(First Prime Minister of the State of Israel, 1886-1973). Typed Letter Signed (with autograph corrections), on Prime Minister’s letterhead (“Temporary Government”) written in Hebrew to Rabbi Y.L. HaKohen Fishman.

BEN-GURION, DAVID

23 December

Jerusalem

1948

Concerning the start of military actions and operations against the Egyptians in the Negev and Gaza as well as the debate pertaining to the import of Kosher meat.

In this interesting letter Ben Gurion admonishes Fishman concerning the “unfortunate debate pertaining to the import of Kosher meat which does not bring honor to either side. We do not need to add internal problems to our foreign difficulties. I am sure that your intention has nothing to do with elections … Even a controversy for the sake of heaven should be set aside while we have a controversy with Egypt, [British Foreign Secretary Ernest] Bevin and other enemies of our land… I believe that with some good will and common sense this matter can be settled … If you would both meet I would willingly participate … but unfortunately the operations in the Negev [take precedence].” Rabbi Yehuda Leib Fishman (Maimon) (1875-1962) was a prolific author, scholar and leader of the Mizrachi Party. He served as Minister of Religion of the State of Israel from 1948-61.