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Jewish Agency in New York Mourns Death of Israel’s Chief Rabbi

July 29, 1959
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A statement on behalf of the Jewish Agency here, expressing “deep sorrow” over the death of Israel’s Chief Rabbi Isaac Halevi Herzog was issued today by Mrs. Rose Halprin, acting chairman of the Jewish Agency. The statement reads:

“The executive of the Jewish Agency records with deep sorrow the death of Rabbi Isaac Halevi Herzog, Chief Rabbi of Israel, whose passing is mourned by Jewish communities throughout the world.

“One of the outstanding spiritual leaders of his generation, he combined the erudition and piety of our Jewish sages with the incisive mind of the scholar and statesman. For more than two turbulent decades, he labored in the forefront of the builders of modern Israel and his guidance and counsel were sought by Jews and non-Jews from every part of the world.

“He was a man blessed not only with a brilliant intellect but also with the most precious of gifts: A wise and understanding heart. Those who knew him will never forget the personal warmth which radiated from this kindly man who bore the duties of his sacred office with singular humility. No voice was too small to be heard by him and peace and justice found in him their ardent and untiring champion.”

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