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A Fascinating Historical Letter in the Autograph Handwriting of Rabbi Shlomo’niu of Sadigura - Rare Historical Letter with Extraordinary Content – Entirely in the Handwriting and Signed by Rabbi Shlomo Chaim Friedman of Sadigura A rare historical letter of exceptional interest and unusual content, entirely in the holy handwriting and bearing the signature of Rabbi Shlomo Chaim Friedman of Sadigura—one of the leading Rebbes of the Ruzhin dynasty. Jerusalem, “Year of Shabbat” [1941]. The letter was written as an appeal for financial assistance during the Rebbe’s stay in Jerusalem. Reflecting the sensitivity and royal dignity that characterized the Rebbes of Ruzhin—who regarded the act of requesting support as deeply uncomfortable—the Rebbe expresses himself in a tone of pain and refinement: “Necessity compels me to make a request that is most unpleasant for me... I have no other choice...” Yet the principal importance of the letter lies in what follows, revealing a remarkably rare statement of exceptional historical significance. Much has been written about the sympathetic attitude of the Ruzhin Rebbes toward the Zionist ideal. The well-known photograph of the Rebbes of the dynasty participating in Israel Independence Day celebrations at the Great Synagogue of Tel Aviv is frequently cited, as are accounts of their meetings with David Ben-Gurion and the respect he accorded them. Explicit written declarations of this outlook, however, are exceedingly rare. In this personal letter—which was clearly not intended for publication—and addressed to the distinguished leader Rabbi Meir Berlin (Bar-Ilan), one of the foremost leaders of the Mizrachi movement, its world secretary, and a member of the Provisional State Council, Rabbi Shlomo’niu of Sadigura expresses, in unusually direct terms, his identification with and support for the activities of Mizrachi: “After working on behalf of our exalted ideal for many decades... I placed myself at the disposal of the leadership, as well as the management of HaTzofeh; I declared that I was prepared to visit Jewish homes in order to awaken their hearts... for the benefit of our ideal... and I am now prepared to work even more...” In light of the contents of this letter, a well-known remark attributed to Rabbi Yitzchak of Bohush takes on a particularly ironic tone. Referring to the date of passing of Rabbi Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar, one of the most outspoken opponents of Zionism, he reportedly remarked: “He chose a fine yahrzeit for himself—the 26th of Av, the day of the passing of my holy uncle, Rabbi Shlomo’niu...” (Encyclopedia of Hasidism, vol. III). Rabbi Shlomo Chaim Friedman of Sadigura (1887–1972) was among the most prominent Rebbes of the Ruzhin dynasty and was renowned as a wonder-working tzaddik. He was the son of Rabbi Yisrael of Sadigura, author of Or Yisrael, and grandson of Rabbi Avraham Yaakov of Sadigura, son of the famed Saba Kadisha of Ruzhin. Following his father’s passing, while still barely twenty years old, he assumed the mantle of leadership, and the elder Hasidim accepted his authority alongside his brothers, the authors of Avir Yaakov and Kedushat Aharon. His personality and conduct radiated a unique regal nobility. Rabbi Yissachar Dov of Belz spoke of him in the highest terms, while his elder brother, the author of Avir Yaakov, testified: “My brother is holy and pure.” Despite his humility and preference for seclusion, his reputation as an exalted saint spread widely, and many sought the privilege of standing in his presence and witnessing his sacred service. [1] Large paper sheet, 27 cm. Entirely in the Rebbe’s handwriting and signed by him. Condition: Good to very good. Filing holes and fold marks.