Letter signed by the Rishon LeTzion, Rabbi Chaim David Chazan to Sir Moses Montefiore. Jerusalem, [1862].
In 1862, R’ Bechor Meyuchas, a prominent Jerusalem communal activist, sent out a press release stating that due to the difficult economic situation in Jerusalem, and the fact that the rabbis are ignoring the situation, the residents of the city chose him as their leader so that he could help improve their status and situation. The Jerusalem rabbis, of course, viewed Meyuchas’ activities as a danger to the charity institutions. [In addition, Meyuchas was a friend of the English consul, whose donations were triggered by missionary motives.] The Rishon LeTzion wrote this sharp letter to Rabbi Natan Adler and Sir Moses Montefiore, accusing Meyuchas of brazenness, insolence, and the literal destruction of Jerusalem.
The Rishon LeTzion, Rabbi Chaim David Chazan, known as ח”ד בדרא [unique in his generation, a play in his initials, ח”ד] wrote the Nadiv Levi responsa. The son of the author of the Chikrei Lev , he was born in Izmir in 1791. From 1840 through 1855, he was the chief rabbi of Izmir, until he moved to Jerusalem. He took over the position as Rishon LeTzion after the passing of Rabbi Nissim Abulafia, a position he filled until his own passing in 1869. He was very active in helping and assisting the Jewish settlement in the Land of Israel.
Rare, historic letter about a little known episode (Refer to: Yerushalayim bein HaChomot p. 25-26).
[1] leaf, paper. 22×26 cm. Blue paper, signed by Rabbi Chazan, with his personal stamp.
Very fine condition. Minimal aging stains.