(Pioneer of Reform Judaism in Hungary, 1766-1844)

CHORIN(ER), AARON

9th Iyar

Arad

1831

Auograph Letter Signed, in Hebrew to Rabbi Abeli Landau. A halachic discourse concerning Maimonides’ position on the concept of “Halacha Le-Moshe Mi-Sinai” and the accurate transmission of undisputed traditions from generation to generation

Aaron Chorin served as Chief Rabbi of Arad, Rumania. An early advocate of synagogue reform, he spearheaded changes to the synagogue liturgy: allowing prayer in the vernacular and with an uncovered head, and approving the use of the organ on the Sabbath. He also curtailed the seven days of mourning and permitted riding and writing on the Sabbath. In Orthodox circles Choriner was contemptuously known by the acronym “Acher” (Aaron Chaim Rabbi) - the name applied to the infamous Tanaic heretic, Elisha ben Abuyah after his apostasy. Here, he asks Abeli Landau to copy his discourse and to show it to the scholars of Landau’s acquaintance. “Please return it to me as I have not made a copy. You can obtain the expenses for the ‘Post porto’ from the sale of my book Tzir Ne’eman.”