Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

London Court Recognizes Jewish Divorce Law Applicable to “cohens”

October 17, 1926
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)

The Jewish religious law prohibiting a “Cohen” (a descendant of the ancient Jewish priest class) to marry a divorcee was recognized by the British court as a reason for dissolving a marriage.

The decision was handed down by Lord Merrivale in the case of Rabbi Hirsch Neuman yesterday. Rabbi Neuman, who is a “Cohen” was married last winter to Sarah Greenberg at the London Registry Office. Before the ceremony in the synagogue, Rabbi Neuman learned that his bride had been divorced thirty years ago. He therefore applied for nullification of the legal marriage ceremony. Rabbi Neuman who is a teacher at the orthodox Yeshiva, Eitz Chaim, was permitted to wear his hat in court and give his evidence in Yiddish.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement