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THE MONTEFIORE COPY (JUDAICA.) Leeser, Isaac. Discourses, Argumentative and Devotional, on the Subject of Jewish Religion, bound with as issued The Claims of the Jews to an Equality of Rights. x, [1], 297, [3], 293, [3]; xii, 268, 99 pages. 4 volumes in 2. Large 12mo, publisher's cloth with original paper spine titles, backstrips faded and light spotting but minimal wear; dampstaining and moderate foxing to Volume I; bookplates of Sir Moses Montefiore on front pastedowns. Philadelphia, 5597, 5601 [1837, 1841]
first edition of "the first anthology of Jewish sermons in America" which "marked the coming of age of the American synagogue and ministry"--Goldman. Leeser caused a stir in the American Jewish community by preaching in English, and his example helped establish regular sermons as a central part of a rabbi's work. Leeser aspired to international influence, and corresponded regularly with Jewish leaders in England--most notably the important philanthropist and activist Sir Moses Montefiore, who served as sheriff of London. Offered here is Montefiore's personal copy, demonstrating Leeser's influence across the Atlantic. This association copy links the two giants of Jewish America and England of this era. Goldman 687; Rosenbach 413, 479, 476; Singerman 0632, 0748; Sussman, "Isaac Leeser and the Protestantization of American Judaism," American Jewish Archives 38 (April 1986), pages 1-21.
