R. Aryeh Leib Lipchitz. Historic letter to R. Koppel Reich Regarding the “Teilung”, with mention of the Shevet ...

R. Aryeh Leib Lipchitz. Historic letter to R. Koppel Reich Regarding the “Teilung”, with mention of the Shevet Sofer. Santov 1890
Long handwritten letter in Yiddish-Deutsch (unsigned), by R. Aryeh Leib Lipchitz to R. Koppel Reich, (later Rav of Budapest).
In the mid-late 1800’s a schism developed in the Kehillos of Austria-Hungary. Although Hungary’s Jews had been predominantly orthodox up to that point, a small but influential community of “Neologen” developed, mainly in Budapest. Though they were small in number, they managed to persuade the government to give them jurisdiction of Jewish communal matters in Hungary. This shift led to a major campaign from the orthodox, who eventually broke off and formed the “Orthodox community”. This famous “Teilung” (Separation) was spearheaded by the Ksav Sofer and the MaHaRaM Schick. Those who chose not to get involved were known as the “Status Quo.” All three groups were recognized and sanctioned by the government as independent religious communities.
R. Aryeh Leib Lipchitz (died 1905), served as Rav in Santov and also as leader of the Orthodox community in Budapest. In that capacity he was one of the most influential orthodox rabbinical leaders of his time.
23 by 14.5 cm. Very fine condition. 3 and half sides.
Opening bid $400