Wise, Isaac M. The Essence of Judaism: For Teachers & Pupils, and for Self-Instruction

AUCTION 42 | Thursday, December 18th, 2008 at 1:00
Fine Judaica: Hebrew Printed Books, Manuscripts, Graphic & Ceremonial Art

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Lot 25
(AMERICAN JUDAICA)

Wise, Isaac M. The Essence of Judaism: For Teachers & Pupils, and for Self-Instruction

English interspersed with Hebrew pp. 65. Ex-library. Hole on pp. 29-30, text slightly affected. Waterstained. Contemporary calf-backed cloth boards. 8vo Singerman 1732

Cincinnati: Bloch 1861

Est: $1,000 - $1,500
This "catechism" of Judaism offers a comprehensive exposition of the religion from the perspective of Reform Judaism, whose American spokesman was the author. Isaac Wise found particularly objectionable the Biblical doctrine of sacrifices. Thus we read on p. 61: "If the temple of Jerusalem should ever be re-built, no sacrifices would be made there, as we could not thus be instructed or edified. God by destroying the Temple demonstrated His will that no more sacrifices should be brought."