(REIFMANN, JACOB).

(1818-1895. Jewish scholar). Four Autograph Letters Signed to Reifmann from: Sir Moses Montefiore, acknowledging receipt of Reifmann’s book, Hagahoth al Sepher Emunoth ve-De’oth (Ramsgate, date illegible). * Eliezer Zweifel (n.p., 1864). * Abraham Elijah Harkavy (St. Petersburg, 1865) discussing sundry scholarly matters (Syriac and Septuagint translations of the Bible, as well as history of the Khazar and Byzantine Empires). * Peretz Smolenskin, editor “Ha-Shachar” (Vienna, 1870?), informing Reifmann of the recent appearance of R. Elazar Halevi Ish Hurwitz’s She’eloth u-Teshuvoth Yad Elazar, which includes responsa to Reifmann

NOT USED - KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERNCE: Jacob Reifmann , was a most prolific scholar, yet served no public position. He lived poorly in humble circumstances in the relatively small town of Szczebrzeszyn (Shebreshin), Galicia. He wrote many books and numerous articles and corresponded with such scholars as Steinschneider, Rapoport (“Shir”), S. D. Luzzato (“Shadal”), Geiger, Graetz, Tzvi Hirsch Chayoth, etc. Although by outward appearance decidedly Orthodox, the critical character of many of his writings roused the ire of the ultra-Orthodox, who branded him a “freethinker.” Indeed Reifman's own children, who followed a Chassidic path, opposed many of his public positions. Even such an outspoken critic as Ephraim Deinard held a similar opinion concerning Reifmann. He described Reifmann as a “clear, concise writer who enriched our literature with his critical studies," adding that he “remained true to his God and his people.” Deinard, ”Mashgei Ivrim,” p.49. .