JEWISH LITERATURE

AND

OTHER ESSAYS

BY

GUSTAV KARPELES

philadelphia
the jewish publication society of america
1895

Press of
The Friedenwald Co.
Baltimore

Page 5

PREFACE

The following essays were delivered during the last ten years, in theform of addresses, before the largest associations in the great citiesof Germany. Each one is a dear and precious possession to me. As I oncemore pass them in review, reminiscences fill my mind of solemn occasionsand impressive scenes, of excellent men and charming women. I feel asthough I were sending the best beloved children of my fancy out into theworld, and sadness seizes me when I realize that they no longer belongto me alone—that they have become the property of strangers. The livingword falling upon the ear of the listener is one thing; quite anotherthe word staring from the cold, printed page. Will my thoughts beaccorded the same friendly welcome that greeted them when first theywere uttered?

I venture to hope that they may be kindly received; for these addresseswere born of devoted love to Judaism. The consciousness that Israel ischarged with a great historical mission, not yet accomplished, usheredthem into existence. Truth and sincerity stood sponsor to every word. Isit6 presumptuous, then, to hope that they may find favor in the NewWorld? Brethren of my faith live there as here; our ancient watchword,"Sh'ma Yisrael," resounds in their synagogues as in ours; the oldblood-stained flag, with its sublime inscription, "The Lord is mybanner!" floats over them; and Jewish hearts in America are loyal likeours, and sustained by steadfast faith in the Messianic time when ourhopes and ideals, our aims and dreams, will be realized. There is butone Judaism the world over, by the Jordan and the Tagus as by theVistula and the Mississippi. God bless and protect it, and lead it tothe goal of its glorious future!

To all Jewish hearts beyond the ocean, in free America, fraternalgreetings!

Gustav Karpeles

7

CONTENTS