A letter sent to Rabbi Kook by a representative of the British Commission of Inquiry (Shaw Commission), which operated after the events of 1929 to examine the causes of the outbreak, requesting that Rabbi Kook testify in his home, and the reply written by Rabbi Kook in his own handwriting on the sender’s original letter, (without signature). [September 1929].
Wording of the request (English):
“To His Eminence,
The Chief Rabbi,
Jerusalem.
Your Eminence,
I wish to inform you that the Commission of Inquiry has expressed a desire to hear testimony from Your Eminence regarding certain matters that have arisen during the investigation. The Chairman of the Commission has recently announced that the Commission will grant Your Eminence the right to deliver your testimony in your own home, and I wish to know from you what time would be convenient for Your Eminence to be heard.”
On the reverse of the letter, Rabbi Kook replied that he agreed to give testimony in his home and added: “But at the same time, I declare that the best interest of the matter requires of me that my words not be spoken in a confidential manner, but rather openly. Therefore, my demand is that press representatives also be present at the inquiry. I am submitting this demand in a special letter to the Chairman of the Commission of Inquiry.”
The letter is found in the file of Attorney Mordechai Eliash, who dealt with representatives of the British Mandate in the investigation of the events of 1929.
[1] One leaf, written on both sides. Very good condition.
