Jews Loyal to Austria, Chief Rabbi Writes

Jewish loyalty to Austria is emphasized in an article by Chief Rabbi Dr. David Feuchtwang in the Wiener Sonn-und Montagszeitung, in which he outlines the position of the Jews in Austria.

“The position of the Austrian Jews in relation to Austria is very clear and definite,” he writes. “The Jews acknowledge themselves unconditionally and without any limitations as loyal sons of the Austrian Fatherland. This has nothing to do with politics, but is based on the fundamental principle of their religious commandments, to which Jews always adhere in whatever State they live as citizens. Even the Jews who live in present-day Germany hold fast to this commandment, and proclaim themselves openly as sons of Germany, though the State does not permit it.

AFFIRMS LOYALTY

“The loyalty which the Jews have always demonstrated to every State in which they live as citizens is not affected by the great constructive work in Palestine. The interest and the historical and religious sentiments which bind the Jews to Palestine can never involve the Jews in conflict with the Fatherland in which they live. The Jews of Austria stand firm with all constructive elements in the Austrian Fatherland, and seek to be useful, and beneficial citizens of the Fatherland, opposing only those principles and measures which do damage to them as Jews, and seek to restrict their citizen rights. I have in mind in this connection primarily religious and cultural rights of the Jews and the regulation of their cultural life. This includes the right of creating Jewish schools with State aid, in which the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism will be promoted. This right to create Jewish schools must not, however, bar the admission of Jews to the general State schools.

“The position of the Jews as citizens is best expressed in the words of Jeremiah who said: ‘Seek ye the welfare of the land in which you live, for in its happiness lies your own happiness.’

HAVE MESSIANIC IDEAL

“So far as their political outlook is concerned, the Jews hold fast to the Messianic ideal, which means that they are opposed to all political conceptions that are based on warfare, and will use all their efforts to promote the peaceful collaboration of the nations. But when this peaceful development does not seem possible, is shattered by violence, when the Fatherland is attacked by enemies and its defence is necessary, the Jews seize arms and fight for their Fatherland as they have always done in the past.

“The Jews of Austria are happy that Austria is actively endeavoring to seek spiritual and cultural contacts with other nations. For the Jews have always sought to promote cultural and spiritual contacts with other nations, without thereby surrendering their own ancient culture. The Jews do not confine themselves to praying for their own salvation, but always pray for the coming of world peace, for the salvation of all humanity, through the recognition of the One God, and through the love of all mankind.”