Interesting letter by Rabbi Zvi Yehuda Kook, Rosh Yeshiva of Merkaz HaRav and spiritual leader of religious Zionism, written to Chief Rabbi Unterman and the “Moetzet HaRabbanut HaReishit”.
Specifications: [1] letterhead. 22×28 cm. Signed autograph. Written on the 6th of Av, 1964.
Unique features: Rabbi Zvi Yehuda attacks the Supreme Court with sharp phrases, such as: “These criminals, they have embarrassed themselves and their country since they are judges within it, these people should be ashamed of their lack of cultural understanding, scandalous people,” and more. He even appeals to the rabbis not to listen to the court’s demands “even if Chaim Cohen and M. Landau (Supreme Court justices) will imprison you for it”.
Background: Rabbi Zvi Yehuda HaKohen Kook [1891-1982] was the son and disciple of Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook, Rosh Yeshiva of Merkaz HaRav, and spiritual leader of Religious Zionism. He viewed the State of Israel as an essential stage in the final redemption of the nation, and claimed that the State of Israel was prophesized by the prophets. He even compared tefillin to tanks, stating that tanks are “a mitzvah implement.” He tried to fortify the religious ideals behind the State, all the while working to strenghten its Jewish character. He had many opponents in the chareidi public, who sharply opposed his support for Zionism and the State of Israel. Some even viewed his viewpoints as heretical.
Condition: Very fine, filing holes, fold marks.