Rabbi Kook Honored at White House and British Embassy

Rabbi Kabraham J. Kook, Chief Rabbi of Palestine, was received at the White House by President Coolidge and his secretary, Mr. Slemp.

Rabbi Teitlebaum, of the Central Relief Committee and of the Union of Orthodox Rabbis in the United States, who accompanied Rabbi Kook, acted as his spokesman. Through him, Rabbi Kook thanked, in the person of the American President, the American people for their friendship and for the aid rendered by them in European relief activities. He gave special thanks for the recent action of both houses of Congress in passing resolutions approving the creation of the Jewish National Home in Palestine, and the British mandate over it.

Rabbi Kook expressed his hope and conviction that America will remain the center of liberty and idealism, and bestowed his blessing upon the President, excusing himself for being unable to speak in the English language.

In reply, the President stated that he felt highly honored by the visit of Palestine’s Chief Rabbi, and assurred Rabbi Kook that the United States Government would assist, in every way possible, the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. The President added that he fully approved of Rabbi Kook’s mission in America, and extended his wishes for its success.

Special honors were accorded to Rabbi Kook at the British Embassy where he was received by the newly appointed Ambassador, Sir Eame Howard. The Ambassador invited Rabbi Kook to lunch and the Rabbi accepted the invitation, but partook only of fruit.

The Ambassador asked Rabbi Kook some questions concerning conditions in Palestine, and expressed his gratification when the Rabbi praised highly the British Administration under Sir Herbert Samuel. The Ambassador declared that he would report the visit to his Government in London. In the afternoon, the Ambassador repaid Rabbi Kook’s visit, by visiting him at his hotel.