Judaica and Hasidic Books and Manuscripts
A fascinating and deeply personal autograph letter (multiple pages) written by the Slonimer scholar Rabbi Aharon Yosef Luria, dated 8.8.28. Writing from Tiberias, Rabbi Luria addresses the stressful reality of the U.S. immigration "quota" system. He mentions that while the quota is limited to 100 people, many have already registered, putting his own chances at risk. He urgently seeks his friend’s advice on what specific arguments or information he should provide to the lawyer to secure a place. This letter is a rare primary source documenting the desperate efforts of Eretz Yisrael’s Rabbinic leadership to navigate international travel restrictions during the British Mandate.
Author:
Important Note to Bidders:
Following new information provided by the family, we have clarified that the author of this letter is Rabbi Aharon Yosef Luria, son of Rabbi Shemaya Luria of Tiberias. While he shares a name with the Slonimer scholar (author of Avodat Isaschar), this letter represents the personal and legal struggles of a prominent member of the historic Luria family of Tiberias during the British Mandate.
Notable Connection:
While Rabbi Luria is world-renowned as the "living memory" of the Slonimer Chassidut, this letter reveals a different, more vulnerable side of his life. It documents the "Quota" era (following the 1924 Immigration Act), where even the greatest scholars were at the mercy of lawyers and bureaucrats. Seeing the author of Avodat Isaschar anxious about an "immigration quota" of 100 people adds a profound layer of human interest to this manuscript. It is a poignant reminder of the physical hardships and uncertainty faced by the residents of the Old Yishuv in Tiberias.
Condition report:
Good. The paper remains strong with original fold lines. There is light age-toning and minor fraying at the edges, consistent with its age. The ink is dark, bold, and entirely legible, preserving the urgency of the message.
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