Une nouvelle conception du métier de rabbin : le rabbin consistorial en France au XIXe siècle

Abstract

Changes that occur inside the Jewish communities after Napoleon laws have consequences on the work of the rabbis. Before the XIXth century indeed, rabbis spent most of their time in their working cabinet, reading books and studying any religious issue they were confronted to. They could devote themselves to the Tora and to sacred studies, an activity which was regarded by sages as equal to all social and pious works. From then on, rabbis have to teach Jews about their religion and to encourage them to accomplish their duties. Not only do they have to devote much of their time to charitable work and act as guides for their community, but they also represent Judaïsm before political authorities.