar, and he made practical use of his learning, by sowing broadcast the seeds of knowledge. So faithfully did he discharge his duties, giving sure evidences of vast attainments, that his election as a professor followed in 1869. He filled this post until his death. Dr. Fiirst, while laboring for a livelihood, brought forth his different productions. These have emi- nently contributed to enhance Hebrew literature, and they are invaluable to a student, by reason of the variety of essential topics treated. A passing allusion will have to suffice. The first part of Lehr- gebdude der Aramdischen Idiome, on the Aramaic idioms, a work which remained incomplete, appeared in 1835. From 1837 to 1840, Fiirst was engaged upon his Concordantice, an excellent edition of Bux- torf's Hebrew and Chaldee Concordance, with val- uable appendices, in the preparation of which he was greatly assisted by Delitsch. In 1851 he issued Hebrdisches u. Chalddisches Handwbrterbiicli , (Hebrew and Chaldaic Dictionary) which has been translated into English by Dr. Samuel Davidson. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 9 1 This work possesses much merit, and the method adopted respecting the roots of words, is generally accepted by scholars. It is a needed addition to Bibliography. Geschichte des Kardertlmms, (History of the Karaites) came out in 1 865 ; and Geschichte der Biblischen Literatur und des Judisch-Hellenischen Schriftthums, (History of Biblical Literature, and of Jewish Hellenistic Writings), begun in 1867, was finished in 1 870. Dr. Fiirst also edited a valuable Bibliotheca Jndaica, from 1849 to 1863, and he was the author of several other works of minor impor- tance. From 1840 to 185 1, he conducted Der Orient, a journal devoted to the language, literature, history and antiquities of the Jews. The entire literary career of Dr. Fiirst was a triumph to learning. Not only as a Hebraist, but as an Orientalist and a master of abstruse sciences, the subject of our sketch can worthily be numbered with the Munks, the Renans, the Opperts, and the Lenormants. The earthly labors of Julius Fiirst terminated on the 9th of February, 1873, at Leipsic, in Saxony, Germany. The above account, though brief, will, it is hoped, fulfil a purpose ; that of urging the reader to search into the rich literature of modern Hebrews. Then will he be truly convinced of the debt of gratitude owed to Dr. Fiirst, and of the fittingness of holding his memory in profound reverence. 92 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ABRAHAM GEIGER. Great among the greatest, for originality of thought and masterly ability in treating a variety of subjects, is Abraham Geiger. An imperishable evidence of the depth of his understanding and versatility of his powers, he has left in works upon which scholars will long ponder, not only for the broad knowledge they disclose of Hebrew literature, but also for the insight into Semitic languages that the author affords the student. The many inci- dents which attended the career of Dr. Geiger, would suffice to justify a notice, though our endeav- ors will be mainly directed to offer a faint repre- sentation of the literary productions which serve as eternal testimonies of his worth. Dr. Abraham Geiger was born at Frankfort-on- the-Main, on the 24th day of May, 1 8 10. Bible and Talmud formed his chief studies in early life. After- wards, he attended a Gymnasium, whence he pro- ceeded to the University of Heidelberg, and com- pleted his course at the University of Bonn. At the latter institution, he gained distinction by his essay, " What has Mohammed borrowed from Juda- ism ?", which was awarded the philosophical prize, and deemed worthy of being published, — as it was in 1833 — under the auspices of the Faculty. In this critical dissertation, a thorough searching mind mani- fests itself. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 93 In 1832 Dr. Geiger received a Rabbinical call from Wiesbaden, which he accepted, and became Rabbi successively at Breslau, in 1838, at his native city, in 1863, and at Berlin, in 1869. From his very entrance into maturity, Dr. Geiger identified himself with the party designing to reform the Jewish Synagogue, the ritual, and laws and customs. With the history of that movement we have no immediate concern, but it must here be stated, that, although Dr. Geiger favored it and gave it a fresh impetus, he did not sanction an entire di- vorce from the traditions of the past. He did not cross the boundary beyond which Nihilism rules. The doctrines he propounded brought him, however, as large a share of adherents as of opponents. Maintaining the stand he took with dignity, strength- ened in it, no doubt, by his mode of interpreting the written and oral law, he nevertheless refused to become preacher of the Reform Congregation at Berlin, that body having advanced a step farther than what he deemed advisable or practicable. Dr. Geiger did not attempt to foist his opinions on the community. Rather than act singly, he urged a uniformity, based on the decision of an ecclesiast- ical court. Accordingly, his influence brought about a convention of Rabbis -at Brunswick, in 1844; a second followed at Frankfort, in 1847; and a third at Breslau, some time after. At the conference held 94 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF at the last-named city he presided, and the results of the deliberations led to the adoption of the sys- tem now in vogue in many places of Jewish worship. Frequently was Dr. Geiger obliged to use both pen and pulpit to shield his views from bitter attacks. This circumstance, coupled with the fact that the functions of a Rabbi are onerous, might have exempted the Doctor from accomplishing aught else. Must one not wonder then at the immensity of his literary labors ? The subjoined account has much significance, as a sign of human indefatigability. From 1835 to 1847 Dr. Geiger edited his Mag- azine for Jewish Theology ', one of the ablest expon- ents of learning, among all publications of that na- ture throughout Europe. Suspended awhile, it was taken up again in 1861, and it continued to appear until 1874. But we wish to refer briefly to some of the Rabbi's multifarious works. Besides numerous arti- cles on Rabbinical literature, contributed to Hebrew periodicals, and other writings for papers, circulated in the vernacular tongue, he adorned the Journal of the German Oriental Society, with those learned delineations of his pen, which specially present to view Syriac lexicography and Samaritan literature. Concerning his capacity in the latter subject, Dr. Adolph Neubauer remarks, " he was, doubtless, the highest living authority." Great, indeed, must have THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 95 been the merits of the man, whose labors so emin- ent a scholar illimitably prizes. His acknowledged abilities as a Talmudist, won him the respect and friendship of savants. Monographs on Maimonides, on the exegetical school of the Rabbis in the north of France, and on other Jewish celebrities of the Middle Ages, on Elias del Medigo and Leon de Modena, were issued at different periods. His work on the Karaite " Isaac Troki, the Apologist of Judaism, at the close of the Sixteenth Century," was published in 1853. . In a " Translation of the Divan of the Castilians of Abul Hassan Jehudah Halevy," with a commentary and a biographical notice, and in " Solomon ibn Gabirol," Geiger evinced his poetic genius and talent as an interpreter of some of the grand effusions of those noted Jewish bards of Spain. His production, in two volumes, on the defence of the Israelites against the attacks of Christians in the Mediaeval times, where- in he brings to light a vast deal of the rich litera- ture of those days, is deserving of a perusal by all who value the efforts of our heroes of the past. "A Manual of the Dialect of the Mishna" teems with erudite observations, and it is a necessary com- panion in the study of the writings of the Sages. " Judaism and its History," a course of lectures of a highly-instructive character, was presented in an English garb, by the late Dr. Maurice Mayer. But 96 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Geiger's chef d'ceuvre is Urschrift, the product of twenty years' labor, it being a critical investigation of the Bible, which came out in 1857. The ideas held forth were adversely commented on by the learned of the opposite school. The author was, for some time, compelled to face a raging storm. While the work is confessedly the best from the pen of that writer, it is said to advance more radical opinions than had been anticipated. Dr. Neubauer observes : "The chief merit of Geiger's researches in regard to this branch of study, is his powerful analysis of ob- scure Talmudical passages." This assertion cannot be illustrated by quotations, but the above account may convey a fair idea of the activity of a man, who, to repeat ourself, we must say, was great among the greatest. Dr. Geiger died at Berlin, Prussia, on the 25th of October, 1874. A new edition of his works, together with his life and letters, has just been issued by his son, Dr. Ludwig Geiger, whose acumen and skill as a writer are . well-known, and justly appreciated in literary circles. GOLDSMID. Prior to the rise of the Goldsmid family, the in- fluence of the German-Jewish community in England was confined in narrow bounds. The Portuguese THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 97 Jews, being the first settlers* in Great Britain, after the revocation of the inhuman edict of banishment, proclaimed and enforced by Edward I., soon rose to high standing, and the power they wielded in re- ligious affairs became a recognized fact. The Ger- man Hebrews did not establish themselves in suffi- cient numbers, even to erect a place of worship, until the reign of William III ; and, for many years, few could be found in their ranks, qualified to act as representatives, and set forth their claims. Aaron Goldsmid, a Dutch merchant, came with his family to England in 1765, and there took up a permanent residence. The lively interest evinced in matters pertaining to his faith, brought Mr. Gold- smid into prominence. He had four sons, the eld- est of whom, George, was admitted a partner with his father, in the firm of Aaron Goldsmid & Son. Asher, the second son, joined Mr. Mocatta, and es- tablished the co-partnership of Mocatta & Goldsmid, who became bullion-brokers to the Bank of England. The two other sons, Benjamin and Abraham, began business as brokers, and the former made a trip through different parts of Europe, seeking into the condition of his fellow-believers, and distributing of his means, with munificence, to the needy. Aaron Goldsmid died some time after Benjamin's return, 98 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF and his death was attended with circumstances of a very peculiar nature, which we forbear mentioning, lest we transcend our limits.* Benjamin and Abraham Goldsmid, gradually en- hanced the reputation of their banking-house, until at length it became one of the principal firms in the British Kingdom, business being conducted on an extensive scale. Benjamin Goldsmid wedded a lady with a dowry of £100,000, which, of course, mater- ially added to the credit of the house. Large sums 'of money continually passed through the hands of the Goldsmids, and their transactions amounted an- nually to millions. Within a short period, they oc- cupied the first place in the Stock Exchange. Both brothers displayed actual genius in their monetary schemes. When a severe crisis occurred in the Money Market, in 1793, by which some of the old- est houses fell to pieces, the firm of Goldsmid lost but £50. Both Benjamin and Abraham lived in grand style, but were as much noted for their charity and bene- ficence, which flowed in abundance to the poor of every denomination. They founded and supported asylums and other institutions, and commanded the *See Picciotto's " Sketches of Anglo- Jewish History," pp. 245- 248. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 99 respect of all classes. Some pecuniary embarrass- ments, however, occasioned depression of spirit. Ben- jamin Goldsmid, while laboring under a fit of des- pondency, took his own life, on the 15th of April, 1808, at the age of fifty-five, and his brother, Abra- ham, died from a similiar cause; on the 28th of Sep- tember, 1 810. There was no special reason, at the time, for Benjamin to act in this wise, but Abraham, who had met with serious losses, on account of the reduction in the price of stocks, was called upon to negotiate Exchequer Bills, to the amount of £500,000, placed in his hands by the East India Company. The payment had been fixed for Friday, of the date last mentioned. Unprepared for the exigency, his honesty of character made him shrink from facing, what he considered, a sure disgrace. And yet, it is said, that, on that very Friday morning, a rela- tive hastened to his home, with the good news that the funds for the East India Company were ready. Too late : Abraham Goldsmid had committed the fatal deed. s These two painful occurrences had, at their differ- ent periods, considerable effect on the Market, and the press abounded with eulogies of the deceased, whose kind-heartedness thousands were made to enjoy. We have spoken thus briefly of the early mem- bers of the Goldsmid family, in order to reserve IOO EMINENT ISRAELITES OF space for those who lived in this eventful century. Their indefatigable labors claim attention. Before proceeding, however, we must acknowledge, in justice to those already named, that to them belongs the merit of having opened a wide field for their suc- cessors. But it was left to Sir I. L. Goldsmid, and his noble son, Sir F. H. Goldsmid, to revive the glo- ries of their house, and shed additional lustre on the name they bore. Sir Isaac Lyon Goldsmid, Bart., son of Mr. Asher Goldsmid, and nephew of Benjamin and Abraham Goldsmid, was born at London, England, in 1778. He gained an education at a school in Finsbury Square. An ardent student, he became a fluent Latin scholar and a fair mathematician. He also cultivated Jewish theology, philosophy and political science. Mr. Goldsmid entered as a partner in the firm of Mocatta & Goldsmid, to which we have alluded be- fore. Though at first not successful in his financial undertakings, he eventually raised the standard of the business, and amassed a large fortune. Mr. Gold- smid lent his valuable assistance to the promotion of industrial projects, and co-operated in improving the moral and educational condition of the masses. He took an active part in the founding of colleges and other educational institutions. His philanthropy was as far-reaching as that of his uncles, and he dispensed with an open hand to the unfortunate. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. IOI The operations of the house grew fast, and loans were advanced to Portugal, Brazil and Turkey. Mr. Goldsmid received visits from political exiles, among . them Prince Louis Napoleon, afterward Napoleon III., though the English banker never gave his sup- port to the French Emperor. Mr. Goldsmid was created a Baronet of the United Kingdom, and shortly after, a .Knight of the Tower and Sword of Portugal. Subsequently the King of the last-men- tioned country, conferred on him the title of Baron da Palmeira, with a small estate. He accepted these honors, more from a desire to uphold his people than for their real worth. Sir I. L. Goldsmid's labors for the recognition of Jewish rights in Great Britain were untiring. He worked arduously as a member of the Board of Deputies, and employed his influence, his time and wealth, to serve his co-religionists in every possible way. Happily, he lived to witness the consummation of what many years' unceasing perseverance had wrought. Mr. Goldsmid retired from business when sixty years old, and made a tour through France, Italy and Germany, for the benefit of his health. Returning to England, his activity was restless till within a few years of his demise, which took place in 1859, at a very old age. During his whole life, Mr. Goldsmid remained a strict conformant to Jew- ish observances, and his death deprived the He- 102 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF brews of an earnest advocate, and England of an upright citizen, who had contributed a large share to promote the interests of her inhabitants. Sir Francis Henry Goldsmid, Bart., M. P., second son of Sir Isaac Lyon Goldsmid, was born at London, England, on May 1st, 1808. After re- ceiving careful instruction, he was called to the Bar in Hilary term 1833, being the first Jew who ever obtained that distinction in Great Britain. Mr. Goldsmid practiced for a short time in the Court of Chancery, but gradually relinquished his connection with legal matters. This action created general re- gret, for Mr. Goldsmid's forensic career had been ex- ceedingly brilliant, and had he continued, he might have soon become one of the brightest ornaments of the profession. At all events, he paved the way for others of his own race, who have since attained the highest position at the Bar. Mr. Goldsmid won an enviable name during the agitation for the removal of Jewish disabilities. He wrote several able pamphlets in behalf of the cause. One, entitled " Remarks on the Civil Disa- bilities of the Jews," was published in 1830, a,nd another, " Reply to the Argument Against the En- franchisement of the Jews," in 1848. Among the numerous offices filled by Sir Francis THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 103 Goldsmid were those of a Bencher of Lincoln's Inn, a Deputy-Lieutenant of Berkshire, a Justice of the Peace for Berkshire and Gloucestershire, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a Vice-Presi- dent of the Anglo-Jewish Association. In i860 he was elected to Parliament from Reading, which con- stituency he worthily represented to his death, and never lost an opportunity to defend the rights of his brethren. Sir Francis succeeded to all his father's titles, among them that of the Baron of the Kingdom of Portugal. The subject of this sketch devoted a large por- tion of his life to succor the afflicted and the poverty-stricken of all creeds. He contributed to sustain societies and corporations of various natures. His staunch adherence to the prescriptions of Juda- ism is another testimony of the nobility of his character. Sir Francis died, the victim of a lament- able railroad accident, on May 2d, 1878, thus clos- ing a career, signalized by the practice of rare virtues. It may be noticed that the different members of the Goldsmid family, morally bear a strong resemblance to those of the Rothschild. In one instance like the other, individual exertions raised comparative obscurity to high eminence; and in 104 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF both, princely liberality to relieve suffering human- ity, and further the world's progress, gained a re- nown which has' spread far and wide. HIRSCH GRAETZ.* A few months ago — it was on August ioth, 1 %79j— there gathered at Breslau a large number of Rabbis and laymen, in honor of a scholar who has done more, perhaps, to advance Hebrew culture, and to acquaint the literary world with Jewish thought, than any living representative of his race. If Leopold Zunz was the earliest pioneer, Graetz has been the most successful worker in unfolding the treasures of Jewish history to the reading- public of his time. It was the celebration of the 25 th anniversary of the Jewish Theological Semi- nary, and of Dr. Graetz's connection with that Insti- tution. On the occasion he became the recipient of distinguished marks of esteem, in which his admirers and disciples, in Germany, Austria, France, Den- mark, Holland, England, and America alike joined. Prof. Dr. Hirsch Graetz was born at. Xions, in the Duchy of Posen, Prussian Poland, on the 5th- of No- vember, 1 817. He shared, as did many other famous scholars, the hard struggles of a needy Bachur. Early initiated into the study of the Talmud, his special * This sketch is from the able pen of Dr. Abram S. Isaacs. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 105 literary taste was fortunately not hampered by the pil- pulistic method then in vogue. Trained for the Rab- binate, he displayed no great aptitude for preaching, and he was engaged as private teacher by Samson Raphael Hirsch, then Rabbi of Nicolsburg, Moravia, to whom the grateful friend, dedicated his first work, " Gnosticism and Judaism" (Krotoschin : 1846). It is noteworthy, that in after days Hirsch, the present venerable Rabbi of Frankfort, and Graetz, the Semi- nary Professor, occupied opposing stand-points in the controversy which agitated German Judaism. The appearance of his maiden-work, gave Graetz at once a name in the realms of Jewish literature, and inquiries were rapidly made as to the brilliant writer, who was to earn for some years a scanty livelihood at Berlin, giving lessons at a few groschen an hour. The style, the thought, the erudition ex- hibited in that little work of one hundred and thirty-two pages, which has not yet become anti- quated, were full of promise of the future. His contributions, too, principally to Frankel's maga- zine, in 1845, 1846, 1848, 1852, 1853 and 1854, on such themes as the Septuagint in the Talmud, in- troductions to the Talmud, chronology and topog- raphy of the Talmud, and particularly his Jewish historical studies, which early displayed the bent of his mind, secured the writer so wide a reputation that on the opening of the Seminary in 1854, he 106 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF was selected by Dr. Frankel to be Professor of Jewish history and Bible Exegesis. His twenty-five years of activity have been blessed with the richest fruits. Working in constant har- mony with Frankel, — whose views he shared, and reverence for whom often checked his natural impul- siveness — he has never failed to leave the impress of his strong individuality on all the young men with whom he has come in contact. Not restricting his subjects of instruction to history and the Bible, but teaching Talmud as well, with all the side-lights of comparative philology, archaeology and historical illus- tration, he, with Frankel, has given the Seminary its world-wide reputation, and he still seizes all oppor- tunities to influence it for good. It was in 1852 that Graetz began to issue his famous " History of the Jews, " from the earliest times to our day. In 1 876 the series was finished, in eleven volumes, for which a second and third edition have been called. Single volumes have been published in Eng- lish, French and Hebrew. Of this work,, in whose preparation Graetz consulted not only the principal libraries in Europe, but also made a special trip to Palestine, it may safely be asserted that, as a whole, it is one of the most brilliant and comprehensive histories that have ever appeared. While critics have fastened upon an expression here, and a view there, with a re- lentless grasp, and accused Graetz of violent partisan- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 107 ship and flimsy theorizing, — no one has refused to award high praise for the unremitting industry, the extensive erudition, the broad sympathies, and the marvelous unravelling of characters and circumstances, joined to a glowing and picturesque style, which have won for Graetz the title of father of Jewish history, and have given him a place next to Mommsen, Cur- tius, Ranke, and other leading historians. A thinker of decided views, and blunt in their expression, he has his detractors, who charge him with prejudices and distortions. But he stands out like a giant, among the host of pigmies and pilferers who raise an outcry against him. Out of the mist of dim tradition he has lifted the Jewish people and placed them, with all their faults and virtues, before the reader. He has frankly shown that as men suffering degradation and intoler- ance, hypocrisy, narrowness, and ignorance ruled some of the Hebrews; but as heroes, filled with a divine ideal, the heart of our race throbbed with resolute effort, undying courage, reverence for the household and the house of God, and a desire for knowledge in its best sense. The production of his History did not exhaust Graetz's literary powers ; it only spurred them on to further endeavors. As fruit, in part, of his lectures in connection with the University of Breslau — at which he was appointed an Honorary Professor, by the King of Prussia — and at the Seminary— he has published exe- 108 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF getical works on Kolieleth, Shir -ha- Shir im, and smaller brochures on subjects connected with history and the Bible, while his essays in Dr. Frankel's magazine, con- ducted for some years past by himself, number more than one hundred, and stretch themselves over the en- tire field of Jewish literature. Add to the prodigious amount of work thus displayed, the fact that he has lectured, by invitation, in Berlin, Posen, Hamburg, Frankfort, Pesth, and Lemberg ; that he has travelled to Palestine ; that he takes an active interest in the Alliance Israelite Universelle ; that he lectures two hours daily at the Seminary, and two or three hours weekly at the University ; and edits a magazine be- sides ; — and some idea may be formed of the Titanic strength required to perform with unvarying ability the duties of his position. Age has not led Dr. Graetz to relax from his work. Loving to his friends, a tender husband, and an affec- tionate father, the idol of his home circle, whose pleas- ures he participates in as though he were a child, — so simple and unassuming is his nature, — Graetz is a merciless antagonist of hypocrisy and ignorance, and gives blow for blow. For years yet, may he be spared in continued health and usefulness. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. IO9 REBECCA GRATZ. What can effect nobler ends than an unrestraine exercise of the good qualities in human nature ? Where the mind and the heart work in unison, blessed results alone must follow. This fact has been clearly exemplified in the lives of men whose names have reached posterity, surrounded with a halo of sanctity. Yet woman bears the palm in whatsoever calls into requisition thoughtful tenderness, merciful endurance, and calmness, amid irritating causes. Truly it has been said, that woman is the crowning work of the Creator. See what comfort she gives the sorrow- ful, how she ministers to the sick ; mark the hopes she breathes into the oppressed, and the peace she restores to the agitated. There stands the princess of philanthropy, Florence Nightingale ; Lady Judith Montefiore and Lady Burdett-Coutts closely follow her footsteps. The lady, to whose character atten- tion is drawn, was not so widely known, but the in- estimable services she rendered, in a comparatively narrow sphere, have endeared her memory to many, specially to her co-religionists. Rebecca Gratz was born at Philadelphia, on March 4th, 1782, of a wealthy and intelligent family. She received such an education as was accessible at the time. But her innate faculties soon shone forth. Very handsome, most graceful and polished, possess- IIO . EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ing abilities above the common average, she attracted and retained warm friends. She did not, however, allow flattery or praise to damage the traits for which she was distinguished. Unostentatious demeanor ever remained a noticeable characteristic in Miss Gratz. Strict in her adherence to the ancestral religion, she went in quest of opportunities for assisting in the spread of knowledge among her fellow-believers. The earnest Jewess perceived that, to bring the young together, and familiarize them with some essentials in the faith, would be productive of permanent good, and she was the first to carry out the idea. She founded the Hebrew Sunday School of Philadelphia in 1838, the oldest institution of the kind in America, and served as its Superintendent and First Directress for a period of thirty-two years. The Female He- brew Benevolent Society, the Jewish Foster Home, the Fuel Society, and the Sewing Society reckoned Miss Gratz among their originators, and she held the office of Secretary of the first-named association for several decades. But though Miss Gratz considered it a duty to direct her utmost efforts to the furtherance of every object of a Jewish nature, she was broad-minded in her views. In the dispensing of her benevolence, she recognized neither sect nor creed. Gentiles as well as Hebrews were made the recipients of the same THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I I I kindness. At the Philadelphia Orphan Asylum, the Widows' Asylum/and wherever she labored, the zeal exhibited met with the hearty appreciation of her colleagues, and the gratitude of her beneficiaries. But to the people whose descent and doctrines formed her pride, Rebecca Gratz was invaluable. For she offered them a bright example, not only by good acts, but by a piety almost rare in one of her condition and social standing. Never, throughout he* entire career, would she sanction the least viola- tion of the law and precepts. Regular in her attend- ance at the Synagogue, devout in worshiping her Maker, she imparted to. the beholders a feeling of awe for the house of prayer and the divine service. The attractiveness of Miss Gratz's conversational powers, and her dignified mien, contributed to create around her a very choice circle. She became ac- quainted with Washington Irving, Sully, the artist, and other celebrities. But the respect shown her by Christians, did not tend to lessen a whit her at- tachment to Judaism. Many and severe may have been her trials to hold fast to principles, but she arose above them all. It is related that Washington Irving, while paying a visit to Sir Walter Scott, at his home in Scotland, learnt from the latter that his novel of " Ivanhoe " was in course of preparation, and' that a Jewish female character would be ' introduced. Whereupon I I 2 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the former remarked, that he knew of a lady who would suit admirably. He proceeded to describe, in glowing terms, Rebecca Gratz, her acquirements and suavity of manners, and her unyielding devotion to Israel's God. Scott attentively listened to the inter- esting narrative, and when he had finished " Ivan- hoe," he sent the first copy to Irving, inquiring whether the " Rebecca " he had pictured, compared well with the pattern given. Miss Gratz, in the pursuit of her educational de- signs, induced the writing and compilation of text- books for instruction in the Jewish faith. The Rev. Isaac Leeser dedicated his catechism to her, as a mark of esteem and veneration for a Jewess so ex- emplary, and so eager to promote religious know- ledge. To the end of her days, Rebecca Gratz followed the same righteous course, " doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with her God." On August 27th, 1869, at the ripe age of eighty-seven years, her pure life was brought to a close in the city of her birth. ' " Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates." THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I I 3 JACQUES FRANgOIS FROMENTAL ELIE HALEVY. France occupies an enviable position for the height she has reached in literature, art and science. Specially in the last-named branch of knowledge she has excelled many enlightened nations. But the products of her musical genius have also added con- siderably to the fame she has won. Of truly great composers France has given but few, yet those she can claim, have so clearly evinced superior abilities that they have enhanced the reputation of their country. Persons possessed of a musical training will agree that attractive operas, more than classical, are in demand at the present day, and that they always meet with unqualified success. In the production of such operas, the French have surely come up to the standard. It cannot, however, be denied that the subject of this sketch, while fully alive to the re- quirements of the times, offered the world compo- sitions well worthy of a great master. Jacques Francois Fromental Elie Halevy was born at Paris, France, on the 27th of May, 1799. At the age of ten years, his parents placed him un- der musical instruction, at the conservatory. Che- rubini, his favorite tutor, ever remained his warm friend. Halevy, when only twenty, obtained the first prize 114 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF for composition at the Academy of Fine Arts, an honor which entitled him to a pensionary residence of two years at Rome, and whereof he availed him- self. Returning to France in 1822, he for five years in vain besought the managers to put upon the stage, either his grand opera Pygmalion, or his comic opera Les Deux Pavilions. In 1827, how- ever, his one-act opera L Artisan was bronght out with moderate success at the Theatre Feydeau. In 1829 his three-act opera Clari was produced at the Theatre Italien and well received, since Malibran as- sumed the principal role. A grand ballet in three, acts, Manon Lescaut, the text written by Scribe, made its appearance in 1830. Halevy's masterpiece, La Juive, came forth in 1835, an< 3 by it he achieved a wide-spread fame. Replete with charming music and depth of senti- ment, it has affixed to the name of the author the title of Maestro. To this day that ever popular opera holds the stage. It was first represented at the Royal Academy of Music, and it has been heard at the principal opera-houses throughout the world. Of some of the other productions of our com- poser that added to his celebrity, are : L Eclair, La Peine de Chypre, Charles VI., Les Mousquetaires de la Peine, Le val d'Andorre, Le Juif Errant, Jaqua- rita, and La Magicienne. It is needless to say that THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I I 5 all of Halevy's operas have left a profound impression of his musical skill and the beauty of his melody. He wrote more than thirty operas, five or six of which are constantly set before the public. Halevy also distinguished himself as a graceful writer on musical subjects. His Lecons de lecture musicale has been adopted as a text-book in the schools of Paris. There were published besides, Souvenirs et Portraits, etudes sur les Beaux- Arts, and, as a posthumous work, Dernier s Souvenirs et Por- traits. Halevy succeeded Fetis, as professor of compo- sition at the conservatory, and perpetual secretary of the Academy of Fine Arts. He died at Nice, France, on the 17th of March, 1862. In recognition of his valuable services, and untiring energy to further the progress of musical science, the French Government bestowed upon his widow an annuity of 5,000 francs. • Of the Halevy family, Leon, brother of the com- poser, was a cultured author. He wrote a num- ber of learned works, among them an introduction to Opinions litteraires, philosophiques et industrielles, of Saint-Simon, to whose principles he had become a votary; Fables; Fables Nouvelles ; and La Grece Tragique, in three volumes. Some of these pro- ductions won prizes from the Academy. Leon Halevy held several literary stations under Il6 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the French Government. It may be of importance to mention that he issued Resume de V Histoire des Juifs, (A Summary of Jewish History) in two vol- umes ; a translation of "Macbeth;" and several tragedies and dramatic pieces. His son, Ludovic, is also known as a dramatist. He has written the libretti for some of the bouffe operas of Offenbach and others. Of his recent works are the comedy Tricochet et Cacolet, the vaudeville Reveillon, and a collection of equivocal sketches, in- cluding Madame et Monsieur Cardinal. The Halevys are, doubtless, entitled to a more detailed delineation of their splendid endeavors, es- pecially the most noted who enriched, by his genius, the soul-captivating art. But the subject presents singular difficulties to non-adepts, and it has, therefore, to be left incomplete. Awarding to one the glory all have accorded to him, the reader is referred to the printed «works of the two of whom a passing mention was made, so that an un- biased opinion may be formed of their respective merits. JOSEPH HALEVY. Remarkable is the determination with which some prosecute their plans. Nothing seems to deter them. The severer the obstacles, the greater the persever- ance. Men of that calibre launch into perplexing THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 117 subjects, and force intricacies to yield to their mighty will. A moral courage they muster which would be called heroic, if the world had learnt to apply terms in a truthful sense. An instance of that heroism is given in the archaeologist and traveler, Joseph Halevy. We propose to offer a faint outline of his arduous, but successful labors. Joseph Halevy was born at Adrianople, Turkey in Europe, on the 15th of September, 1827. The study of languages appears to have possessed an extraordinary attraction for the boy. Fitted by nature for it, he laid down as a design, which he must execute, the acquisition of Semitic tongues, their dialects and literature. This became the polar star of his life, whereby he was, • indeed, led safely to regions where few had ventured to set foot. For a lengthy period, Halevy superintended con- gregational schools, first at his native city, and af- terwards at Bucharest, Roumania. Meanwhile he tried to earn a name, inditing Hebrew poems and articles which appeared in journals, published in the sacred tongue. But M. Halevy' s most effective activity dates from 1867. In that year he went to France, where he has since resided. The Alliance Israelite Universelle had long felt the necessity of learning more than what had been reported about the Falashas, as the Jews of Abyssinia are called. Who better than Il8 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Halevy could procure the desired information? Not only linguistic attainments, but a disposition for what savored of the romantic had admirably fitted him for the mission. He was therefore charged with it. He was to study the characteristics and habits, the religious tenets and practices of those distant Hebrews. The result of his investigations, as reported to the Central Committee on July 30th, 1868, is of pro- found interest. He details the condition and cus- toms of that wonderful people, preserved to Judaism after astounding vicissitudes.* In 1869, at the request of the French Minister of Instruction, M. Halevy set out for Yemen. Six hundred and eighty-six inscriptions he deciphered in that ancient spot in Arabia.. Of the writings of Joseph Halevy there are : " The Language in which the book of Enoch was Com- piled " — a work he translated from Ethiopian into Hebrew ; " New Suggestions about the Inscriptions at Marseilles;" "Studies on the Sabeans ;" "Letter to M. D'Abbadie on the Language of Mahri or Ehkili ;" " Report of an Archaeological Voyage to Yemen ;" "The Language of the Falashas;" "Miscellany of Semitic Archaeology and Epigraphy;" " Critical Re- searches into the Origin of Babylonian Civilization;" and " Prayers of the Falashas, or Jews of Abyssinia." *See The Occident and American Jewish Advocate, of November, 1868. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 119 The names suffice to point out the abilities exercised in presenting a complete analysis of the subjects. They significantly tell of the merit due to unflagging energy, and they claim for. him, who brought to light what had long been hidden, distinguished honors in the republic of letters. NUMA EDWARD HARTOG. Not as a writer did the subject of the present sketch gain distinction, but as a youth who sanctified his talents, by devoting them to the exaltation of his revered belief. The lectures and essays he delivered were of no mean order, but his good name rests firmly upon the exceptional line of conduct pursued at Colleges and Universities he had been allowed to frequent. Numa Edward Hartog was born at London, Eng- land, on May 20th, 1846. His father, Monsieur Al- phonse Hartog, then Professor of French at the Jews' College, and his mother, Mrs. Marion Hartog — widely known for her various works, among which " The Romance of Jewish History," issued in conjunction with her sister, Mrs. Levetus, "The Siege of Jota- pata," and " The Prophet's Daughter," deserve special mention — superintended their child's education. It is readily seen that young Hartog enjoyed a great advantage in the nature of his descent. He 120 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF had sprung from a stock of more than ordinary worth. Home training and social surroundings must needs have nurtured and fostered latent qualities. The boy first attended a commercial school, where his inborn capacities began to clearly develop. The evidence of what lay hidden within and was destined to unfold in a splendid manner, is a certificate re- ceived when only eight years of age. This step led to a higher one. He obtained a diploma from the College of Preceptors, as a testimony of proficiency and assiduity. Shortly after that event, the lad entered the Uni- versity College School. There he soon became a con- spicuous figure, having won a high prize for signal advancement in mathematics. Young Hartog passed into the college proper, and the certificates of his pro- gress, and the praises awarded to his diligence and de- votion to learning, were flattering in the extreme. " Onward and upward," became the student's motto. It was not personal vanity that impelled him, but the desire to reach a point, never before attained by an Israelite in the United Kingdom ; he aimed at con- signing to oblivion, illiberal laws against his fellow- believers. Examined for matriculation at the Uni- versity of London, his familiarity with the classics, not less than with mathematics, earned for him tokens of distinction. At the first Bachelor of Arts' exam- ination, honors were conferred on the young Israelite, THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 121 by reason of his knowledge of several foreign lan- guages, in addition to that of mathematics and the classics. But it was at the second B. A. examination, so searching and thorough, that he acquitted himself nobly. He created universal amazement by carrying off the prize in Physiology, and scholarships in other branches. In 1865 Numa Hartog entered Trinity College, Cambridge. In his second year, he was elected Foundation Scholar. In 1869, however, he achieved the crowning reward of all his endeavors, viz : that of being elevated to the position of Senior Wrang- ler, a height no Israelite had yet reached. The London Jewish Chronicle of February 5th, 1869, thus remarks: — "A Senior Wrangler always stands alone. He is never found bracketed with another so near as not to be separable from him. .... The telegraph has flashed the news through the Kingdom, because it ranks as an event, the pro- found significancy of which is recognized on all hands." The Jew had scaled the wall of prejudice, and torn it down. The degree of Bachelor of Arts was conferred on young Hartog, in the following form : " Auctoritate mihi commissa admitto te ad titu- lum Baccalaurei in Artibus designate" the objection- able words " In nomine Patris et Filiiel Spiritus Sancti," being omitted. With the same propriety, the admin- istering of the thirty-nine articles of faith, to which as a Hebrew he could not subscribe, was set aside. 122 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Hartog returned to London, after having been placed second for the Smith prize, and began to study law. While thus engaged, he was appointed to an office in the Treasury, which he held for some time, but finally resigned. He lectured before various associations among those of his own creed, and mani- fested a lively interest in the mental improvement of all his co-religionists. As a member of the Coun- cil of the Jews' College, and as one of the Honorary Secretaries of the Society of Hebrew Literature, he discharged his duties faithfully, and exerted himself to extend the usefulness of both organizations. Pious he was, and anxious to contribute by his example to enkindle a sentiment of love and rever- ence for the observances of the ancestral faith. Scarce had the flower blossomed, and begun to emit its sweet fragrance, than it withered and was cut down. Numa Edward Hartog fell a victim to a virulent disease, on June 19th, 1 871, after a short existence of twenty-five years. He had trodden the path once beaten by the illustrious Philoxene Luzzatto and Arthur Lumley Davids, and, like them, was too early removed from a sphere of most pro- mising labors. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 23 ISAAC HAYS. While it must be conceded that Europe has set the foundation-stone to the structure of modern medical science, America has furnished more than her share of builders. Not quite so much, perhaps, in 'the theoretical department, but in the practical, our country has certainly elevated that edifice to a lofty pinnacle. An unbroken line of stupendous achievements can be unfolded to view, both in the clinical and the surgical school. Among physi- cians whose renown is enduring for invaluable serv- ices, reflecting lustre on the profession, Isaac Hays deservedly claims honorable mention. Isaac Hays, M. D., was born at Philadelphia, on July 5 th, 1796. After receiving elementary instruc- tion, he attended the University of Pennsylvania, and graduated from the Department of Arts in 1816, and from the Medical school in 1820. He studied under Dr. Nathaniel Chapman, and began his career as a general practitioner. Though not limited to any spe- cialty, he soon obtained a wide reputation as an oculist, which circumstance alone, speaks volumes for his skill, since he had mastered a knowledge, by which he could cure the ailments of the most delicate of human organs. But besides a large practice, Dr. Hays devoted a considerable portion of his time to literary mat- 124 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ters. His connection with the American Journal of the Medical Sciences, dates from February, 1827. He continued on its staff for a period of fifty-two years, making him, therefore, at his death, the oldest liv- ing editor in the United States. The paper orig- inally called the Philadelphia Journal of Medical and Physical Sciences, started in 1820, was given the name of the American Journal of the Medical Sciences, when Dr. Hays assumed entire control, after the re- tirement of Dr. Goodman. In 1869 Dr. Hays asso- ciated with him, his son, Dr. I. Minis Hays, who now edits the periodical. That the Doctor's journal- istic efforts have been successful may be proven from the fact that, in 1843, he established a monthly, en- titled the Medical News, and, in 1874, the Monthly Abstract of Medical Science. The motto of the Journal when the Doctor first took charge of it, was "What does the world yet owe to American physi- cians or surgeons ? " a theme often discussed with much vigor in its editorial columns. In addition to these duties, Dr. Hays edited Hall's edition of " Wilson's American Ornithology," in eight volumes, published in 1828; " Hoblyn's Dictionary of Medical Terms," in 1846; " Lawrence on Diseases of the Eye," in 1847; and " Arnott's Elements of Physics," in 1848. He also attended regularly the meetings of a vast number of med- ical and scientific societies, being among the found- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 25 ers or directors of many, and the surgeon and visit- ing physician to several hospitals. The Doctor was a prominent member of the American Philosophical Society, and of the Acad- emy of Natural Sciences. In the latter institution, he filled the office of President, from 1865-9. Very active in the Philadelphia College of Physi- cians, a valued member of the Franklin Institute, and the oldest at his demise, energetic on the staff of Will's Eye Hospital, and one of the principal originators of the American Medical Association, his usefulness was clearly perceptible. For the last- named, he composed a code of ethics, which in- culcated the relations of the medical profession to each other, and to the profession at large, and which has been adopted by every State and county medical society in the Union. Dr. Hays' fame was by no means confined to the United States. The Philadelphia physician be- came known in Europe, and of the numerous or- ganizations to which he belonged, were the Royal Society for' Northern Antiquities of Copenhagen, the Medical Society of Hamburg, and the Univer- sit'e D' Ophthalmologic, of Paris. Among those whose acquaintance Dr. Hays en- joyed, were such noted persons as Horace Binney, William M. Meredith, John Sergeant, General George Cadwalader, Dr. Caspar Wistar, John K. Kane, Henry 126 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF C. Carey, Dr. George B. Wood and Prof. Bates. The lamented poet and scholar, William Cullen Bryant, alluding to one of Dr. Hays' recent works, in an editorial, in the New York Evening Post, in 1875, observed, that, next to himself, the Doctor was the oldest living editor in continuous service in America. Not the least of the merits of Dr. Hays, was the gentleness with which he discharged his professional functions. On April 12th, 1879, an exceptional career of- eighty-three years closed, and both the people and the press attested to the moral qualities of a Philadelphian, rich with intellectual gifts. PHINEAS MENDEL HEILPRIN. Within late years, many of the brightest stars in the Jewish horizon have disappeared from view, leav- ing a void to be deeply deplored. All that love Hebrew literature must sincerely hope that the re- maining few of a glorious band of Israel's scholars will long be spared to elevate their brethren before the world. It is our purpose to set forth a. short account of the life of one endowed with mental ex- cellencies. He never attained the distinction due to his superior talents, because real modesty and an unyielding attachment to religious truths, made him shrink from a notoriety to which principles are at times sacrificed. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 127 Phineas Mendel Heilprin was born at Lublin, Russian Poland, in November, 1801. He belonged to a cultured and pious family. As customary with the Polish Jews, he devoted himself, almost from infancy, to the study of the Talmud. This course he pursued for several years, scarcely applying him- self to aught else. But after a time he took to other books, particularly the writings of Maimonides, whose views he adopted, as a guide in thinking and acting. He subsequently studied the works of Aristotle, Plato, Mendelssohn, Kant, Fichte and other philos- ophers, and they contributed largely in giving the proper bent to his thoughts. Lessing, however, was his great favorite. Established in a small but com- paratively flourishing town of Russian Poland as a wool merchant and cloth manufacturer, he devoted a large portion of his time to reading, to learned con- versation, and the education of his children. Heilprin became attached to the Sephardic school, which he* considered the only true exponent! of Juda- ism, and he freely criticized the doctrines of the French and German Rabbis of the Middle Ages, whom he charged with slavish adherence to the text and words, instead of the spirit, of the Talmud and Scriptures. Believing the Talmud to be badly dis- figured by clerical errors and interpolations, he labored to purify and harmonize the original through emendations suggested by his inquiring mind, and in 128 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF these endeavors he evinced erudition, ingenuity and boldness. Nor did he refrain from similar attempts in regard to the Bible. He soon formed, thereby, an acquaintance with well-known savants, as Zunz, Geiger, Frankel and Rapoport, carrying on with the latter a learned correspondence. As much as he esteemed the honored Chief Rabbi of Prague, just as strong and undisguised was his contempt for some of the German preachers of Reform. The notions they disseminated soon led him into a hot contest. In 1845 ne came forth with a Hebrew pamphlet, en- titled " Responses to Men of Evil," containing thirteen letters, principally directed against Dr. Holdheim. Heilprin did not measure words when attacking those whom he styled " false prophets" and "hypocrites." The work which, like all his writings, appeared anonymously, was extensively and fairly reviewed by the historian, Dr. Jost, in Fiirst's Orient. Shortly after, Heilprin published his " Touchstone " and " Good Sense," works in which he exhibited speci- mens of his critical attempts in dealing with the mediaeval writings, and he sharply assailed Geiger, whom he charged with being the foremost repre- sentative of a movement more apt to destroy than to reform and purify Judaism. He also prepared an attack on Prof. Luzzatto, in which he defended Maimonides from the aspersions of the Italian author. Heilprin wrote all his productions in Hebrew, a THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 29 language which he handled with masterly skill, and, when the subject allowed it, with admirable elegance. He was, however, generally inclined to blend Biblical sentences with Talmudical phrases. All the treasures hidden in " the sea of the Talmud " were not only known to him, but he could always apply them with facility. He would recite, by heart, entire passages as fluently and accurately as though he read them from a book. Rigorously strict in his religious obser- vances, but philosophically independent in his views, he never allowed his convictions to waver. Judaism, in its pure, unadulterated form, as he understood it, was his ideal of purity; his teacher of the love of God and man ; hence his vehement opposition to inno- vations which he believed detrimental to its preser- vation. In his political opinions, Heilprin was inclined to radicalism. Growing Russian oppression determined him, in 1842, to quit Poland, and he emigrated with his household to Hungary. When, after the failure of the revolution of 1848, despotism had fully estab- lished itself there, he left for America, arriving in 1859. All his family had preceded him in this second emigration for the sake of liberty. He resided suc- cessively in several cities of the United States, and finally took up his abode in Washington, where, on the 30th of January, 1863, he breathed his last. While in this country, he passed his days in retire- 130 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ment, but displayed warm interest in the cause of the Union and emancipation. Of Heilprin's two sons, the elder, Michael, born in 1823, ardently espoused the cause of the Hungarian revolution in 1848. He was, by Kossuth's prime- minister, Szemere, attached to the literary bureau of the Department of the Interior in 1849. He came to this country in 1856. The ripe scholar has largely contributed to the New American Cyclopcedia, the New York Nation, and other publications. He is associate editor of the American Cyclopcedia and Con- densed American Cyclopcedia. In 1879 he issued the first volume of " The Historical Poetry of the An- cient Hebrews, translated and critically examined." Michael Heilprin's two sons, Louis and Angelo, and his nephew, Fabian Franklin, have made success- ful debuts as contributors to American literature and science in the respective fields of history, paleontology and mathematics. MICHAEL . HENRY. As serious as are the responsibilities of a jour- nalist, so must his qualifications be varied and num- erous. To communicate that which is useful, to create a taste for that which enlightens and refines, to expose wrong and vindicate right, requires a pure heart and a well-trained mind. The late . THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 3 1 Michael Henry gave unmistakable evidences of hav- ing possessed the requisites of his vocation. Michael Henry was born at Kennington, Eng- land, in February, 1830. After receiving an educa- tion in the City of London School, he proceeded to Paris, where he found employment in a counting- house. Thence he returned to London, and entered the office of the Mechanics' Magazine. On the demise of the editor of that periodical, Mr. James Robertson, Henry assumed the manage- ment of the business, which he carried on from 1857 until his death. Before speaking of Mr. Henry's connection with the Jewish Chronicle, it may not be out of place to cast a glance at the condition of Jewish jour- nalism in England. From the beginning of the present century, attempts were made to establish an organ that would serve the interests of Juda- ism. The Hebrew Intelligencer, a monthly paper, ap- peared in 1823, but, after the issue of three num- bers, it came to an untimely end. In 1834 Dr. M. J. Raphall bought out his Hebrew Review and Magazine of Rabbinical Literature, which, though ad- mirably conducted, became extinct, after a short ex- istence, for the lack of support. The Voice of Jacob, originated in 1 841, continued five years, but it also ceased, owing to general apathy and pecuniary losses. After the Jewish Chronicle had, for some 132 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF time, remained alone in the field, strenuous efforts were again brought about, by which the Hebrew Observer, the Hebrew National and the Jewish Record appeared, but none lived long. However, the "Jew- ish World, more recently started, shows signs of permanent stability, and it is rapidly gaining favor. The Jewish Chronicle saw its first days in 1841, meeting at the outset a lukewarm reception. It languished for awhile, but in 1844 Mr. Mitchell re- vived it, and secured the services of Mr. M. A. Bresslau, a man of unquestionable attainments. Shortly after Mitchell's death, however, the journal passed into the hands of Dr. Abraham Benisch, with whom Michael Henry subsequently associated himself. When Dr. Benisch vacated the editorial chair in 1868, Mr. Henry became his successor. While in charge of the Chronicle, he exerted his powers to obtain for his brethren a recognition of their equality of rights, and raised his Weekly to such a high degree of excellence, that both its popularity and circulation steadily increased, stand- ing now foremost of all the journals of its class. During the course of his life, Mr. Henry wrote several poems and tales, and composed prayers for his own use. The founder of benevolent and edu- cational institutions, he indefatigably labored for the welfare of his fellow-believers. And, therewithal, he was modest and unassuming. His cordiality and suavity of manners, won for him scores of friends. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 33 In June, 1875, when just in the fulness of his mental and physical strength, Michael Henry died the victim of a lamentable accident. The direction of the Jewish Chronicle reverted to Dr. Benisch. But lately the Jewish community have sustained a great loss in the removal from their midst of also this celebrated scholar. His memory will be per- petuated, as that of another of Israel's noble sons. The Jewish Chronicle has built for itself a solid foundation, which will ensure its future success as a leading journal of the Hebrew people. LEVI HERZFELD. The eventful history of the Jews in Post-Biblical times has suggested numerous works. In these, the religious and social condition of the inhabitants of the Holy Land, while tributaries to foreign govern- ments, has been pictured with various success. The prolixity of some writers has taxed the mind, the brevity of others has withheld important information. Though the remarkable production of Flavius Jos- ephus— a production that is really tne source from which all have largely drawn — must ever be perused with satisfaction, works of great merit embodying facts which that fertile genius has given us, can now be cited. We desire to introduce to the reader, in a few words, a man who has acted his part well as 134 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF a Jewish annalist, and has extended the boundaries of literature. Rabbi Levi Herzfeld was born at Ellrich, in the Hartz Mountains, Germany, on the 27th of Decem- ber, 1 81 8. He studied Bible and Talmud at the Gymnasium of Nordhausen, and subsequently pur- sued a course of philosophy, and classical and ori- ental philology, at the University of Breslau. Making rapid progress, he acquired a large fund of knowl- edge. Graduating at Breslau, Herzfeld took up again the Talmud, under Rabbi Egers, of Brunswick, whose adjunct he became in 1842. Later, he was chosen Rabbi of Brunswick. From 1 861 -'73 he served as one of the managers of the Jewish Literary As- sociation, founded by Dr. Philippson. From his entrance to manhood, Rabbi Herzfeld has constantly been active in literary circles. As early as 1838 there appeared his " Translation . and Explanations of Ecclesiastes," which gave at once bright promise of the young man's future. " Pro- positions for a Reform of the Jewish Marriage-Laws," in 1846, and "A Revision of the Prayer-Book," in 1855, show the author's turn of mind. The re- searches into the history of commerce among the Ancient Hebrews (1 863 -'5), reveal much that was unknown, and an extraordinary comprehensiveness of views. " Lectures on the Art-Productions of the THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 35 Hebrews" (1864), is a work replete with original and sound thought. The principal merits of Herzfeld lie in his " His- tory of the People of Israel, from the Destruction of the Temple to the Elevation of the Maccabean Simon, as High-Priest and Prince," in three volumes (1847- '5 5-' 57). In this production, the incidents connected with the periods dilated upon are treated in a mas- terly manner. The stirring occurrences in Jewish an- nals are reviewed, and learned expositions and annota- tions enrich the writing ; the whole being derived from the very best sources. The Rabbi's fame may worthily rest upon this one effort, for it tells loudly of the author's learning and industry. An abridg- ment of this work was published in 1870. A succinct account is all that has been in our power to offer of the life of one who must be regarded as an unquestionable authority on all topics bearing on Jewish history. ISRAEL HILDESHEIMER. The system which governs the Jewish ritual, and the regulations pertaining to public worship, have undergone, within the last few decades, such vicissitudes that a presentation of causes and effects may well be left to the future historian. He will be able to dispassionately lay down facts,' and do I36 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF justice to the main actors in the exciting events. Still, in honor to truth it must be said that, among the bold leaders who have striven to preserve the Jewish religion as handed down by the fathers, the name of Israel Hildesheimer will shine forth resplen- dent. Dr. Israel Hildesheimer was born at Halberstadt, Prussia, on the 20th of May, 1820. His father, a Hebrew scholar of eminence, died, leaving the boy quite young. But, under the care of his mother, who encouraged him to study diligently, the lad's talents were so well cultivated that he early became the pupil of the famous Jacob Ettlinger, Rabbi of Altona. Hildesheimer fathomed the depths of the great Talmudic ocean, and all its flowing streams. He likewise turned his thoughts to knowledge of a secular nature, and went to the University of Berlin and afterward to that of Halle. At the latter, he received the degree of Doctor of Philosophy /\w 1846. On his return home, the learning of the new teacher spread fast. Scholars came from other cities to slake their thirst for rare information at a foun- tain so copious. In 1 85 1 the Doctor accepted a call from Eisen- stadt in Hungary, a place where many distinguished divines had officiated. There his school flourished, and a large number of students obtained an insight, not only into Rabbinical literature, but also into THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I 37 philosophy and science — the best evidence of the teacher's popularity and remarkable abilities. As the Rabbi of Eisenstadt, he made himself power- fully felt in religious and educational affairs. On the formation of the Orthodox Congregation Adath Israel of Berlin, in 1 869, Rabbi Hildesheimer • received an urgent invitation to become its spiritual guide. Now all his efforts were centred to the ac- complishment of one design — to fight Reform. The sharp-pointed arrows he hurled against innovations, clearly revealed the position he had assumed. He would not yield an iota ; he would not sanction the breach of the slightest law or custom ; but, despite the bitterest opposition encountered in the course he has maintained, all give him credit for honesty. Among the Rabbis taught by Dr. Hildesheimer, and who imbibed his ideas, may be mentioned Dr. Mayer Lehmann, editor of Der Israelii, of Mayence ; Dr. Ehrmann, of Trier ; Dr. Kahn, of Wiesbaden ; Dr. Carlebach, of Lubeck ; Dr. Marx, of Darmstadt ; and Dr. Cahn, of Fulda. Jn 1875 tne subject of our sketch founded a Rabbinical College, which is yet in a prosperous condition, numbering about fifty attendants. Dr. Hildesheimer's untiring activity in the field of beneficence might alone suffice to call forth praise. He has collected large sums for the poor and oppressed of Palestine, Persia, Russia and other I38 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF countries; and he rendered excellent service dur- ing the late Franco-Prussian war, when, with his wife, he visited and provided for the wounded and dying, alleviating the sufferings of the victims of a fierce struggle. On the 6th of September, 1876, Dr. Hildesheimer celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of his career as a Rabbi, and a becoming recognition of his worth was offered by many who regarded themselves his beneficiaries. The Doctor has won general affection by the sterling qualities he has exhibited. While his ardent zeal has set him against modifications in any of the anciently accepted rules of the Jewish creed, his enthusiasm and devotion to principles deserve to be recorded as an instance seldom met in our days. SAMSON RAPHAEL HIRSCH. Conspicuous, not solely as one of the acknowl- edged champions of Conservative Judaism, but as a profound theologian, and an active worker in He- brew literature, is the venerable Rabbi, Samson Raphael Hirsch. Many years have seen this divine faithfully labor in the sacred trust confided to his guardianship. The lasting services he has rendered the Jewish community are significantly illustrated THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I39 by schools and educational institutions that foster and disseminate religious knowledge. But an honest and uncompromising adherence to the prin- ciples of Judaism he believes in, and a dauntless defence thereof, entitle the Rabbi to the highest commendation. Samson Raphael Hirsch was born at Ham- burg, Germany, in 1807. His parents had designed him for a merchant. That he should choose the ministry was far from their thoughts. But, evi- dently, business offered him no attraction. He felt drawn to the college and the pulpit, and openly avowed the bent of his mind. Accordingly, he proceeded to Manheim, where he began theo- logical studies under Rabbi Ettlinger. He attended the lectures at the University of Bonn, and, having completed his course, he was, in 1830, ordained Chief Rabbi of Oldenburg. Splendid must have been the qualifications which gave their possessor. a claim to so high a position at the early age of twenty-three. From that time forward, Rabbi Hirsch became a central pillar of the ancient fabric of Orthodoxy. About the period of his election to the Rabbinate, strenuous efforts were being made to remodel the ritual, discard doctrines deemed heretofore inviola- ble, reduce the number of observances, and present the worship in an entirely new form. On the 140 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF whole, a thorough reconstruction of historical Juda- ism was contemplated. The movement had gained, in the lapse of a few years, such strength, that to grapple with it, required the combined energies of many who advocated the opposite views. Rabbi Hirsch, at once realizing the situation, prepared to meet the enemy. With fiery zeal he assailed the Reform camp. The Rabbi's " Nineteen Letters," pleading for old Judaism, and written under the nom de plume of Ben Usiel, created much enthusi- asm, and in so able and masterly a manner were the questions handled, that scholars were puzzled as to their authorship, until the name casually leaked out. Shortly after the last production had appeared, Rabbi Hirsch brought forth another learned work, called " Horeb, ,? which treats of the duties of Is- raelites. He had accepted a call from Emden in Hanover, but he subsequently became the ecclesias- tical head of the Jews of Nicolsburg in Moravia. While there, he encountered the political storm of 1848, raging throughout Europe, and he had to en- dure many troubles from attending circumstances. The Rabbi obtained popularity, however, to such a degree, that he was elected a member of the Aus- trian Parliament. In that body -he labored assid- uously, and struggled hard to secure the rights of his fellow-believers, and the recognition of their THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I4I equality with other classes of society. In Nicols- burg, Rabbi Hirsch devoted many hours to im- parting instruction in the Rabbinical seminary, and goodly were the fruits that sprung from his plant- ing. In 1 85 1 a number of Israelites seceded from the Congregation at Frankfort-on-the-Main, owing to the tendencies exhibited towards Reform. They organized, and invited Rabbi Hirsch to be their spiritual guide. Determined to serve the cause he had espoused, the Rabbi consented to go, notwith- standing the honorable stations occupied at Nicols- burg and the entreaties of friends to remain. He had not been long at Frankfort, ere he effected a thor- ough revival in religious affairs. The Jewish com- munity rose to a flourishing condition under his guidance. On the 17th of September, 1876, Rabbi Hirsch celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of his induction into office, and general festivities were held. As to his literary works, in addition to the writings already mentioned, Rabbi Hirsch com- menced issuing, in 1854, Jeskurun, a monthly periodi- cal, devoted to Hebrew religion and literature. But the most noteworthy of all his publications is a commentary on the Pentateuch, which has just been finished, and bears the name of " The Pentateuch translated and elucidated." It affords decided evi- 142 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF dences of the author's towering intellect, and the depth of his research. Though the Rabbi has passed the allotted three score years and ten, he still takes an earnest par- ticipation in every measure for the welfare of Is- raelites. All may not look upon his opinions, touching certain points in Judaism, with reverence, but every one must admit that Samson Raphael Hirsch is richly deserving of the fame earned by a consistent and upright career. SOLOMON HIRSCHEL. From the period that the Rev. Dr. Solomon Hirschel was elected Chief Rabbi of the Great (German) Synagoge, the affairs of the English Jews assumed much importance. The few incidents to be narrated will clearly show the rapid strides taken by our British brethren since that time ; and, as they are all inseparably connected with the career of Rabbi Hirschel, it is fit to mention them here. The Rev. Dr. Solomon Hirschel, though born in England, in 1 76 1, received his education in Ger- many and Poland. Hence the reason for the lack of a thorough acquaintance with his native language. The father of the Doctor, Zebi Hirschel, had been a former Chief Rabbi of the German Congregation. Dr. Hirschel, for nine years, occupied the posi- tion of Rabbi of Prenzlau, in Prussia. In 1802 he THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 43 was called to minister at the Duke's Place Syna- gogue, London. Endowed with keen perception, accurate scholarship and sound judgment, Dr. Hirsch- el did not remain indifferent to the many wants of his fellow-believers. He noticed the division existing between congregations that would not have the slightest connection with each other, either by reason of ritual differences, or by the prevalence of jealousy and personal bias. A remedy must at once be ap- plied, and Dr. Hirschel found it, in the amalgama- tion of the entire German congregations of England, thus placing them under one head. The Portuguese Jews, who had long kept aloof from their German brethren, must be reconciled, and to accomplish this, no little difficulty presented itself. But the work was brought to a successful issue, and, ever since, both communities have labored together for their general well-being. The notable events of Dr. Hirschel's Rabbinate were the establishment of useful institutions, as the Jews' Hospital, and the Jews' Free School ; the memorable journey of Sir Moses Montefiore to the East, in 1840; and the unfortunate schism in some congregations, which terminated in the Reform move- ment and the formation of the West London Syna- gogue, in 1842, with the Rev. Prof. D. W. Marks as its pastor.* It is said that, were it not for the *For a full account of this separation, see Picciotto's " Sketches of Anglo- Jewish History," Chapters L. and LI. 144 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF infirmities attendant upon old age, Dr. Hirschel would have been able to avert the sad rupture ; for his influence was always powerfully felt, and he might have granted concessions effecting a reconciliation, without proving detrimental to Orthodoxy. But the Elders of the various congregations refused to entertain any of the demands of the secessionists. Hence the result which caused heart-burnings and ill-will. But these ritual differences have happily not impaired the political condition of the British Jews. They have stood nobly together when ques- tions of great moment, bearing on their rights, arose. And now animosities have subsided, and the entire Hebrew community are eventually s being drawn into closer contact. Private troubles, together with congregational dissensions, sorely grieved Dr. Hirschel's spirit. In his last days, he could not enjoy repose. Broken down in mind and body, he was rendered unfit for service. Fasting and other deprivations had told severely upon his constitution. The Rabbi met be- sides with two severe accidents that tended to shorten his existence. He died October 31st, 1842, at the advanced age of eighty-one. The funeral of Dr. Hirschel, on November 2d, was attended with imposing ceremonies. All Jewish places of business remained closed, and the utmost respect was shown to the memory of a man, who, for forty years, had guided his flock in the path of righteousness. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 45 SAMUEL HOLDHEIM. A movement that aimed at the introduction of radical changes in the Jewish ritual, originated in Germany, over fifty years ago. At first, it did not make great headway; but, as the idea continued to be agitated by its upholders, it soon took a tangi- ble form, and assumed large proportions. It bears the name of Reform. To descant upon its history and progress, and the opposition it created, would be to write a book. A brief sketch of an indi- vidual who is generally regarded as the head and front of Radicalism, is all that is here attempted. Dr. Samuel Holdheim was born at Kempen, in the province of Posen, Prussian Poland, in 1806. His early education did not extend further than a famil- iarity with . the Bible and the Talmud. The great proficiency obtained in the latter, brought him to notice when yet a young man. * At the Universities of Prague and Berlin, he pursued, with ardor, vari- ous studies, but his limited preparation for a col- legiate course, made it impossible for him to gradu- ate at those institutions. Nevertheless, he acquired, within a short space of time, a remarkable amount of knowledge, so that he could step before the world, possessed of abilities superior to those of many of the Rabbis of his day. In 1836 Holdheim received a call from Frank- I46 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF fort on the Oder, whither he proceeded. There, his first efforts were directed to advance the poli- tical interests of his fellow-believers, and to gain for them liberal concessions. He delivered a num- ber of sermons in behalf of this cause, which were given publication. In 1839 he issued Gottcsdicnst- liche Vortrdge, in which he treats of the Jewish holy- days, usages, etc. This work was the subject of polemics in the leading Jewish periodicals. Holdheim's scholarly attainments secured public recognition in 1840, when the University of Leip- zig conferred on him the degree of Doctor of Philo- sophy. In the same year, he was tendered the posi- tion of Chief Rabbi of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, which he accepted. In this new field his influence in- creased rapidly, and the plans he had in view ex- cited eager expectations. The first of Dr. Holdheim's writings, that showed a strong tendency to extreme notions, was his Ubcr d. Autonomic d. Rabbincn u. d. Princip. dcr jud. Ehc, which came from the press in 1843. In it he urges upon Jews the importance of submitting matrimon- ial questions to the law of the land in which they sojourn. The Rabbi argues from his own stand- point, and tries to show that adherence to the pre- scribed ordinances would conflict with the duties of citizenship, and become antagonistic to liberal principles. To quote a writer's words : " He held* THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 47 first, that the autonomy of the Rabbins must cease; secondly, that the religious obligations should be distinct from the political and civil, and should yield to the latter, as of higher authority; and, thirdly, that marriage is, according to the Jewish law, a civil act, and consequently an act independent of Jewish authorities." Oder d. Beschneidung zun'dchst in religibs-dogrnat. Beziehung, came forth in 1844, wherein the author treats of the question whether circumcision is es- sential to Jewish membership, and expresses rad- ical opinions as to the efficacy of the Abra- hamic covenant. The promulgation of this theory aroused the wrath of formidable opponents, in nearly every noted Rabbi of Europe. But even those who condemn Holdheim's attacks on Jewish customs and rites, cannot fail to admire the perseverance with which he prosecuted his designs. For he stood al- most alone, facing the battle waged against him by a host of scholars of the highest rank. He grew not faint by the loss of supporters, but con- tinued to tenaciously maintain his principles. To this circumstance, We may principally attribute the success of Reform. Dr. Holdheim was a prominent member of the Jewish councils, held from 1843 to 1846. In 1847 he removed to Berlin, to become the leading spirit of the Jewish Reform Society of that city; an as- I48 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF sociation composed of persons who, on account of their pronounced hostility to Conservatism, had se- ceded from the body of the community. Here, he did not relax in his work. In addition to a num- ber of short treatises, in pamphlet form, written in defence of his position, and against the advocates of traditional Judaism, there appeared Religions u. Sittenlehren d. Mischnah z. Gebrauch b. Religions-un- terricht i. jud. Religions-schulen, on the moral and re- ligious teachings of the Mishna, in 1854; Gesch. der. jud. Reformgemeinde, on the history of Jewish Reform, in 1857; followed, in the same year, by Jud. Glaubens u. Sittenlehre, on Jewish faith and customs ; and Gebete und Ges'dnge fur das Neujahrs- u. Vers'uhnungsfest, or prayers and hymns for the New Year and the Day of Atonement, in 1859. A number of his sermons were separately published after his death. Dr. Holdheim lived to see his labors accomplish the ends he wished to carry out, viz : a gradual extension of the system for whose victory he had long fought. He died at Berlin, Prussia, August 22d, i860. Notwithstanding the denunciation and forcible condemnation which the new regime has met, we would not deny its mighty defender a claim to sincerity. He may have believed that the emancipa- tion of his German co-religionists from notions which THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I49 a state of proscription had engendered, demanded their breaking loose from all ritual restraints, and he im- agined that the time called upon him to lead in the change. Whatever the verdict of posterity may be on the question at issue, all will acknowledge that Samuel Holdheim was talented and energetic, and that he had the courage of his opinions. REBEKAH HYNEMAN. A lady who, though not born in the Sinaic law, did much to entitle her to a place by the side of Israel's illustrious daughters, was Mrs. Rebekah Hyneman. Her varied effusions breathe devotion to the belief she eagerly embraced in her woman- hood ; such a devotion, that it alone might com- mend the character of the authoress to the res- pect of the Hebrew community. But she combined a clear intellect with a pure heart, and both were directed to a righteous end. Rebekah Hyneman, nee Gumpert, was born in the city of Philadelphia, on September 8th, 1812. When yet a child, she evinced a strong desire for knowledge, and so diligently she applied herself to study, that, in a few years, without the aid of a regular instructor, she not only mastered English composition, but gained a correct idea of the French and German languages. This enabled her 150 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF afterward to translate several pieces, embodied in her published work, and of which notice will be taken. In 1835 Miss Gumpert was wedded to Benja- min Hyneman, brother of Leon Hyneman, the well- known writer on Free-Masonry, and for many years editor of the Masonic Mirror and Keystone. Con- stitutionally weak, Mrs. Hyneman was destined to grow still feebler through untoward circumstances which sorely tried her faith. She was left a widow, after having enjoyed but five years of mar- ried life. One of her sons, who had inherited his mother's natural enthusiasm, enlisted in the Union army during the late Civil War, and died in the rebel prison at Andersonville from sheer starvation. The other son, having long endured bodily suffer- ings, sank to an early grave. The death of her sister Sarah, wife of Leon Hyneman, intensified her sorrows. Still the bereaved woman arose above gloom, and turned her mind to the task of com- municating to others her godly sentiments. Mrs. Hyneman was a constant contributor to the Masonic Mirror and Keystone. She wrote for it a number of original stories, essays on multifar- ious subjects, fugitive pieces of poetry, and fre- quently presented translations from the works of different foreign authors. " The Leper and Other Poems," appeared in 1853. Many of the subjects i THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I5I are Scriptural, and show, in vivid colors, the feel- ings she entertained for the religion of her choice. The most notable poems, beside " The Leper/' are "Zara," "Livia," "The Muses," and some beautiful delineations of the Women of the Bible and the Apocrypha. We reproduce the piece, descriptive of the drowning of Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea, written as an introduction to " Miriam's Song:" Retire, ye waves ! roll back your crested heads — Presume not to approach the royal host, That presses onward to your bosom now, In glittering pomp and panoply of war. See how they tower, those lordly, swelling waves, And form a pathway walled on either side — Rides the king safely now ? The billows roll, But not in sport, nor as when tempests lash . Their angry heads, but with a sullen sound, Murmuringly and low — moaning, as if in pain, They heave and rise, then slowly sink again, Impatient for the word to set them free. But what has he, that kingly one, to fear? Have they not passed in safety o'er the path — They, his hereditary bondsmen ? And shall he, a monarch, a crowned King, With all his glittering host of armed men, Yield to base coward' fear ? Perish the thought ! He comes to conquer — hear ye not that shout? It tells of victory already won. But see ! the strange commotion in that mass ; They turn, they flee ! Oh ! gods of Egypt, help ! Vain prayer ! wild shrieks burst on th' affrighted ear, And the mad billows triumph o'er the sound. Whose voice thus echoes o'er the raging waste ? 152 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Who calls for help in that wild surging sea ?. Mighty and dreaded Pharaoh, is it thou ? Thou ! why the very waves laugh thee to scorn ; And of thy train, the meanest follower Claims brotherhood with Egypt's haughty King, And boasts as lordly sepulture. Sad sight — Chariot, and horse, and rider, each alike Engulfed in one vast grave. As a prose writer, Mrs. Hyneman must be also assigned a prominent station. In addition to quite a number of miscellaneous compositions, she pro- duced her " Tales for Children," which, together with other emanations from her pen, will soon be issued in book-form. It is conceded that writing for the young presents singular difficulties. The ideas must be conveyed in the simplest style, and, to accomplish the object, a perfect familiarity with the habits of children is required. Mrs. Hyneman is said to display in her "Tales" a great adaptability to the topic, arjd a grace and origi- nality that cannot fail to give her stories an en- during place in the memory of their juvenile readers. Mild of disposition and endowed with rare con- versational powers, Mrs. Hyneman possessed a large and select circle of friends who sympathized with her in the tribulations she was doomed to bear. From this affection she derived a fresh impulse to divert her thoughts from the painful to the useful; and, when under intense agony from a THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I 53 chronic disease, she received the attention which genuine attachment and esteem alone can offer. But her strength, slowly ebbed away, and on Sep- tember 10th, 1875, the spirit of Rebekah Hyneman passed into the abode set apart for the just. She was truly a woman whose example may well be imitated by every daughter of the race of Abraham. SAMUEL MYER ISAACS. The stability of Judaism in America is supremely due to the endeavors of a few ministers of foreign birth, who labored with singleness of purpose. Half a century ago the communal condition of the Hebrews in this country, was somewhat like a wild, unculti- vated plain. It required skilful hands to weed, to prune, and to plant anew ; and that work became the all-absorbing object of several spiritual leaders. They sought no self-aggrandizement, no popular ovations, but the satisfaction of having done right by elevating the character of their co-religionists, and drawing them into a closer union. The subject of the present sketch is entitled to rank among those ardent laborers. The Rev. Samuel Myer Isaacs was born at Leeu- warden, in Friesland, Holland, on the 4th of January, 1804. His father, a banker, had lost his property 154 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF by unfortunate speculations, and the family emi- grated to England in 1 8 14, where young Isaacs received his education. Of five sons, four entered the ministry, viz : Isaac, Jacob, David and Samuel. After completing his studies, Mr. Isaacs occupied the position of Principal of a charitable and educa- tional institution, known as Neve Tsedek, until 1839, when he set sail for New York, to assume the ministerial charge of the Congregation B'nai Je- shurun, then worshiping in Elm street. The healthful effect of the selection at once exhibited itself. A revival took place in the religious affairs of the metropolis, and the weekly sermons of Mr. Isaacs aroused the lethargic spirit of the community, and greatly added to the number of attendants at his Synagogue. In 1845 circumstances occasioned a division, by which the Congregation Shaar'e Tefila was called into existence with Mr. Isaacs as its pastor. His energies now found a wider scope. The zealous divine well understood that, with the growth of population, more institutions, tending to advance Jewish ends, and specially, to stem the current of denominational prejudices, were needed. He, therefore, used his powers as a speaker, to advocate the establishment of organizations that might supply the various wants of his fellow-believers. Thus hospitals, asylums, and beneficial and educational societies were founded. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 55 Co-operating with such men as Leeser and Raphall, Mr. Isaacs extended his usefulness in every direction. He took a prominent part in the formation of the Board of Delegates of American Israelites — an asso- ciation now merged with the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, and whose influence has been felt in far-off lands — and he never ceased to give his counsel and personal aid to the furtherance of its noble aims. He visited different cities of the United States, in the interest of his brethren ; lec- tured before Yale College, and spoke frequently, beyond his own pulpit, to large assemblies. While Mr. Isaacs proceeded in an even way towards the continuance of accepted practices, a movement, looking to radical changes in the Jewish Church, was being made with more or less success. Reform attacked Conservatism, thereby compelling its adherents to stand on the defensive. Mr. Isaacs could not remain indifferent to innovations which he deemed unlawful. He openly condemned the new school, and employed the columns of his weekly paper, the Jewish Messenger, (started in 1857), to denounce a system in which he saw the downfall of traditional Judaism. Whether Mr. Isaacs gained what he strove for or not, is a question which it would be idle to discuss. The Jewish Messenger has won deserved sup- port for its consistency, and for the excellent manner I56 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF in which it has been conducted. During the Civil War it upheld the North, and attacked the insti- tution of slavery. This course led to the temporary loss of a large number of subscribers to the jour- nal. Mr. Isaacs' characteristic remarks are well worthy of reproduction : "We want subscribers, for without them we cannot publish a paper, and Juda- ism needs an organ ; but we want much more truth and loyalty, and for them, we are ready, if we must, to sacrifice all other considerations." Mr. Isaacs enjoyed the esteem of some of the most eminent Americans, and of foreigners, the great philanthropist, Sir Moses Montefiore, with whom he frequently corresponded, regarding measures for. the amelioration of. the Jews of Palestine. Mr. Isaacs' charity was as notable as were his pious habits. He distributed of his own to the poor, and devoted a large portion of his time to succor the afflicted. The venerable minister of the Shaar'e Tefila Con- gregation, retired from office about a year prior to his death. One of his last public duties was to officiate at the funeral of his lamented colleague, the Rev. Jacques J. Lyons, who died in August, 1878. But Jewish affairs ever engaged Mr. Isaacs' thoughts and feelings, and his interest therein was manifested to the last. The long and useful life of the Rev. Samuel Myer Isaacs closed on the 19th of May, 1878. Hebrews THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I 57 throughout the Union hastened to pay a tribute of respect to the memory of one whose purity of character and steadfastness of purpose, endeared his name to young and old ; to those who shared his sentiments, and to others who differed. Mr. Isaacs contributed largely, by his writings, to the spread of Jewish literature in America, while his brother the Rev. Prof. David Myer Isaacs, who died in the spring of 1879, disseminated learning in England, and became widely known for his elo- quence and choice diction. The four sons of the deceased New York divine, Myer, Jacob, Isaac, and Abram, the last named of whom is the present editor of the Jewish Messenger, are respected alike as citizens and Israelites. ADOLPH JELLINEK. Pulpit oratory is comparatively new among He- brews. Disquisitions on some Scriptural or Talmud- ical passage, which were wont to satisfy the fathers, failed to attract their children. Hence a method more in accordance with the taste of the age had to be adopted. The need was felt for the presentation of theological truths in a systematic manner, and it did not long remain unsupplied. In Prague a Kaempf, in Breslau a Joel, and in Vienna a Jellinek, fill to-day positions which would not suffer in comparison I58 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF with those held by noted dignitaries of the Church. But the last-named possibly bears the palm for vivid imagery, felicitous conceptions, and admirable de- livery. The Rev. Dr. Adolph Jellinek was born at Drslow- itz, in Moravia, Austria, on the 26th of June, 1821. When still young he studied Talmud. Later, he fol- lowed a course of philosophy and Oriental languages at Prague, and finally at Leipsic. His aptitude for learning was readily discerned in the thoroughness with which he acquired the knowledge imparted. The Jewish community soon became aware of Jellinek's talents, and, in 1845, he was chosen preacher at Leipsic. Then the latent fire broke forth in burn- ing thoughts which kindled enthusiasm. The influ- ence which the divine exerted in religious matters kept pace with his popularity. Feeling that he must address throngs, he urged the erection of the new Synagogue, begun in 1855. In 1856 Dr. Jellinek went to Vienna, where he has since officiated as Rabbi-Preacher. In that ca- pacity, both his voice and his pen have ever been brought into requisition for the advancement of Juda- ism and its literature. A great feature in Jellinek is, that he evidences intense earnestness in all he says and writes. None who have heard his sermons, or read his effusions, can fail to notice that elocution and well-rounded sentences are not the only merits of THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I 59 the Doctor. His discourses carry conviction through their pervading sincerity, and his productions create profound impressions, because they emanate from love of the cause espoused. As a writer, Dr. Jellinek has issued works of in- trinsic value. He has searched into the dark laby- rinths of the Cabbala, and has brought forth original and striking facts of special interest to the votaries of that mystic system. Among the Doctor's numerous productions are : a translation of Prof. Adolphe Franck's " Cabbala, or Religious Philosophy of the Hebrews," 1844; Sefat Chachamim, explanation^ of Persian and Arabian words occurring in the Talmud, Targumim and Midrashim — 1846; " Elisha ben Abuya, called Acher," 1847; "Moses ben Shem-Tob De Leon and his Connection with the Zohar," 1851 ; "Contributions to the History of the Cabbala," 1 85 1 ; "Thomas Aquinas in Jewish Literature," 1853; Beth ha-Midrash, a collection of many, and, among them, rare Midrashim, in three volumes, i853-'5; Phil- osophy and Cabbala," 1854; a revised edition of Rashbanis (Rabbi Samuel ben Mei'r) commentaries on Canticles and Ecclesiastes, 1855; "Commentaries on Esther, Ruth and Lamentations, based on the Exegetical Method of the French School," 1855; " Shaar ha-Schamayim of Rabbi Joseph ibn Lattif," a contribution to the history of the Religio-Philo- sophical movement in the thirteenth century, with l6o EMINENT ISRAELITES OF a historical introduction — 1865; and " Studies and Sketches," 1869. Jellinek has also furnished articles to different publications. It may not be amiss to say that the Doctor lost a gifted brother during the political upheaval of 1848. Hermann Jellinek had already risen to a conspicuous rank, as a terse and polished writer, and he bid fair to reach an extraordinary eminence. But the reaction in the affairs of government, which brought Metter- nich again into power, doomed the outspoken and freedom-loving Hebrew to a premature grave. Ik GEORGE JESSEL. Long was Great Briain in learning that a liberal policy is not alone the most just, but the most profitable. For centuries she held her gates tight- shut against the Hebrew, and when permitting him at length to pass through, she waved over his head an iron rod. But the once proscriptive England has made amende honorable. She stretches forth her hand, and generously welcomes Israel within her territories. Nowhere is the people, whilom greatly despised, more exalted than in the United Kingdom and its dependencies. Nor is the honor unappreciated or unrequited. Jewish loyalty and patriotism cannot be excelled — Prof. Goldwin Smith's assertions to the contrary not- withstanding. In all departments those traits are THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. l6l noticeable, and, therefore, most delicate and respon- sible positions are rilled by the descendants of the Patriarchs. A very prominent character among our English Brethren is the present Master of the Rolls, the first Anglo-Jew to occupy a seat on the ju- dicial bench. i The Right Hon. Sir George Jessel, M. P., Q. C, son .of the late Mr. Zachariah Nathaniel Jessel, a merchant of Putney, was born at London, Eng- land, in 1824. Having remarkably benefited by the tuition received in his boyhood, he gained admission to University College, London, gradu- ating Bachelor of Arts in 1843. I* 1 the following year he was made Master of Arts, being awarded a gold medal in mathematics. Mr. Jessel commenced the study of the law, and, in May 1847, he was called to the Bar at Lincoln's. Inn. His legal talents attracted the favorable notice of the Government, and, in 1865, earned for him the appointment of Queen's Counsel and a Bencher of his Inn. Elected a Senator of the University of London, he was also returned to Parliament in 1868 by the Liberals, as one of the representa- tives for the borough of Dover. In all these offi- ces, Mr. Jessel's demeanor redounded to the gen- eral advantage, as well as to his own credit. But exertions wisely directed were destined to a glori- ous lot. The subject of our sketch became Solicitor- 1 62 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF General in November, 1871, under the Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone's administration, and, on Febru- ary 2 1 st, 1872, his services were publicly rewarded by his elevation to the knighthood. In August, 1873, on the recommendation of Mr. Gladstone, he was chosen Master of the Rolls, to succeed Lord Romilly, being at the same time sworn as a mem- ber of the Privy Council. An experience of seven years has amply justified the choice. With firmness and ability are the laws enforced. The discipline maintained in the Court over which Sir George presides, was shown re- cently by the expulsion of an individual who dis- turbed the proceedings. The offended man — dis- covered, however, to be of unsound mind — attempted the life of the judge. Fortunately for the would- be assassin, he lived under the shades of the Court of St. James, and not at St. Petersburg. Sir George's co-religionists have found in him one truly deserving of their respect, on account of his open adherence to the ancestral religion and warm advocacy of their interests. The feelings thus nurtured are growing stronger with the lapse of time, and in proportion as the country recognizes in the man who fears Israel's God, one eminently fitted for his high station, through acumen, sound- ness of judgment, and equanimity.* *Sir George is said to be the greatest equity lawyer who has sat in the Master of the Rolls' Court during the present generation. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 63 The career of Sir George Jessel has hitherto been stamped with the seal of universal commen- dation, and Israelites everywhere may well wish that, to its very end, it may bear the same dis- tinguishing impress. JOSEPH JOACHIM. The violin is everywhere considered one of the favorite musical instruments. Its sound, when airs are discoursed by acknowledged masters, enchains the thoughts. Music may really be regarded an in- spired gift. How it wields a power which affects even inferior animals, is beyond human description. But to avoid a discussion of the merits of this wonderful art, it may be merely said, by way of introduction, that Joachim stands foremost among living violinists. Joseph Joachim was born at Keczel, a small vill- age near Presburg, Hungary, July 15th, 183 1. At a very early age, he displayed a fondness for music. One day the child visited an inn where a band of gypsies was playing, and listened to the strange melody with wonder and delight. He eyed curi- ously the fiddle-sticks, gliding and skipping across the strings, from which escaped such singularly weird and merry tunes. Returning home he took an old guitar, and began knocking on the strings, 164 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF trying to produce the sounds he had heard. This amused his father, who presented the boy with a violin. From that moment, young Joachim's future life was mapped out. He soon commenced studying un- der several musicians, and in his seventh year cre- ated, by his playing, a sensation destined to be nevermore forgotton. At the Vienna Conservatory, Helmesberger and Bbhm afforded him instruction. He afterwards went to Leipsic, performing at a con- cert, and evoking a storm of applause. Appearing in London, he at once convinced the English peo- ple that he was above the class known as " youth- ful prodigies." In 1850 Joachim accepted, at the solicitation of Liszt, the post of Concert-Master at Weimar. This situation was exchanged in 1853, for a similar one at Hanover. In 1866 he became Director of the Academy of Music of Berlin, where he still remains. He makes frequent visits to England, Holland and Belgium, but a natural reluctance to being lionized, has led him to decline numerous offers for a con- cert tour in the United States. The Cambridge University recently honored him with the title of Doctor Musica. The chief points of Joachim's excellence are (we quote) : " purity and fulness of tone, perfect intona- tion, absolute mastery of all the technical difficul- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 65 ties of the instrument, and the closest sympathy with the classical composers, whose works he in- terprets." Though Joachim has written composi- tions of a high order, both for violin and orches- tra, his fame is principally due to his qualities as a player, and. to the great worth of his perform- ances. MICHAEL JOSEPHS. In the various walks of life, individuals may be found who, notwithstanding their remarkable talents, have never attained popularity. This is generally attributed to the modest and unostentatious de- meanor characterizing them. Another cause may be the indiscriminate praise often bestowed upon persons of ordinary abilities, inducing the truly de- serving to remain in retirement. This discouraging fact should not, however, deter the historian from seeking where merit exists, and according it commendation. Those who have labored to elevate humanity are entitled to public notice, be they ever so humble or unassuming. A memoir of one who rendered great service to Anglo-Judaism may be of interest. Michael Josephs was born at Kbnigsberg, Prus- sia, in 1763. His young years were employed in studying the Bible and collateral works. On leav- 1 66 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ing for England, when but sixteen, he already pos- sessed a store of Hebrew knowledge. About the time of his departure from Germany, the educational movement, led by Mendelssohn, had gained much ground, and Mr. Josephs became at once convinced of its practicability and usefulness. Shortly after his arrival in Great Britain, Mr. Josephs brought forth several Hebrew poems, and other productions in prose. Their avowed worth elicited frequent requests that the author would pre- pare odes and anniversary poems for different Jew- ish associations. Quite a number of minor pieces proceeded from the same source, and they were read with eagerness by the lovers of Hebrew litera- ture. But Mr. Josephs' reputation increased very considerably, when his principal work, a Hebrew and English Lexicon, appeared. It was dedicated to his Royal Highness, the Duke of Sussex, — a patron of Hebrew lore, and so cleverly arranged as to materially assist the student of Biblical and Post- Biblical writings. Mr. Josephs was also active among organizations of learning. He took part, in 1830, in forming a Hebrew Literary Society, and though, as a merchant, business consumed a large portion of his time, many hours were devoted to aid intellectual pro- gress. Perfectly familiar with all matters relat- ing to Hebrew composition, his opinion upon the THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 67 subject was consulted by celebrated Rabbis. Mr. Josephs is regarded as the first to have urged the propriety of refuting the aspersions cast on the books of Jewish traditions in " M'Caul's Old Paths;" a sug- gestion which was afterwards carried out. Strict in his religious observances, he was toler- ant and careful in judging of the motives of those who did not adhere to the strict letter of the law. Thoughtful and discreet, he would, like Socrates, often say, " Let us sacrifice a cock to ^Esculapius." Mr. Josephs freely employed his pecuniary means to benefit his fellow-creatures. He was summoned before his Maker in 1849, having attained the ripe age of eighty-six. In him we have a bright illustration of a man who directed his mind and substance to a channel whence his brethren might draw vast advantages. ISAAC MARCUS JOST. The works of Zacuto and of Gans are invaluable, when consideration is made to the times in which they were written, and to the knowledge within reach of their authors. But, for a systematic, com- prehensive, and carefully collated history of the Jewish people and its literature, the largest debt of gratitude is due to German Israelites. Of modern workers in this department, Jost was, it is conceded, 1 68 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the pioneer, for he pointed out the way, in following which, others have excelled. It is, therefore, right that his name should be first in the thought of all who value that which his pen has popular- ized. Dr. Isaac Marcus Jost was born at Bernburg, Germany, February 22d, 1793. During the same year, his father became totally blind, and Isaac, when only five years of age, had to labor for the support of a large family. After the death of his father, in 1803, he resided with his grandfather at Wolfenbiittel. Dr. Jost received his first education at the He- brew school in Bernburg. Soon, however, he was admitted into the Samson Institute, where he made the acquaintance of that great savant, Dr. Leopold Zunz, and the two scholars became intimate associates. Both made rapid progress, and were promoted to the highest class. In 181 3 Jost entered the Uni- versity of Gbttingen, where, for one year and a half, he pursued studies in history, philology, philosophy and theology; and removed, in 1814, to the Univer- sity of Berlin, from which he graduated in 18 16. Shortly after, he opened a school at Berlin, that Christians, as well as Jews attended. He accepted, in 1835, the head-mastership of the Jewish Normal School, at Frankfort-on-the-Main, in which capacity he spent the remainder of his days. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 69 Now to speak of the literary labors, of Dr. Jost. While at college, he penned several minor composi- tions of great excellence. But the first work that at- tracted general attention is the one upon which rests his fame. " History of the Israelites, " in twelve volumes, — nine of whjch appeared in the years 1819- 1827, and the remaining three in 1845 — * s tne fi rst of its own kind issued complete since the days of Josephus, and the result of gigantic labors on the part of its author. The vast amount of reading and research necessary to the accomplishment of such a prodigious task, baffles description. It must futhermore be remembered that there were then fewer sources from which to derive informa- tion, than are now opened to the student of history. The perseverance of Dr. Jost in the prosecution of his work, must have been, indeed, wonderful. In 1 83 1 -1 834 were published a " General History of the Jewish Nation," in two volumes, being an abridg- ment of the former work ; a German translation of the " Mishna," with a Rabbinical exposition, etc. Dr. Jost edited a weekly journal from 1839 to 1 84 1, called The Israelitish Annals, which numbered among its contributors some of the ablest Jewish writers, and furnished its readers with articles of rare literary merit. On its discontinuance, he started, in conjunction with his friend, Creiznach, a periodical in Hebrew, entitled Zion, of which two volumes ap- peared. 170 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF It was but a short time ere the German scholar brought forth another great production, in the shape of a " History of Judaism and its Sects," in three volumes, and which, a writer says, -" may fitly make the top stone of the great historical edifice, he had reared so perfectly from the outset." Dr. Jost indited a large number of miscellaneous essays and criticisms, and contributed to various journals and magazines.* His labors effectively tended to elevate the moral status of Judaism. Dr. Jost's philanthropic efforts also deserve notice. He became the " father of the fatherless," in establish- ing an asylum for the protection and care of orphans. The means he acquired were liberally spent in alle- viating the miseries of his fellow-beings, until death put an end to his kind ministrations, on the 20th of November, i860. A sympathetic disposition and a courteous de- meanor, combined with commanding talents, were brilliant features in the character of Dr. Jost. They should inspire universal admiration for a man whose whole life was an exemplification of what well-directed energies can achieve. MARCUS M. KALISCH. An inestimable debt of gratitude is due to the humble-minded philosopher of Dessau. For he set *Dr. Jost published in 1830, his "Explanatory Dictionary to Shakspeare's Plays." THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. I/I the wheel in motion, which still rolls on with unabated celerity. Since the days of the immortal Mendels- sohn, Germany has become a new Attica, and her Jewish denizens have a primary title to distinction. Into the vast sea of literary research they have dived deeply, and into that which pertains to Hebrew knowledge their investigations are singularly pro- found. The number of scholars that first saw the light of day in that section of Europe, has multiplied in a manner which makes one almost shrink at the thought of drawing an outline of the life and deeds of even the smallest minority. Still, what a scion of the ancient race has done must be told, so that many may be induced to obtain a familiarity with the emanations of a fertile brain. Marcus M. Kalisch, M. A., Ph. D., was born at Trepton, in the province of Pomerania, Prussia, on the 1 6th of May, 1828. Educated at Berlin, first in the Grammar School, directed by Dr. Ribbeck, and then at the University, he profited well by what had been imparted. At college, he studied classical philology under Boekh and Laihmann, and the Semitic languages and Biblical sciences under Petermann, Benary, Kingstenburg, Vatke, and others. Much of his time was also given to the Talmud, both in private and at the Rabbinical Institute. In 1848 he received several degrees at Berlin and at Halle. In the following year, political disturbances led 172 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Dr. Kalisch to bid. farewell to his native country. He proceeded to England, where he took up a per- manent residence. Immediately on his arrival at the metropolis, he engaged in literary pursuits. While contributing to periodicals ot Great Britain and the Continent, he also delivered lectures on sec- ular and theological topics. His thorough culture and versatile powers, enabled him to master philoso- phy, which he applied to Biblical exegesis. Thus he attracted the notice of the religious authorities of his fellow-believers, and served in the capacity of Secretary to Chief Rabbi Adler. But Dr. Kalisch was bent on the attainment of a special object, — that of reviewing the Scriptures with unsparing criticism. To that end, he relinquished ,all other occupations. Supported by the Rothschilds, •with whom he stood in very friendly relations, he worked with indefatigable energy, and in 1855 pub- lished his first volume, entitled " A Historical and •Critical Commentary on the Old Testament, with a new Translation — Exodus." The second, " Genesis," appeared in 1858; the third, "Leviticus, Part I., .containing Chapters I. to X., with Treatises on Sac- orifices and the Hebrew Priesthood," in 1867; and 'the fourth, "Leviticus, Part 1 1., containing Chapters XL to XXVII., with Treatises," in 1872. It is as- serted that, while lucidness and erudition are con- stantly displayed in these commentaries, radical THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 73 opinions are set forth as to the authenticity and correctness of certain texts and chapters of Holy Writ. Dr. Kalisch has also composed a Hebrew Grammar. Toward* the close of 1872 he was prostrated by a severe illness, which hindered his labors for a lengthy period. When partially recovered, in 1876, he re- sumed them with earnestness. In 1877 he issued the first part of "Bible Studies," comprising annota- tions on " The Prophecies of Balaam." The second part, on " The Book of Jonah, preceded by a Trea- tise on the Hebrew and the Stranger," has lately been offered. As no intelligent person would like to check an instinct which stimulates the brightest minds to soar above their ken, so it would be wrong to de- precate the attempts to subject the revealed books to the same process of investigation as writings of of human Creation. Anything possessing the ele- ments of truth will come forth unhurt from the searching test. Dr. Kalisch may, therefore, be wished unimpeded success ' in the prosecution of his aims, and the continuance of health to proceed without interruption. MOSES KAYSERLING. That the preservation of sacred literature is a great boon, admits of no question. In learning how 174 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF much has been accomplished in the past, the mind will retain its elasticity, and the heart will feel prompted to cherish and set off the real object of our boast. How many, now prominent before the world, might have lived and died in obscurity, but for the sentiments aroused by a knowledge of the endeavors of a choice band of ardent laborers ? To such feelings may be due the restless activity of one of the most prolific writers ; one who very nigh rivals the illustrious Steinschneider. True, his ef- forts have not taken the immense range which that master's herculean work embraces. But the painstaking, accuracy, and the conscientiousness which have been made to subserve a vast eru- dition, will, doubtless, be employed to increase the number of Moses Kayserling's works. To our readers we say : do not judge of the merits of the man by the space devoted to his biography. Dr. Moses Kayserling was born at Hanover, Ger- many, on June 17th, 1829. He obtained elementary, and subsequently higher, instruction in his native city. Declared fit for a collegiate education, he at- tended the University of Berlin. There, after a course of difficult studies, he graduated. Kayserling. did not exhibit in early life the marked aptitude for which some of his contempor- aries have been distinguished. But he thoroughly compensated for that in later years. A feeling of THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 175 humility may have held him back; modesty may have counseled slowness, to avoid a fall on the high road to learning. Hence his comparative tar- diness in appearing as an author. But he gathered experience, and gave us in manhood the ripe fruits of his meditation. In 1 86 1 the Government of Aargau appointed Dr. Kayserling Rabbi of the Swiss Jews. In that office, he used his exertions to secure religious and political privileges, until then denied, in many Can- tons of the Helvetic Confederacy, to the adher- ents of Mosaism. In 1870 he was chosen Rabbi and Preacher of the influential Jewish community of Pesth, Hungary. His versatile knowledge is at- tested by the able discharge of his ministerial duties, as well as by the productions of his pen. Dr. Kayserling has issued numerous works which will ever interest, by reason of the topics discussed and the tone pervading them. All his writings are in the German language. An ardent admirer of the scholars to whom the Iberian peninsula gave birth, during the Middle Ages, he has bestowed his attention specially, and with acknowledged suc- cess, on Sephardic literature. " Romanic Poetry of the Jews of Spain," came out in 1859; "A Holiday at Madrid — A Chapter of the History of the Spanish and Portuguese Jews," in 1859; History of the Jews of Spain and Portugal," in i860; "The I76 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Life and Writings of Menasseh ben Israel," in 1 861 ; "History of the Jews of England," in 1861 ; "The Life and Writings of Moses Mendelssohn,", in 1862; and "The Poet, Ephraim Kuh — A Contribution to the History of German Literature," in 1867. "Select Library of a Jewish Preacher," begun in 1870, will comprise several volumes when completed. The Doctor has largely contributed to German publica- tions, and he has also given us valuable works on the history of eminent sons and daughters of Israel, from the earliest to the .present day. There can be no doubt that any one conver- sant with the diction and spirit of both languages, who should undertake the translation of Dr. Kay- serling's writings into our vernacular, would con- fer a benefit on English-speaking Israelites, and earn an enviable notoriety. MINNA KLEEBERG. Those who admire the poetry of the father- land of Goethe, will be stirred by the effusions of a Jewess glowing with enthusiasm for the good and true. A short' time ago the pen which gave form to heavenly thoughts was guided by a pure hand. And now Death holds that hand in its cold grasp. But the fell destroyer could not extin- guish the fire which burnt within the soul. It THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 77 still emits brilliant sparks, in writings of touching loveliness. Our only regret is, that we cannot enkindle therewith those whose mother-tongue is English, for Minna Kleeberg wrote in German. Did we even possess the ability, we would not venture upon a version which might mar natural beauty. The. works, entitled to eminence, because of the sympathy they awaken for the sufferer, and the reverence they inspire for the merciful, will partly be mentioned without comment. But it is our earnest wish that they may find, in the original, the number of readers which their in- trinsic value deserves. Minna Kleeberg was born at Elmshorn, in the province of Holstein, Germany, on July 21st, 1841. The daughter of Dr. Cohen, a physician of note, her natural talents soon told of what they were capable. Under the guidance of her father, she enjoyed the advantage of a careful training, and thus acquired a surprising amount of information on general topics, long before arriving at maturity. While yet a young girl, she devoured works of a poetical and scientific character, in German, French and English. Her attachment to the sublime art soon manifested itself. Attentive to household duties, she still kept her mind continually alive upon sub- jects, in the treatment of which she so excelled in after years. When a child, she traced lines in- dicative of the future in store for her abilities. 178 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF In 1862 Miss Cohen married the Rev. Dr. L. Kleeberg. Up to that year, her verses did not claim attention outside of the Jewish circles of her native town. But now she began to send forth words that could not fail to challenge the applause of multitudes. The learned sought her acquaint- ance, and among them the poet Rittershaus was numbered. Shortly after Mrs. Kleeberg had written Das Lied vom Salz, a poem on the oppressive tax imposed on salt by Prussia, a convention of literary cele- brities took place at Frankfort-on-the-Main. Dis- cussions as to the merits of certain productions elicited the remark that Jewish authors lacked patri- otism, and that they did not properly understand how to give effect to their utterances. Thereupon Rittershaus read to the assembly the composition above-mentioned. All listened breathlessly. The piece was pronounced a model. The surprise may well be imagined, when the faith of the authoress was disclosed. No more would the hearers dare cast reflections on the ancient people, for the words, " The one who thus feels and writes is a Jewess," shamed them into perfect silence. Mrs. Kleeberg thus earned an extensive fame, which increased when, during the late Franco-Ger- man war, she heightened the zeal of many, by her generous outpourings in behalf of her native country. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 79 The strength of her religious convictions forced her to publicly repel the malicious accusations of Richard Wagner and Prof. Billroth against her race. Her emanations gained the well-timed praise of such personages as Prince Bismarck and Herr Lasker, who sent letters expressive of their thanks. When Mrs. Kleeberg came to the United States, the reputation which had preceded her drew to- wards the poetess some of the ablest representatives of literature in its various branches. She was chosen a member of several societies, composed of indi- viduals conspicuous in the ranks of letters, science and the fine arts. Prominent among the poems of Minna Kleeberg are Die West Mauer des Tempels, In Gottes Nanien, Bar-Mizva, Dima ben Nethina, Im Ebenbilde Gottes, Schach, and Dichterweihe. Most of these, besides others we omit naming, were contributed to Dr. L. Stein's Freitag Abend, of Frankfort-on-the-Main. The writings of Mrs. Kleeberg have been collected and published. Painful it is to record that strides taken in the career of honor and usefulness were suddenly stopped short. The gifted authoress was not permitted to fully reap the harvest of her sowing. When not thirty-eight years of age, Minna Kleeberg sadly bade farewell to the world, in which so much that she yearned and craved for, remained. A solemn scene l80 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF was that which closed a life's mission, at New Haven, Connecticut, on the last day of the year 1878 — a scene indelibly impressed on the hearts of relatives and friends, such as will be thought of with sorrowful emotions, by all who will have learnt, from the effusions of the German Jewess, how deep were the sentiments that pervaded her breast. NACHMAN KROCHMAL. We are told that in bygone ages business and Talmudical studies were associated. But the sys- tem has not altogether fallen into disuse. Of this we have assurance in late accounts. Examples are given of merchants who, after fulfilling their daily occupations, repaired to the spot where Rab- binical writings were expounded. But towards the close of the last century, and in the first quarter of the present, it was more frequent for fathers to place before their sons the ponderous volumes, embodying the discussions of the Sages, beside the Journal and Ledger. Rather than neglect the former, the latter would be set aside. Under these influences Nachman Krochmal was reared. Parental wealth did not oc- casion any deviation from the usual plan. It will be seen how this, affected his career. Nachman Krochmal was born at Brody, in Galicia, Austria, on the 18th of February, 1780. Nothing THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. l8l of importance is recorded of his youth, save that he entered the mercantile profession, struggling, at the same time, to attain a secular education, in the pursuit of which he encountered severe obstacles. From the wonderful knowledge he afterwards dis- played, we may fairly presume that a large por- tion of his time was spent in. deep study and re- search. To undertake the prodigious task which Kroch- mal performed — that of investigating the Bible, with a view of ascertaining the origin, unity, and date of each book, as well as to characterize its pecul- iarity of style and language— required a combina- tion of intellectual powers, possessed by only a few of the greatest scholars. A subject of so wide a range, presenting many difficulties in the way of exposition,' needed the' ability and perseverance of one who could search into its intricacies, and set all forth in a clear and satisfactory light. In his endeavors to accomplish "his purpose, Krochmal was subjected to adverse strictures, aspersions, and viru- lent attacks. Especially did he meet with strenuous opposition from those who held fast to accepted traditions, in his theories on the authorship and ages of the respective Scriptural writings. Undaunted, however, he pursued his investigations, and the re- sults that followed will be referred to. On account of feeble health, and physical infir- 1 82 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF mities, Krochmal published but little during his life. His principal works have since appeared, and, it is conceded, they evince immense learning. His interest in philosophy is shown in a production en- titled, More Nebuche Ha-Zeman (A Guide to the Erring of the Present Age), which the renowned Dr. Leopold Zunz edited and published at Lemberg, in 1851. Krochmal was an intimate associate of that prince of Jewish literators, Rapoport, and he enjoyed the respect, nay, the veneration of many illustrious per- sonages. He died at Tarnopol, in Galicia, Austria, on the 31st of July, 1840. Those who have profited by the fruit of his labors, need not be told what a loss was experienced on that day. The chief writings of Nachman Krochmal are on " The Sacred Antiquities and Their Import." They partly appeared in the Hebrew Annual, called K'erem Chemed, whose editor, Samuel Loeb Goldenberg, was distinguished alike for his scholarship and the sound judgment employed in conducting his excellent per- iodical. The subjects herein treated by Krochmal are (we quote the words of a writer): " 1. On the age of the comforting promises in the second part of Isaiah, chap. 40-66, in which he tries to demon- strate the late date of this part of the volume, and to show that Aben Ezra was of the same opinion, only that he veiled it in enigmatical language. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 83 2. On the date and composition of Ezra and Chron- icles, with an investigation of the ancient statement on this subject, contained in the Talmud, Baba Bathra, 14, b, which is very important. He tries to trace and analyze the different parts of which these books are composed, and to show that they extend to the destruction of the Persian Empire. 3. On the date and composition of Ezekiel, the Mi- nor Prophets, Daniel and Esther, with an examina- tion of the ancient statement on this subject, con- tained in the same passage of the Talmud, which is still more important, inasmuch as Krochmal shows here what is meant by The Great Synagogue, and tries to demonstrate that some portions of the Minor Prophets, belong to the period of the Greek Empire. 4. On the origin and date of Ecclesiastes, in which he insists that it is the latest composition in the canon." Speaking of his personal traits, an author as- serts that Krochmal's acquaintances, whether youths or men, derived much from his intercourse. To some he would afford a taste for the sublime out- pourings of German or Hebrew poets; to others he would offer abundant light on geometry or ma- thematics. At one time he would explain pas- sages in the philosophical writings of Maimonides ; and again on the comments of Aben Ezra, into which he had dived with his acute mental vision. Such a character is truly inestimable. 184 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF EDWARD LASKER. Civilization has wrought many wonderful changes in the moral, social and political condition of man. Thus, governments, once absolutely despotic, are now limited monarchies or republics. Men have struck for equal rights, and have largely obtained them. The followers of whatever creed are de- clared qualified to take part in state and national affairs. The tidal-wave did not stop short, when near- ing the banks of the Rhine, and futile will prove the combined attempts of reactionists to force it back. The anti-Semitic league, which would fain ostra- cize the emancipated Israelite, will be overwhelmed by the swelling current. A Jew, dreaded in the Reichstag, because of his trenchant speech, may be denied a re-nomination, but the leader of lib- eralism — our Lasker — will yet assert his power. Edward Lasker was born at Jarocin, in Posen, Prussian Poland, October 14th, 1829. After receiv- ing a preliminary education, he attended the sem- inary at Breslau, and obtained a knowledge of jurisprudence and mathematics. For three years he resided in England, studying the constitution and laws of that country. In 1856 he was ap- pointed to an office under the Prussian Govern- ment; but his religion, as also his political views THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 85 which he set forth in several excellent papers, pre- vented further advancement. However, his election to the House of Deputies, as a member from Berlin, in .1865, met with ap- proval. From his entrance therein, Lasker mani- fested an active interest in all important matters. He was several times re-elected to represent vari- ous districts, and his energies continued unabated. Conspicuous and foremost in everything, his popu- larity steadily increased. Herr Lasker was one of the founders of the National Liberal party, but he is not wedded to any, save to that which upholds justice, and, there- fore, on more than one occasion, he voted with the Progressive party. For a considerable length of time, Lasker warmly supported Prince Bismarck's administration. But the introduction of a bill, aiming to limit the free- dom of speech in Parliament, found in him a de- cided antagonist. The sagacious commoner foresaw a direct hindrance to liberty in the Prime Min- ister's arbitrary and tyrannic measure, and forth- with directed a fiery attack upon it. This boldness brought on a rupture, of which the astute Prince took advantage to unseat his uncompromising op- ponent. Lasker's defeat at the election in 1879, is thus spoken of by a writer. " One of the strangest of recent occurrences in Germany is the compul- 1 86 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF sory withdrawal from the political arena of Lasker, the Liberal Parliamentary leader. Lasker has been one of the best and most popular orators of the Empire, and is conceded even by his opponents to be in character pure and above suspicion. He is ... . poor, notwithstanding opportunities to be- come rich, and content to remain poor, rather than depart from his convictions, or soil his hands. He has beaten in fair, open Parliamentary fight more than one bitter enemy of his party, his race, and himself, and he threw the gauntlet many a time at Bismarck himself and had no difficulty in matching him. . . . For years Lasker was idolized by his party, and it was never supposed that he could possibly be shelved, but in the signal Conservative victory that the recent elections won for Bismarck, Lasker was wrecked. . . . The German Liberal press is filled with lamentations for his loss, which it hopes may be but temporary." Herr Lasker was chosen an attorney-at-law in 1870. His erudite work on the constitutional his- tory of Prussia, (New Edition, Leipsic, 1873), shows him a gentleman of brave mettle, an acute observer, and a far-sighted statesman. EMMA LAZARUS. The history of American Hebrews is of com- paratively recent date. Nevertheless it presents the THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 87 record of women who . have honored their people, by employing their native language in a manner that has elicited favorable comment. Thus, to cite one instance, Miss Penina Moi'se has received the deserved acknowledgment of her fellow-believers for the devotional poems and stirring hymns she has written for the Synagogue in Charleston, S. C. But it is of a poetess who has left an impress on En- glish and American literature, recognized far beyond the city of her birth, that more than some passing remarks are suggested. Eminent scholars have pub- licly attested the intrinsic worth of her productions. Emma Lazarus was born in the city of New York, July 22d, 1849. After being instructed in the rudiments of knowledge, she applied herself to reading. The discrimination she exercised in the choice of such books as would tend to cultivate her mental powers, became apparent on the appearance of her own works. Miss Lazarus displayed a par- ticular fondness for poetry, and her skill in the rhythmic art was disclosed at an early date. In 1 866 Miss Lazarus brought forth the first vol- ume of her poems, written between the ages of fourteen and seventeen. It exhibits precocity of genius in the rich imagery with which it teems, and a remarkable command of language. The soul of the authoress is in her work, hence the labor is doubly appreciated. Miss Lazarus issued a second 1 88 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF volume in 1871, entitled " Admetus and Other Poems, " which met with an enthusiastic reception, especially at the hands of English critics. The best notices appeared in the Westminster Review, the Athenceum, and the Illustrated London News, and from the last-named periodical we cull the fol- lowing : " Miss Lazarus must be hailed by impartial literary criticism as a poet of rare original power. She has unconsciously caught from admiring perusal more, perhaps, of the style of Tennyson's Arthurian Idylls, in her narrative and dramatic pieces, than would seem fitly to attend the perfectly fresh and independent stream of her thought. But her con- ceptions of each theme, and the whole compass of her- ideas and emotions, differ essentially from those of preceding or contemporary poets. In her treat- ment of the story of Alcestis and Admetus, one of ihe two Greek subjects among the poems in this volume, she is far happier than Mr. Browning in his half adaptation of Euripides. The motive of Al- cestis in dying to preserve the life of her lord, is here not a mere blind womanly fondness. It is rather an exalted persuasion that he, as the best of men and kings, the saviour and wise ruler of his country, as a person honored of the gods, as a monarch gratefully and trustfully obeyed by the peo- ple, is an object most worthy of her noble self- sacrifice. Admetus, for his part, still refuses to let THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 89 her die for him ; but the solemn act is consum- mated by the intervention of Phoebus, his divine guest, and former assistant in his winning of Al- cestis to be his wife. The conflict afterwards be- tween Hercules and' Death, and the return of life to Alcestis, are represented with more force, as well as more grace, . in this poem than in that of Mr. Browning. Let the reader judge of this : 'Then from the dying woman's couch again Her voice was heard, but with strange sudden tones. " Lo, I awake — the light comes back to me. What miracle is this?" And thunders shook The air, and clouds of mighty darkness fell, And the earth trembled, and weird horrid sounds Were heard of rushing wings and flying feet, And groans ; and all were silent, dumb with awe, Saving the king, who paused not in his prayer, " Have mercy, gods ! " and then again, " O gods, Have mercy ! " Through the open casement poured Bright, floods of sunny light ; the air was soft, Clear, delicate, as though a summer storm Had passed away, and those there standing saw, Afar upon the plain, Death fleeing thence ; And at the doorway, weary, wellnigh spent, Alcides, flushed with victory.' " The same volume contains other beautiful poems, such as " Orpheus," " Tannhauser," "The Garden of Adonis," and " Regret ;" also several patriotic pieces devoted to the cause of the Union in the late Civil War, as " Heroes," and " The Day of Dead Soldiers." The narrow limits of this sketch will, we regret to say, prevent even detached quotations from any of these thrilling poetical effusions. I90 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF A prose work by Miss Lazarus, entitled " Alide, —an Episode of Goethe's Life," was published in 1874. She has favored different journals and maga- zines with miscellaneous compositions. Her lines on the Jewish Synagogue at Newport, are full of pa- thos and religious sentiment. Of Miss Lazarus' con- tributions to the Jewish Messenger, there is one printed in an issue of October, 1877, which, we think, will interest Israelites, and it is therefore reproduced. The poem was written on the death of the Rev. Jacques J. Lyons, minister of the congregation Sheanth Israel, of New York : THE NEW YEAR. The golden harvest-tide is here, the corn Bows its proud tops beneath the reaper's hand. Ripe orchards' plenteous yields enrich the land ; Bring the first fruits and offer them this morn, With the stored sweetness of all summer hours, The amber honey sucked from myriad flowers, And sacrifice your best, first fruits to-day, With fainting hearts and hands forespent with toil. Offer the mellow harvest's splendid spoil, To Him who gives and Him who takes away. Bring timbrels, bring the harp of sweet accord, And in a pleasant psalm your voice attune, And blow the cornet greeting the new moon. Sing, holy, holy, holy, is the Lord, Who killeth and who quickeneth again, Who woundeth, and who healeth mortal pain, Whose hand afflicts us, and who sends us peace. Hail thou slim arc of promise in the West, Thou pledge of certain plenty, peace and rest. With the spent year, may the year's sorrows cease. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 19 1 For there is mourning now in Israel, The crown, the garland of the branching tree Is plucked and withered. Ripe of years was he, The priest, the good old man who wrought so well Upon his chosen glebe. For he was one Who at his seed-plot toiled through rain and sun. Morn found him not as one who slumbereth, Noon saw him faithful, and the restful night Stole o'er him at his labors to requite The just man's service with the just man's death. What shall be said when such as he do pass ? Go to the hill-side neath the cypress-trees, Fall midst that peopled silence on your knees, And weep that man must wither as the grass. But mourn him not whose blameless life complete Rounded its perfect orb, whose sleep is sweet, Whom we must follow, but may not recall. Salute with solemn trumpets the New Year, And offer honeyed fruits as were he here, Though ye be sick with wormwood and with gall. Miss Lazarus has double claims to the recogni- tion of her co-religionists, because the brilliant talents for which she is distinguished are now devoted to illustrate, in the English tongue, the outpourings of those immortal bards of Spain who beautified the Sephardic ritual. There will shortly appear in book- form, a series of essays on the Jewish poets of the Iberian peninsula in the Middle Ages. This will comprise copious extracts, translated from the works of grand old masters, affording no doubt a clear insight into the inimitable productions of Gabirol, Halevy, and Aben Ezra. We have attempted to give simply a bird's-eye 192 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF view of the life and writings of Emma Lazarus. A broad vista, revealing the character and abilities of our authoress, will be open to those who unclasp the volumes with which she has enriched literature. MORITZ LAZARUS. In the knowledge of the various branches of speculative science, our German co-religionists have risen to the highest standard. A glance at any of the modern researches into subjects most abstruse and perplexing, ' will disclose the important part played by Israelites. To withhold from them praise, would be to wilfully tear out some of the bright- est pages in the history of this wonderful age. Let the career of a mighty leader in metaphysics and transcendental philosophy confirm our position. Prof. Dr. Moritz Lazarus was born at Filehne, in Posen, Prussian Poland, on the 15th of Septem- ber, 1824. His father, Aaron Levin Lazarus, a dis- tinguished Talmudist, and pupil of the celebrated Rabbi Akiba Eger, departed this life only a few years since, at an advanced age. His brother, L. Lazarus, Ph. D., also an eminent Rabbi and scholar, and Director of the Jewish Theological Seminary at Breslau, died in 1879. Young Lazarus attended the congregational school in his native city, and received private instruction THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 93 from his uncle, Abraham Waldenberg, (father of Prof. Waldenberg, of Berlin). With his father, he chiefly studied Rabbinical writings. When sixteen, he entered a mercantile house where he remained three years, and then returned to science, his favor- ite pursuit. From the gymnasium at Brunswick he passed to the University of Berlin, ending his col- legiate course when twenty-two years old. No one could doubt but that the mind of Dr. Lazarus commanded a very wide range. But- any possible misgiving was dispelled by works on ab- stract topics, in which new ideas are evolved, and philosophical truths presented in a clear light. A passing allusion will be made to some of them. First, however, we shall speak of Lazarus as a Professor. In i860 a flattering admission of the Doctor's vast acquirements was made by his election to a pro- fessorship at the University of Berne, Switzerland. The satisfaction given by an untiring devotion to duty, led to his appointment as Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, in 1863. One year later he was elevated to the rank of Rector of the University. Thus, in the lapse of four years he attained stations that could only be filled by the very ablest and most profound scholars. Nor did the honors he gathered terminate there. In 1867 Prof. Laza- rus became Instructor in Philosophy, at the Royal 194 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Military Academy of Berlin. The climax was reached in 1873, by his being chosen Professor of Philosophy at the University of Berlin. The reader may judge of the qualifications of a man who, surrounded, as it were, by a constellation of shining lights, finds himself preferred to all others; for to occupy such a chair in such a college is, indeed, a recognition of preeminent talents. Prof. Lazarus has displayed warm interest in Jew- ish matters. Twice he presided over important con- ferences; the Israelitish Synods held at Leipzig and Augsburg, in 1869 and 1871 respectively. He is one of the founders of the High School for the Science of Judaism, and since 1872 he has been President of its Directory. As head of the Society for assisting Jewish Students, he has shown an ardent desire for the spread of education among his fellow-believers; and as an Honorary Member of the Directory of the Union of German Hebrew Congregations, his in- fluence has been sensibly felt. Other organizations reckon him among their directors. Now to mention some of Lazarus' productions. His work " On the Moral Justification of Prussia and Germany," appeared in 1850. It was followed, in 185 1, by an essay, " On the Idea and the Feasi- bility of a Science of National Psychology," in which originated the term, and the science of, National Psychology. Since 1859, the Doct'or has issued, in THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 95 conjunction with his brother-in-law, Prof. Dr. H. Stein- thal, the Journal of National Psychology and Phil- ology. "The Life of the Soul," thus far in two vol- umes, contains various articles under different titles, and it has passed through two editions — 1877-8. "Ideal Problems" was published in 1878. "The Origin of Morals," " The Theory of Sense-Illusions," and " Ideas in History," are writings replete with suggestive thoughts. Of the first and the last, three editions have appeared. A scientific critic may review the emanations of a pen so fertile ; he may offer salient points, des- criptive of their nature. We can merely name them. Thus a, conception, perchance, may be formed of the mental labor those works must have entailed upon their author, who, with energy and perseverance, has set them all in array before the world. ISAAC LEESER. There is probably no name so familiar to Amer- ican Israelites, as that of Isaac Leeser ; and none will ever say that the fame acquired was not justly earned. Indeed, few persons can bear comparison with him who is revered for his self-sacrificing de- votion and unremitting labor. The present advanced condition of Hebrews in this land of freedom must be chiefly attributed to his ceaseless exertions for I96 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF their moral and spiritual welfare. In fact, the his- tory of American Judaism and that of Isaac Leeser are one and the same. The Rev. Isaac Leeser was born at Neuenkirchen, in the province of Westphalia, Prussia, on the 12th of December, 1806. His parents' pious disposition, early led the child to a proper understanding of his religion. He received a preliminary education, and remained for some time at the college at Miinster, acquitting himself with honor. At the request of his uncle, Zalma Rehine, who resided in Richmond, Virginia, Isaac, in his eighteenth year, left home for America, where he arrived in May, 1824. Taking up his abode with his uncle, he attended school, which, however, he soon left to engage in business. Though closely occupied during the day, he still found time to devote to mental culture, and his even- ings were constantly spent in literary pursuits. He early evinced interest in religious affairs, as shown by the assistance given to the Rev. Isaac B. Seixas, in gratuitously teaching the younger portion of the Jewish community of Richmond. It was not, however, until 1828 that Mr. Leeser attracted public notice. In that year, the London Quarterly Review came out with articles tending to defame the character of Jews and Judaism. On reading these slanderous productions, Mr. Leeser, decided at once to stand up for his fellow-believers, THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 97 and he set forth a vindication in the columns of a Richmond newspaper. His 'remarks, couched in excellent language, and displaying much earn- estness, produced a marked impression. When Mr. Leeser penned the reply he had resided but four years in this country, and his surprising ac- quaintance with English, in so brief a period, proves the aptitude he possessed for linguistic knowledge. The circumstance related clearly indicates the state of religious learning in America, when the defence of Judaism had to be assumed by an obscure young man. The Congregation Mickve Israel, of Philadelphia, had long needed -the services of a pastor, and Mr. Leeser was at once set forward for the position. Though hesitating to enter upon such a task, he yielded to the wishes of his uncle and many friends, and was elected to the office in 1829. As spiritual leader of one of the most important congregations in the United States, a wide field was opened to his future efforts. Mr. Leeser added to official du- ties the delivery of English addresses and discourses to his flock, the first being pronounced on June 2d, 1830. Prior to that time no attempt to that effect, worthy of note, had been made in America, and the new system, meeting with favor, spread much farther than the city in which it was introduced. Notwithstanding this self-imposed addition to I98 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Mr. Leeser's obligations, his literary labors pro- ceeded unchecked. In 1830 appeared his translation of Johlson's " Instruction in the Mosaic Religion," and, in 1833, a work entitled, " The Jews and the Mosaic Law," containing also the articles first written in defence of the Jews. In 1834 Mr. Leeser suffered from a severe attack of small-pox, which prostrated him for a while, but did not eventually weaken his inborn energies. Early in 1837 he issued some of his sermons, in two vol- umes, arid in 1838 his Spelling-Book. A series of articles, written in 1839 and 1840 for the Phil- adelphia Gazette \ against the strictures of the London Quarterly Review concerning Hebrews, was published in 1 841, under the title of " The Claims of the Jews to an Equality of Rights." In 1839 Mr. Leeser brought out a Catechism, and other vol- umes of his sermons followed from time to time. He also edited several of the works of Miss Aguilar ; the Dias Letters ; " The Inquisition and Judaism ;" and " Meditations and Prayers, " by Mrs. Hesther Rothschild, etc. In 1843 Mr. Leeser began the monthly maga- zine, known as The Occident and American Jezvisli Advocate, in the interest of Judaism, which he carried on until his death, having completed twenty- five volumes. Its publication was continued for twelve months, by Mayer Sulzberger, Esq., one of THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 1 99 his executors. During one year of Mr. Leeser's editorship, The Occident came forth weekly, in the shape of an eight-page newspaper. Throughout its whole existence the periodical was ably conducted, always abounding with instructive and valuable read- ing matter. A thoroughly conservative organ, The Occident did not once deviate from its adopted course. Mr. Leeser issued his edition of the Pentateuch in Hebrew and English in 1845, an d afterwards the Daily Prayers, agreeably to bojth the German and the Portuguese customs. There was also published his translation of the complete set of Prayers for the Jewish Holidays, in accordance with the Portuguese ritual. In 1850 Mr. Leeser retired from the ministry in the Mickv'e Israel Synagogue, and on the forma- tion of the Congregation Beth-El-Emeth, of Philadel- phia, by some of his friends, in 1857, he was chosen its pastor, and he served in that capacity during the remainder of his life. Mr. Leeser gained much of his reputation by travelling. He visited various parts of the United States, every- where exhibiting his eloquence, obviously to the spiritual advantage of his hearers. Space will not permit even a cursory review of the multifarious labors ^of this famous divine. Many organizations, having for their object the 200 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF improvement or temporal benefit of Israelites, were projected by him. The Hebrew Education Soci- ety, the Board of Hebrew Ministers, the Jewish Hospital, the Maimonides College, all of. Philadel- phia, owe their foundation to the active efforts of Mr. Leeser. The Board of Delegates of American Israelites, the American Jewish Publication Society, and other institutions, are also greatly indebted to him for their creation. He advocated a union of the divers charities of Philadelphia, which was con- summated some years after his decease in the present Society of the United Hebrew Charities. When the Maimonides College opened at Phil- adelphia in October, 1867, Mr. Leeser, in acknowl- edgment of his endeavors for the cause, was elected Provost or President of the Faculty, his branch being Homiletics, Belles-Lettres and Comparative Theology. Among Mr. Leeser's other published works, were renditions into English of Rabbi Joseph Schwarz's Geography of Palestine, and Moses Men- delssohn's " Jerusalem." But the production by which he is best known, and which would have sufficed to give him immortality, is a translation in- to the vernacular of the Hebrew Bible. Besides all these services to Judaism, Mr.. Leeser was ever watchful of attacks from hostile camps, and many times did he enter the lists to combat for his co- religionists. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 201 When considering the immense achievements, in a literary sphere, of a single individual, we are as- tounded at the power of human perseverance. Mr. Leeser's memory was marvellous. He could re- cognize, and even recollect the names of, per- sons whom he had not seen for many years. With a quick comprehension, he could perceive almost in- stantly the point of difficult questions. Though not educated as a Rabbi, he had some acquaintance with the numerous writings of the Sages, and his peculiarly retentive faculties enabled him to study much in a short time. As a speaker he command- ed general admiration, and most of his addresses were delivered extempore. The indefatigable industry of Mr. Leeser often occasioned spells of sickness, and towards the end of the year 1867 he was seized with an illness which proved fatal on the 1st of February, 1868. Thus, the Hebrews of America were deprived of a bold champion, a staunch friend, and a great benefac- tor, whom coming generations will hold in grate- ful remembrance. MAXIMILIAN LETTERIS. The beauties of Hebrew literature have been ably set forth by a countless number of prose wri- ters, who labored to explain and critically delineate 202 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the contents of Biblical and Post-Biblical composi- tions. To them we are beholden for the intellectual development of Jewish communities. But we must not forget our indebtedness to those who, through the ardor of real poetry, have expressed their thoughts in " words that burn." Notably, the bards of the Middle Ages occupy lofty seats in the world of letters. Nor is the present century destitute of individuals who are in truth more than rhymsters. Poland alone has given us splendid specimens of ge- nius, and few have equalled, in depth of poetic sen- timent, and grandeur of style, him of whom we shall speak. Dr. Maximilian Letteris was born at Ziolkiev, Poland, on the 13th of September, 1800. His fa- ther, Rabbi Gershon Letteris, enjoyed much esteem as a Talmudical scholar, and as the possessor of ex- ceptional abilities. Having lost twelve of his chil- dren, Maximilian only being left, he determined to do his utmost that the future of his son might be worthy of a great man. Bent on that object, he engaged in the task with unabated vigor, and the results must have surely been encouraging to the loving father. When but a mere boy, Maximilian showed a re- markable acquaintance with the Bible and the Tal- mud. Desiring to obtain a more extensive knowl- edge than simply that of Hebrew, he devoted his THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 203 attention to German, and other modern languages, and their literature. But his parent did not favor this course, as he feared that his son might disregard the law ; therefore he forbade secular studies altogether. The youth, who had already acquired a different taste, found it impossible to obey the injunction ; hence he continued his favorite studies by stealth. Young Letteris was, at an early age, placed un- der the charge of the celebrated Rabbi Nachman Krochmal, who enriched the mind of his pupil with the fruits of his own vast learning. Receiving in- struction from so great a preceptor, it is not sur- prising that Letteris afterwards rose to a high sta- tion in literary circles. While yet in his youth, he gave unmistakable indications of the divine afflatus stirring within his breast. He wrote poems that charmed the reader, and served as a prognostic of a brilliant career. In 1 8 19 Letteris at last secured his father's con- sent to go where he deemed best in search of a wider range of knowledge. Accordingly, he entered the University, of Vienna, and the year 1820 found him an assiduous student at that college. In 1822 Dr. Letteris published his Dibre Slav ( Words of Song), a collection of poems, some from his pen, and others as translations. The reputation gained acted as a stimulus to more strenuous efforts. Letteris belonged to the school of Lyric Poetry, in 204 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF which Hebrews have excelled. In fact, he may be deemed the most prolific of that class among his native fellow-believers. In addition to sundry poems and prose-essays in German, as well as in Hebrew, there appeared G'ezang Yishai, a paraphrase of Racine's " Athalie," which met with an enthusiastic reception ; Shelom Ester, a version of Racine's " Esther," admired still more ; and Ben Abuyah, Letteris' masterpiece, which alone would suffice to encircle his brow with the laurels of immortality. For the soul of a great poet is reflected therein. Every line is music. To the lover of Hebrew verse, this effusion is an echo of Andalusian songs. So invaluable was this produc- tion considered, that the French Academy seized the first opportunity to procure it. Almost as fa- mous as the work just mentioned, is the elegy en- titled Yonah Homiyah (The Moaning Dove), so full of pathos and intensity of religious 4 feeling. Con- cerning it, the Rev. Dr. H. Vidaver thus remarks : " I shall never forget until my last hour, what pro- found emotions of love for Judaism and Israel, did the song Yonah Homiyah awaken in my heart, when yet in my tender boyhood ! I never saw this patri- otic Jewish poem in print ; it used to be tradition- ally delivered from one to another, and accompanied with a melody. We boys in Poland used to sing it, and our tears were all the time gushing from our eyes !" THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 205 Dr. Letteris was appointed, in 183 1, corrector and proof-reader in one of the largest Hebrew print- ing-houses in Vienna, and he worked in the same capacity during the greater portion of his life. For the writings which elicited so much encomium were by no means of pecuniary advantage. Their author lived in poverty, and it was with considerable diffi- culty that he obtained the wherewith to support existence. He died at Vienna, Austria, on the 4th of June, 1 87 1. The literary success of Maximilian Letteris may be ascribed to the fact that he steadily followed the object in view, notwithstanding serious impediments. A bright light in our horizon might never have shone, if the Polish scholar had allowed the preju- dices of the time, and the frowns of Fortune to prevail. His resolve to pursue the adopted course, despite all obstacles, earned him the name which is familiar to all but pretenders in the knowledge of modern Hebrew literature. URIAH PHILLIPS LEVY. The subject of the present sketch offers an illus- tration of an American Jew who did not allow offi- cial promotion to lower, in his estimation, the faith in which he had been born and reared, nor to erase from his heart his affection for his co-religionists. 206 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF He owed the respect paid him by his countrymen to personal efforts, coupled with firmness of charac- ter, and the esteem of his brethren to a determined attachment to the main principles of Judaism. It will be our province to refer to the manifold ser- vices he rendered his native-land, when endeavoring to reform the United States Navy, and to the dig- nity with which he upheld his office— never swerv- ing from the line of duty. Uriah Phillips Levy was born at Philadelphia, April 22d, 1792. After pursuing a course of in- struction, he entered the Navy, October 23d, 181 2. The United States, at that period, was engaged in a war with Great Britain, and Levy served as an officer on the brig Argus, which ran the blockade to France, with Mr. Crawford, the American Minis- ter to that country, on board. The vessel, after ac- complishing her mission, ravaged the English Chan- nel, destroying twenty-one British merchantmen, one of which alone was worth $625,000. But the Argus being finally captured, Levy and his shipmates were held as British prisoners for two years. In recognition of his gallant conduct, Mr. Levy was created a Lieutenant on March 5th, 181 7, and subsequently a Commodore on February 9th, 1837. He received the appointment of Post-Captain on March 29th, 1844. Captain Levy made many cruises into foreign THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 207 waters, the last of which, in 1858, as Flag Officer of the Mediterranean Squadron. His meritorious demeanor and bravery, had raised him to the high- est station in the Navy.* But more than for the undaunted courage which characterized the discharge of his obligations ; more even than for the patriotism which raised him in the general esteem, Uriah Phillips Levy deserves to be ever remembered as a humanitarian. The great system he inaugurated has been adopted by many civilized nations ; we mean, the abolition of corporal punishment to seamen, which put an end to cruel- ties that subordinate officers were compelled to en- dure. Ruthless practices had been indulged in to a fearful extent. Captain Levy saw that their contin- uance compromised the honor of his country, cast a stigma on Freedom, and outraged nature. Ac- cordingly, he devised a scheme which recognized no superiority, but that which belongs to a well-earned elevation in the ranks. This plan would not suffer the least abuse of power by naval commanders. So noble a conception met, and will eternally meet, with the heartiest approval of the right-thinking. One of the distinguishing traits of Commodore Levy's character was his admiration of Thomas Jef- ferson, whose family-seat at Monticello, Virginia, he * It must be borne in mind that the office of Admiral was not created until the Civil War. 208 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF purchased. This property was confiscated by the Confederate Government, during the Rebellion. Mr. Levy died at New York City, March 2 2d, 1862, in the full fruition of national honors. The monument erected to the memory of this worthy Hebrew, may be seen in that portion of the Cypress Hills Cemetery in use by the Congregation Shear- ith Israel, of New York. As a lover of his country and a generous bene- factor, Uriah Phillips Levy has been marked out a place in the annals of free America. LOUIS LOEWE. " There is a power behind the throne," is a com- mon saying. Applied more widely than in its liter- al sense, it means that unseen influences are at work for good or for evil. Sir Moses Montefiore, whose name cannot be too often mentioned, is the recipient of letters, applications, memorials, and books of all sorts, from all parts of the world. He must of necessity advise with, and employ persons on whose abilities he may rely, to relieve him of the burden of correspondence. To the man who most- ly stands by his side, and whose suggestions are practically felt by many of the philanthropist's ben- eficiaries, these lines are devoted. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 20 9 The Rev. Dr. Louis Loewe was born at Ziilz, in the province of Silesia, Prussia, in 1809. At the Academy of Rosenburg, in Silesia, he obtained a more than ordinary education. But to perfect his knowledge, he attended the colleges of Lissa, Nic- olsburg, and Presburg, where he steadfastly pursued studies in theology, the Oriental languages, and sci- entific branches. When Dr. Loewe finally came forth from the University of Berlin, he was possess- ed of a remarkable fund of knowledge, that enabled him to take his stand by the side of the most cultured. Repairing to England, Dr. Loewe became known to the Duke of Sussex and Admiral Sir Sydney Smith, under whose auspices he travelled, in the years 1836, 1837, and 1838, in Egypt, Nubia, part of Ethiopia, Syria, Palestine, Turkey, Asia Minor, and Greece, for the cultivation of the study of the Arabic, Coptic, Nubian, Turkish and Circassian lan- guages and their literature. In 1839 the Duke of Sussex appointed the Doctor his lecturer on the Oriental tongues. He had, prior to this, been chosen Sir Moses Montefiore's private secretary. In that capacity, he made several journeys, with the vene- rated Baronet, to the East, on behalf of his op- pressed co-religionists. Dr. Loewe assumed the position of Head-Master of the Jews' College, Finsbury Square, in 1856; and 2IO EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Examiner for Oriental Languages to the Royal Col- lege of Preceptors, in 1858. When, in 1868, Sir Moses Montefiore founded a Theological College, at Ramsgate, he selected his secretary as Principal and Director, — a fitting choice, for the Doctor's capaci- ties are unquestionably great. The ease with which he reads the epistles, in a number of languages, sent to the Baronet, would serve as a proof. But, independent of that, he bears the reputation of an Orientalist. It is, moreover, averred that his light- ning-like comprehension of the most abstruse topics astonishes even those who have been brought into close connection with him. We will refer to some writings that have ema- nated from his prolific pen. A translation of J. B. Levinsohn's Efes Dammim, being a series of conver- sations between a Patriarch of the Greek Church and a Chief Rabbi of the Jews, was published in 1.841, and followed, in 1849, by "Observations on A a Unique Gold Coin," issued by Al-Aamir Beakhcam Allah, Abu Ali Manzour Ben Mustali, tenth Caliph of the Fatimite dynasty. There also appeared " A Dictionary of the Circassian language," in 1854; "Origin of the Egyptian language"; "Letters from the East"; and a rendition into English, in 1872, of Rabbi David Nieto's Matteh Dan, which is a kind of supplement to the Cuzari, of Rabbi Jehudah Ha- levy, having for its object a vindication of the Oral THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2 1 I Law ; besides numerous " Discourses," and papers in the transactions of learned associations. Dr. Loewe is a member of the Royal Society of Great Britain and Ireland, and the Asiatic Soci- ety of Paris. A recent contribution to the Jewish Messenger, descriptive of a visit to the Samaritans of Naplouse, and of adventures among the Druzes, inspires a strong wish that this accomplished writer may allow his name to be brought more frequently before the public, so that the ripe fruits of his ex- perience may become a source of literary pleasure to many who have enjoyed his past efforts. SAMUEL DAVID LUZZATTO. When attempting to dilate upon the careers of individuals whose talents and acquirements have created wonder, and excited the deepest veneration, one must keenly feel that he will fall short' of the undertaking. Samuel David Luzzatto may be safely said to have excelled all his contemporaries as a Hebraist. We make this assertion with a boldness warranted by the testimony of profound critics. How it was given to a man to accomplish single- handed what might have scarcely been expected from the combined energies of many, is a marvel to scholars. Samuel David Luzzatto, the descendant of a very 212 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF learned family, was born at Trieste, Austria-Italy, on the 22d of August, 1800. Among his ancestors, Moses Hayim and Ephraim Luzzatto are names not unknown to fame. Hezekiah Luzzatto, the father of Samuel, though a turner by trade, possessed such knowledge of the Scriptures and Rabbinical writings as assisted him very materially in furthering the boy's education. When three years old, Samuel was sent to school, where, incredible as it may seem, he began to read and translate the Pentateuch. At four and a half he went to the Talmud Tor ah in- stitution, remaining there a number of years, and ex- hibiting a proficiency which entitled him to frequent promotion. Then Rabbi Mark Isaac Cologna took charge of the lad, and taught him Hebrew Gram- mar. At the same time, and for five years, young Luzzatto received instruction in Talmud from Abra- ham Eliezer Levy, Chief Rabbi of Trieste ; and he also pursued the study of classical and modern lan- guages, and of secular branches of literature. Very early in life, Luzzatto evinced a taste for poetry, and he would try his hand at rhymes, both in Italian and Hebrew. When only eleven years, he commenced to write a Hebrew grammar, and, at twelve, he translated the life of yEsop from his na- tive language into the sacred tongue, and even ven- tured to commit to paper some observations on the Five Books of Moses. Having obtained' as a prize THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 21 3 at school the celebrated work of Montesquieu, Con- siderations sur les Causes de la Grandeur des Ro- mains et de leur Decadence, he eagerly devoured its contents, and ascribed to it a considerable influence in the moulding of his mental faculties. In 1813 Luzzatto rendered into Italian some difficult portions of the ritual of the German Jews. Encouraged by a natural aversion for the mystical interpretation of Holy Writ, then in vogue, he would engage in discussing Cabbalism with his father, try- ing to show its fallacies. It might appear impossi- ble that a youth could convince his parent, already advanced in age, of the falsity of a system to which he had been wedded, and which counted adherents among the most polished literators; but the father did yield to his son's arguments, and gave up the study of the Cabbala. The subject of our sketch now took up philosophy and logic, and, notwith- standing that straitened means compelled him to attend to household duties, he still kept at Locke and Condillac. The first of Luzzatto's productions, a volume of poems, called Kinor Nangim (Sweet Harp), was indited in 1815. It contains thirty-seven pieces, one of which is descriptive of the service of the High Priest on the Day of Atonement, and an- other of the national misfortune by the destruc- tion of Jerusalem. But lately a second and 214 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF large-sized volume of poems under the same title has been issued. In 1817 Luzzatto wrote Maa- mar Hannickud, a pamphlet on Hebrew punctua- tion, aiming at a denial of the authenticity of the Zohar, the principal Cabbalistic work. This was followed the next year by Tor alt Nidreshet, (The Law Examined), — now published in an Italian translation by Rabbi M. C. Porto, —a philosophico- theological treatise, tending to prove the author- ship of the Pentateuch by Moses ; and Chelek KechUek Yoclielu, a short poem, in vindication of the ways of Providence. But despite all that Luzzatto had written, he continued unknown to his co-religionists until 181 8. The following incident served to introduce him in- to that circle where he was destined to sit a monarch : On the 9th of June of the year men- tioned, a daughter of an Israelite of high standing was married at Trieste. The celebration of the wedding had elicited the composing of an enigma, copies of which had, as usual, been handed to the learned for a solution. Luzzatto's father ob- tained one of these, and endeavored in vain to discover the answer. At last the son, to relieve his parent, requested to be allowed a short time for reflection. He solved the enigma, and added thereto a few lines in verse. This incident was the foundation of his fame. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 21 5 Yet with all, the material advancement of the author was not secured. The elder Luzzatto wished his son to follow some trade, or mechanical pur- suit ; but the young man very strongly objected, feeling that he possessed the qualities to make his mark as a writer. At first, he was employed as tutor in a number of private families, and he contributed to the Bikkure Haittim, a Hebrew periodical, published at Vienna. The deep learning of Samuel David Luzzatto soon attracted attention abroad. His ca- pacities shone forth so brilliantly, that he was de- servedly placed among the most renowned Jewish literati. In 1829 the Rabbinical college at Padua was opened, and Luzzatto became the Professor of Bib- lical Literature. While he lived, that seminary grew in reputation as a model university. But it did not long survive the Professor.- With his death, the in- terest once evinced by the community ceased. It was, while fulfilling the onerous requirements of this position, that Luzzatto penned the works which stamped him as a real genius. The indus- try and research he used in the preparation of his books are truly amazing. Nor did the fruits of early and painful exertions fail to appear in all their splendor. Scholars hastened to pay their obeisance to a man whom they were proud to own as master. What can be added to the grand 2l6 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF tribute of Prof. Dr. H. Graetz, who says : " If Kroch- mal and Rapoport were the fathers of Jewish history, Luzzatto must be acknowledged as her mother." * Only a passing reference to the most noted writings of the Padua Professor can here be made. Besides innumerable articles in nearly every Jewish journal and magazine in Europe, there were pub- lished, " Dialogues on the Cabbala, the Zohar, the Antiquity of the Vowel-Points and Accents of the Bible," seeking to gainsay the Cabbala, and to show that the Zohar dates from the thir- teenth century, the vowel-points from the fifth, and the accents, probably, from the sixth ; Prole- gomeni ad una Grammatica Ragionata della Lin- gua Ebraica, on Hebrew Grammar ; Oheb Ger, on the Aramaic version of Onkelos ; " Moral Theolo- gy;" " Dogmatic Theology;" "French Notes on Isaiah," written at the request of Rosenmuller; " Italian Translation of, and Hebrew Commentary on, the Pentateuch, with a Critical and Hermen- eutical Introduction;" "Isaiah," translated into Ital- ian, with a Hebrew comment, and considered by some, Luzzatto's master-piece ; an Italian rendition of Job ; " Historico-Religious Discourses ; " annota- tions on a collection of inedited poems by Rabbi Jehudah Halevy, entitled Betulath Bath Jeliudah; and an Italian version of almost the entire He- brew Bible. *Geschichte der Juden, XI. 502. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2\J Prof. Luzzatto also carried on an exceedingly large correspondence with Rapoport, Munk, Kroch- mal, Reggio, Jost, Geiger, Albert Cohn, Zunz, Carmoly, Dukes, Fiirst, Sachs, Letteris, Pinsker, Kayserling, Frankel, Graetz, Steinschneider, Kirch- heim, Jellinek, and a host of other celebrities. To his last days he was busily occupied, even devoting hours of the night to literary labors. On the 30th of September, 1865, "the Sabbath of Sabbaths," Samuel David Luzzatto breathed his last at Padua, Italy. The news of his demise spread like wild-fire, and sent a thrill into the hearts of thousands who had learned to honor him whose life's design had been the glorification of Judaism ; a man of whom it may be said he was " One of the few, the immortal names, that were not born to die." Prof. Luzzatto's eldest son, Philoxene, deceased, whose mental excellencies cannot be too highly praised, is spoken of in the succeeding sketch ; the second, Isaiah, is at present actively engaged in editing the posthumous works of his revered father. Of the two other sons, Joseph is a lawyer, and an eminent political economist; and Benjamin is a celebrated physician, lately appointed Profes- sor of Pathology, in the University of Padua. 21 8 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF PHILOXENE LUZZATTO. In the array of notabilities which this series has so far set to view, there will have been seen youths whose continued achievements predicted a splendid future, but whose careers were cut short by an un- timely death. Davids and Hartog — the one through the well-directed use of his precocious talents ; the other through his industry and genuine devo- tion to religious principles — will, perforce, fasten them- selves on the memory of posterity. But admiration changes into veritable reverence when we look at the character of a young man, who, in his own- sphere, stands alone in the annals of Judaism of our century. That no hyperbole is indulged in, an out- line of the history of this real genius will confirm. Philoxene Luzzatto was born at Trieste, Austria- Italy, on July ioth, 1829. No sooner was he able to read than his innate tendencies became visible. What presented the greatest difficulties chiefly ar- rested his attention. Thus naturally inclined, he overcame linguistic perplexities almost by intuition. Like Italian — his native language — French, German, and afterwards English were brought under his ab- solute control. But he also mastered Hebrew, Ara- maic, Syriac, and Arabic ; then Latin, Greek, and Sanscrit; and finally Ethiopian. When only thirteen, young Luzzatto deciphered THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 219 some old inscriptions on tombstones in the Padua Cemetery, the meaning of which had baffled the understanding of eminent scholars. This effected an introduction to a class of men, with whom he there- after closely associated. How nobly he devoted the advantage thus obtained ! His intercourse and cor- respondence with the literators of the age were sole- ly in the interest of Judaic science. When fifteen, Philoxene read a narrative of trav- els in Abyssinia, by a Frenchman, M. D'Abbadie, in which more satisfactory accounts than those for- merly received were given of Israelites in that far- off land. He 'immediately wrote to the author, and to the chiefs of the Jews dwelling in the distant re- gion, to obtain accurate information on the subject. After waiting long, replies came, and the welcome help, together with the notices he had gathered from various writings on the topic, enabled, him to set at once to work on a history of the Falashas, as the Abyssinian Hebrews are called. Philoxene's delineation of the cuneiform inscrip- tions at Nineveh displays acumen and ingenuity. Noticing a similarity between them and the San- scrit, he published Le Sanscritisme dc la Langue Assyrienne, in 1 849 ; and Etudes sur les Inscriptions Assyriennes de Persepolis, Hamadan, Van et Khor- sabad, in 1850. Then followed, in 1852, Notice sur Abou-Iousouf Hasdai Ibn-Schaprout, on a Hebrew 220 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF statesman of Spain, in the tenth century, a gener- ous patron of literature. Memoir e sur les Juifs U Abyssinie ou Falashas, on the Jews of Abyssinia or Falashas, appeared in the Archives Israelites, of Paris, after the author's death. Young Luzzatto's fame had spread abroad, and he was honored by an election as member of the Oriental Society of Germany, as well as of the Acad- emy of Padua. The benefit derived from studying at the Rabbinical College, wherein his father taught, was evidenced in his Italian translation of, and splen- did Hebrew commentary on, eighteen chapters of Ezekiel. Furnished with a talisman by his surname, he undertook a tour through Germany and France, where he examined ancient manuscripts in museums and academies. Wherever he journeyed, an enthu- siastic reception was tendered him by the savants. Of Philoxene Luzzatto's . minor productions, his remarks on the existence of an Assyrian god, named Semiramis, and on the inscriptions on the ruins of the Israelitish Cemetery of Paris, are of special importance. The life of young Luzzatto was, unhappily, destined to be meteor-like, most luminous, but transient. While on his travels a disease overtook him, and he endured for many months excrucia- ting pains. At length he arrived at Padua, but only to die. Even during intense suffering, his THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 221 mind was bent on literary objects. The last pages of his work on the Falashas, he dictated when near his end. On January 25th, 1854, the spirit returned to its Maker. " The bowl was broken, the silver chord was loosed." All may not soar so high as Philoxene Luzzatto, for towering were his capacities. But everyone can usefully apply the divine gifts of intelligence and reason ; and, what is most essential for an Israelite, he can employ those Providential blessings to up- hold the glory of his faith. ROBERT LYON. For many years, Hebrews lived in America in al- most total silence, indifferent, to all appearances, t6 the absence of an organ through which their voices could be heard. But as years rolled on, it became obvious to some, that the establishment of a medium for the presentation of Jewish ideas, the diffusion of Jewish knowledge, and the upholding of the Jewish religion, would greatly enhance the status of Israelites in this country. Such a conviction, however, as- sumed no tangible form until 1843, when the Rev. Isaac Leeser brought out The Occident and American Jewish Advocate, as a monthly magazine. But the first weekly paper, published in the interest of Judaism, was The Asmoncan, of whose editor we will briefly speak. 222 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Robert Lyon was born at London, England, on January 15th, 18 10. Though early destined for mer- cantile pursuits, he gave himself up to study, and, be- fore reaching manhood, he had written essays for dif- ferent journals. Shortly after starting in business at London, Mr. Lyon joined the Synagogue in Maiden Lane, where his talents and integrity soon gained him the good-will of the congregation, and he was elected its Treasurer. On the marriage of Queen Victoria, in 1840, Mr. Lyon accompanied Baron de Goldsmid, as a delegate, to present a congratulatory address to her Majesty, in person. Mr. Lyon arrived in the United States in 1844, and engaged in a manufacturing enterprise, but without success. Turning his attention to the Jews of New York, he felt that such an important, numerous, and wealthy community ought not to be without a journal setting forth its claims. Still, no one was willing to supply the want. Then Mr. Lyon took the matter in hand, and, on the 26th of October, 1849, he began the publication of The Asmonean. For nearly nine years he conducted the paper with dignity and ability, numbering among his contributors several gentlemen well-known for their scholarship. Mr. Lyon edited, at the same time, the New York Mercantile Journal, de- voted to commerce. Irreproachable in his private character, cultured and refined, Robert Lyon might have long enjoyed THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 223 public confidence, but a sudden illness cut him off in the middle of his days, on March ioth 1858. Neither The Asmonean, nor the New York Mercan- tile Journal, held out long after their editor's death. But from the seeds planted by the first have sprung the American Israelite, the Jewish Messenger, the Hebrew Leader, the Jewish Record, the American He- brew, and other periodicals of a similar nature. May they always labor for the welfare of our co-religion- ists, and for the maintenance of those sublime prin- ciples given to Israel's safe-keeping. DAVID WOOLF MARKS. It is not our purpose to trace the origin of Jewish Reform in Great Britain. But as names, not unfre- quently, fail to convey correct ideas, a few remarks may be deemed pertinent. To confound Reform in England with that in Germany and America, would be an error. The movement that gave prominence to the subject of this sketch, opposed the traditions of Judaism only in a very moderate degree. No depart- ure from the ceremonial ordinances of the Mosaic code, and its moral tenets was attempted. This we are impelled to say in obedience to historical truth. Still the ritual innovations opened a sore which is not yet entirely healed, and which, for a time, rankled and festered to the injury of a great religious body. 224 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF The Israelite to whom attention is drawn, has led Anglo- Jewish Reform from its incipient stage. The Rev. Prof. David Woolf Marks was born at London, England, in 1811. He attended the Jews' Free School, obtaining instruction in the rudiments of knowledge. His father died leaving him young, and the support of the family materially devolved upon the lad. All his leisure moments, however, were assiduously devoted to study. Employed to read prayers in the houses of wealthy people, the youth's appearance and voice impressed many with favor. To this circumstance must be attri- buted his rising to the position of assistant reader in the Duke's Place (German) Synagogue. After having filled that office for a number of years, Mr. Marks was appointed Secretary of the old Orthodox Congregation of Liverpool. In the prosecution of his duties, he gathered around him a host of friends who bore testi- mony to his industry and efficiency. But subsequent events showed Mr. Marks' talents to the best advantage. Prior to the year 1 840, numerous petitions, couched in respectful language, had been sent to the Wardens of the Bevis Marks (Portuguese) Synagogue, urging alterations in the ritual, and the preservation of more order and decorum in the Divine worship. The estab- lishment of a House of Prayer at the west end of London, by reason of the distance of a number of members from the sacred precincts, was also pres- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 22 5 singly solicited. But these memorials, though they did occasion considerable discussion on the part of the Elders, were never acted upon. Exhausting every means to accomplish their objects, several gentlemen of high standing, both of the Sephardim and Ashkena- zim, convened together, and determined to secede, and form a new Congregation. Among the advocates of the plan were the widely-known families of Goldsmid, Mocatta, Henriques and Elkin. But all realized the difficulty of selecting, as a spiritual guide, a person equal to their needs. Mediocrity would not answer when a staunch defender of their views was demanded. At the suggestion of Dr. Joshua Van Oven, Mr. Marks was invited, to London, to meet some Hebrews who had espoused the new cause. The interview resulted in his election. " The West London Congregation of British Jews," as the body was called, consecrated its first Place of Worship, in Burton street, on January 28th, 1843. The Rev. Mr. Marks conducted the ser- vice, and delivered the dedicatory address. In 1851 a removal was made to an edifice in Margaret Street, Cavendish Square, and in 1868 to the present hand- some Synagogue in Berkeley Street. Naturally, this separation could not be regarded with indifference. The Elders of the Portuguese Con- gregation, at their meetings of February 26th, and March 4th, 1842, proclaimed the ban of excommuni- cation or Herein against the separatists, Mr. Marks, 226 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF and every Jew who acknowledged his ministration, being included in the writ. Happily, bitter animosities have subsided. A spirit of tolerance has worked a beneficial change. The real interests of the Jewish people are now watched over in England, by all who adore the God of Sinai. The anathema has never been revoked, but it has become a dead letter which none wish to resus- citate. Mr. Marks' flock continue in their attachment to him. For the Pastor has labored thirty-eight years to make good the expectations formed on the qualifica- tions early exhibited. Modest in his demeanor, he quietly performs obligations of the importance of which he early became sensible. His constituents declared pulpit instruction an essential, and, therefore, sermons are delivered at the Synagogue on each Sabbath. The Minister compiled the Prayer-Books in use, and arranged the order of the services. Through the aid of Sir (then Mr.) Francis H. Gold- smid, the Congregation was recognized by Parliament, and allowed the rights pertaining to religious corpora- tions. In 1857 a kindred institution was established at Manchester, and the Rev. Dr. Gustav Gottheil, at present, Rabbi of the "Temple Emanuel," of New York City, occupied the pulpit for several years. It is now under the ministerial charge of the Rev. L. M. Simmons, B. A. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 227 Besides attending to the immediate wants of his congregation, Mr. Marks has been active in furthering educational designs. This fact, together with the abil- ities he was known to possess, gained him the Chair of Hebrew in the University College of London, in 1848, as the successor of the lamented Prof. Hyman Hurwitz. Recently he was honored by being chosen Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Prof. Marks is a director of several organizations, such as "The Anglo-Jewish Association," and "The Western Philanthropic Society." He often lectures before associations not of his people, and, as an orator, compares favorably with the best among the Eng- lish clergy. Of literary productions Prof. Marks has published two volumes of sermons, and a pamphlet, " The Law is Light," in addition to having done editorial work in Smith's " Dictionary of the Bible," and contributed to the press. It has been held that his unseen influence with emi- nent statesmen considerably assisted in bringing about the passage of the Bill for the relief of Jewish disabili- ties in the British Empire — an intimate acquaintance with the foremost in that struggle for equal rights, gives support to this assertion. A self-made man — as the Rev. Prof. Marks certainly is — may now look back on the past with satisfaction. His efforts have not gone unrewarded. They have 228 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF upheld the high social standing of that portion of the community he has served, and have prepared the way for a reconciliation which will strengthen the bonds of Anglo-Jewish brotherhood. ISAAC PESARO MAUROGONATO. It has not been long over thirty years since the gates of the narrow and unventilated quarters in which the Jews of Rome had been ; confined for ages, were thrown down. But even after Pius IX., feigning to respond to the demands of the time, granted a gra- cious boon, and allowed his subjects, so caged in, to leave the Ghetto, few ventured out of its limits. They knew that rooted prejudice would give them no rest be- yond the horrid precincts. The real liberation experi- enced under the popular King, Victor Emanuel II., in- fused a new spirit into the Italian Hebrews. With as- tounding rapidity they who were deemed the lowest, forced themselves up to distinction by talents and char- acter. We find among them leaders in municipal and national affairs, and the Italian Parliament shows a Mor- purgo, a Luzzatti, a Maurogonato, and others whose judgment is ripe and whose counsel is heeded— and here the inestimable services of Samuel Alatri, the champion of the Roman Jews, must be publicly ac- knowledged. But it is of Maurogonato — aptly styled by his countrymen, " an athlete in Parliamen- tary debate" — that some slight information is thought to be opportune. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 229 Isaac Pesaro Maurogonato was born at Venice, November 5th, 18 17. When he began to apply his faculties to the study of the Law, he did it with an earnestness that finally secured to him the degree of Doctor. A maternal uncle, greatly attached to the youth, named him his heir, and bequeathed him a large fortune. Maurogonato continued at his profession, while at the same time he displayed an active interest in politics. Having contracted a strong friendship, for the renowned Daniel Manin, the Venetian Dictator, he labored with that patriot to effect reforms in the government of his native city. During the stormy days of 1848, Maurogonato was appointed Postmaster-General of Venice, and shortly after he became a member of the financial commis- sion. In 1849 he was called to the most delicate and trying office of Minister of Finance and Commerce. In this capacity the duty devolved upon him to provide Venice with food, the city being besieged by the Aus- trians. In that station his probity and civic virtues be- came objects of general admiration. Notwithstanding the great pressure on the public treasury, he retired from office leaving in it a larger sum than it contained on his assuming the ministry. After the fall of the Provisional 'Government, and the return of the Aus- trians to Venice, one of the authorities, astonished to find accounts so scrupulously kept and minutely ren- 23O EMINENT ISRAELITES OE dered, exclaimed, " I never would have thought that those Republican rebels could be so honest !" Maurogonato, together with Manin and others, lived for some time in exile, and he afterwards made a short sojourn in the Ionian Islands. Returning home, he directed his attention to banking and insurance matters. When Venice became a part of the kingdom of Italy, in i860, Maurogonato was elected a deputy to Parliament, which position he filled with so much credit that popular will again placed him as high. He now ranks among the life-senators of his native country. Maurogonato has published several essays, and has frequently contributed to various political organs. As a thorough financier, he has few equals through- out Italy. His private character is unblemished, his charity is without stint. It is important to mention that, while Maurogonato is an advocate of every measure that may benefit the State, he is neither forgetful of the interests of his fellow-be- lievers, nor of the faith of his fathers. RAPHAEL MELDOLA. . The Portuguese Jews of Great Britain have had the fortune of obtaining as spiritual chiefs, ripe scholars and men of undoubted piety. Rabbi David THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 23 I Nieto, the Haham during a portion of the eighteenth century, was distinguished as a philosopher, physician, poet, mathematician, astronomer and theologian. So rare a combination of learning could not fail to hand down his name to posterity. But in a lesser degree only than Nieto, Meldola exhibited capacities which marked him out as a divine of vast attainments. The Rev. Dr. Raphael Meldola was born at Leghorn, Italy, in 1754. His father, Rabbi Moses Meldola, had occupied the position of Professor of Oriental Languages at the University of Paris, and gained renown by his literary productions. In fact, the Meldola family for many generations gave the world great and erudite Rabbis. Raphael Meldola pursued a regular course of studies, soon developing those latent talents destined to be brought into requisition for the benefit of the House of Israel, and for the glory of their possessor. When but fifteen, Meldola was permitted to take his seat in the first Rabbinical uni- versity. In 1 803 he obtained the title of Rabbi ; and, as such, was empowered to settle disputed cases, by Din Torah, or Mosaic and Talmudical laws, accord- ing to the custom then in vogue throughout Italy. In 1805 Rabbi Meldola proceeded to London, whither he had been called, to fill the vacant office of Haham of the Portuguese community. During his ministration stirring events took place, in the course of which the Rabbi's abilities showed to great advan- 232 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF tage. Di\ Meldola cultivated the acquaintance of scholars, and enjoyed the esteem of Christians, not less than that of Israelites. The sermons he occasion- ally delivered were in Spanish, and though the subject- matter was always excellent, the language of Spain, once universally understood by the congregation, had then become almost obsolete among the young, who naturally preferred their native language. But the special characteristics of Dr. Meldola were his bene- volence and generosity, which led him to sacrifice time and means for others, while his humble and unpreten- tious manners increased the respect entertained for the learning of the Rabbi. Dr. Meldola died on the 1st of June, 1828, aged seventy-four years. He was interred by the side of his countryman and predecessor, Rabbi David Nieto, an honor which he particularly craved. To mention a few of Rabbi Meldola's writings : first appeared Korban Minha, explanatory of the ser- vice of the High Priest, read in the Portuguese Syna- gogues on the Day of Atonement. In 1796 was issued Hupat Hatanim, which is said to display great know- ledge of mathematics, as well as of Talmud. Dr. Meldola left several works in manuscript, one of which, originally written in Hebrew, and translated by his son, the Rev. David Meldola, is entitled D'erech Emunah, (The Way of Faith). It treats of Jewish doctrines, rites, etc. THE , NINETEENTH CENTURY. 233 The Rev. David Meldola, who, after his father's death, became presiding officer of the Beth Din, or Ecclesiastical Board of the Sephardim, acquired dis- tinction for his abilities as a Hebraist and linguist. He was also a native of Leghorn, having emigrated with his parents, when rather young, to England. Mr. Meldola died in March, 1853, and with him closed a long line of eminent scholars who had successfully labored in the field of sacred literature. GIACOMO MEYERBEER. Years of study would be required to write understandingly on the origin, history, and modern development of the sublime art of Music. Therefore, in presenting what relates to the career of a great celebrity, we must beg the kind indulgence of our readers for attempting that which others, by their full knowledge of the subject, have effectually accomplished. Giacomo Meyerbeer (properly Jakob Meyer Beer) was born at Berlin, Prussia, on the 5th of Septem- ber, 1794, of a family some of whose members had become remarkable for their musical abilities. As early as his fifth year, he performed tunes on the piano spontaneously. After receiving instruction from various tutors, he was placed in the conservatory at Cassel, under the charge of that distinguished 234 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF musician, the Abbe Vogler. He had already studied dramatic composition under Bernhard Anselm Weber. While at Cassel he formed the acquaintance and friendship of the renowned maestro, Carl Maria von Weber, with whom he competed in the production of church music. Meyerbeer soon brought forth a cantata, " God and Nature." This was followed by his first opera, u Jephthah's Vow," which passed its trial on the- Munich stage, in 1812. It failed, however, to arouse the audience, and, though warmly admired by Vog- ler, Weber, and others, it was considered a failure. Meyerbeer now proceeded to Vienna, where, at the express desire of the Court, lie composed " The Two Caliphs." But it, unfortunately, met the fate of the previous opera. Italian music was, at that time, in the ascen- dency, and, by the advice of Salieri, director of the Vienna opera, Meyerbeer visited Italy, where he became a convert to the new Italian school, and what he afterwards produced proved highly popular. " Romilda and Constanza" was greeted with deafening applause at Padua, in 18 19. Then came . " Semiramide," performed at Turin, the same year; " Emma of Resburg," at Venice, in 1820, and which created a furor \ " Margaret of Anjou," " The Exiled of Granada," and " The Crusader." The success of the last work was immense. For THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 235 many weeks it remained the standing programme of the theatres of Italy and Germany, and its soft- ness and richness of tone, afforded the most decisive proofs of the wonderful capacities of its author. Meyerbeer now took up his residence at Paris, where, in 1 83 1, after very active preparations, " Robert, the Devil," one of the grandest of his operas, was given to an expectant public. It excited the wildest en- thusiasm throughout France, England, Italy, Austria and Russia. Meyerbeer may be said to have reached the climax of his fame on the appearance of "The Huguenots," though " The Pilgrimage to Ploermel," and "The Prophet," won universal encomiums. Among the other of our composer's operatic works may be mentioned "Peter the Great," " Dinorah," "The African," and "Almanzor;" the last-named having never been represented, by reason of the ill- ness of the Prima Donna chosen to introduce it up- on the stage. Meyerbeer likewise wrote a vast number of sacred and miscellaneous pieces, all of which clearly show the versatility of his genius. The German poet, Heine, said of Meyerbeer : " He is the man of the times ; his themes are those of the spirit of the times, and embody the struggles of modern history for liberty ; the cry of desperation of the writhing century finds vent in The Huguenots, The Prophet, and Robert. The passions of a fettered and gagged generation send forth their shrieks and 236 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF wailings, and utter their claims for sympathy in measured words, and the brazen sounds of the orchestra." At Paris, France, on the 2d of May, 1 864, Gia- como Meyerbeer, when nearly three score years and ten, was called to his final home. But those rich legacies, his musical productions, will be the laurels forever encircling his name. Meyerbeer's brothers, Wilhelm, the astronomer, and Michael, the dramatist, did good service to the cause of progress, and their own labors bespeak the praise of the wise. MOSES MONTEFIORE. When the history of the Jews of our century shall be written, universal consent will assign the brightest page to the man whose name rises on every lip with a blessing. He needs not feel lowered from his eminence when looking back at the Hasdai's and Hannagids of Spain — patrons of learning, defenders of their race ; for his gold flows like a perennial stream to benefit the indigent, and encourage sa- cred knowledge. The days of his existence have been of endless service to Israel and mankind. God destined that Hebrew as an exemplar of his age. To teach mercy, he was, like Moses of old, sent to Kings' palaces with Divine messages ; to instil veneration for THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 237 the revealed Law, he was made to withstand all the allurements which beset a princely station ; to point to the eternity of prophetic promises, he was inspired to inscribe Jerusalem on his escutcheon. Is there an Israelite that must be told to whom these imperfect utterances apply ? All know the deliverer. Sir Moses Montefiore, Bart, F. R. S., was born at Leghorn, Italy, on the 24th of October, 1784, while his parents were there on a visit ; but he was soon brought to London. His father, Joseph E. Montefiore, Esq., a noted banker, controlled considera- ble means, which he freely used to give his children an excellent education.* Our Moses soon rose to prominence as a successful merchant, and more so for his probity and benevolence. He evinced the liveliest interest in Jewish affairs, hence, in April, 1828, he was elected a member of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, an organization founded in 1760, and still commanding influence at home and abroad. It must be remembered that when said association was formed, as a protection to Israelites, these could not take part in matters relating to the government of Great Britain. An insuperable obstacle was the cere- mony attending induction into office, such as being obliged to receive the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, *Of the brothers of Sir Moses, Abraham was an important mem- ber of the Jewish community. 238 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF and to be sworn "On the true faith of a Christian," etc. The Board of Deputies labored long and strenu- ously to have the obnoxious acts repealed, but not till the year. 1 85 8 did the yearnings and strivings of zealous men prove successful. On the resignation of Moses Mocatta, Esq., the efficient President, in 1835, Moses Montefiore, whose exalted character had ever imparted solemn dignity to the Board, sat as its chief. In 1837 this most popu- lar Israelite was preferred to the office of Sheriff of London and Middlesex, and, in the same year, Queen Victoria, valuing a subject acknowledged to be one of nature's noblemen, created him a Baronet, with the privilege of using a coat-of-arms — an honor conferred only on peers of the realm. But in 1840 the foundation-stone of that greatness which will ever distinguish our champion was laid. When a cry of misery from Damascus wrung the soul of every Jew, Sir Moses, obedient to the impulses of his generous heart, stepped forward and took the lead in the defence of a persecuted people, maliciously charged with a heinous crime. He proceeded imme- diately to the East, in company with Lady Montefiore, M. Cremieux, Prof. Munk, Dr. Loewe, his Private Secretary, and other personages. Despite the repre- hensible conduct of the French Government that sanctioned the wicked deeds of its Consul, Count Ratti Menton, the merciful mission met with a happy THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 239 issue. Some time after his return, Sir Moses was pre- sented with a testimonial by his British brethren, and, subsequently, with a handsome gift by the Jews of Germany, for the noble efforts made in behalf of our cause. To tell what claims the English Baronet has on the gratitude of all who feel Jewishly, or, to be more correct, of all who feel humanely, would demand the unfolding of the history of this age, as it regards the status of Israelites in countries of misrule, of misery and of oppression. For to repeatedly remonstrate with tyrants, and to inimitably help the hapless, has been the task assumed, and magnificently achieved by Moses Montefiore. One illustration may be of interest In 1858 the civilized world was convulsed by the dis- covery that Jewish children were being abducted, and forced to embrace the Catholic faith. The most start- ling instance was that of Edgar Mortara, stolen from his parents in Bologna, Italy. The act had been pub- licly sanctioned by His Holiness (?) Mastai-Ferretti, who was anxious for the salvation of the lads soul. At the news of the outrage, Sir Moses hastened to Rome, and endeavored to obtain an audience with the in- fallible Pontiff. Our leading representative was re- fused, and Cardinal Antonelli was sent to inform him that interposition would be of no avail. Sadly did the benign messenger return to England, but not at all shaken in the determination to stand up as a bul- 24O EMINENT ISRAELITES OF wark of defence, and so he has continued without cessation. Notwithstanding the dissuasion of his dearest friends, Sir Moses undertook a seventh voyage to Jerusalem in his ninety-second year, and he has given a narrative of it in a volume which imparts pleasing information about men and places. The piety of Sir Moses exceeds all praise. To perform his devotions with the prescribed number, he supports the Synagogue erected at his expense, and attached to his country-residence at Ramsgate. Colleges, hospitals, asylums, and places of wor- ship, which do not even belong to his persuasion, have been endowed by the Baronet, and the amount expended on these, as well as on poverty-stricken families in all climes, cannot be calculated. It is the hope of millions, that this glory of Israel may endure still longer ; that, though bordering on his hundredth year, Sir Moses Montefiore, may abide here in health, to mirror forth all that is good and noble in human nature. JUDITH MONTEFIORE. The author of the Book of Proverbs revealed the inspiration which led his pen, when he personified wis- dom in the form of a woman. She is made to stand prominent, and she tells men that " the fear of the THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 24 1 Lord is to hate wrong, pride and arrogance, and an evil way." The voice of woman thus raised to offer godly counsel, possesses an all-penetrating force. Its earnest tones, heard at the domestic fireside, cannot fail to effect durable blessings. The consort of the great Sir Moses Montefiore was a Jewess who felt her power for good, by urging her husband on to marvellous achievements, and actively participating in his grand work. Judith Montefiore, daughter of Barnet L. Cohen, Esq., and sister of Baroness Hannah de Rothschild, was born at London, England, in 1 784. Her father did not belong to the Portuguese community of Jews. He worshipped with his brethren of German and Polish extraction. The descendants of those who had settled again in England, by permission of Oliver Cromwell, looked upon their co-religionists of another ritual as their inferiors. As a natural consequence, intermar- riages were avoided ; a Portuguese deeming it deroga- tory to his standing to take one for a wife from among the females of a congregation whose genealogical tree did not show the Dons or the Hidalgos. It needed a moral courage not easily mustered to face the prejudice, and break its backbone. Sir Moses was the man both to attack and conquer it. On the 10th of June, 181 2, he wedded a Jewess who had not read her prayers in the Bevis Marks Synagogue. The choice was fortunate, for Miss Cohen was 242 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF endowed with intelligence and tender feelings, and she knew how to bring her qualities to. bear on the further- ance of the philanthropist's designs. Lady Judith accompanied Sir Moses on his numer- ous tours, undertaken in behalf of humanity, and ri- valled his generosity by distributing of her own means. Observant of what occurred during her journeys, she wrote an interesting volume with the title, " Notes of a Private Journal of a Visit to Egypt and Palestine," printed for private circulation. Like Sir Moses, Lady Montefiore performed her re-' ligious duties with unswerving strictness, and she visi- ted schools promotive of Hebrew knowledge, reward- ing meritorious pupils, and speaking encouragingly to teachers. This noble woman, whose whole life did not belie the name of Judith (Jewess) she bore, believed that her mission was not fulfilled when caring only for those of her own faith, but she made the unfortunate of other creeds partake of her bounties. On the 26th of September, 1 862, Sir Moses was be- reft of his dearest companion. Lady Montefiore died in her seventy-eighth year, and was interred in the burial-place which her husband had consecrated at Ramsgate. The tears of him she fondly loved moisten the earth that covers her mortal remains, and count- less numbers lament the loss of their benefactress. " Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou hast excelled them all.'' THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 243 IGNAZ MOSCHELES. The art of Music and that of writing are not neces- sarily twin-born. But it occasionally happens that the hand whose delicate touch evokes sweet strains can wield a graceful pen. This double acquirement adds lustre to the possessor, and eclat to his performances. But in Ignaz Moscheles three qualifications combined to render his name famous. He was admired as a player, a composer, and a scholar. True, many years were given him to reach the height he attained, but when very young he had already moved upward so rapidly, that all could predict his future greatness. Ignaz Moscheles was born at Prague, in Bohemia, Austria, on the 30th of May, 1794. As early as his eighth year he received instruction in music from F. D. Weber, director of the conservatory. The boy's innate talents developed fast, and when eleven he per- formed on the piano with the ease and skill of a fin- ished artist. His introduction to men of note naturally followed, and each hailed the rising genius. While still a lad, Moscheles went to Vienna, and there formed the acquaintance of Haydn and Beethoven, who advised him to continue studying. He became the pupil of Albrechtsberger, under whom he made such progress as to create amazement. He competed with Hummel, then reputed the first pianist in Germany. Moscheles now undertook an extensive continental 244 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF tour, his playing creating everywhere rapturous delight. In 1820 he removed to England, where he resided for twenty-six years. Here his abilities met with full re- cognition, his popularity increasing to so wide an ex- tent, that, in 1825, he was appointed Professor in the Academy of London ; also Conductor of the Philhar- monic Concerts, holding both stations more than two decades. It must be borne in mind that few could ob- tain the latter position, it being granted only to a mu- sician of the very highest order. Moscheles rendered incalculable service to the mu- sical world, by inducing the English to cultivate the compositions of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and other acknowledged masters. In fact, he brought more in- fluence to bear upon this than any who preceded or succeeded him. His thorough knowledge of the piano- forte, and capacity to show forth its wonderful applica- tions, mainly tended to the glory he achieved. Then, his rendition of Beethoven's sonatas and concertos left him without a superior, and, probably, an equal. In 1846 Moscheles was chosen Director of the Con- servatory of Leipsic, spending there the remainder of his life. As a composer, he wrote, for the piano, violin, and other instruments, pieces which are splendid speci- mens of classical music, and marvels of perfection and beauty. Moscheles' cultured mind enabled him to search into matters other than those to which he specially devoted THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 245 himself. His literary work, an English translation of Schindler's " Life of Beethoven," to which he added valuable notes, does him honor. The career of Ignaz Moscheles ended at Leipsic, in Saxony, Germany, on the ioth of March, 1870. Pro- ductions of sterling merit will always declare their own praise, and he must be deaf to the voice of truth who does not hear the deserved eulogy. SALOMON HERMANN MOSENTHAL. The cultivation of the drama, and its adapta- tion to the requirements of an enlightened age, form a subject which has engaged the attention of some of the deepest thinkers. Not the presen- tation of spectacles so common among the ancient Greeks and Romans, and which mocked their boasted civilization, has been the labor of Shaks- peare, and those who have followed in the wake of the immortal bard of Avon. Tragedies and com- edies, of a nature calculated to afford both in- struction and amusement, are now put upon the stage. Public sentiment also tends to raise them to a more elevated plane, so that even the fastid- ious may not interpose an objection. The prolific pen of Mosenthal has done much to forward this good movement. That man is conceded to have been a genuine dramatist, laboring to one laud- 246 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF able end, and giving the world magnificent results of his superior talents. Dr. Salomon Hermann Mosenthal was born at Cassel, in Hesse-Cassel, Germany, on January 14th, 1 82 1. Having obtained a preparatory train- ing, he went to the Polytechnic School at Carls- ruhe, where the study of natural sciences occupied his time. He afterwards proceeded to Marburg, and there received his diploma as Doctor of Philos- ophy, in 1842. All along, his progress had been rapid, foretokening a useful career. Dr. Mosenthal, having repaired to Vienna, became private tutor in the family of a rich banker. He seized the opportunity of making the acquaintance of a number of literary celebrities, which circumstance materially aided in bringing him to public notice. Ac- cordingly, in 1 85 1, the Doctor was appointed archiv- ist of the ministry of State and of public instruction. Dr. Mosenthal's efforts had already begun to as- sume a determined shape. Diving into his resolute purpose, he brought forth, in 1850, what insured his fame, — "Deborah," a drama which Madame Ristori, known and acclaimed in both hemispheres, has been proud to play, and which has universally met with a glowing reception. Only an Israelite whose heart beats in unison with the oppressed of his race, could have given the world that touching drama. It is historically Jewish in the spirit pervading THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2^J it, but forcibly carries away all who listen, inten- sifying the interest in each successive scene. The popular favor exhibited for this piece, paved the way for the success of a second, Sonnenwendhof — 1856; and a third, " The German Comedians '* — 1863. The first two have been translated into English, Italian, Danish, Hungarian, and other modern languages. Their author also issued M Cecile of Albano," " Life of a German Poet," " The Goldsmith of Ulm," " Pietra," " Isabella Orsini," etc., etc. As a poet, Dr. Mosenthal is entitled to a large share of praise ; not only for the ideas un- derlying his dramas, but also for the art displayed in versification, as exemplified in his " Lyric Poems," and minor compositions. Dr. Mosenthal died on February 17th, 1877. Time may ungraciously consign to forgetfulness some of the offerings of his rich intellect, but " Deborah " will ever remain alive and fresh in dramatic literature. SALOMON MUNK. From the twelfth century, when Benjamin de Tudela wrote his book of travels, — the statements in which have been strongly disputed and as vigor- ously defended, learned works on the geography and 248 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF history of the Holy Land, and the habits, manners, and pursuits of its inhabitants, have issued from the pens of Israelites. But whoever desires to see the results of conscientious investigations of those sub- jects, advanced in a clear, comprehensive, and at- tractive style, must read Munk's " Palestine." When it will further on be made known what the subject of this sketch wrought among his contemporaries, respect will grow into affection. Salomon Munk, the son of a poor Synagogue beadle, was born at Glogau, in the province of Silesia, Prussia, on May 14th, 1805. From child- hood he applied himself assiduously to study. When only fifteen years of age he travelled to Berlin — part of the way on foot, for want of means — to be instructed in the Oriental languages. He afterwards went to Bonn, and gained a knowledge of the Arabic. Having made considerable progress in various branches of learning, he proceeded in 1828 to Paris, to attend the lectures of Sylvestre de Sacy, Abel Remusat, and men of equal celebrity. Here he attained high distinction, for his thorough ac- quaintance with Persian, Sanscrit, Arabic, and other Eastern tongues. The year 1835 found him in England, where he spent some time at the University of Oxford, making preparations for the issue of an edition of Maimonides' celebrated work, More Ncbuchim. At the same THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 249 period he contributed several essays to the Journal Asiatique and the Dictionnaire des Sciences Philo- sophiques, which attracted the attention of the learned. In 1838 Munk received the appointment of deputy- keeper of the Oriental MSS., in the Royal Library of Paris, which position added to his store of knowl- edge, and redounded to the advantage of the insti- tution. The salary was hardly sufficient to support life, still the generous scholar would offer a number of poor children gratuitous instruction. When Sir Moses Montefiore, M. Cremieux, Dr. Loewe, and others were about to visit the East, to put an end to the atrocities committed on the Jews of Damascus and Rhodes, Munk gladly accepted an invitation to accompany the philanthropists, and to make his knowledge aid in the vindication of justice. Before returning home, he visited Egypt, with M. Cre- mieux, and secured many interesting MSS., in Arabic, relating to the early literature of the Karaites, etc. Already before that time several of Munk's works had been published. " Reflections upon the Worship of the Ancient Hebrews, in its Connection with Other Worships," appeared in 1833; and "An Account of Rabbi Saadiah Gaon, and his Arabic version of Isaiah," in 1838. From 1842 to 1850 came in regular order, " Notes on Joseph Ben- Jehoudah ;" " Commentary of Rabbi Tanhoum of Jerusalem, on the Book of Habakkuk ;" " The Phoe- 250 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF nician Inscriptions at Marseilles ;" " Notes on Aboul- walid Mervvan, Aben-Ganach ;" and u Palestine," the most obvious manifestation of Munk's erudition, and which Prof. M. A. Levy, of Leipsic, has presented in a German garb. In 1852 Dr. Munk became totally blind; but this unfortunate circumstance did not check his unceasing labors. Some of his principal productions were, in- deed, written after his loss of sight. On December 2d, 1858, in acknowledgment of his many services to the cause of science, he was elected a member of the Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres. The celebrated French historian, M. Guizot, travelled from Normandy to Paris solely to cast his vote for the savant, whom he highly esteemed. Even rigid Catholics and devout Protestants undisguisedly favored the choice. Shortly after this, Munk became the representative of the Israelites of Lyons in the Central Consistory at Paris, and subsequently he was decorated as Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. Faithful to his duties in the several offices to which he had been elevated, he nevertheless found time to publish his writings. " Memoirs of the Hebrew Grammarians of the Tenth and Eleventh Centuries" appeared, and was followed by " Miscellanies on Jewish and Arabic Philosophy," that part relating to philosophy among the Jews having been trans- lated into German by B. Beer. But Munk's chef THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 25 I d'ceuvre, and, at the same time, a monument of his skill in the Arabic language and its literature, is his composition, in three volumes, of the More Ne- buchim, of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. This was issued in the original, with a French translation, and criti- cal, literary and explanatory notes, bearing the title La guide des egar'es ; traite de theologie et de philoso- phie, (" A Guide to the Erring — a Treatise on The- ology and Philosophy "). Munk's fame had now become world-wide, and he was universally looked upon as one of the most brilliant scholars of the day. Witness his having succeeded M. Renan, as Professor of Semitic Lan- guages in the College of France, in 1865. How the selection was greeted may be perceived from the sub- joined remarks of L Union, a journal of ultramontane tendencies, which could have been hardly supposed to favor a Jew : " A weak, blind man, who, only by the sense of touch, can build up the world of his thoughts, traverses the centuries of nations, cities, idioms. What a spiritual power ! He is an orna- ment to science, for he teaches the scholar how to love. France possesses in him the greatest philolo- gist, and though a mysterious decision of a kind Providence has robbed him of his physical light, the renown which he has gained, and the greater name which he will yet earn, are sure to shine in splendor for all times, and the light which he has shed into 252 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the darkness of Phoenician knowledge will never die out." On February 1st, 1865, Prof. Munk delivered his inaugural address on the Hebrew, Chaldaic and Syriac languages, in which he touchingly alluded to his blindness, and spoke of his effort in ex- ceedingly modest terms. He occupied the station named until his death, on February 6th, 1867. Among those who pronounced panegyrics on the life and deeds of the deceased were M. De Long- perier, President of the Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres ; M. Albert Cohn, the scholar and philanthropist; M. Adolphe Franck, of. the Central Consistory, the philosopher and author ; and M. Isidor, Grand Rabbi of France, who, as a Jewish divine, feel- ingly spoke of the departed. Rabbi Isidor pointed out Munk's devotion to duty, and related how the immortal writer had drawn the eyes of the world to the literature of the people with whom he had shared belief and aspirations. SELIG NEWMAN. The anomaly of employing a Jew to teach the Scriptures in the original text, and dubbing a Chris- tian with the title " Professor of Hebrew," is not rarely met in the annals of the world. Thus two famous Uni- versities in England have more than once listened to THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 253 the expositions of scholars of our race who were nevertheless compelled to live in obscurity. For the learning of those who did not avow the Trinity could not receive public recognition. Happily the German Neubauer, and the Hungarian Schiller-Szinessy were not born when old England bent reverently before her cob-webbed statistical records ; else neither would the one be esteemed at Oxford, nor the other at Cambridge. But Selig Newman arrived in London upwards of sixty years ago. Therefore he was forced to " hide his light under a bushel," and, after having taught at a University, was morally compelled to emigrate in an humble condition to the United States. Selig Newman was born at Posen, Prussian Poland, in 1788. He early disclosed remarkable talents, and a desire for Biblical knowledge which he gained to perfection. He was educated in the city of his birth, and made rapid progress in the different branches imparted. Poland, many of whose Jewish inhabitants — not- withstanding the depressive effect of Russian des- potism — are very apt scholars, lent Newman many earnest co-laborers, in the field he had chosen. But wishing to breathe more freely he betook himself to England when twenty-eight years old. There he re- ceived the appointment of minister of the congrega- tion at Plymouth, while at the same time he taught Hebrew at the University of Oxford. 254 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Newman possessed such knowledge in what be- longs to sacred literature, that many distinguished Christian as well as Jewish ministers, were numbered among his pupils. But his faith unfortunately de- barred him from being chosen to a high professor- ship with a liberal salary, in a college of universal repute. While in London, Newman took part in a spirited debate with some Christians, on the Messianic proph- ecies, which he boldly described- as entirely foreign to the subject applied by Gentiles. His arguments created a deep impression, and procured for him a name, if not a position of ease and comfort. At a rather advanced age, Newman sailed for America, and made his home in New York. He gained a livelihood by teaching, but did not relax in his activity as a writer. In 1850 appeared a work entitled " The Challenge Accepted," consisting of a series of dialogues between a Jew and a Christian, respecting the accomplishment of the prophecies on the advent of the Messiah. In this, Newman exhibits his thorough Bibical training. " Emendations of the English Version of the Old Testament," a " Hebrew and English Lexicon," a " Hebrew Grammar," etc., were also published. Some manuscripts of a con- densed translation of the Bible were found after his death. Possibly the writer intended to produce a compendium of Holy Writ and the Apocrypha, like THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 255 that issued by Jacob Levi Levinski, with the aid of the Rev. Dr. Henry Vidaver, and others. Selig Newman died at Williamsburgh, New York, on February 20th, 1 87 1, after a long and useful ca- reer of eighty-three years. MORDECAI MANUEL NOAH. American Israelites have not remained passive in that which concerns the political welfare of their coun- try, yet, unaccountable as it may seem, few^of them have been preferred to offices of distinction. Perhaps the motive may be attributed to a disposition of our people for retirement, which ages of persecution have engendered, or it may be the effect of prejudice, which, even in this goodly land of equality, has not altogether died. Nevertheless, now and then He- brews are intrusted with responsible positions which they fill creditably to themselves and their fellow- believers. The case about to be cited is a note- worthy illustration. Mordecai Manuel Noah was born at Philadelphia, on July 14th, 1785. He first applied himself to a trade, but soon abandoned it for the study of the law. Removing to Charleston, S. C, he grew popular as a local politician. In 181 1, during the administration of President Madison, Mr. Noah received his first public appointment, as American Consul at Riga, 256 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Russia. His conduct, while in that office, merited so much approval that, in 1 81 3, he was selected as Consul-General at Tunis, bearing, at the same time, a mission to Algiers. The United States being then engaged in a war with Great Britain, the vessel in which Mr. Noah sailed was captured by a British frigate, and he remained a prisoner for several weeks. While at Tunis, he succeeded in rescuing a num- ber of Americans, held as slaves in the Barbary States. His outspoken protest against the payment of an annual tribute to the pirate Government of Mo- rocco, for the security of our merchant marine, doubt- less occasioned the demand for his recall. Some, however, ascribe the removal to Mr. Noah's religion, which, it was argued, might injuriously affect the diplomatic relations between the two countries. After making a tour through portions of Conti- nental Europe, Mr. Noah returned to America, and permanently settled in the city of New York. Turn- ing his attention to journalism, he became identified with several leading newspapers. He founded, and edited successively, the National Advertiser, the New York Courier and Inauirer, and the Evening Star. These were followed by the Swiday Times, an influ- ential organ, at present directed by Robert M. Noah, . Esq., son of its founder. Mr. Noah's reputation as a journalist placed him high in the esteem of his contemporaries, but it did THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 257 not tend to lessen his wonted zeal for politics. His influence was wholly exercised for a period, in the support of President Van Buren's administration.* The citizens of New York honored Mr. Noah, by electing him Surveyor of the Port, and, shortly after, Judge of the Court of Sessions. When acting in the capacity of Sheriff, the outcry was raised against a Jew's hanging a Christian, which called forth Mr. Noah's famous epigram, " Pretty Christians, forsooth, to deserve hanging." The philanthropic efforts of Mr. Noah deserve universal praise. While the yellow fever raged on Manhattan Island, the law imprisoning debtors was relentlessly enforced. Many a poor creature was dying of the plague, when the Sheriff took upon himself to liquidate all obligations, and thus set the prisoners free. This generosity made him a bankrupt. But the great scheme of Mr. Noah's life is yet to be mentioned. He entertained the idea of a perma- nent settlement of the Jews at Grand Island, in the Niagara River. In 1820 he announced his undertak- ing, and attempted to induce an emigration to that place. But, though the project was not crowned with success, Mr. Noah's faith in its feasibility did not falter, and he erected on the designated spot a mon- ument, with the inscription : ■ " Ararat, a City of * See « The Mfe and Times of Martin Van Buren," by William L. Mackenzie. 258 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Refuge for the Jews, founded by Mordecai M. Noah, in the month of Tishri, 5586 (September, 1825), and in the fiftieth year of American Independence." This memorial of the interest he manifested in the well-being of his people, has since crumbled to dust. But the name of Mordecai Manuel Noah will live as one of the noble types of an American and a Jew. Mr. Noah died in New York, on May 22d, 185 1. Among his published works are : " Travels in England, France, Spain, and the Barbary States ;" a translation of the " Book of Yashar;" "Gleanings from a Gathered Harvest " — a collection of miscellaneous es- says; several dramas, which were put upon the stage with some success, and numberless contribu- tions to political and local periodicals. JACQUES OFFENBACH. The increasing taste for musical compositions of a light and sparkling character has singularly con- tributed to the popularity of Offenbach. His operas attract and amuse uncritical audiences, and therefore command a patronage which the emanations of a Mozart or a Mendelssohn cannot secure. We would not, however, be charged with disparaging merit where it exists. Offenbach's works reveal a genius; for it is not an easy undertaking which he has ac- complished. To found a school of music, eminently THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 259 adapted to furnish pleasing diversion to persons who seek enjoyment, still within the boundaries of the mysterious art; to offer a style essentially dif- ferent from others in almost every particular, requires a courage and self-assertion which cannot be under- rated, when accompanied with corresponding abili- ties. No hesitation is therefore felt to briefly sketch the career of an eminent exponent of the new sys* tern. Jacques Offenbach was born at Cologne, Prussia, June 2 1 st, 1 819. After pursuing a course of instruc- tion, he proceeded to the Paris Conservatory, where, from 1835 to 1837, he obtained a clear insight into the music of the time. He early began to play upon the violoncello, and his performances made a marked impression. Becoming known, he was ap- pointed, in 1847, leader of the orchestra at the Theatre Francais. In 1855 Offenbach established Les Bouffes Pari- siens on the Cliamps Elysees, as a summer theatre, transferring his company in the winter to the Thea- tre de Comte, in the passage Choisetd. With the opening of the first-named resort, his fame spread, and so rapidly that his prosperity was assured. In 1873 ne assumed the directorship of the Gaite The- atre. The productions of M. Offenbach are numerous. He published first La Fontaine's fables, set to 260 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF music. La Belle Helene appeared in 1864. This opera illustrated at once the novel method adopted by the composer. The general appreciation could not be misunderstood. But Orph'ee aux Enfers called forth positive enthusiasm. When first brought out, it ran for three hundred consecutive nights, with a success scarcely equalled in musical annals. La Barbe Bleue in 1866, was followed, in 1867, by La Grande Duchesse, perhaps the most effective of Offenbach's compositions. It has certainly achieved a triumph. La Perichole, Genevieve de Brabant, Les Brigands, La Princessc de Trebizonde, and Rot Carotte, t were given to the public from 1868 to 1872. La Jolie Parfumeuse in 1873, and Madame L Archiduc in 1874, have considerably enhanced the composer's reputation. For the copyright of his spectacular opera bouffe, " Whittington and his Cat," produced at the Alhambra Theatre, London, in 1874, M. Offenbach received £"3,000. There seems to be no waning in the interest dis- played for his effusions. Most all of those men- tioned still hold the stage throughout Europe and America, the mere announcement of their presenta- tion being sufficient to draw throngs. M. Offen- bach did make an attempt to work out music of an elevated standard, when he wrote Barcouf and " Robinson Crusoe." But timely discovering his unadaptability, he has wisely devoted his sole en- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 26 1 ergies to that which is more calculated to meet the cravings of those who are carried away by the crea- tions of a volatile genius. M. Offenbach visited the United States a few years ago, and was tendered an ovation. Admitting that Jacques Offenbach cannot be numbered with the great masters, he has vindicated his claims to the gratitude of the public whom during past years, he has amused. If he has not edified or improved his audiences, he has, at all events, helped them drive away dull care. JULES OPPERT. The Orient has furnished materials wherewith a wonderful history is being built. The edifice is still in course of erection, and new and .skilful workmen supply the places left vacant by former operatives. What Champollion, and Rosellini, and Botta began, Rawlinson, and Layard, and Smith have continued, and our Jules Oppert is now perfecting. By universal consent, that son of the olden race may claim to be the most successful of laborers in searching among monuments that mouldered in the dust of ages, and in employing what he discovers to raise a more com- plete fabric. Prof. Dr. Jules Oppert was born at Hamburg, Germany,on the 9th ot July, 1825. Learning appears to have been a family inheritance, for his maternal 262 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF uncle, Edward Gans, had achieved celebrity as a jurist. A thorough classical education preceded the youth's law studies at Heidelberg. Evincing a taste for philology, young Oppert went to the University of Bonn, and followed Freytag's course in Arabic, and Lassen's in Sanscrit. He next proceeded to Berlin, and in 1847 to Kiel, receiving a diploma in philology. He applied himself diligently to the Zend and the ancient Persian, with encouraging results. Laws in Germany, prejudicial to Hebrews, were yet in force, when M. Oppert attained manhood. He found it impossible to pave his way to promotion in that country, and therefore determined to seek in France what was shut against him in the ungracious land of his birth. Arrived at Paris in 1847, he soon formed the acquaintance of the eminent savants Burnouf and Letronne, who immediately perceived the talents with which he was endowed. By their aid he obtained, in 1848, the professorship of German at Laval, and subsequently at Rheims. Contributions to the Asiatic Journal and the Arch- CBological Review, on the cuneiform characters at Persepolis, on the Persian language, and kindred sub- jects, drew towards M. Oppert the attention of the French Institute. It being announced that the Imperial Government intended sending a commission to Mesopotamia, under the lead of Fulgence Fresnel, the subject of our sketch was designated as a member THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 263 thereof. Returning to France in 1854, he submitted plans for interpreting inscriptions at Babylon and elsewhere. At the same period he was naturalized. In the following year the Minister of Instruction charged him with a mission to England and Germany, to examine the inscriptions on Assyrian monuments contained in the different museums. The important revelations made, led to his appointment to the chair of Sanscrit in the school attached to the Imperial Library, and to his being awarded the decoration of the Legion of Honor. In 1863 M. Oppert won, over numerous competitors, the great biennial prize offered a second time by the Institute, for the work most fitted to reflect honor upon the country. On the 1st of January, 1874, his efforts were duly recompensed by his being chosen Professor of Assyrian Philology and Archaeology in the College of France. In his productions, Oppert unfolds a new system of deciphering inscriptions, and its satisfactory appli- cation has most enhanced its value. Aside from articles in the French Athenceum, in the Annals of Christian Philosophy ', and in English journals and magazines, the Professor has issued " The Criminal Laws of the Hindoos" — 1847, tne thesis of his exam- ination for the degree of Ph. D. ; " The Vowel-System of the Ancient Persians" — 1847; "The Inscriptions of the Achemenides" — 1852; "Assyrian Studies" — 264 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF 1858; "Scientific Expedition to Mesopotamia, by order of the French Government" — 1858, containing, in addition to the narrative of the voyage, some re- markable facts relative to the chronological history of the Assyrians, and of the Babylonians, and to the reading of the inscriptions, from an historical point of view, together with charts, plans, etc. ; " Cuneiform Inscriptions Deciphered a Second Time" — 1859; "Sanscrit Grammar" — 1859 ; " Elements of the Assyr- ian Grammar" — 1860; "The Present State of the Decipherment of the Cuneiform Inscriptions" — 1 861 ; "History of the Chaldean and Assyrian Empires" — 1866; "The Immortality of the Soul Among the Chaldeans," followed by a translation of "The Descent of Istar Astarte into the Infernal Regions" — 1875; etc., etc. The inscriptions of the Sargonides at Nineveh, and the great one at Khorsabad, have been treated upon in separate writings. The works mentioned are eagerly sought after, and perused with avidity. It is not on a single occasion that Jews have reason to feel a just pride, but in the present instance they can point to a man within their fold, whose pen is authoritative, and to whose dictum masters of science bow in humble acknowledgment. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 265 DANIEL LEVY MADURO PEIXOTTO. A complete mastery of Materia Medica may be the boast, but is not the possession, of all practitioners. Only physicians who have followed their chosen profession with intensity of love have attained an enviable rank. The sentiments they nurtured incited them to overcome impediments. What one of these worthies achieved in a short existence of forty-three years, the annexed lines will briefly tell. Daniel Levy Maduro Peixotto, M. D., the son of Moses L. M. Peixotto, merchant, and subsequently Minister of the Portuguese Congregation Shearith Israel, of New York, was born at Amsterdam, Hol- land, on July 1 8th, 1800. His mother, a highly cultured woman, first took charge of the boy's edu- cation, and instructed him in languages, history, and religion. Later, the Rev. Dr. Strasbeck took the lad under his charge, and finally John Ironsides, at New York, prepared him for Columbia College, whence he graduated in 18 16. In the same year, young Peixotto began his medi- cal studies with Dr. David Hosack. He applied himself with earnestness, and profited greatly by attending the regular course of lectures. In 1819 the degree of M. D. was conferred upon the youth. Ill health impelled Dr. Peixotto to seek warm climates. He visited the West Indies and Caraccas, 266 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF and, during his stay in the latter place, advantageously exercised his vocation. In 1823 he returned to New York, where many had recourse to his skill. The Doctor's activity gave him an exalted station by the side of the leading physicians of the day. As a writer, Dr. Peixotto acquired fame by articles of acknowledged merit, and of considerable importance to the profession. In i825-'6, conjointly with Drs. Beck and Bell, he edited the New York Medical and Physical Journal and " Gregory's Prac- tice." All pertaining to medicine enchained his thoughts and quickened his pen. But Dr. Peixotto did not entirely confine himself to his own private practice. He was a public-spirited man, and he served as one of the Physicians of the old City Dispensary in 1827, and as President of the New York County Medical Society from i830-'2. One of the projectors and organizers of the Society for Assisting the Widows and Orphans of Medical Men, he also urged the establishment of a Medical Library. So much appreciated were the Doctor's endeavors that, in 1836, he received the appointment of Pro- fessor of Theory and Practice of Medicine and of Obstetrics, and also that of Honorary Member of the Medical Society of Lower Canada. Possessed of a store of useful knowledge, which he continually brought to bear on the discharge of THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 267 his duties ; truly religious ; liberal in his dealings with his fellow-men ; and generous to a fault : Dr. Peixotto could not but command the affection of his brethren, and the esteem of all with whom he came in contact. But too soon was a noble career destined to close. At New York City, on May 13th, 1843, Daniel L. M. Peixotto exchanged this transitory life for that of everlasting peace and happiness. BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PEIXOTTO. The history of a man whose devotion to the cause of humanity has made him as widely known on the Eastern as on the Western Continent, must surely be of interest to all lovers of their kind. It speaks of deeds of self-denial. It points to an exceptional Hebrew of America, who sac- rificed the sanguine hopes of a brilliant future at home, to become a deliverer abroad, and thus advance civilization. Benjamin Franklin Peixotto, born in the city of New York, on the 13th of November, 1834, is a son of Dr. Daniel L. M. Peixotto, an emi- nent physician'. His parents removed to Ohio in 1837, but returned to New York in 184 1, where Benjamin received an education. In his thirteenth year, shortly after his father's death, he settled 268 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF at Cleveland. Endowed with a clear understand- ing and bright talents, he soon attracted public attention. Mr. Peixotto studied law under the celebrated statesman, Stephen A. Douglas, for whom he showed a sincere attachment, which continued uninterrupted until the death of his preceptor in 1 86 1. He early engaged in politics, and contrib- uted articles to the Cleveland Plaindealer, for the success of Mr. Douglas' election as President of the United States. Conspicuous in literary circles, he associated with many distinguished scholars. From youth, affairs pertaining to Israelites ex- cited Mr. Peixotto's warmest interest. His voice often resounded in societies, and in the Jewish lodges. As a member of the Independent Order of B'nai B'rith (Sons of the Covenant), he did much to elevate the standing of that organization, and, in the year 1863, he was chosen Grand Saar, or Master. A small institution had increased so rapidly, that, at the period of Mr. Peixotto's elec- tion, the Order counted twelve thousand members, about one-half of its present number. The idea of establishing an Orphan Asylum at Cleveland was first conceived by Mr. Peixotto, and his influence secured the passage of a bill which led to its foundation. Mr. Peixotto went back to his native city in 1866, but sailed for THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 269 California in 1867, and took up his residence in San Francisco, where he obtained a lucrative prac- tice as a lawyer. This profession, while it demanded considerable of his time, did not check his zealous labors in behalf of his co-religionists. Thus, in June, 1 870, when the news of a fright- ful massacre of Jews in Roumania, followed by dire persecutions, was cabled across the Atlantic, Benja- min Franklin Peixotto, just in the prime of life, and in the enjoyment of ease, stood up a champion, and offered to go to the benighted province of Turkey in Europe, in the double capacity of representative of the United States, and messenger of happy tidings to his helpless brethren. He was nominated as Con- sul by President Grant, and unanimously confirmed by the Senate. The new official departed at once on his noble mission. Arriving at the Court of Prince Charles, of Roumania, he succeeded in allay- ing the sore distress under which his fellow-believers groaned. For over five years Mr. Peixotto remained at Bucharest, to avert oppression, which his absence would have encouraged. While there he effected a vast amount of good for the down-trodden; im- proving their moral condition, by the formation of associations of various natures, notably the Socie- ty styled " Zion," founded in 1872, with objects similar to the B'nai BWith of this country. Mr. Peixotto returned to the United States in 270 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF 1876, leaving the Consulate in charge of Dr. Adolph Stern, who had rilled the office of Vice- Consul, and given useful assistance to his princi- pal. The honored Israelite was cordially received everywhere. The services he had rendered formed the topic of general conversation. Mr. Peixotto was requested to lecture in different parts of the Union. He addressed large assemblages, and ex- erted himself to promote the educational scheme started in the West. To further the designs of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, he made appeals wherever he set foot, and soon twelve thousand dollars were subscribed, mainly through his individual efforts. Mr. Peixotto took part in the Presidential cam- paign of 1876, ardently supporting Mr. Hayes. In 1877 he was tendered the appointment of Consul-General at St. Petersburg, Russia, which he declined. President Hayes subsequently nominated him as Consul at Lyons, France, and the Senate confirmed the selection. This position he accepted, and he now fills. Besides being Honorary President of the Soci- ety " Zion " of Roumania, Mr. Peixotto is con- nected with the Alliance Israelite Universelle, the Anglo-Jewish Association, the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, and other influential bodies. His eldest son, George, a student of the Royal THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2*]\ Academy of Dresden, gives extraordinary promise of genius as an artist. The labors of Benjamin Franklin Peixotto in Roumania have not proved ineffectual. The recent determination of the Congress of European Powers, with regard to religious emancipation, is an evi- dence of that fact, and it should call forth un- feigned admiration for one who, by indomitable energy and perseverance, accomplished a glorious purpose. EMILE PEREIRE. Of eminent Jewish families, that of Pereire com- mends itself to special notice. In the eighteenth century, Jacob Rodriguez Pereire, (or Pereira), grand- father of the subject of this sketch, established a school for the training of deaf mutes. This system had never before been put into operation, hence to M. Pereire we are indebted for its practical applica- tion. All are fully aware of its utility, and the ben- efits reaped therefrom. But it is of the French banker and politician, Emile Pereire, that a faint portraiture is about to be drawn. Emile Pereire was born at Bordeaux, France, on December 3d, 1800. When still young he lost his father, but under the guidance of an enlightened mother, both he and his younger brother, Isaac, re- 272 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ceived a suitable education, and soon learnt to un- derstand how greatly success depends upon one's exertions. For a number of years, Emile Pereire was an ardent supporter of the principles of Saint-Simon, who believed in the equal distribution of property among all classes, as a preventive of the evils result- ing from insurrection and revolution. M. Pereire early began to identify himself with financial affairs, and contributed articles to the Globe, and then to the National, with which M. Armand Carrel was connected. He conceived the project of attempt- ing a railway to St. Germain, but three years elapsed before he and his brother could bring together the amount requisite for the building of the road. With the consummation of this exten- sive undertaking their reputation and fortune in- creased, so that they were able to engage in still more important works. Both Emile and Isaac soon figured among the most prominent of Parisian bankers. They took active part in the construc- tion of the Northern Railway, the Southern Rail- way, and the Lateral Canal. The huge financial scheme devised by the Messrs. Pereire is known as the Credit Mobilier. It was set on foot in 1852, with a capital of sixty million francs. Over twelve hundred millions of francs were loaned to the French railways, and THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 273 the Credit Mobilier, intermixing with other colossal operations, exercised an exceedingly powerful in- fluence upon European industry. M. Emile Pereire gave his aid to the promo- tion of literature, science, and the arts. He was instrumental in obtaining a posthumous exhibition of the works of Paul Delaroche, at the Palais des Beaux Arts, in 1856. His lofty position in the commercial world made him the recipient of decorations from the French Government, and, as its candidate, he was chosen to the Corps Legis- latif, in 1863. M. Pereire declined a re-election to that body, in 1869. He died at Paris, France, on January 7th, 1875. The events of the life of Isaac Pereire, as late as the year 1875, are so much interwoven with those of his brother's, that it is deemed a needless repetition to offer a separate account. Suffice, that both afford striking examples of what can be wrought by diligence, associated with sagacity and broad views. LUDWIG PHILIPPSON. The loss of any of the faculties graciously be- stowed on man by the Creator is greatly to be de- plored. How inexpressibly lamentable to remain 274 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF with " eyes that roll in vain to find the piercing ray, and find no dawn ; " with eyes wont to search the depths of learning, but wherein the " sovereign vital lamp " has been forever quenched. All honor then, and all praise to him who, so afflicted, still bids his energies not relax, and who works on vig- orously. Such a one is Ludwig Philippson. He has been assigned a pre-eminent station in the Jew- ish literature of our time. His valued labors, par- ticularly in the department of Biblical exegesis, give him a fame which extends far beyond the city of his birth, and the country in whose language his thoughts have found expression. Dr. Ludwig Philippson was born at Dessau, Ger- many, December 27th, 181 1. He frequented a school in his native place, and made noticeable pro- gress. Thence he passed to the Gymnasium at Halle, continuing his studies with unabated earn- estness. At Berlin, for four years, philology en- grossed the attention of the student. In 1833 his course was completed, and our graduate made his literary bow to the public. In the fall of 1833, the Jewish Congregation in Magdeburg selected Dr. Philippson as their preacher. This office he filled until 1862, adding to its pres- tige by being titled Rabbi in 1840. The unhappy circumstance of having been deprived of his sight compelled the relinquishment of an honorable posi- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2J^ tion. The Doctor has since lived on a pension at Bonn. But the physical privation did not disable the mind. The scholar determined to maintain his activity, and strained every nerve to follow in the line he had marked out. He has, indeed, fulfilled his intentions. From 1837, Dr. Philippson's paper, Die Allge- meine Zeitung des Judenthums, has appeared regu- larly. It is very ably edited as an exponent of the principles of Reform Judaism, to which the Doctor became attached. For several years a supplement called Das Jiidische Volksblatt, was added. While yet a student, Philippson published, in a German translation, the fragments of the tragic poet, Eze- chielos, and of Philo of Biblos — 1830. He has also brought out a biography of Benedict Spinoza, in which he endeavors to defend the character and ac- tions of the Dutch philosopher from the censure of his antagonists. As a contributor to the Jenaer Literatur Zeitung, and other publications, our au- thor acquired a wide reputation for classical knowl- edge, principally in the writings of Aristotle. Dr. Philippson issued his lectures on the develop- ment of the religious idea in society, and later, con- cerning the results of Universal history — 1847-8. Perhaps his most important work is a German ren- dition of the Hebrew Scriptures, with illustrations and a commentary, together with notes, and upon 276 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF which he labored from 1839-53. It has been as- serted that extreme opinions are occasionally set forth in this production, and that some of the in- terpretations are more ingenious than accurate. Among other writings we may mention "Jewish Religious Instruction," " World-Moving Questions," " Rome and Sepphoris," in two volumes ; " Jacob Tirado," "The Ego," "The Dethroned One," and several catechisms, school-books, and song and prayer-books. The Doctor founded, in 1855, the institute for advancing Jewish literature, which existed until 1874, and which published an excellent series of the compositions of Jewish authors, including some of the above-named emanations of its founder. Other organizations for the spread of Hebrew learning have been likewise conceived and established by him. Dr. Philippson's success as a preacher was evi- denced in the impression which his utterances crea- ted, by an eloquence that appealed to the heart. When incapacitated from discharging ministerial duties, the indefatigable divine sought another chan- nel to convey the yieldings of his mental investiga- tions to the community. In the columns of his journal, the Doctor urged the calling of the conventions that were severally held at Brunswick, Frankfort-on-the-Main, and THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2JJ subsequently at Cassel, Leipsic, and Augsburg. His aim was to promulgate Reform doctrines, and to promote a discussion of ritualistic questions. The High School for the knowledge of Judaism at Berlin, a Reform Seminary, owes its origin mainly to Dr. Philippson. Whatever ideas persons may prefer touching the Law and precepts, the thanks and respect of multi- tudes are highly due to him who has braved a se- rious difficulty, and who, with exceeding endurance, works in obedience to his nature and convictions. BENJAMIN SAMUEL PHILLIPS. Respect for the ancestral belief is one of the main features characterizing the Israelites of Great Britain. Wealth or talents have not been allowed to dampen their religious ardor. A pardonable pride it is for our co-religionists of the United Kingdom to point to Sir B. S. Phillips, the second of their number to have become Lord Mayor of London. Great he is among men, but humble before his God ; courted by the nobles of the land, but mixing with his fellow-be- lievers in Congregational and charitable objects. Sir Benjamin Samuel Phillips was born at London, England, on January 4th, 181 1. He early engaged in commercial pursuits, displaying, at the same time, warm interest in politics. But, despite a pronounced 278 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF inclination to make himself felt in matters of impor- tance to every Englishman, no chance was open to carry out that wish. Jews, at that period, were not permitted to take any part in the administration of public affairs, The first Hebrew who held muni- cipal office in Great Britain was Mr. Phineas Levi, and Mr. Phillips the first who served as a Common Councilman of London. Mr. Phillips was chosen an Alderman of his native city in 1857, and so faithfully did he perform his obligations that the people elected him Sheriff, a post which he filled in 1859-60. The opponents of Jewish rights soon perceived that a Hebrew could discharge the duties of an office as capably as a Gentile. But prejudice dies hard. Though the bearing of the incumbent of the Sheriffalty brought home to the minds of many the conviction that they had long been in error, yet there remained a large number who could not overcome religious bias. The only way to disarm opposition was to exercise abilities with re- markable tact and discretion. Mr. Phillips' popularity increased to such a de- gree, that, on September 29th, 1865, he was made Lord Mayor of London. In deference to his strict conformity to Jewish observances, the outgoing Chief Magistrate postponed the usual festivities, from the 29th of September, which fell on the eve of the Day of Atonement, to the 3d of October, — another clear THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 279 proof that those who are staunch in their faith, will , ever secure the consideration of the intelligent. During Mr. Phillips' Mayoralty, he had the honor of entertaining the King of Belgium at a grand banquet. The royal appreciation was shown by decorating the Lord Mayor with the Order of Leo- pold. But Mr. Phillips won a nobler title to admira- tion, when, in 1866, he devised means to relieve the distress caused by the visitation of the cholera, and the famine in India. These measures added to his well-earned reputation, and when, on December 28th, 1866, Queen Victoria knighted her officer, she ex- pressed what the whole nation felt. Sir Benjamin, since the close of his term as Lord Mayor, has been Deputy Lieutenant for Middlesex, and a magistrate for the county of Kent. Not a little of the credit due to this exalted Israelite belonged to his estimable wife, who died on February 1st, 1880. Her courteous demeanor and engaging address, especially as Lady Mayoress, endeared her to the people of London. SIMCHA PINSKER. Numerous and interesting investigations have been made into the character of the sect known as Karaites. But each writer or traveller has given his impressions a coloring which reflects his personal 280 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF preferences. It is therefore not surprising, to read in one instance extravagant praises, and in another a sad description of the habits and intellectual standing of the schismatic members of the Hebrew race, mostly dwelling in the Crimea. A learned Galician studied deeply to arrive at a conscientious conclusion of what is due to those who, in the Ninth century, separated from their fellow-believers, — the adherents of oral traditions. Men whose judgment can be relied on have declared that Simcha Pinsker's contributions to literature are of a value that can scarce be estimated. Some remarks about their author, as well as to what they comprise, may be of interest to the reader. Simcha Pinsker was born at Tarnopol, in Galicia, Austria, in 1801. In his young days, the seeming religious fervor of the Hassidim drew the enthusiastic student to their fold. But the learning our youth had obtained, combined with his natural good sense, could not allow the opponents of enlightenment to rule his discerning mind. It must, however, be ad- mitted that Pinsker's susceptibility to momentary impressions occasionally warped his judgment. Thus, for example, he at one time gave himself up to com- mercial speculations, which proved ruinous, without heeding his aptitude for an entirely different career. Reduced to straitened circumstances, he was com- pelled to accept the humble post of Rabbinical Secre- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 28 1 tary in Odessa. He had, probably, gone to that flour- ishing city in the hope of retrieving his decayed for- tune. He did not find what he wished, but literature gained through his humble condition. Education among the Jews of Odessa demanded a wholesome reform. Simcha Pinsker conceived the thought of establishing schools for elementary instruc- tion, and communicated it to a cultured friend, Isaac Horowitz, a native of Brody. This gave the idea every encouragement, and the two young men con- ferred with several influential persons, through whose instrumentality arrangements were made with the congregation and the government, for practically carrying out the object. Pinsker, as chief instructor in the newly-founded school, effectively labored until 1840. In that year he received a pension for the remainder of his life, and betook himself to Vienna. Before we proceed, it must be stated that the sub- ject of this sketch had become known beyond the limits of the institution he established and fostered. Abraham Firkowitch, an active and erudite Karaite, unearthed in the Crimea, in 1839, some curious and unknown manuscripts. Among these was a code of the later prophets, which, like several fragments of the Pentateuch, with the prophetical lessons for the Sabbath, and the Aramaic or Syriac translation, had a singular punctuation — the vowel-points and singing-accents deviating in form and position from 282 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF such as are mainly in use. Those writings he pre- sented to the Odessa Society for history and anti- quities. Devotion to the cause of learning was seen, when, defying all difficulties, Pinsker found out, by dint of restless study, the method of deciphering the newly-discovered system of punctuation, and revealed it to the delight of scholars. His researches in biblio- graphy, biography, and literary history were in- exhaustible. In order to acquaint himself with the contents of each of the manuscripts brought out by Firko- witch, Pinsker learned the Arabic language — a task not easily accomplished in a Russian town like Odessa. But the results of unwearied labors remained hidden from the world. Pinsker, in his genuine modesty, believed that what he had acquired was not worth the attention of literary men. Fortunately Osias H. Schorr, the eminent editor of He- Chains, knew better. He applied to the retiring scholar for contributions to his publication. Pinsker complied, and at first gave an account of the labors of two Karaites, Mose Darai and Radba (David ben-Abraham), natives of Fez, who lived during the Middle Ages, and enjoyed a wide reputation. The articles swelled in size until they formed a bulky volume, issued afterwards under the name, Likkute Kadtnoniyoth, (Collections from the Days of Old), and likewise under the title " The History of Karaism and the Karaite Literature." THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 283 . The author describes the periods of the development of the Karaitic doctrines and views ; one preceding Anan, the founder of the sect ; another of that man's own time ; a third of the reformer, Nohawendi ; and last, the Karaites proper. According to him, the latest period occasioned the final breach concerning Talmudic traditions. The Karaites, anxious to in- crease their number, sent messengers to Jewish con- gregations, to stir up the people to join their ranks. Our author sees the derivation of " Karaite" in the Hebrew Kara, (to call), alluding to the summon- ing of the Jews in various communities to declare themselves in favor of the new sect. Pinsker, more- over, holds that to those schismatics all are indebted for a reliable system of Biblical orthography, grammar, lexicography, and modern Hebrew poetry. They, he contends, wrote on those subjects, even before Saadiah Gaon and Dunash ben-Labrat had brought forth their works. Important Karaite writings are quoted and dwelt upon, among which are the Lexicon by Radba and the Divan by Mose Darai ; the Ninth century being given as the time when the last-named lived. Gabirol, Moses and Abraham Aben-Ezra, and Jehudah Halevy, are said to have had in Darai a model, from whom they copied tropes and even strophes. The Likkute met with a reception most flatter- ing to its accomplished author. Pinsker awoke to 284 ' EMINENT ISRAELITES OF find himself famous, and deservedly so, for very rich, and rare, and honestly wrought out was the informa- tion afforded. His production had not yet been fully published, when Jost and Graetz, the acknowl- edged representatives of Jewish history, and Dr. Schmiedl, the noted scholar, publicly avowed their indebtedness to him. In 1863 Pinsker published at Vienna his Mebb ha- Nikkud, an explanation of the system of punctua- tion, according to the Babylonian school. This work critically describes the progress of a branch of Hebrew literature, most essential and still insufficiently culti- vated. Pinsker's researches into the origin and devel- opment of the vowel-points and singing-accents prove him a born grammarian. In fact, he fondly cherished the idea of issuing a Hebrew grammar — a beautiful resume of his profound investigations. Unfortunately, his health was not equal to his will. He vainly tried to grapple with the destroyer. The great scholar succumbed on the 29th of October, 1864. Pinsker left a large number of manuscripts, bear- ing on the writings of ancient authors, alike of the Karaites and the Rabbinists. The publication of these would, undoubtedly, be greeted by all who de- sire to know what was done in olden times in the realm of exegesis. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 285 ELISABETH RACHEL (FELIX). The pulpit has had, of late, its fling at the stage. That a change for the better in public representations is necessary, few will doubt. But the views of some are too sweeping. The entire closing of places of amusement as unmitigated evils, is not the proper remedy. It would be like uproot- ing the tree, on account of the rottenness of one of its branches. For it must be conceded that the theatre, notwithstanding its faults, has a ten- dency, in many instances, to improve morals. Re- fined amusement and instruction are often afforded at the same time. Nor are all professional actors and actresses wanting in respectability and honor. In the pursuit of their avocation, they are occasional- ly compelled to meet with persons of ordin- ary character. But it does not follow that they must become tainted by the contact. These hints are not intended to forestall an opinion. The prominence of Rachel as a tragedienne suggested them. Elisabeth Rachel (Felix) was born, of humble parentage, at Mumpf, Switzerland, February 28th, 1820. So needy was the family that she, and her sister, Sarah, roamed about the streets of .Lyons, France, whither the household had removed, singing to earn a coin. 286 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF In 1 83 1 Rachel went to Paris, and, to culti- vate her voice, took lessons from an eminent teacher. But her success by no means equalled anticipations. Neither did her debut on the stage, in 1833, prove a triumph, though her talents had been previously tested by well-known critics, such as Jules Janin, and Mademoiselle Mars. Undaunted by the first failure, Rachel contin- ued steadfast to her adopted profession, and pub- lic admiration soon began to clearly manifest itself. When she appeared, in 1838, as Camille, in the tragedy of Les Horaces, the enthusiasm became intense. From this time forward, her histrionic powers were warmly applauded and encouraged. In many characters she stood almost without a rival, but her greatest triumphs were achieved in her rendition of Phedrc, and of Adrienne Lecouvreur — a play expressly written for her. " Her Phedre" observes a writer, — " by common consent her mas- terpiece — was an apocalypse of human agony, not to be forgotten by any one who ever witnessed it." Rachel's acting, in general, left an impres- sion that probably none of her sex, who preceded or succeeded her, have created. During the Revolution of 1848, she publicly recited the Marseillaise Hymn, and the furor it excited has connected her name with the history of that stormy period. Rachel visited different THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 287 parts of Europe and America, and was tendered everywhere public ovations. In 1855 her health began to fail, and she sought several places for rest and renewed vigor. But all in vain. Her constitution was completely broken down, and on January 3d, 1858, death relieved her of further suffering, at Cannet, near Toulon, in France. Providence had lavished mental riches upon that daughter of our race. Had she valued the gifts as a divine trust, and employed them always in a manner that might add to the respect of self and of Israel, she would have been glorious, as she is eminent. MORRIS JACOB RAPHALL. It is not uncommon to hear foreigners com- plain of the difficulties which the English language presents, specially in its orthography, and in the application of particles or terms most in use, when a large variety of a like character exists. Pecu- liar, therefore, must be the merits of one who, not "to the manner born," can overcome imped- iments in speaking, and write with fluency and unexceptional purity. Of the foreign Rabbis who have ascended American pulpits, the late Dr. Raphall employed the language in which Shaks- 288 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF peare wove his thoughts, with unsurpassed per- fection. The Rev. Dr. Morris Jacob Raphall was born at Stockholm, Sweden, in September, 1798. When a mere child, his parents sent him to a Jewish college in Copenhagen, which conferred upon the student, as early as his thirteenth year, the degree of Hab'er y or Socius. In 181 2 he went to England, and studied the language of the country and its literature, with splendid results. Having made a tour through France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, Raphall sought a German university as the spot whence to rise higher in knowledge. From 1 82 1 to 1824 he remained at Giessen, and re- turned to England in 1825, where he was mar- ried, and took up his abode. Dr. Raphall entered public life in 1832. The course of lectures he delivered on Post Biblical history, at Sussex-hall, in London, and elsewhere through the United Kingdom, was a triumph to the scholar. For he saw the most intelligent among Christians, as well as among Jews, attentive listeners. The publication of the Hebrew Review and Mag- azine of Rabbinical Literature, a weekly periodical devoted to Jewish learning, began in 1834. It was ably edited, but after seventy-eight numbers, full of instructive and interesting articles, had ap- peared, it was suspended, partly because of the THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 289 editor's impaired health, and partly for want of proper support. An idea of the value of that magazine may be formed, when it is known that it contained translations of several of Maimonides' works ; Sepher Ikkarim, or " Book of Creeds," by Rabbi Joseph Albo ; and Yen Lebanon, which treats of ethics, by the celebrated Rabbi Naphtali Herz Wessely ; besides original writings on the " Cus- toms and Observances of the Jews ; " biographies, and poems of merit. Dr. Raphall worked on a translation of eighteen treatises of the " Mishna," published jointly with the Rev. David A. De Sola; and a very learned exposition in English of the Book of Genesis, in conjunction with Messrs. De Sola and I. L. Lindenthal. The Doctor acted for a time as Secretary to the Rev. Dr. Solomon Hirschel, Chief Rabbi of the Ger- man Congregations of the British Isles. But in 1841 his labors were asked for at Birmingham, where he was elected Rabbi-Preacher of the Synagogue. His zealous efforts for the promotion of education and beneficence, during eight consecutive years, were not forgotten by the grateful inhabitants, For in 1849, when about to leave for the United States, a purse of one hundred sovereigns was presented to him by the Mayor and corporation of Birmingham, in acknowledgment of the many services he had rendered. The University of Giessen, fully aware of 290 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF his scholarly abilities, had attached to his name the titles of M. A., and Ph. D. The learned Doctor received a cordial greeting on arriving at New York, and he was installed as the spiritual guide of the congregation B'nai jFeshu- run, then worshiping in Greene Street. He remained in that office until his death. During his ministry, the new Synagogue of the congregation in Thirty- fourth Street, was dedicated. Dr. Raphall, — assisted by the Rev.' Ansel Leo, the popular Reader, who died in December, 1878, — pronounced one of his dis- courses, always so eloquent and impressive. A very short time elapsed ere the subject of our sketch gained a wide-spread reputation through- out America. The acquirements which he eminently possessed, brought his name into connection with all matters of a public character. Many Philadel- phians will remember his comely and venerable ap- pearance, at the annual banquets given by the Hebrew Charity Association. Seated by the side ot well-known divines and scholars, he electrified his auditors by a display of oratorical powers of the highest order. In the year 1855 Dr. Raphall offered the wo/ld a work in two volumes, entitled "Post-Biblical His- tory of the Jews," from the return to Palestine of the Babylonian captives, to the conquest of Jerusalem by Titus. It is a production that cannot be overrated ; THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 29 1 for it at once exhibits the author's profound know- ledge of, and his strict conformity to, truth. If Dr. Raphall had not written aught else, this would have been sufficient to immortalize his name. But his indefatigable efforts for Judaism still proceeded un- abated. " Devotional Exercises for the Daughters of Israel," compiled and enlarged from several Ger- man writers, soon appeared, and it was followed by "The Path to Immortality," etc., etc. Before his demise, the Doctor had made considerable progress in a translation of the Scriptures with annotations. A long life of usefulness was brought to a close on the 23d of June, 1868. The loss was serious to the House of Israel, and to the cause of learning generally, and dust was consigned to dust, with every demonstration of sorrow by Jews and Gentiles. SALOMON LOEW RAPOPORT. A practice which originated in the Middle Ages has continued to our day. Jewish writers are made known to the world by the initials of their Hebrew names. At times, the word thus formed does not represent any idea, but often it is fraught with meaning. That Rapoport should have chosen Shir as his nom de plume, may be ascribed to the chance that gave him the appellation from which the initials were taken. But who that knows the Sage will deny 292 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the fitness of the term ? A Song was his life, in praise of the ancient teachers of Israel ; a melodious chant, with which he would win a people, es- tranged from their sacred literature, back again to its steady culture. Salomon Loew Rapoport was born at Lemberg, in Galicia, Austria, on the 1st of June, 1790. Reared in the severe school of Orthodoxy, which, at the time, forbade research, he felt an eager wish to break asunder the fetters that bound the mind. It is re- lated that he stealthily obtained gratuitous instruc- tion in French from a military officer, and that he had made considerable progress, when his mother, hear- ing of the circumstance, consigned all his books in that language to the flames. This conclusively shows that knowledge was then a terror, rather than a de- light. Study must be, by force, confined to the Tal- mud, and works partaking of its nature. Rapoport was destined to be the leader in the effort to break through such restraints, and root out bigotry and narrow dogmas. The young man's education was of a two-fold character — the pursuit of theology, and the cultiva- tion of divers branches of secular learning. This training led to earnest reflection as to the course he should follow in the future. Rapoport determined that, while remaining strict and firm to the doctrines and ordinances of traditional Judaism, he would do THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 293 his utmost to improve the mental status of his fellow-believers. Upheld by that resolve, he en- larged the domain of literature, working with singleness of purpose. None can accuse him of enunciating notions subversive of accepted principles, in any of the numerous writings that emanated from his pen. His criticism had truth for its aim, and not notoriety by the declaration of startling opinions ; and if he failed to please all, he must have borne the satisfaction of having clung to deep-set con- victions. Rapoport was first employed as clerk in a public office of his native city ; but when still a youth he wrote in Hebrew with the facility of an expert. The columns of the two Hebrew Annuals, Bikkure Haittim and Kerem Chemed, were early graced by his contributions, the worth of which elicited the plaudits of the discerning. The retirement of the venerable Joshua Heshel left a void in the district Rabbinate of Tarnopol. Those who appreciated Rapoport's qualifications urged him to let his name appear among the can- didates for the vacant position. The Hassidim naturally opposed the choice of a man whose name was synonymous with enlightenment — so abhorrent to their souls. But the fanatical elements were over- come by the liberal and intelligent, thus securing the election of a scholar that any community might 294 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF have been proud to look up to as its ecclesiastical chief. The Rabbi devoted his first leisure moments to dive into philosophy and history, and to survey the vast field of Hebrew literature. During the period of half a century, multifarious articles showed the extent of wonderful investigations, unique as they were astonishing, Exegetical analyses became trie sustaining pillars of Rapoport's fame. Various dissertations were pub- lished, critically explaining Holy Writ, and advancing profound ideas as to the authenticity of certain books, or portions thereof, contained in the Scriptures. For instance, the expositor conceded that there were psalms of the Maccabean period embodied in the Psalter, and that the sections of Isaiah, from chapter XL to the end, evince a later authorship. Still he would not sanction any addition or suppression of the text, by reason of the abstract theories formed. We may easily perceive that Rapoport noticed peculiari- ties in the diction of the prophetical writings and the Hagiographa, and perhaps the sentiments expressed therein, which created his impressions, but not finding sufficient ground to establish his conceptions beyond peradventure, and fearing to take too bold a stand against the Massora, he wisely abstained from assail- ing that which time has hallowed. Following the path of Aaron the High-priest, THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 295 " loving peace, and cleaving to peace," the pastor's calm and deliberative addresses to his flock set at rest oppo- sition, and effected a thorough reconciliation between parties embittered towards each other, merely be- cause of personal antagonism. Sincerity, coupled with sterling ability, gained the victory for Salomon Loew Rapoport, and proved his guide in the prose- cution of every design. In 1840 he was chosen Chief Rabbi of Prague, receiving the heartiest con- gratulations of the learned throughout Europe. A cursory view will now be taken of some of the most noted productions of the honored literator. A perusal of any will disclose the capacities of the au- thor, and his scientific workings of the subject in all its bearings, going into the minutest details, with the penetration and skill of a master. Besides assisting in the preparation of the Kerem C kerned, and beauti- fying it by charming contributions, anonymous, or over his initials, Rapoport brought forth his critico-bio- graphical sketches of Saadiah Gaon ; Rabbi Nathan y the author of the Talmudical lexicon ; Hai Gaon ; Eliezer Kalir ; Rabbenu Hananel ; etc. These were published in the Bikkure Haittim, to the edification of many eager readers. A poem entitled Sheerith Jehudah, adapted from Racine's " Esther," with a splendid preface, appeared ; followed by Dibre Shalom Veemet f a defence of Dr. Zacharias Frankel's Darche Ha-Mishna ; and fcrech Millin, a linguistic and archae- 296 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ological encyclopaedia, of which only the first volume, (letter Aleph) has been issued. This work is in itself a most glowing illustration of the author's erudition. Continuations of it have been found in manuscript. So likewise, fragments of a geographical collection as a sequel to Ansh'e Hashem ; a criticism of Dr. Abra- ham Geiger's Urschrift) a commentary on the Book of Job ; a series of discourses ; an extensive corres- pondence with contemporary scholars ; and a book of genealogies, which embraces important materials for the history of Jewish science in the present century, are among the literary remains of the great Rabbi. Rapoport's life-mission closed at Prague, in Bo- hemia, Austria, on the 1 6th of October, 1867. Faithful to his trust as a spiritual leader, conscien- tious and indefatigable as a writer, the Sage of Lem- berg will be known and revered while Hebrew lit- erature has a student and the Hebrew language a lover. He has served as a beacon-light to the mul- titude who have rendered this age illustrious, re- viving the palmy days of Spain and Portugal under Moorish dominion. 1 ISAAC SAMUEL REGGIO. As years roll on, the amount of learning which constitutes a scholar immeasurably swells in size. Hence few can boast of having grasped all that THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 297 should be retained on any given subject. Experi- ence has shown this even in Hebrew literature, which is comparatively limited in extent. But Isaac Sam- uel Reggio brought under his will the accumulated knowledge of contemporaries and predecessors, and he lived to see others reap the rich harvest of his toil. Isaac Samuel Reggio was born at Gorizia, in the province of Illy ria, Italy, on the 5th of August, 1784. His father, Abraham V. Reggio, Rabbi of that city, had acquired renown as a theologian. He early trained his son in Biblical and Talmudical lore. The question being then agitated about the introduction of reforms in the method of instruc- tion, men of great calibre — as Wessely and Men- delssohn — took part in it in favor of the change ; others, again, bitterly opposed it. The father of Isaac took side with the chief advocates of the pro- posed improvements, whom he represented to his son as ideal-masters, and counselled the youth to fol- low in their footsteps. As young Reggio grew up, he displayed ardent zeal for religion and science, and his extraordinary capacities soon became no- ticeable. When Illyria was annexed to the French Em- pire, Reggio received the appointment of Professor of Belles-Lettres, History and Geography, at the gymnasium of his birth-place. For three years he 298 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF rendered important services to the institution. On the decease of his father, he held the situation of Rabbi of Gorizia, declining to accept any pecuniary- remuneration. But it was the literary endeavors of Prof. Reggio that made him famous. His various productions are of an inestimable character, and their influence upon literature must be conceded. With vast ability and immense erudition he issued works explanatory of most abstruse subjects, and, therefore, indispensa- ble to Jewish students. Reggio has written his autobiography, in which he frequently alludes to the many trials he underwent, and to the aspersions cast on his name and his writings. It was necessary for the author to be ever watchful, for foes surrounded him on all sides. Scarcely had the first of Reggio's works, an essay intended as an introduction to his commentary on the Pentateuch, made its appearance, than an anony- mous writer publicly attacked it, accusing the author of gross blunders and errors. This evoked a reply from Reggio, in which he proved how wrongly he had been dealt with. In 181 2 Reggio gave us one of his most extensive productions — an Italian trans- lation of the Five Books of Moses, with a Hebrew commentary, in five volumes. Fifteen hundred copies were published at his own expense, as he himself narrates. No Jewish library can be termed complete that does not possess it. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 299 The establishment of the Rabbinical College at Padua was greatly due to Reggio's exertions. His Hebrew work, Ha-Torah ve ha-Philosophia, on the connection of Revelation with Philosophy, appeared in 1827, and it so remarkably disclosed the true scholar, that Reggio received numerous requests to contribute to different magazines. Many of these demands on his time were complied with, and the learned articles he published won the commendation of the literary world. It would be impossible to review, or even to name, all the productions of this splendid Hebraist. They have been accorded their merited praise by competent authorities. But allusion to some of them is in order, on account of their weight on Italian- Hebrew literature. Reggio gave a version in his native language of several difficult portions of the Bible, particularly the Book of Isaiah. This metrical translation has been critically reviewed by Dr. S. I. Mulder, who added a preface in Dutch, evincing the high esteem which he entertained for the author. Bechinath Ha-Dath (In- vestigation of the Law), by Elias del Medigo, with an introduction and explanatory notes was published. Reggio also issued, at intervals, Iggeroth Yashar, (his Literary Correspondence), of which he relates the fol- lowing : " I sent the manuscript of the second part to the printing office at Vienna, but the stage-coach 300 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF which conveyed it from my place of residence (Gorizia) to the metropolis, was overtaken in the night by high- waymen, and, among other articles, this manuscript was also stolen. When this was brought under my notice, I collected as much as possible of the notes I had left, and from these I succeeded in writing another volume, which came from the press at Vienna, in 5596 (1836), as a second part of my above-mentioned Cor- respondence." An introduction to the Book of Esther in 1 84 1, was reviewed by Dr. Jost, in his paper, The Israelitish Annals. Reggio wrote for the Zion, the Bikkure Haittim, the Kerem Cherned, and the Cen- tral Organ. He also published " A Guide for the Religious Instruction of Jewish Youth," which was translated into English by the late M. H. Picciotto, father of the author of " Sketches of Anglo-Jewish History;" and a lengthy correspondence between himself and the famous Prof. Samuel David Luz- zatto, for whom he prepared a genealogical tree of the Luzzatto family. Of Reggio's other works there are Bechinath Ha-Cabbala, on a writing of Leon de Modena ; "A View of Astronomy"; an Italian version of the Book of Joshua, with a Hebrew preface; one in the same language, of the Lamentations of Jeremiah, with an Italian preface ; another of the Book of Ruth ; another of the treatise Aboth (Ethics of the Fathers), with an introduction and copious an- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 3OI notations ; an Italian translation of the Correspond- ence about Faith, between Mendelssohn and Lavater ; and another of many Psalms. Prof. Reggio died on the 29th of August, 1855. His life was spent in the effort to prepare Israelites for the reception of critical views on Bib- lical and Rabbinical volumes, and what he said was always expressed in a style, at once attractive, and almost unrivalled. ROBERT REMAK. Attempts to crush the Jewish mind have never been attended with success. On the contrary, they have contributed to strengthen its powers. In Poland, for example, Hebrews have been levelled with the ground, and yet, in that very same country, and from among the outcasts and the reviled, arose some of the intellects that shaped modern science. Medicine and physiology have been most ably re- presented. A notice — for only such can we term it — of an Israelite, who has been extolled by the far- famed Claude Bernard and Ernst Haeckel, will here be offered. He must, indeed, be considered excellent, whom the greatest acknowledged great. Prof. Robert Remak, M. D., was born at Posen, in the Duchy of Posen, Prussian. Poland, on July 30th, 181 5. He received rudimentary instruction, and, from 302 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF 1829 to 1833, attended the Gymnasium, whence he proceeded to the University of Berlin. He took rapid strides in the pursuit of his various studies. Medical work, however, drew forth the fulness of his capacities, and Prof. Reimann, seeing it, foretold the future reserved for the earnest student. ,Remak graduated in 1838. With a deep consciousness of the importance of the avocation chosen, he followed a special course under John Miller and Schoenlein, till he felt that the knowledge acquired was equal to the demands of the profession. Then he came before the public. In 1847 Dr. Remak was appointed Privat Docent. In 1 861 he achieved his crowning triumph by being elected Professor Extraordinary at the University of Berlin. His elevation to that office, through the instrumentality of the immortal Alexander Von Hum- boldt might well have been a cause for glorification, at a time when Jews were debarred from ascending the ladder of fame. Both as a practitioner and an author, Prof. Remak is renowned in the department of medicine which treats of the nerves. " His principal merits," ob- serves a writer, " lie in his researches into the more delicate nerve-constructions, and into the develop- ment of the vertebrates, and in the introduction of a constant electric current, as a remedy for the diseases of the nerve system." His works include THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 303 44 Diagnostic and Pathogenic Researches at the Schoen- lein Clinic" — 1845; "Concerning an Independent Nerve-System of the Skin"— 1847; ''Concerning the development of Vertebrates" — 1 8 5 1 — ' 5 ; "Metho- dic Electrization of Palsied Muscles" — 1851 ; and " Galvano-Therapeutics of Nerve and Muscle Diseases" — 1858, — translated into French, in i860. The Pro- fessor also indited valuable articles for journals, and he was, from 1842, a contributor to the Yearly Reports for Medical Science (in Physiology). Robert Remak's extraordinary career closed at Kissingen, in Bavaria, on August 29th, 1865. In him, medicine lost one who had greatly extended its limits. A fluent writer he was, but likewise an ardent laborer who aimed at the alleviation and the cure of bodily ailments. He would serve to his succes- sors as a light with which they might search still deeper and farther into a science, very intricate, but very essential and noble, when applied with loving care to the human sufferer. GABRIEL RIESSER. Progress, in ages gone by is, so to say, micro- scopic when compared with that brilliantly visible in this era. The state of the intelligent beings that people the earth forms the important question which 304 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF has occupied many minds. But the solution of the problem constitutes the crown which will adorn the brow of this golden age. Liberty, equality and frater- nity are a triad, no longer imaginary, but likely to be- come a reality in our own day. The law which has declared sentient creatures entitled to free- dom of will, and the pursuit of happiness, is finding its application. We see it in the effects of the labors of a Wilberforce, a Lincoln, a Mazzini, and a Garrison. As these intellectual heroes strove with might and main to raise their fellow mortals op- pressed by the tyrant's rule, so did Gabriel Riesser gird his loins to hasten to the deliverance of his co-religionists. The sphere of his actions Was by no means as wide, nor were the results of his efforts as great. Still, the services he rendered were of a character demanding hearty recognition. Dr. Gabriel Riesser was born at Hamburg, Ger- many, in 1806. Having received a careful in- struction at home, he subsequently went to the Gymnasium, from which he graduated, and passed to the University of Kiel, and later to that of Heidel- berg. Early in life, Riesser became imbued with the ideas that were soon to make him a prominent actor in the struggle for liberty. He revolted at the in- justice done to his fellow-believers, and while yet at college the conviction took deep root within him. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 305 that a feeling of popular indignation must be aroused ; an enthusiasm capable of such deeds as would burst asunder the chains of persecution. In 1 83 1 Riesser issued a pamphlet with the caption, " The Position of the Professors of the Mosaic Faith in Germany/' in* which he courageously assails the German Government for its ill-treatment of Israelites, and argues soundly and with exceeding vigor. He compares the intolerance of the time to the fanaticism of the Middle Ages, and calls upon his brethren to join hands, and fight the spirit of darkness. His bold assertions and outspoken de- nunciations were attended with the issue at which he aimed. Though adversely criticised by some, the opinions enunciated brought over a host of friends to the daring champion. In the same year, Riesser penned his " Defence of the Civil Equality of the Jews, against the Ob- jections of Dr. J, E. G. Paulus." This work, in- tended to disprove the sayings of a bigoted theolo- gian, displays a judgment and logical reasoning, to which a dispassionate and calm exposure of the disa- bilities of the Hebrews lends additional strength. It exercised considerable influence on the author's re- ligious adversaries, and tended, to a certain degree, to abate prejudice. Dr. Riesser began, in 1832, the publication of I)er Jude (The Jew), a periodical devoted to the 306 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF interests of the Jews, and with an eye to their political emancipation. The erudition and zeal with which its editor refuted calumnies against his brethren were not ineffectual. The man who had assumed an ar- duous, but glorious undertaking, saw his indomitable will, unwearied patience and perseverance, lead step by step to the final goal. Der Jude became a me- dium for the advocacy of staunch principles and equal rights. It frequently contained articles of un- common merit, contributed by men of learning. Its issue was, however, discontinued in 1834. Besides the articles inserted in his organ, Dr. Riesser published, in 1835, "Strictures on the Pro- ceedings of the Diet of Baden, of 1833, on tne Emancipation of the Jews," wherein he expresses himself freely on the hypocrisy cropping out of the discussions held. There also appeared at different intervals, " Boerne and the Jews," and " Jewish Letters," the last-mentioned notably evincing the author's scholarship. " Apprehensions and Hopes as to the Future of the Jews in Prussia," a political dissertation, which came from the press in 1842, betokens ingenuity and a consummate knowledge of national affairs. Riesser also wrote for different journals and magazines. In all his productions, the true spirit of a Jew is manifested. He would not part with his religion for worldly advantages, and he ever censured those who abandon the faith of their fathers, for a fleeting reputation. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 2)°7 The sacrifices Riesser brought to the altar of his belief are the best proofs of his unimpeached sin- cerity. He was hindered from practising as an ad- vocate in his own native city ; he was refused even an unsalaried position at the University of Heidel- berg, for being a Jew. Of course, these checks upon a high-spirited man caused mortification, but they could not shake the firmness of a resolute heart. Finally, in 1848, Dr. Riesser was elected to the German Parliament. Now did the voice which had long been lifted in vain, resound within the halls of legislation. The tone and fervid eloquence of the speaker made him nobly conspicuous in that rep- resentative assemblage. He stood among the fore- most, battling for a United Germany, based on the will of the people. His very opponents observed in the honest Israelite, one really attached to his father- land, and Riesser was honored by being chosen Vice-President of Parliament, and also a member of the delegation sent to Berlin, to offer King William IV. the crown of Germany. The year i860 saw Gabriel Riesser a Justice of the Supreme Court, in the city of his birth. Thus were his labors rewarded, and deeply he appreciated the victory. His own words will show how he re garded his elevation to that judicial post : " Not for my own sake, but for the sake of the Jews, do 308 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF I rejoice in the distinction I have received ; I see in it the recognition of the rights of the Jews." Dr. Riesser died at Hamburg, Germany, in i860. Let the revilers of Jewish patriotism be hushed into silence; let them never again attempt their mendacious onslaughts, lest the ghOst of Gabriel Riesser rise in all its majesty, and mark them out as objects of scorn. ROTHSCHILD. The origin and progress of a family whose con- trolling power in the commercial world is every- where felt, must, of necessity, be of interest. But to trace the exertions of each individual member of a house so incomparably famous, would be too exten- sive an undertaking. The presentation of some char- acters preeminently historical, is the object we seek to attain. I. — Meyer Anselm Rothschild was born in the Judenstrass, at Frankfort-on-the-Main, Germany, in 1743. When but eleven years old, his parents died, and the surviving relatives trained the boy for a teacher. This occupation not suiting his taste, young Rothschild engaged in an humble trading business, and, shortly after, he was employed in a counting- house, at Hanover. In a few years, he became master THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 309 of a small capital, and, returning to Frankfort, he married, and started in business for himself, as a banker and broker. Industry and integrity soon ob- tained for him a reputation, and he was authorized to raise a loan to stay off the French republican forces, and save Frankfort from pillage. In 1 80 1 the Landgrave or Elector of Hesse-Cassel, who had accumulated about a million pounds sterling, by hiring his subjects to fight for England and France, was obliged to flee on account of the ap- proach of Napoleon, who, after the battle of Jena, had declared that ruler's estates forfeited. Before leaving, however, the Elector sent for Rothschild, and offered him the free use of the treasure, without in- terest, if he would convey it to a place of safety. With the aid of his friends, the prudent banker succeeded in secreting the money, and thus prevented its being seized by the French. His affairs now began to prosper to such a degree, that he was able to contract for a Danish loan of four million dollars. Rothschild had five sons, and, previous to his death, which occurred in September, 1812, he ex- perienced the pleasure of seeing them all securely established as the monarchs of European finance — Anselm in Frankfort, Solomon in Vienna, Nathan in London, Charles in Naples, and James in Paris. II. — Nathan Meyer Rothschild, third son of 3IO EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Meyer Anselm, was born at Frankfort-on-the-Main, Germany, on the 16th of September, 1777. He be- came associated with his father in banking operations, and went to England in 1800, to represent the firm. He first proceeded to Manchester, where he pur- chased goods for the Continent. Removing to Lon- don, he invested large sums of money for the house, and with so much judgment, that the principal mul- tiplied with great rapidity. He was appointed, by the interest of the Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel, agent for the payment of the £12,000,000 sterling, which, by the treaty of Toeplitz, Great Britain stipulated to pay her German allies. A large profit accrued to the house by this transaction. During the war between England and Spain, which began in 1808, the Rothschilds gave evidence of their immense wealth, by their, remittances to the English army. In a period of twelve years, five hundred millions of dollars were raised for dif- ferent powers, as loans or subsidies, exclusive of va- rious other large sums. It is said that Mr. N. M. Rothschild knew the result of the battle of Waterloo several hours before the English Government, there- by gaining £200,000. The wonderful tact displayed by the Rothschilds in the management of their resources, is none the less remarkable. They never took a bad loan in hand, and hardly any good loans fell into the hands THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 3 I T of others. In addition to the co-operation of the five brothers, important agencies exist in many other cities, both of the Old and the New World. Were it not for the extraordinary means which the Roth- schilds possess, reverses which entailed serious losses, might have proved fatal. But extreme watchfulness served as a safeguard to future success. On the death of the father, Mr. Nathan Meyer Rothschild was considered head of the firm, and, as such, was always consulted by his brothers, on mat- ters pertaining to the welfare of the house. He in- troduced th.e business of negotiating foreign loans in England, and an act of denization was passed in his favor in 1821. Though created a Baron of the Aus- trian Empire, Mr. Rothschild never adopted the title, preferring the renown he had achieved as a financier. The Baron had special claims to public attention as a philanthropist. He donated large sums alike to Jewish and Christian institutions, and his moral and pecuniary aid was ever lent to the promotion of good objects. As a member of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, Mr. Rothschild gave the weight of his influence to further the designs of that organization. While at Frankfort, to witness the marriage of his son, Lionel, to Charlotte, daughter of the Baron Charles Rothschild, an illness overtook him, and he expired on the 28th of July, 1836. His remains 312 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF were brought to England, and interred, with great solemnity, in the cemetery of the Great (German) Synagogue. Many thousands of pounds were left by Mr. Rothschild, to be distributed to the poor by his widow. His brother Anselm, who died childless, in 1856, left a fortune valued at from 40,000,000 to 50,000,000 florins. III. — Lionel Nathan de Rothschild, son of Baron Nathan Meyer, was born at London, Eng- land, November 22d, 1808. He received an edu- cation at Gbttingen, and his father early initiated him into the business of the firm. Applying him- self to the task, he materially assisted the house in extending its colossal enterprises. The earnestness Mr. Rothschild evinced in Jewish matters, and his labors to induce the re- moval of the political disabilities affecting Israel- ites, redounded greatly to his credit. The British Government recognized his hereditary title of Baron, in 1838, and, in 1847, he was chosen by the Liberals to the House of Commons. Declining to be sworn " On the true faith of a Christian," he was not allowed to take his seat. The contrast between the will of Parliament and that of the people was proven by Baron Rothschild's re-election for the city of London, in the years 1849, 1852, and 1857. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 313 Many bills were introduced for the recognition of Jewish rights, which, though they usually passed the House of Commons, were invariably rejected by the Upper House. In 1858, on motion of Mr. Duncombe, Baron Rothschild was placed on a committee to hold a conference with the House of Lords, which virtually ended in the declaration of Jewish emancipation. The Commons sent up another bill, and a general belief prevailed that, if it were, like the rest, thrown out by the Lords, Jewish members would be admitted by resolution of their own House, instead of by act of Parliament. The Lords gave way, but their groundless fears im- pelled them to take measures against the admission of Israelites into the Upper Chamber. Baron Roth- schild assumed his seat, amid cheers, on the 26th of July, 1858, and he was successively returned to Parliament until the general election of 1874. He died June 3d, 1879. IV. — Anthony de Rothschild, son of Baron Nathan Meyer, was born at London, England, in 1 80 1. He entered the great banking house estab- lished by his father, and, in later years, became one of the principal members of the firm. His business talents were shown by the sharp discernment, ex- cellent management, and sagacity which he exercised in conducting its affairs. 3 14 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF This large-hearted Hebrew was distinguished both for charity and uniform kindness. He expended vast sums to ameliorate the condition of the poor of Palestine, and also contributed to numerous institu- tions, irrespective of the assistance given to private individuals. Countenancing and supporting every- thing of a Jewish nature, he assumed a prominent part in the English community. Education among his co-religionists claimed the attention of the Baronet. As President of the Jewish schools in Spitalfields, he exerted himself to foster knowledge, and his personal influence proved as beneficial as the dispensing of his means. Sir Anthony was created a Baronet of Great Britain in 1 864 ; but the honor did not lessen the ac- tive interest he took in the prosperity of his brethren, and the whole English nation. When, on January 4th, 1876, his earthly career terminated, none could say ill of the man. His record remained clear and untarnished to the end. At present our fellow-believers in Great Britain are subject to few, if any, disqualifications. As repre- sentatives of the Bench and of the Bar, as members of legislative bodies, and as occupants of other civic stations, they have insured public confidence. But the Rothschild family has not lost caste by reason of the immunities and preferments shared by many THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 3 I 5 of its own denomination. It still holds the power which opulence and liberality secure, and, though the intermarriage of some with non-Israelites must be deprecated, the main portion of this renowned house- hold makes itself felt for good, in whatever conduces to the perpetuation and elevation of the belief of the ancient race. MICHAEL SACHS. In the second volume of the Hebrew poems of Prof. S. D. Luzzatto, there is a rhythmical composi- tion dedicated to a revered Israelite. The writer tells of a heart from which persuasive eloquence would flow, and of a mind that would confound unbelievers by its divinely-supported learning. He apostrophizes the man whose virtues had inspired his poetic genius. It was Michael Sachs, — just then elevated to a position for which his exact scholarship eminently fitted him, — whom Prof. Luzzatto extolled. Praise was never more deservedly bestowed. Dr. Michael Sachs was born at Gross-Glogau, Prussia, on the 3d of September, 1808. The extra- ordinary abilities he evinced at an early age determ- ined his father to educate him for one of the learned professions. Accordingly, he was sent to the Uni- versity of Berlin, where his mild disposition, combined with great natural powers, gained the good will 3l6 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF of both preceptors and classmates. Science and ora- tory divided his attention, and both were designed as aids in his study of Jewish theology. Sachs' career as a writer began with a translation of the Bible into German, undertaken in conjunction with others. In 1837 his knowledge of the art of public speaking was put to the test in the famous city of Prague. For seven years, his eloquence and winning manners made him the object of the deep- felt regard and affection of the entire community. Dr. Sachs became a warm personal friend of the great Rapoport, who admired his colleague's ardent devotion to Jewish learning. In 1844 Sachs re- sponded to a call from the Berlin congregation. The invitation extended by a Hebrew community so influential was flattering, and Sachs wended his steps where Providence destined that he should remain during the rest of his too short existence. About the time he removed to the capital of Prussia, changes in the Jewish worship had been making there con- siderable headway. His effective labors were directed to stay the progress of what he considered mischievous, and he succeeded in checking the members of his own flock from adopting the new system. The talents of the noted Hebrew were too brilliant to remain unnoticed by the German Government, and he was appointed a member of the Council of Edu- cation. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 317 The publication of works of surpassing worth gave evidence of. Dr. Sachs' signal ability. "The Re- ligious Poetry of the Jews in Spain" appeared in 1845, exhibiting a very intimate acquaintance with a literature which undoubtedly occupies a vast and important place in the world of letters. Then fol- lowed a magnificent translation of the Prayers, in ten volumes, published in 1855, and of which many thousand copies were sold. There came also, in succession, "Voices from the Jordan and the Euphrates ;" a series of contributions on Jewish An- tiquities ; and other writings of sterling value. Dr. Sachs won the greatest renown, however, as a preacher. He was considered, without excep- tion, the most finished pulpit orator of the day among Israelites. Crowds would breathlessly listen to his extemporaneous outbursts of eloquence. It is to be regretted that, because his sermons were delivered im- promptu, a collection thereof cannot be made, and preserved to posterity. One of his last efforts was an address on " Moses, the Champion of God," wherein he paid a glowing tribute to the character of Sir Moses Montefiore. Dr. Sachs died on the 31st of January, 1864. The profound sorrow his loss occasioned testified to the esteem in which the gentleman and scholar was held by men who can adequately appreciate learning joined to high principles. It will not be 3l8 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF claiming too much, to say that Michael Sachs was one of the brightest luminaries in the Jewish horizon in our century. DAVID SALOMONS. When King John compelled Jews to part with their gold to fill his exhausted coffers; when he pulled their teeth to frighten them into a quick de- livery of their substance, he did not dream that their posterity would sit among the highest functionaries in the very metropolis of his dominions. But 'this is a wonderful century, and Israelites have every cause to thank Providence who has wrought great ends through human means. It is quite appropriate to direct a thought to a bold defender of right ; to the English- man whose determined, yet dignified, deportment be- came the instrument to erase the vestiges of anti- quated and proscriptive laws. Sir David Salomons, Bart., M.P., a son of Levy Salomons, Esq., was born at London, England, in 1797. He early engaged in commercial pursuits. On reaching manhood he manifested much interest in Jewish affairs, and, as his fellow-believers were de- prived of their rights as citizens, he soon employed his zeal in advocating their cause. In connection with Sir Moses Montefiore, the Rothschilds, the Gold- smids, and several noble-minded Christians, he THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 319 finally obtained for his brethren their immunities and privileges as Englishmen. Mr. Salomons attracted notice in the year 1835, on being elected Sheriff of London and Middlesex, and, in the same year, Alderman of Aldgate Ward. He became a candidate for Parliament from Shore- ham, in 1837, but was defeated. The same happened in 1 84 1 and 1847, when put forward for the constitu- encies of Maidstone and Greenwich, respectively. Still Mr. Salomons was chosen High Sheriff of Kent in 1839-40, Alderman of Portsmouth in 1844, and of Cordwainers' in 1847. What militated against his election to several stations was his refusal to subscribe to the required declaration, " On the true faith of a Christian." Curiously enough, he could be called to the Bar at the Middle Temple in 1 849, and also act as Magistrate and Deputy-Lieutenant for Kent, Sus- sex, and Middlesex ; but the Hebrew who was per- mitted to assist in administering the laws was denied participation in the formation of them. Severe were the struggles in both houses of Parlia- ment. The friends of freedom fought bravely. Noted personages, as Lord Macaulay, Lord John Russell, Lord George Bentinck, Mr. O'Connell, Mr. Grote the historian, Mr. Disraeli, Mr. Gladstone, and several dig- nitaries of the Church, tried to kill the hydra of pre- judice. In 1847 Baron Lionel de Rothschild, sup- ported by the Liberal party, gained an election to the 320 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF House of Commons ; however, he could not take his seat, by reason of the oath, " On the true faith of a Christian." But the unsuccessful result of this election did not deter Mr. Salomons from offering himself to represent Greenwich, in 185 1, though he had thrice previously been frustrated in his attempts. He was returned to Parliament, and, entering the House of Commons, in- sisted on being sworn on the Old Testament, and omitting the objectionable words. He maintained that he was lawfully there, and he had the boldness not only to take his seat, but to speak and vote three times on the very question of his right to remain in the House. His conduct was loudly denounced by the Speaker, and some of the members, but others sustained his course. Mr. Salomons was com- pelled to withdraw. The penalty incurred for his action was £500, and the affair led to prolonged legal proceedings before the Court of Exchequer. In 1 855— *6 Mr. Salomons served as Lord Mayor of London. He was the first of the two Hebrews (the other being Sir Benjamin S. Phillips) who graced that exalted position. Of Sir David, The Times said : " At last we have, for the first time, a Lord Mayor who can speak the Queen's English with propriety," The obnoxious oath, which had called forth the antagonism of David Salomons, was repealed in 1858, and Baron Rothschild assumed his seat in Par- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 32 1 liament. He who had grappled with the evil, and crushed it, was again chosen to the House of Com- mons, from Greenwich, in 1859, and he continued to fiulfil important trusts, always maintaining and defend- ing the honor of his fellow-believers. On July 1 8th, 1873, this venerable son of Jacob was gathered to his fathers. Sir David wrote several essays on Religious Disa- bilities, Persecution of the Jews in the East, Currency, Corn Laws, Oaths, etc. He was, at one time, a Trus- tee of the London and Westminster Bank. The sterling qualities conspicuous in the charac- ter of this English Jew, raised him so loftily, that it would be superfluous on our part to attempt a panegyric. JOSEPH SALVADOR. Religious discussions conducted with calm and impartial judgment must be productive of good. Points presenting difficulties are put to a crucial analysis. Thus the verities they contain come up resplendent, while the fiction sinks low. The doctrines which guide the ancient people have nothing to fear from the searching trial. But it cannot be denied that de- bates of a dogmatic nature have frequently occasioned a vast amount of evil. Passions were conjured up which obscured the serene regions of the intellect. 322 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF All should feel glad that, in this age of enlighten- ment, and in liberal France, polemical productions will command attention and respect. The works of Joseph Salvador do not exactly belong to that category. But as they have elicited adverse stric- tures, and again writings vindicating former as- sertions, they may be classified with literary labors purporting to ventilate accepted ideas in religion, and to serve the cause of truth. Joseph Salvador was born at Montpellier, France, in 1796. His ancestors, whom the ruthless arm of the Inquisition aimed to strike dead, fled from Spain in the fifteenth century, and fcund safety in France. Their illustrious descendant showed a precocious un- derstanding, and an eager desire for knowledge in the days of his boyhood. He early displayed a preference for science and philosophy, nor did he part with them when pursuing other studies. The youth attended a medical school, from which he graduated in 1 8 16, as Doctor of Medicine, choosing for his thesis, " The Ap- plication of Philosophy to Pathology." He did not, however, steadily follow up the medical profession, but responded to the promptings of his nature, by de- voting his time to literature. M. Salvador betook himself to Paris, and did not delay carrying out his cherished plans. He pur- posed treating of the Jewish people, their origin and history. He endeavored to signalize the undertaking THE NINETEENTH CENTURY". 323 by system and thoroughness, so that it might offer accurate information, and suggest thoughts never be- fore entertained by the readers of the Mosaic volumes. M. Salvador, looking from his own standpoint, has surely succeeded in giving the Pentateuch a foremost station. In the sphere of philosophical criticism he differs from the German school, whose theories, trans- planted into France, are greatly in vogue. He is original in many instances, and applies scientific knowl- edge to matters dwelt upon. He sees the omnipres- ence of God in the affairs of nations, and clearly in the history of the Hebrews. Not that he recognizes an immediate communion of the mind of Moses with the Spirit that governs the universe ; but, ascribing to the leader of the tribes the whole credit for the sublime legislation which bears his name, Salvador, neverthe- less, admits the invisible direction of the Supreme Being in whatever did and will civilize the world. The following works have emanated from M. Sal- vador : " The Law of Moses, or the Religious and Political System of the Hebrews," in 1822, which may be termed a prelude to the " History of the Institu- tions of Moses and of the Hebrew People," in two volumes — 1828. The latter book has passed through several editions. Much comment was occasioned by its appearance, and the author's elucidations, con- cerning the administration of justice, as enforced in 324 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the case of the man of Nazareth, provoked a contro- versial writing from the widely-known jurist, Jean Jacques Dupin, entitled, " Jesus before Caiphas and Pilate." Salvador maintained his ground, and in his famous production, " Jesus and his Doctrine," in two volumes, 1838, he shows with immense erudition whence the son of Mary derived his knowledge, and why he could not receive the homage of the Jews. Important facts relative to the founder of Christianity are there disclosed. " History of the Roman Domi- nation in Judea, and of the Destruction of Jerusalem/' in three volumes, was published in 1847; and "Paris, Rome, Jerusalem ; or, The Religious Question in the Nineteenth Century," in two volumes, in i860, and which is the latest and ripest of Salvador's works. The author had watched, with the eye of a pro- found philosopher, the events that followed each other since 1848. In a series of letters he describes the im- pressions created, the hopes and aspirations of his soul. Therein is given a comprehensive summary of all upon which he had reflected. He recognizes in the revolution of 1789 the beginning of an era that can- not be terminated until religion permeates politics, and both form an indissoluble alliance. M. Salvador died at Paris, France, in 1873. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 325 FLAMINIO SERVI. A journal in the interest of Judaism is a thing of recent date in Italy. The first appeared in 1853, at Vercelli, a city of Piedmont. L Educator e Israelita, a monthly magazine, was edited by Joseph Levi, who, while bringing to the task all the versatile knowledge requisite, secured a valuable co-laborer in Ezra Pontremoli. But in 1874 death removed him who had made his organ a vehicle to popular instruc- tion, and to the exaltation of Israel. The keynote which that zealous worker struck, met with a response during his lifetime. At Trieste, . the eastern end of the Italian peninsula, A. Curiel began 77 Corriere Israelitico, a monthly, which still adds . to its high merits, by keeping its readers constantly informed of the doings of the Alliance Israelite Universelle. A third publica- tion, that of Rabbi G. E. Levi, called Mos'e, An- tologia Israelitica, inscribed to Sir Moses Monte fiore, and issued at Corfu, Greece, in the Italian language, is specially devoted to Jewish science. But L Educa- tore Israelita did not die with its founder. Rabbi F. Servi, of Casale, assumed the management of the periodical, and it lives to-day under the name of 11 Vessillo Israelitico. Its learned editor is the sub- ject of this sketch. Flaminio Servi, Chief Rabbi of Casale, was born 326 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF at Pitigliano, in Tuscan Italy, December 21st, 184T. He studied under Moses Sorani, now Chief Rabbi of Cento, and David J. Maroni, at present Chief Rabbi of Florence. But he derived most of his knowledge from his own father, who, though a layman, success- fully cultivated theology. Parental precept and ex- ample, together with lessons on Holy Writ and Talmud, instilled principles which developed an un- shaken attachment to historical Judaism. Gifted with great aptness and a retentive memory, feeling an inborn fondness for literature, the lad did not incline towards his father's vocation. When only eight years old, Servi's unfitness for commerce, and his qualifications for the pursuit of learning could have been foretold. For he would, when even so young, try his hand at versification, and, as he grew, the most trivial event elicited poetical effusions. When eleven he translated the Book of Proverbs, and completed a version of the Psalter, left unfinished by an elder brother who had died very early in life. The youth soon became a contributor to Jewish journals, and some of his numerous articles met with so much favor that they were reproduced in other languages. When twenty years of age, Servi was deemed worthy of the title of Haber, and only two years afterwards of that of Rabbi. He was therefore chosen assistant to the Jewish ecclesiastical chief of THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 32/ Pitigliano. Subsequently, being made a Morenu, he ministered respectively at Monticelli and Mondovi ; and he has officiated since 1 872 at Casale. But Rabbi Servi is best known as editor of 77 Vessillo Israclitico. This magazine has a large circu- lation, and its pages are graced by the contributions of noted men in Italy. Prof. Salvatore De Benedetti, whose work on Jehudah Halevy would alone suffice to give him . celebrity ; Moses Soave, a truly great scholar, whom Steinschneider does not disdain to con- sult ; Rabbis Bachi, Luria, and Jare, and other excel- lent writers help to maintain the literary standard of this periodical while, at the same time, a. choice col- lection of domestic and foreign news is regularly pre- sented. Of Rabbi Servi's productions, the principal is Gli Israeliti D' Europa (The Israelites of Europe)-i87i, containing valuable accounts of what has been done by our co-religionists for the cause of civilization, from 1789, when France gave them freedom, to 1870, when the unification of Italy was effected. The nar- rative of historical events in which men of our race played a conspicuous part, the copious statistics of population and of institutions, and the large number of notices of the lives and writings of illustrious He- brews, won for the author the prize of one thousand francs, offered by the Committee for the Diffusion of Good Works among Italian Israelites* One thousand 328 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF copies came from the press. The Rabbi has also pub- lished sermons, short poems written in his boyhood, and "Jewish Tales," and he is said to have in manu- script a translation of the best part of the Mishna, with explanatory notes, a treatise on Rhetoric, etc., etc. In reward for his services, Rabbi Servi was cre- ated a Chevalier of the Croivn of Italy, in 1 877, when he received a flattering letter from the Minister of Public Instruction. The Rabbi-Chevalier is yet young in years, and by keeping in the course he has evidently determined upon — that of fearless honesty and independence — he will, in the end, realize his most ardent hopes, and add to the distinguished reputation already achieved. MORITZ STEINSCHNEIDER. Students whose noble self-denial incites them to endure hardships, while intent upon rising to dis- tinction, have, at times, ignobly denied those left below the light which might serve as a guide. Literary misers are they, valueless to society. We turn from such, to cast a look upon one who has cheerfully shed around the radiance of his ency- clopedic learning. Moritz Steinschneider, gifted with THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 329 powers that few possess, commanding an erudition acquired by endless exertions, does not repel multi- tudes who seek his teachings. He gives abundantly of his own. He is no less a " lover of language" than a lover of men. His philology and his philan- thropy react upon each other. Dr. Moritz Steinschneider was born at Prossnitz, in Moravia, Austria, on the 30th of March, 18 16. His father, Jacob Steinschneider, a Talmudist, also well versed in secular knowledge, imparted to him instruction, while, at the same time, the boy attended school. Young Moritz attained a broader view of practical affairs than was usually afforded, by visiting the work-shops of various tradesmen. In his thir- teenth year he became the pupil of the celebrated Rabbi Nahum Trebitsch, whom he followed to Nicolsburg in 1832. Having thus obtained a liberal education, Stein- schneider gave private lessons in the French and Italian languages. He at length went to Prague, where he remained until 1836, and devoted himself to philosophy, philology, aesthetics, and other branches, receiving diplomas from several authorities. During the period of his residence at Prague, he formed the acquaintance of a number of eminent scholars, among whom were the late Dr. Abraham Benisch, afterwards editor of the Jewish Chronicle, and the Rev. Albert Lbwy, now a Jewish Minister in London. 330 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF \ In 1836 Steinschneider proceeded to Vienna, and pursued different studies, but in 1839, by the advice of the savant, Leopold Dukes, he initiated himself into the literature, history, and bibliography of the East. He was anxious to join the Oriental Acadenry, but the prejudice of the day against his race de- barred him from realizing his desire. He could not even secure the list of Hebrew books in the Imperial Library. Not discouraged, he attended the lectures at the Polytechnic Institute, and, to gain an insight into the learning of the Orient, he took up Karle's course in Arabic, Syriac, and Hebrew, and in Biblical exegesis. With the aim of adopting the Rabbinical profession, Steinschneider turned to theology. But, for political reasons, the Austrian Government prohibited his stay at Vienna, nor could the intercession of the famous preacher, Isaac Noah Mannheimer, who enjoyed popu- larity among all classes, procure a revocation of the un- just mandate. Having applied for a passport, so as to reach Berlin, he immediately left Vienna. On ar- riving at Leipzig, news came of the refusal to grant him said passport ; hence he was now in a serious predicament, unable to go on, or return. Com- pelled to remain at Leipzig, he continued Arabic under Fleischer, and undertook the translation of the Koran into Hebrew, while interesting himself in divers matters. He contributed to Pierer's Uni- versal Encyclopedia. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 33 1 In 1839 Steinschneider was permitted to go to Berlin, and, after several brief sojourns in other cities, he settled at the capital, where he passed the so-called Rector examination, and became a Prussian citizen. His position as reporter of the National Zeitung at the sessions of the National Assembly, and likewise his correspondence published in the Prague Zeitung, edited by Prof. Hasner, brought him into prominence during the crisis of 1848. The same year he received a commission to prepare a catalogue of the Hebrew books in the Bodleian Library. In order to accomplish this task — one that required a learning as accurate as profound — he made his abode at Oxford for a decade. There he took part in etymological conferences with Prof. Max Muller. In 1859 the University of Leipzig honored Stein- schneider with the degree of Ph. D., and he was elected Professor of the Jewish Seminary of Veitel- Heine-Ephraim, at Berlin. He also superintends the Tbchterschule of the Berlin Israelitish community. He has been obliged to decline numerous advan- tageous offers, either on account of his principles, or by reason of his many duties. Dr. Steinschneider's literary endeavors are almost beyond reckoning. The intellectual height he has risen to, renders his views on all subjects of vital importance. Though, perhaps, not as deep a thinker 33 2 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF as Leopold Zunz, nor as terse and polished a writer as Michael Sachs, the Doctor is distinguished for a scholarship, the extent of which is sufficient to create amazement. The " Catalogue of Hebrew Books in the Bodleian Library," embodying the results of his researches at Oxford, is a monu- ment of erudition. A production on the Hebrew manuscripts in the Bodleian Library has also been issued; moreover, "Foreign Philological Elements in the Modern Hebrew;" "Bibliographical Manual of the Literature of the Hebrew Language ;" " Jew- ish Literature from the Eighth to the Eighteenth Century," with an introduction on Talmud and Midrash, translated into English by Spottiswoode ; on the ritual of Saadiah Gaon; "Manna;" Reschith Hallimmud, a manual of the Hebrew language, com- piled in accordance with a new system ; " Lives ot Arabian Mathematicians, drawn from the inedited work of Bernardino Baldi, with notes;" and "His- tory of the Arabic School of Medicine." In addition to many other works, in Hebrew, Latin, German, French, and Italian, the Doctor has furnished articles, specially on Mathematics, Astron- omy and Medicine, for Der Orient of Dr. Fiirst, and has contributed to nearly every magazine in the sacred tongue ; also to the Serapeum, and to »the Journal of the German Oriental Society. Moritz Steinschneider still continues at his post. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 333 His natural activity forbids him rest. New pub- lications, professional functions, and an extensive correspondence, engage every hour of the man who has, indeed, consecrated his life to the service of Israel and the world at large. HEYMANN STEINTHAL. Throughout the many stages of history, whether in the enjoyment of ease, or in the distress of op- pression, the Hebrew people presented one peculiar feature — a love of knowledge. To this may be as- cribed that elasticity which prevented their being crushed under the heavy burden of despotism, and their marvellous preservation. Mental culture be- came the most formidable of their defenders. A short space will be devoted to exhibiting the course pursued by an individual whose opinion, on questions that none. but lofty minds can attempt to solve, is of exceeding interest to the votaries of modern science. Prof. Dr. Heymann Steinthal was born at Grbb- zig, in Anhalt, Germany, May 16th, 1823. Qualified by a sagaciously directed education in his boyhood, for the reception of instruction of a high order, he went to Berlin, where he assiduously cultivated phil- osophy, comparative philology, and mythology. In the first-named branch of science, Hegel's theories 334 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF exercised, for a time, an exceeding influence on the mind of the student. But he soon threw off the yoke, and chose as his standard, the teachings of William Von Humboldt, brother of the world-re- nowned Alexander Von Humboldt. Steinthal became lecturer at Berlin, and continued in that capacity until 1852/ He afterwards repaired to Paris, and took up the language and literature of the Chinese. Returning to Berlin, in 1863, he was elected Professor Extraordinary at the University — a graceful tribute to his industry and immense ac- quirements. Together with his brother-in-law. Prof Dr. Moritz Lazarus, Steinthal began to edit the Journal of Na- tional Psychology and Philology. In National Psy- chology a new theme was given to scholars to work upon ; viz : the consideration of the development and manifestations of the spirit of a people, in con- tradistinction to the psychologic features of an indi- vidual. To this day the publication referred to, holds sway respecting matters connected with its object. Only a few of Steinthal's works can be named, it being beyond our present province to review the topics the Professor discusses with great depth. Suffice that their author is confessedly regarded as an authority. " Classification of Languages," a production of rare excellence, appeared in 1850; "The Origin of Lan- guage," with respect to late theories on all sciences, THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 335 in 1 85 1; "The Development of Writing," in 1852; " Grammar, Logic, Psychology," their principles, and relations to each other, in 1855 ; " History of Philology among the Greeks," in 1863; and "Synopsis of the Science of Language," in 1871. Besides a large num- ber of other writings, Prof. Steinthal has contributed, to different periodicals, articles, clear and expressive in style, and conveying profound ideas. The disputes which the Professor has had with Whitney and other scholars, have also tended to heighten his reputation. As a Jew, it is said Professor Steinthal does not take a prominent part in religious affairs, albeit he adheres firmly to the cardinal points of his faith, and shows an attachment to some of the ceremonial tenets, the observance of which distinguishes his fellow-believers from the rest of mankind. JUDAH TOURO. Philadelphia possesses a building known as the Hebrew Education Society's School, where children are taught the language of the Scriptures. In the main room is to be seen a tablet on which is re- counted the good done that institution by a benev- olent co-religionist. But this same sight meets the eye in nearly every chief city of the Union. Who was he that Americans of the olden faith delight to honor ? Did he surpass his contemporaries in know- 336 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF ledge, or did he make his power felt in the Fed- eral government? These questions which naturally suggest themselves, are answered by the simple mention of one word, — Philanthropy. The exercise of that virtue in its full sense, has given Judah Touro eternity in the memory of his fellow-citizens of all creeds. Judah Touro was born at Newport, Rhode Island,, on June 1 6th, 1775. His father, the Rev. Isaac Touro, had emigrated from Holland. At that time a highly respected congregation of Portuguese Jews flourished at Newport. The Rev. Mr. Touro was chosen, in 1762, Hazan, or Minister, of those Americans. Judah did not remain in his native city, but removed to Boston, and engaged in business with his maternal uncle, Moses Hays, in whose employ he sailed to the Mediterranean in 1798, as super- cargo of a vessel. During the voyage, the offi- cer distinguished himself by a successful engage- ment with a French privateer. In 1802 Touro defi- nitely settled at New Orleans, and became a merchant of commanding wealth, acquired through industry and thriftiness. Pending the war with Great Britain, he, obeying his patriotic impulses, enlisted as a volunteer in the American army under General Jackson, at New Orleans. On Jan- uary 1st, 181 5, he received wounds of so severe THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 337 a nature that his- body was left almost lifeless on the battle-field. Had it not been for the bravery and unremitting attention of a Christian, Rezin Davis Shepherd, he might not have recov- ered. Mr. Touro had a memory on which the record of favors was chiseled as on marble. He did not forget the humane services of his non-Israelite friend. So intense was the affection cherished for his deliverer, that on his death he bequeathed to him the residue of his property, amounting to> an immense sum. But Mr. Touro's liberality to him who saved his life when exposed to imminent danger, did not cover the entire range of his benevolence. Considering how vast this was, he may be styled the Montefiore of America. Institutions of all kinds owe the generous man a debt of gratitude, for endowments which enable them to alleviate misery, or to foster education. Families and individuals constantly felt the effects of his inherent kindness. An admirable trait evinced, was the unsectarian distribution of charity, while the donor ever contin- ued a strict adherent to the principles of his faith. The Congregation, Nefutzote Jehudah, (Dispersed of Judah), of New Orleans, and other Synagogues and churches, recognize Touro as their founder and sup- porter. It would be an impossibility to enumerate all the acts of munificent beneficence performed 33$ EMINENT ISRAELITES OF by Judah Touro. But it is not inappropriate to say — when Jews are declared incapable of any sentiment above racial clannishness — that the Jew Touro donated ten thousand dollars towards the erection of the Bunker-Hill Monument, intended to commemorate the second battle fought for American 'freedom. Cities besides New Orleans, have reason to connect his name with the sentence of the Scriptures, ** The memory of the righteous is a blessing." The private character of Mr. Touro was untainted. Simplicity, unostentation, and courtesy, — qualities al- ways reflected in the deeds of a true philanthropist, — found a bright exponent in the subject of our sketch. Mr. Touro's eventful life terminated on January 1 8th, 1854, in the city of New. Orleans. His re- mains were brought to Newport, followed by a long cortege of eminent co-religionists and Christians. They were permanently interred in the Jewish cem- etery, so touchingly described by the poet Longfel- low, and for the preservation of which the honored dead had made ample provision. As Judah Touro regarded his opulence as a trust from above, and employed it to strengthen the foundations of society, by encouraging religion and morality, he was, in very deed, a faithful servant of his Maker. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 339 EMANUEL VENEZIANI. There is a man — a native of Munich — who can lay an undisputed claim to the exalted title of bene- factor. Baron de Hirsch acquired his vast wealth through railroad operations. How does he apply it ? Let thousands of unfortunates of the human race tell ! During the late Turco-Russian war he signalized him- self by deeds which will ever shine brighter than all the decorations conferred on him by royalty. Yet, it is to his renowned almoner, Chevalier Veneziani, that this sketch is devoted, acting, as we do, on the Tal- mudical axiom, that " he who is the instrument in doing good, is even greater than he who supplies the means." Emanuel Veneziani was born at Leghorn, Italy, in July, 1826. The child of parents in the humblest condition of life, he had often to depend upon the kindness of friends to satisfy hunger. When still young he was seized with an alarming disease, from which, however, he soon recovered through the tender care of a family that loved him. Veneziani attended the Jewish free schools, and his talents developed fast. A key to the leading sen- timents of the youth's heart was the following inci- dent : Several pupils were competing for a prize, he among the number. Veneziani won it, but he insisted on sharing it with three of his class- 340 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF mates who had nearly come up to his standard. This generosity pleased the directors of the seminary, and the action of the Jewish lad of Leghorn was mentioned with due praise in a magazine published at Florence. Veneziani pursued his studies with success, under different preceptors, and commenced very early to im- part privately what he had learned at public institu- tions. But in 1846, an Italian family, — whose head, Dr. M. Allatini, has since become famous from his con- nection with the Alliance Israelite Universelle, — determined to settle at Salonica, and to engage the Leghorn young man as tutor. It was at that city that he made the acquaintance of the Camondos, the opulent bankers. His knowledge, discernment, and high character, secured for him the position of pri- vate secretary of that celebrated Turkish firm. He settled at Constantinople in 1854, and utilized the in- fluence which his office lent him in founding savings- banks, and charity associations. Considering Masonry a powerful element of liberalization, he instituted nu- merous lodges of that Order. He, moreover, estab- lished hospitals, and homes for the destitute, and took active part in everything that might promote the general welfare. The heroism he displayed in stak- ing his own life, during a disastrous fire, to save many from being burnt to death, made his name famous throughout Italy. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 34 1 The labors of Veneziani were not forgotten by his native country. The King of Italy, Victor Emanuel IL, having heard of the brave conduct of one of his subjects, sent him a double decoration with expres- sions of royal approval. The Chevalier found special favor with the Government of Turkey, and on more than one occasion he pleaded successfully in behalf of his unhappy fellow-believers, and obtained for them privileges before denied. But Veneziani's ceaseless activity has best been shown in the promotion of the grand object aimed at by the Alliance. For he created branches of that or- ganization, formed committees, established schools, animated teachers, encouraged pupils, and, enjoying the implicit confidence of Baron de Hirsch, distributed large sums to aid the cause of humanity, freedom, and enlightenment. Millions of francs were expended through the almoner of the noble philanthropist to bring the homeless under shelter, to cover the shivering limbs of the aged and infirm, and of children fleeing from the bereaving sword, to afford food to the body and the mind. The good work still goes on ; Veneziani planning noble acts and De Hirsch practically approving of them by wonderful munificence. May the world see both so engaged long after the next century shall have dawned. 34 2 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF GUSTAV WEIL. The investigation of the soil upon which lan- guage was born, has given rise to the science of modern philology. The philosophic mind casts off the chains o£ Western thought, and turns to seek for the hidden treasures of the Orient. So earnest has been the spirit manifested, so important the discoveries made, that nothing short of personal ob- servations in Asia and Africa will satisfy many in- quirers. Among this class, Gustav Weil stands preeminent. Prof. Gustav Weil was born at Sultzbach, in Baden, Germany, April 24th, 1808. The Talmud gave him food for thought. He discovered in his nature an aptitude for philology and history, and to follow up the study of those two elements of human learning, he went to Paris. After long application, he set out for the East, in order to grow familiar with the languages and customs of the nations of that portion of the globe. Of the cities he visited, Cairo became his residence for five years, and there he acted, not simply in the capacity of student, but also of tutor and interpreter. He arrived home in 1836, having mastered the Arabic, Per- sian, and Turkish languages. Weil was in every manner eminently fitted for a high station. Therefore, the very same year of THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 343 his return to Germany, his abilities were rewarded by his appointment as Assistant Librarian at Heidel- berg. He discharged the duties of this office with effi- ciency and zeal, bringing his vast theoretical and prac- tical knowledge to bear upon the exercise of his important, though arduous, functions. In 1845 ne was elevated to the chair of Oriental Languages in the University of Heidelberg, a position to which many may aspire, but few can attain. The numerous literary productions of Prof. Weil teem with erudition, and exhibit ripe judgment. Public opinion has stamped them with the seal of authority. The poetry of the Arabs, the Koran, the Biblical legends of the Mussulmen, and other topics of a kindred nature, are critically discussed by the Professor. There appeared, moreover, a German translation of " The Arabian Nights," in four volumes,. — 1837—41; "Life of Mohammed," — 1843, a work which met with an extremely favorable reception, by reason of its unparalleled comprehensiveness; " History of the Caliphs," in five volumes, embracing a wide sphere, — 1846-62; " History of the Mussulmen Peoples, from Mo- hammed to Sultan Selim," — 1866; and a biogra- phy of Levi Ben-Gerson, the celebrated philosopher, —1869. Gustav Weil may now rest on his laurels,, and feel contented that his exertions>. like those 344 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF of his illustrious compeers in the realms of Eastern thought, have compassed the object which inspired the worker with unflagging energy and untiring perseverance. NAPHTALI HARTWIG WESSELY. Could the man who gave new life and spirit to Judaism in Europe, appear here by right of chronology; could he, whose intellectual might drew Hebrews out of obscurity and isolation, have a place in this work as a contemporary, his name would embellish and ornament our series. But Moses Mendelssohn, the philosopher, the sage, and the author, did not live to see the age in which we live. Wessely, the admirer and faithful co- laborer of the Socrates of Dessau, though not strictly of our own days, crossed the threshold of this century. This fact will justify the presen- tation of his character, so that his services may be depicted, and his memory venerated. Naphtali Hartwig (or, as he is sometimes called, Herz) Wessely was born at Hamburg, Germany, in 1725. He was a descendant of a Polish family, almost annihilated by the Cossacks in 1648, and of whose members only one, named Joseph, effected an escape from the slaughter. This refugee wan- dered through several European countries, — a prey THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 345 to misery. At last he settled at Amsterdam, Holland, where liberty flourished. One of his sons, Moses, established himself at Wesel, where he as- sumed the name of Wessely or Wesel, from the city in which he resided. Moses soon acquired a large fortune, as a contractor for supplies to dif- ferent governments. His second son, Berend, the father of Hartwig, also came into the possession of considerable means, and these he liberally used to educate his child, whom he had destined for a Rabbi. Eagerness for learning fastened the mind of young Wessely to his books. First, he received some instruction from his mother ; then, at the age of five years, he was sent to the Academy of his native place, where teaching was confined simply to Talmudical lore. Wessely himself narrates that dur- ing full four years he continued this study, without knowing aught of the Scriptures. Fortunately, in his tenth year, the youth became acquainted with an individual who imparted the rudiments of gram- mar, and the knowledge of that essential branch enabled the pupil to read the Bible with ease in its original tongue, and to apply himself profitably to other Hebrew works. With the aid of a chart, which his father showed him, Wessely, in three days, obtained an insight into geography. At thirteen, he pro- ceeded to Amsterdam, to complete his studies. Notwithstanding the attention he was obliged to 34-6 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF give to theology, he still found spare moments to- devote to the German, French, Danish, and Dutch languages, and to mathematics, physics, history, geog- raphy, and the sciences. The zeal with which he labored, coupled with quickness of comprehension, promised a brilliant future. Wessely, on reaching manhood, had the un- happiness of seeing all his father's wealth suddenly swept away. That melancholy event compelled the scholar to enter as clerk in the commercial house of Benjamin Feitel, at Amsterdam. The voca- tion was uncongenial, but this did not dampen his ardor for literary pursuits, and in the hours of the night he worked at what served to establish his reputation. At the same time he gained much favor with his employer, and, through the influence of the brother of the latter, he was, in 1774, placed at the head of the house in Berlin, Prussia. While constantly engaged in business, in order Jo obtain a livelihood, he never aban- doned his cherished purpose, — to elevate Judaism by his literary efforts. The works of Wessely are so numerous that it is impossible to mention them all, or in the order they came out ; but slight allusions will be made to the origin of some, and others will be merely named. Before proceeding further, however, it must be stated, that the failure of the house THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 347 of Feitel, in 1779, put an end to Wessely's ca- reer as a merchant, and reduced him pecuniarily to such a strait that, to relieve him, a class for Scriptural tuition was formed by young Israelites. They appointed him Professor, with a salary suffi- cient for the maintenance of his family. This acted as a greater stimulus to his endeavors in the field of Hebrew literature. Wessely's first production, Sepher Gan Naool, and Lebanon, in two volumes, appeared in 1764 and 1765. It treats principally of Hebrew syno- nyms, and evinces great Biblical and Rabbinical knowledge. In 1774 was published Yen Lebanon, a comment on " The Ethics of the Fathers," which attracted much notice, and of which an English ren- dition was made for the Hebrew Review, by Dr. M. J. Raphall. " The (Apochryphal) Book of Wisdom," by Solomon, he translated into Hebrew, adding an exposition, styled, Ruah Hen. In 1785 he issued Sepher Hanimidoth, on morals. Commentaries on the Pentateuch, and on other sacred writings were brought to light at different times. But the most celebrated of all Wessely's works, is an epic poem, in eighteen cantos, Shire Tifereth. It treats of the birth and mission of Moses, as far as the delivery of the Decalogue. That emanation of genius has been rendered into several European languages, thus widening and enhancing the fame of the author. 348 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF The elegance of diction, as well as the beauty of expression and depth of sentiment pervading it, tend to make the poem both instructive and charm- ing to the lover of Hebrew verse. Three years were spent in its preparation. Wessely also wrote about the Jews of Cochin-China, several vindica- tions of Rabbinical traditions, and many other works, including contributions to Hebrew journals, both in prose and in poetry. But Wessely will always hold a place in the hearts of true Hebrews, for reasons higher than those which endeared him as a sweet writer of the sacred language. He was a healthful reformer. Indeed, he is second only to Mendelssohn in the history of modern Judaism, as far as it regards the creation of a new system of education. In 1782 he addressed his Dibre Shalom Veemeth ( Words of Peace and Truth) to the Hebrews of Austria, in which the liberal spirit of Joseph II., whom he com- pared to Cyrus, is extolled. He spoke of the lack of knowledge prevailing among Jews, in everything unconnected with the mere disputations of Talmud, and some casuistical works. Attributing it to the very defective manner in which the young were trained, he advised a complete reform. No sooner had this letter of Wessely's become known, than he encountered a storm of abuse. The writer was pub- licly denounced as an opponent of religious instruc- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 349 tion, as a seducer trying to wean away the young in Israel from the Law and traditions, and, blackened as such, some dared to hurl an anathema at him. But the Rabbis of Italy came to his rescue, and conclusively proved that Wessely was acting in per- fect accord with the directions of the ancient Rabbis, and with the plan always followed in Italy. The educational movement gained ground, despite the sturdy opposition, and the Jews of Europe are to- day much indebted for their intellectual improve- ment to the manifold services of Naphtali Hartwig Wessely. The 3d of March, 1805, closed the career of one who prepared the way for Rapoport, Zunz, and all that host of brilliant scholars who have rendered the nineteenth century a golden era; whose achievements will be sung by generations yet unborn. ISAAC MAYER WISE. In casting a glance at the career of one who fig- ures very conspicuously among American Rabbis, it may not be inappropriate to advert to the progress of Reform in this country. For the divine about to be spoken of, has been closely identified with that movement. All are, doubtless, aware that changes in the Jewish ritual in America were effected gradually. 350 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF The first minister in the United States who advo- cated innovations was the Rev. Gustavus Posznanski, of the Congregation Beth Elohim, of Charleston, South Carolina. Over thirty-five years ago he in- troduced an Organ into the Synagogue. This act met with strenuous opposition, and finally caused a division in that body. But, supported by a large number of his flock, the Pastor succeeded in main- taining his stand. Several alterations in the form of worship, which gave it a novel appearance, were adopted. Still, Mr. Posznanski proceeded cautiously, not venturing too far. He may have feared that radical measures would jeopardize the permanence of the Jewish Church. At all events, others stepped boldly forth, took rapid strides, and, .to judge from the present outlook, they have reached a point which a near future will tell whether it is to be deemed a pinnacle or a precipice. But to the main subject. The Rev. Dr. Isaac Mayer Wise was born at Steingrub, in Bohemia, Austria, on the 3d of April, 1 8 19. Until his eighteenth year he studied little besides Talmud. After a course of secular instruction at Prague, to which was added a grammatical un- derstanding of the language of Holy Writ, he entered the University of Vienna, graduating in 1843. ^ n the same year he was appointed Rabbi in Radnitz, Bohemia, where he remained till 1846. At that stage of his life Dr. Wise resolved to come to the United THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 35 I States. He arrived in New York, and up to 1850, min- istered to the Beth-El Congregation of Albany, and from that year to 1854 to the Ansh'e Emeth y of the same city. During that period the Doctor evinced consider- able interest in Jewish matters. He contributed to The Occident and American Jewish Advocate, of the Rev. Isaac Leeser, and editorially assisted Robert Lyon, Esq., in the management of The Asmonean. But what has made Dr. Wise's name a household word among the Jewish public in this land, is his bold defence of the Reform system. He has preached, written, and travelled in behalf of the ideas espoused. His marked individuality, strong opinions, and forci- ble expressions, led the B'nai Jeshurun Congrega- tion, of Cincinnati, Ohio, to secure his services as its leader, in 1854. The popularity which the Rabbi en- joys was lately made apparent at the celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of his installation. Dr. Wise declined the offer of a more remunera- tive station in the East, so that he might retain the influence he commands in the West. For, notwith- standing the decided antagonism he has encountered in the views which he restlessly advances, his power has widely extended. Gentiles, not less than Hebrews, know the Cincinnati Rabbi by his literary labors. In July, 1854, Dr. Wise brought forth a journal which became the principal instrument of his strength. 35 2 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF It appears weekly, under the name of The Ameri- can Israelite. A German supplement called Die De- borah, has also been regularly issued since July, 1855. In the many cities which the Doctor has visited, and in the numerous Synagogues he has been called upon to consecrate, he has urged with much earnestness, the adoption of his formulary of prayers, entitled Minhag America. The comprehensive plan devised and set on foot in the West about seven years ago, and known as. The Union of American Hebrew Congregations, which includes a large number of Jewish congregations, from the borders of the Atlantic to the Pacific, owes its origin to the unremitting exertions of Dr. Wise. That organization has established The Hebrew Union Col- lege, at Cincinnati, for the education of future Rab- bis, and a preparatory school in New York City. Since the opening of the Seminary proper, the Doctor has been President of the Faculty, and he still con- tinues his unflagging efforts to promote the cause. Despite advancing age, the Rabbi fulfils his minis- terial functions with unabated vigor, and -occupies, the editorial chair with no indications of faintness.. For he speaks from it in sentences, which, if not always carefully chosen, show extreme eagerness to repel attacks and to defeat the opposite camp. Dr. Wise has found time to indite a number of literary works. " History of the Israelitish Nation,"" THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 353 in which the author presents facts in accordance with his own preconceived notions, came out in 1854. It has been followed by " Essence of Judaism," and " Judaism, its Doctrines and Duties," — religious cate- chisms. Other productions of his pen are : " The Martyrdom of Jesus of Nazareth," in which he aims to prove that the Jews had no hand whatever in the Crucifixion ; " The Cosmic God," treating of fundamental philosophy, and exhibiting depth of thought and a vast acquaintance with the schools of modern science ; " Three Lectures on Jesus, the Apostles, and Paul ; rr " The Wandering Jew," a lec- ture on that fabulous being, intended to dispel pre- vailing errors ; and " History of the Hebrews' Second Commonwealth," - which has just come from the press. The reader has thus been given a brief narrative of the doings of a man whose name will ever be prominently connected with the history of American Judaism. The industry and indomitable zeal with which Dr. Wise prosecutes his various designs will secure his popularity, and, if the project of training future Rabbis in the West succeeds, he will have drawn towards himself a still larger number of staunch followers. 354 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF • ■ SIMON WOLF. Of all countries, free America has ever shown a •generous recognition of human worth. An indivi- dual may be of humble extraction ; he may have been early compelled to drudge for a livelihood. But let him watch over his character, and utilize his ta- lents, and he may feel certain of reaping here a commensurate reward. A man who brought neither high lineage nor wealth to bear on the attaining of a creditable position, but who owes the name acquired solely to his own exertions, is the Israelite, Simon Wolf. He may rightly be styled " a self-made man," employing his inherent capacities in the direction which leads to personal and social advantage. Simon Wolf was born in Rhenish Bavaria, Ger- many, on October 28th, 1836. When not twelve years of age he emigrated to the United States, and was employed by his uncle in Ulrichville, Ohio, first, as office-boy, and later as cashier in the business house of that relative. The .occupations of the day left no opening for the lad to improve his mind, but he devoted the night to hard study, and this was the key to his success in after years. In 1855 his uncle retired from the business in the aforenamed locality, and Mr. Wolf undertook it. But in 1857 he succumbed, with many others, to the financial crisis, then prevailing throughout the coun- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 355 try. Giving up commercial pursuits, he adopted the legal profession, being admitted to the Bar in Ohio, on July 20th, 1 86 1, where he obtained a lucrative practice. In June, 1862, Mr. Wolf removed to Washington, his present home, and became the senior member of the law-firm of Wolf & Hart. As such, he soon gained a wide reputation. His lively interest in poli- tics was specially evinced during the late rebellion. Ardent in his support of the Northern cause, loud in his expressions of faith in Republican institutions, he became well-known to those in power. Enjoying the friendship of President Grant, he was appointed Recorder of Deeds of the District of Columbia, a responsible post, which he filled with honor for nine years. On his vacating that office, Mr. Wolf returned to the practice of the law, and his advice is sought for by a large number of clients, even beyond the city of his residence. It becomes us now to refer to Mr. Wolfs services to Judaism. Aside from his endeavors during the war, to induce the retraction of General Grant's hasty and unjust " Order No. 11," directed against the Jews, he urged the United States Government to interpose in behalf of the down-trodden Jews of Russia and Roumania. His representations carried with them great weight, in securing the appointment of Mr. Peixotto, as Consul at Bucharest, and in re- 356 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF taining him there, as a restraint upon the persecutors of our race. Mr. Wolfs multifarious labors in associations with which he is, or has been, connected, are clear evidences of his earnestness. He was prominent in the Board of Delegates of American Israelites; he presided over the deliberations of the annual Council of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations,, held in Washington, in July 1876; he was Chairman of the Yellow Fever Relief Committee, during the plague in the Southern States, in the summer of 1878 ; he is an important member of the Independent Order of B'nai B'rith, and acted as presiding officer of the Chicago convention of 1874, and of that of Phila- delphia, in January, 1879. Mr. Wolf has been Presi- dent of the Supreme Lodge of the Order of K'esher Shel Barzel. Our co-religionist is the chosen chief of the Schiller Bund, a literary society of the Capital. For eight years he has been President of the Wash- ington Schuetzen Verein, and of the Orphan Asy- lum, of District Grand Lodge, Ne. 5. As an orator, Mr. Wolf is very impressive and effective. Of his lectures, " The Influence of the Jews on the Progress of the World," " Roger Wil- liams," and " The Stage and fetors," are the most notable. But he has spoken on various other topics, exhibiting in every instance a right understanding ot current events. THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 357 Of Mr. Wolfs attachment to his fellow-believers, let his own words speak : " I have had but one am- bition in my life, and that has been to ennoble and elevate my people, and to that end I have not spared time, influence or means, and I shall not cease to labor in the same direction, desiring no other epitaph than the one, ' He was a Jew, and was proud of it.' " We could add nothing to this noble sentiment, save the wish that our Jewish youth, adopting it as their own, may exemplify it in their lives. HENRY de WORMS. Courage, self-reliance and endurance are indis- pensable aids in the pursuit of every undertaking. By the exercise of these qualities, obstacles will be overcome, and success will crown one's efforts. A fellow-believer who has endeared himself to thou- sands by his moral bravery, is the illustrious Baron de Worms. The spirit of a Cremieux dwells within him, for whenever oppression aims a blow at his brethren he manifests a burning wish to come to the rescue, and chastise iniquity. His voice, his means, and his influence are free-will offerings on the altar of humanity. Baron Henry de Worms was born at London, England, in 1840. His father had been created 358 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Baron of the Austrian Empire, and to that hereditary- title the son succeeded. The education afforded him at King's College of his native city was thorough ough, and he obtained the highest academical degrees, being elected a Fellow of that institution in 1863. For a decade he served as Captain of the King's College Company of the Queen's Westminster Rifle Volunteers, hence the skill for which he is dis- tinguished as a marksman. Baron de Worms was called to the Bar, at the Inner Temple, in 1863, and he practised for some time on the Home Circuit. The death of an elder brother induced him, however, to abandon the legal profession, and, in 1865, he entered as a partner in the firm of Messrs. G. & A. Worms, of Austin Friars. The Baron is a Magistrate and Deputy-Lieutenant for Middlesex. His proclivities, which are with the Conservative wing, led him to become a candidate for Parliament, from Deal, at the general election in. 1868. Though not chosen* he did not sink into inactivity. He works on with a will, and so clearly- pronounced is his political creed that not long since he received a request, signed by nearly seven thousand electors of the City of London, to stand for that constituency in the coming contest. Yielding to the wishes of the Government, he withdrew in the interest of the party, in order to obviate the necessity of the candidacy of four Conservatives. But lately THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 359 he acceded to the solicitations of an influential deputation from the Royal Borough of Greenwich to be the second Conservative candidate, in con- junction with Mr. Boord, the present member. His popularity has been the means of securing his election with an increased majority. But the feature in the character of Baron de Worms whereon Jews delight to gaze, is that which discloses his loyalty to Judaism. Immovable in his purpose to vindicate the title of his brethren to equal justice, he challenged civilization to explain the con- duct of Bratiano, Cogalniceano, and men of their ilk in Roumania. The Baron acted as first Vice- President of the International Convention of. Israel- ites, held at Paris, in 1878, where his mettle was put to the test. To speak of his abhorrence of compromises, of his resolve to see the clause of the Treaty of Berlin, affecting civil and religious liberty, literally fulfilled, would be to say what is familiarly known. Some may not, however, be aware of his genuine enthusiasm, of his keen discernment, and of the admirable tact displayed on that occasion. Indeed, Baron de Worms is indefatigable in what- ever may promote the welfare of his co-religionists. He is President of the Anglo- Jewish Association, — a model organization ; and President of the Borough Jewish Schools ; also a Warden of the Central United Synagogue, of London. 360 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF The Baron is the author of many valuable liter- ary productions. Among them are " The Earth and its Mechanism," and " The Austro-Hungarian Em- pire, and England's Policy in the East." The last, published in 1877, passed through six editions. As will have been noticed, Baron de Worms is but forty years of age. The great name he has built for himself, when only in the prime of life, is the pledge of a grand and glorious future. Baron Henry de Worms will most assuredly continue to rise, by his advocacy of wise and beneficial measures, and his efforts will be attended with the blessings of the entire House of Israel. LEOPOLD ZUNZ. The sovereignty of the Jewish world of letters, in the nineteenth century, can be accorded to no one of the noble minds that aspire to the title of ruler. Too many are the rival claims to that position. Let us rest contented with the rich fruits we can gather from different sources, and bow reverentially to the glorious laborers. Yet, taking all in all, who greater than Leopold Zunz? Surely, if he be not the crowned mon- arch of Hebrew lore, he is a mighty prince, to whom generations yet unborn will pay obeisance. As an interpreter of Synagogue poetry, deep in pa- THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 36 1 thos and grand in diction, he is unexcelled. As a critic, Solomon L. Rapoport may divide honors with him. But as a general scholar, few can call themselves his peers, and scarcely any his superior. We might seek to find an epithet suiting his abilities, and fail in our endeavors. Let us call him a Titan, whose intellect towers heavenward. Dr. Leopold Zunz was born at Detmold, in the principality of Lippe, Germany, on the idth of August, 1794. Preliminary instruction preceded his studies under such men as Wolf, DeWette, and Boekh, at Berlin. The young pupil followed up his course with great diligence, and early did the flower bloom. From 1820 to 1822 Zunz officiated as preacher of the Jewish Congregation at Berlin. He was one of the editors of the Spencfsche Zeitung from 1824 to 1832, and principal of the new Jewish communal school from 1825 to 1829. In 1835 he accepted a ministerial call from Prague, and from 1839 to 1850 he directed the normal sem- inary at Berlin. In 1845 ne became a member of a commission appointed by the government for devising measures to improve the educational and political status of Hebrews in Prussia. It is our main desire to refer to Dr. Zunz's literary productions— for it is to these that he owes his laurels. And let the pertinent remarks of the Rev. A. 362 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Lbwy be quoted : " Dr. Zunz has laid a solid foundation for the proper study of the history of Jewish literature, and by his numerous writings he enables his readers to appreciate the intimate con- nection between the political vicissitudes, the in- tellectual and emotional cravings, and the literary productions of the Jews. He leads the student through the mazes and intricacies of a widely scattered literature, with unsurpassed perseverance, with unswerving directness of purpose, with the accuracy of a powerful intuition ; and he uses an elegance of diction which may be termed classi- cal, and whereby he invests even didactic and abstruse matter with the attractions ol poetry." The Doctor's first important work, " Something about Rabbinical Literature," appeared in 1818. A pamphlet of fifty pages which, though bearing a title by no means high-sounding, was fraught with learning and sagacious counsel. The author administers a sharp rebuke to scholars who at- tempt to belittle the Jews, by drawing comparisons between Hebrew and contemporary literature, with- out knowing aught of the former, and he urges all to divest themselves of prejudice and personal anti- pathies. In 1832 Dr. Zunz issued his " Liturgical Lessons of the Jews, Historically Investigated," to which he made valuable additions in 1845, l8 55> ^59, 1864, THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 363 and 1867. In this work, the connection of the Bible with tradition, the development of the different Chaldean versions of Holy Writ, the nature of the study of the Scriptures, the divisions of ancient Jew- ish learning, and other points are severally treated. A production of so wide a scope, and so vastly impor- tant in each department, could not but have become the text-book in many an institution throughout Europe. The pen consecrated to literature did not refuse its office to avenge wrongs. The Doctor labored zealously for the emancipation of his German co-re- ligionists ; and often he entered an energetic protest against actions of the Government. " History and Literature," another of his emanations, comprises a number of essays, of which, however, only the first volume has come forth — 1845. It * s °f special interest to students, embodying an account of events of different Jewish communities at different periods. A full index to this excellent work is the labor of Dr. David Cassel. What may probably be considered Dr. Zunz's masterpiece is the " Synagogue Poetry during the Middle Ages," published in 1855. The magnitude of this work forbids our offering more than a simple notice of its contents. It is divided into five sections. The first traces the origin and adaptation of the Divine Service, or the relation of the Prophets to 364 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF the Psalmists; the second graphically depicts the sorrows and sufferings of the Jews in the various countries of their dispersion ; the third portrays the nature of poetical compositions, notably of Spanish authors, as read on the Day of Atonement ; the fourth gives a glowing picture of the poets them- selves, including those of Greece, Italy, Provence, France, and Spain, and, later, Germany, and presents specimens of their sweet outpourings ; the fifth is a chronology of the misfortunes of the Jews during the two centuries succeeding the Middle Ages. The far-reaching and diversified information afforded by copious notes and appendices, render this volume, independent of the main subject, a mine of learning. We are, besides, carried away by the choicest and most touching language. Tears must flow at the harrowing description of tortures and merciless perse- cutions of men and women whose crime was a stead- fast devotion to principle. We cannot refrain from quoting the first few lines of this treatise ; soul-stirring words, so true, and so nobly told : " If there be an ascending scale of sufferings, Israel reached its highest degree. If the duration of afflictions, and the patience with which they are borne, confer nobility upon man, the Jews may vie with the aris- tocracy of any country. If a literature which owns a few classical tragedies is deemed rich, what place should be assigned to a tragedy which extends over THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 365 fifteen centuries, and which has been composed and enacted by the heroes themselves?" A second part of the Synagogue Poetry, called "The Rites of the Synagogue Service, historically elucidated," was issued in 1859. In this writing, the gradual accretion and modification of the forms of prayer in use are dwelt upon, and the ideas set forth are both useful and instructive. A third part is the " History of Synagogue Poetry," which made its appearance in 1865, and concludes the series referred to. This last reviews the various compositions heretofore mentioned, and other poetical effusions from the close of the Talmud to a modern epoch. A supplement was added in 1867. To speak now of what mental efforts such a work must have entailed, would be an act of supererogation. All must have learnt that a Zunz alone could have brought it to completion. Yet that veritable Titan modestly remarks that he has solely given some faint outlines, and he trusts that " the future workers in this precious material will bear with him who labored merely in dressing crude ore." But, despite such humility, authorities have agreed that many of Dr. Zunz's translations will compete with those of Goethe, Riickert, and other renowned masters. The fertile mind of Dr. Zunz has produced more than what can be enumerated in a brief sketch. But we may name " The Days of the Calendar ; a 366 EMINENT ISRAELITES OF Commemoration of the Departed," wherein the author cites dates of the deaths of Jewish celebrities, and also of Christians who proved of advantage to the cause of Judaism. This has been rendered into English by the Rev. Dr. B. Pick. ' Ir ha-Tsedek, or "The City of Righteousness," was issued in Hebrew in 1874, and the first volume of the Doctor's "Col- lected Writings" came from the press in 1875. Giants have arisen since Leopold Zunz began to benefit Israel by unceasing toil. Can any, among the earliest or latest, say to him, " Thy light is ob- scured "? No ! It still shines with brilliancy ! May it long continue to emit its radiance. May it arouse a spirit of reverence for those truths, of which the man of Detmold became a mighty champion. INDEX. Adler, Rev. Dr. Nathan Marcus, 9- 11, 17, 37, 172 ; Rev. Dr. Hermann, 10. Aguilar, Grace, 12-15, 47) J 9 8 I Eman- uel , 12 ; Mrs. Sarah, 15 ; Emanuel Jr., 53- Alatri, Samuel, 228. Alexander, A., 52. Allatini, Dr. M., 340. Almosnino, Rev. Isaac, 51, 52. Antonelli, Cardinal, 239. Artom, Rev Dr. Benjamin, 15-18,56; Chevalier Isaac, 16. Auerbach, Berthold, 18-21. Bachi, Rabbi E. D., 327. Bamberger, Dr. Ludwig, 21-23. Barthelemy, M., 79. Basevi, Maria, 64; George, 64, 65. Bates, Prof., 126. Beer, Dr. Bernhard, 83, 250. Belisario, Miss Miriam Mendes, 52. Benamozegh, Rabbi Prof. Elias, 23-27; Joshua, 24. Benisch, Dr. Abraham, 132, 133, 329. Bentinck, Lord George, 219. Bernard, Claude, 301. Billroth, Prof., 179. Binney, Horace, 125. Bismarck, Prince, 22, 179, 185, 186. Blanc, Louis, 40. Blumenfeld, I. B., 72. Botta, P. E., 261. Bratiano, M., 359. Bresslau, M A., 132. Burdett-Coutts, Lady, 109. Bryant, William Cutlen, 126. Byron, Lord, 64. Cadwalader, General George, 125. Cahen, Samuel, 27-29 ; Isidore, 29, Cahn, Dr., 137. Carey, Henry C, 126. Carlebach, Dr., 137. Carrel, M. Armand, 272. Caimoly, Dr. E., 217. Cassel, Dr. David, 363. Cavour, Count, 16. Champollion, J. F., 261. Chapman, Dr. Nathaniel, 123. Charles, Prince, of Roumania, 269. Cogalniceano, M., 359. Coiogna, Rabbi Mark Isaac, 212. Cohen, Barnet L., 241. Cohen, Dr. Jacob Da Silva Solis, 29-32. Cohn, Albert, 33-38, 49, 217, 252. Creizenach, M., 169. Cremieux, Isaac Adolphe, 39-41, 238, 249, 357- Curiat, Rabbi M. H., 24. Curiel, A., 325. Curtius, Prof., 107. D'Abbadie, M„ 219. Darai, Mose, 282, 283. Davids, Arthur Lumley, 42-44, 122, 218. Davidson, Dr. Samuel, 90. DeBenedetti, Prof. Salvatore, 327. Delaroche. Paul, 273. Delitzsch, Prof. Franz, 69, 90. Delia Torre, Prof. Lelio, 44-48. De Oliveira, Solomon, 50. Derenbourg, Prot. Joseph, 48-50. De Sola, Rev. David Aaron, 50-53, 54, 289. De Sola, Rev. Prof. Abraham, 53-57. Deutsch, Dr. Emanuel Oscar Mena- hem, 57-61. D'Israeli, Isaac, 61-66; Ralph, 65; James, 65. Disraeli, Right Hon. Benjamin (Earl of Beaconsfield), 65, 66, 319. Douglas, Stephen A., 268. Dukes, Leopold, 72, 217, 330. Dunash ben-Labrat. 283. Dupin, Jean Jacques, 324. Dupont, Commodore, 31. 368 INDEX. Edward I. , of England, 97. Eger, Rabbi Akiba, 192. Egers, Rabbi, 134. Ehrmann, Dr., 137, Einhorn, Rev Dr. David, 66-71. Elkin, Jacob, 225. Emanuel II., Victor, 228, 341. Feitel, Benjamin, 346, 347. Filipowski.Herschell, 71-74. Firkowitch, Abraham, 281, 282. Fould, Achille, 74-77. Fraenckel, Jonas, 84. Franck, Prof. Adolphe, 26, 77-81, 159, 252. Frankel, Dr. Zacharias, 81-85, 106, 108, 128, 217, 295. Frankl, Ludwig August, 86-88. Franklin, Fabian, 130. Frtsnel, Fulgence, 262. Fiirst, Dr. Julius, 89-91, 128, 217, 332. Gans, Edward, 262. Gans, David, 167. Garrison, William Lloyd, 304. Geiger, Dr. Abraham, 49, 92-96, 217, 296 ; Dr. Ludwig, 96. Gladstone, Right Hon. W. E., 162, 319. Goldberg, B., 72. Goldenbcrg, Samutl Loeb, 182. Goldsmid, 96-104, 225, 318 ; Aaron, 97- 98 ; George, 97 ; Asher, 97, 100 ; Benjamin and Abraham, 98-100 ; Sir Isaac Lyon, 100-102, 222 ; Sir Francis Henry, 102-103, 226. * Goldsmid, Miss Anna Maria, 16. Gottheil, Rev. Dr. Gustav, 226. Graetz, Prof. Dr. Hirsch, 84, 104-108, 128, 216, 217, 284. Grant, President U. S., 269, 355. Gratz, Rebecca, 109-112. Gregory XVI., Pope, 34. Grote, George, 319. Guizot, M.,250. Haeckel, Ernst, 301. Halevy, Jacques Francois Fromental Elie, 113-116; Leon, 115; Ludovic, 116. Halevy, Joseph, 116-119. Hamburger, Rabbi Wolf, 67, 68. Hartog, Numa Edward, 1 19-122, 218 • Monsieur Alphonse, 119; Mrs. Marion, 119. Hasner, Prof., 331. Hayes, President Rutherford B., 270. Hays, Dr. Isaac, 123-126 ; Dr. I. Minis, 124. Hays, Moses, 336. Heilprin, Phineas Mendel, 126-130; Michael, 130 ; Louis, 130 ; Angelo, 130. Heine, Heinrich, 235. Henriques, Mr., 225. Henry, Michael, 130-133. Herzfeld, Rabbi Levi, 133-135. Heshel, Rabbi Joshua, 293. Hildesheimer, Dr. Israel, 135-138. Hirsch, Baron de, 339, 341. Hirsch, Rabbi Samson Raphael, 105, 138-142. Hirschel, Rev. Dr. Solomon, 9, 142-144, 289 ; Rabbi Zebi, 142. Holdheim, Dr. Samuel, 68, 128, 145- 149. Horowitz, Isaac, 281. Hosack, Dr. David, 265. Humboldt, Alexander Von, 302, 334 ; William Von, 334. Hurwitz, Prof. Hyman, 227. Hyneman, Rebekah, 149-153 ; Benja- min, 150; Leon, 150; Sarah, 150. Irving, Washington, 111. Isaacs, Rev. Samuel Myer, 153-151; Isaac, 154; Jacob, 154 ; Rev. Prof. David Myer, 154, 157 ; Myer S., 157; JacobS., 157; Isaac S., 157; Dr. Abram S., 157. •Isidor, Rabbi L., 252. Jackson, General Andrew, 336. Jare, Rabbi G., 327. Jellinek, Rev. Dr. Adolph, 80, 157-160, 217; Hermann, 160. Jessel, Right Hon. Sir George, 160- 163; Zachariah Nathaniel, 161. Joachim, Joseph, 163-I65. Joel, Dr. Michael, 157. John, King, 318. Johnson, Dr. Samuel, 62. Josephus, Flavius, 133. INDEX. 369 Josephs, Michael, 165-167. Jost, Dr. Isaac Marcus, 49, 128, 167- 170, 217, 284, 300. Kaempf, Prof. Dr. S. I., 157. Kahn, Dr., 137. Kalisch, Dr. Marcus M., 170-17$. Kane, John K., 125. Kaufmann, Prof. Dr. David, 48. Kayserling, Dr. Moses, 173-176, 217. Kirchheim, Raphael, 217. Kleeberg, Minna, 176-180 ; Rev. Dr. L., 178. Kohler, Rev. Dr. Kaufmann, 71. Krochmal, Nachman, 180-183, 2 °3, 216, 217. Lasker, Edward, 21, 22, 179, 184-186. Lattes, Rabbi Aaron, 44 ; Rabbi Moses, 24. Lazarus, Emma, 186-192. Lazarus, Prof. Dr. Moritz, 192-195, 334; Aaron Levin, 192 ; Dr. L., 192. Layard, Right Hon. Sir Austen Henry, 261. Lehmann, Dr. Mayer, 137. Leeser, Rev. Isaac, 56, 112, 195-201, 221, 35i. Lenormant, F.,91. Leo, Rev. Ansel, 290. Letteris, Dr. Maximilian, 201-205,217; Rabbi Gershon, 202. Levetus, Mrs., 119. Levi, Rabbi Benedict, 24. Levi, David, 52. Levi, Rabbi G. E., 325. Levi, Joseph, 325. Levi, Phineas, 278. Levinski, Jacob Levi, 255. Levinsohn, J. B., 210. Levy, Rabbi Abraham Eliezer, 212. Levy, Prof. M. A., 250. Levy, Post-Captain Uriah Phillips, 205- 208. Lincoln, Abraham, 304. Lindenthal, I. L., 52, 289. Loewe, Rev. Dr. Louis, 208-211, 238, 249. Lowy, Rev. Albert, 329, 362. Longperier, M. De, 252. Loria, Rabbi Amos, 327. Luzzatti, Luigi, 228. Luzzatto, Prof. Samuel David, 27, 46, 72, 128, 211-217, 300, 315 ; Moses Hayim, 212 ; Ephraim, 212 ; Heze- kiah, 212 ; Dr. Isaiah, 217; Joseph, 217; Dr. Benjamin, 217. Luzzatto, Philoxene, 122, 217, 218-221. Lyon, Robert, 221-223, 351. Lyons, Rev. Jacques J., 56, 156, 190. Macaulay, Lord, 319. Madison, President James, 255. Mahmoud II., Sultan, 43. Maimonides, Rabbi Moses, 128, 148 183, 251. Manin, Daniel, 229, 230. Mannheimer, Isaac Noah, 47, 330. Marks, Rev. Prof. David Woolf, 17, 143, 223-228. Maroni, Rabbi David J., 326. Marx, Dr., 137. Maurogonato, Isaac Pesaro, 228-230. Mayer, Dr. Maurice, 95. Mazzini, Joseph, 304. Medigo, Elias del, 95, 299. Meldola, Rev. Dr. Raphael, 15, 17, 230- 233; Rabbi Moses, 231; Rev. David, 232, 233. Menasseh Ben Israel, Rabbi, 50. Mendelssohn, Moses, 47, 166, 200, 301 344, 348. Mendes, David Franco, 50. Menton, Count Ratti, 238. Meredith, William M., 125. Meyerbeer, Giacomo, 233-236 ; Wilhelm, 236; Michael, 236. Mezzofante, Cardinal, 35. Mitchell, Mr., 132. Mocatta, Moses, 225, 238. Modena, Leon de, 26, 95, 300. Moi'se, Miss Penina, 187. Mommsen, T., 107. Montefiore, Sir Moses, 36, 37, 39, 51, 56, 143, 156, 208, 209, 210, 236-240, 241, 242, 249, 317, 3i8, 325, 337 ; Joseph E., 237 ; Abraham, 237. Montefiore, Lady Judith, 56, 109, 238» 240-242. Montefiore, Mrs. Charlotte, 52. Morpurgo, Emilio, 228. Mortara, Edgar, 239. Mortara, Rabbi Marco, 24. 37o INDEX. Morteira, Saul Levi, 50. Moscheles, Ignaz, 243-245. Mosenthal, Dr. Salomon Hermann, 245- 247. Miiller, Prof. Max, 331. Mulder, Dr. S. I., 299. Munk, Prof. Dr. Salomon, 36, 38,' t 49,9i, 217,238, 247-252. Napoleon III., Louis, 40, 75, 101. Neubauer, Dr. Adolph, 94, 96, 253. Newman, Selig, 252-255. Nieto, Rabbi David, 15, 210, 231, 232. Nightingale, Florence, 109. Noah, Mordecai Manuel, 255-258 ; Robert M., 256. O'Connell, Daniel, 219. Offenbach, Jacques, 258-261. Oppert, Prof. Dr. Jules, 91, 261-264. Paulus, Dr. J. E. G , 305. Peixotto, Dr. Daniel Levy Maduro, 265- 267; Moses L M., 265. Peixotto, Benjamin Franklin. 267-271, 355 ; George, 270. Pereire, Emile, 271-273; Jacob Rodri- guez, 271 ; Isaac, 271, 272, 273. Peres, Rev. Jacob J., 53. Philippe, Louis, 40. Philippson, Dr. Ludwig, 36, 134, 273- 277. Phillips, Sir Benjamin Samuel, 277- 279, 320. Picciotto, M. H., 300. Pick, Rev. Dr. B., 366. Pinsker, Simcha, 217, 279-284. Pius IX., Pope, 228, 239. Piza, Rev. David, 52. Pontremoli, Ezra, 325. Porto, Rabbi M. C, 214. Posznanski, Rev. Gustavus, 350. RACHEL^Felix), Elisabeth, 285-287. Radba (David ben-Abraham), 282, 283. Ranke, Leopold, 107. Raphall, Rev. Dr. Morris Jacob, 52, 131, 287-2 9 i,; 3 47. Rapoport, Rabbi Salomon Loew, n, 128, 182, 216, 217, 291-296, 316, 349) 361. Rawlinson, Sir Henry C., 261. Reggio, Prof. Isaac Samuel, 53, 217, 296-301 ; Rabbi Abraham V., 297. Reimann, Prof., 302. Reinaud, M., 50. Remak, Prof. Dr. Robert, 301-303. Remusat, Abel, 248. Renan, Ernest, 91, 251. Ristori, Madame Adelaide, 246. Riesser, Dr. Gabriel, 303-308. Rittershaus, Herr, 178. Rogers, Samuel, 65. Rosellini, H., 261. Rosenmiiller, E. F. C, 216. Rothschild, 34, 35, 172, 308-315, 318; Meyer Anselm, 308-309; Baron Nathan Meyer, 309-312 ; Baron Lionel Nathan de, 37, 311, 312-313, 319, 320; Sir Anthony de, 36, 313-314; Baron Anselm, 309, 312; Baron Sol- omon de, 36, 309 ; Baron Charles, 309, 311; Baron James de, 36, 309; Charlotte, 311; Baroness Hannah de, 241. Saadiah Gaon, 283. Sachs, Dr. Michael, 217, 315-318. Sacy, Sylvestre de, 34, 248. Salomons, Sir David, 37, 318-321. Salvador, Joseph, 321-324. Saruk, Rabbi Menahem Ben, 72, 73. Sassoon, Sir Albert, 17. Schiller-Szinessy, Rev. Dr. S. M., 253. Schmiedl, Dr., 284. Schorr, Osias H., 282. Scott, Sir Walter, in. Schwarz. Rabbi Joseph, 200. Seixas, Rev. Isaac B., 196. Sergeant, John, 125. Servi, Rabbi Flaminio, 325-328. Shepherd, Rezin Davis, 337. Simmons, Rev. L. M.,226. Smith, George, 261. Smith, Prof. Goldwin, it, 160. Smith, Admiral Sir Sydney, 209. Soave, Moses, 327. Sorani, Rabbi Moses, 326. Spinoza, Benedict, 19, 275. Steinschneider, Dr. Moritz, 174, 217, 327, 328-333; Jacob, 329. Steinthal, Prof. Dr. Heymann, 195, 333- 335- INDEX. 371 Stem, Dr. Adolph, 270. Stem, Simon A., 20. Strangford, Lady, 61. Sully, T., in. Sulzberger, Mayer, 198. Sussex, Duke of, 166, 209. Taylor, Hon. Bayard, 20. Tedeschi, Rabbi Mark, 16. Tedeschi, Rabbi Moses Isaac, 24. Touro, Judah, 335-338; Rev. Isaac, 336. Trebitsch, Rabbi Nahum, 329. Treves, Rabbi S. G., 45. Tudela, Benjamin de, 247. Van Buren, President Martin, 257. Van Oven, Dr. Joshua, 225. Veneziani, Emanuel, 339-341. Victoria, Queen, 238, 279. Vidaver, Rev. Dr. Henry, 204, 255. Vogler, Abbe, 234. Wagner, Richard, 179. Waldenberg, Abraham, 193 ; Prof., 193. Weber, Bernhard Anselm, 234. Weber, Carl Maria Von, 234. Weil, Prof. Gustav, 342-344. Wernich, Prof., 33. Wessely, Naphtali Hartwig (or Herz), 289. 344-349; Joseph, 344; Moses, 345 ; Berend, 345. Whitney, Prof., 335. Wilberforce, William, 304. William III., of England, 97. William IV., of Germany, 307. Wise, Rev. Dr. Isaac Mayer, 349-353. Wistar, Dr. Caspar, 125. Wolcot, Dr. John, 63. Wolf, Simon, 354-357. Wood, Dr. George B.,126. Worms, Baron Henry de, 357-360. Zacuto, Rabbi Abraham, 167. Zunz, Dr. Leopold, 44, 104, 128, 168, 182, 217, 332, 349, 360-366. THE END. 14 DAY USE RETURN TO DESK FROM WHICH BORROWED LOAN DEPT. This book is due on the last date stamped below, or on the date to which renewed. Renewals only: Tel. No. 642-3405 Renewals may be made 4 days prior to date due. Renewed books are subject to immediate recall. 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