Das Interesse am Judentum zu Beginn des 18. Jahrhunderts: Paul Christian Kirchners ›Jüdisches Ceremoniel‹

Abstract

Paul Christian Kirchner's book »Jüdisches Ceremoniel« counts among the most important sources of research into Judaism in Germany at the beginning of the 18^th century. We know little about the author himself. He was a rabbi in Fürth and converted to Protestantism in 1713. His book »Jüdisches Ceremoniel« has been published several times since 1716. In the edition of 1719 we find a dedication to members of the upper classes in Basle which indicates that Kirchner had been supported by them. From 1724 »Jüdisches Ceremoniel« was no longer edited by Kirchner but by the historian Sebastian Jacob Jungendres from Nuremberg. Jungendres added copperplate prints made by J. G. Puschner to the new edition presenting scenes of the Jewish community in Fürth. Jungendres' preface to the book suggests that Kirchner had probably become Jewish again. Despite Kirchner's polemic remarks against Judaism his book provides important information about Jewish life in early 18^th century Germany.