Eulogy for Empress Maria Theresa

Ezekiel Landau

1780

Today is the eighth day since the evil tidings came that the crown has fallen from our head (Lam. 5:16). It was my obligation to see that we should immediately have arranged a great memorial service, following the biblical text, In every square there shall be lamenting, in every street cries of “Ah, woe!” The farm hand shall be called to mourn, and…

Please login or register for free access to Posen Library
Register
Already have an account?
Engage with this Source

Creator Bio

Ezekiel Landau

1713–1793

Ezekiel (Yeḥezkel) Landau was born in Opatów (Apt), Poland, and was part of the kabbalistic kloyz in Brody. In 1745, he became the chief rabbi and head of yeshiva in Jampol, Poland. Landau was appointed chief rabbi of Prague in 1754, a position he held until his death. In this public role, he contributed to political decisions concerning education and military service. Landau is most revered for his halakhic scholarship, particularly his Noda bi-Yehudah (1776; 1811), a two-volume collection of more than 850 responsa; he became known by the title of that work.

Related Guide

Political Life and Thought, 1750–1880

Jews debated all sides of the major political issues of their day. Some welcomed the idea of equality, whereas others feared the loss of their religious-institutional distinctiveness. 

You may also like

My Life as German and Jew

I was born and raised in Fuerth, a predominantly Protestant manufacturing city of Middle Franconia, with a large Jewish community consisting principally of artisans and tradesmen. The Jews formed…
View Source