Letter from Joseph Jacobsohn to an Unknown Recipient Regarding Rabbi Illowy's Edict on Circumcision, October 24, 1864

This letter, written on the embossed stationery of Shaarai Chesed Synagogue in New Orleans, is authored by Joseph Jacobsohn. Dated October 24, 1864, it discusses Rabbi Bernard Illowy's edict prohibiting the circumcision of children with Christian mothers. The letter, written in a mix of English and Hebrew, may be missing its final page. While unsigned, the handwriting is consistent with other known samples of Jacobsohn's writing. The letter's content relates to a controversy surrounding Rabbi Illowy and Isaac Leeser. Rabbi Illowy, a prominent Orthodox rabbi in the United States, had a falling out with Leeser over theological differences. This letter provides valuable insight into the internal discussions within the American Jewish community during this time. The letter's geographic context is New Orleans, Louisiana.

Associated People/Businesses

• LEESER, ISAAC / JACOBSOHN, JOSEPH / Illowy, Bernard

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Orthodox Judaism
• Reform Judaism

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box 4, Folder 5