מאבקי כוח וזהות בקהילת איסטנבול בתקופת הטנזימאט: הרקע ותוצאות הדחתו של החכם באשי יעקב אביגדור

The article examines the transformations and internal struggles within the Jewish community of Istanbul during the Tanzimat period, focusing on the tensions between reformists and conservatives as reflected in three major conflicts: the dispute over the Iskola school, which served as a catalyst for subsequent clashes; the demand to dismiss the kahya Yehezkel Gabay; and the demand to remove Chief Rabbi (Hakham Bashi)Yaakov Avigdor from office. In all three disputes, the conservative faction was led by Rabbi Yitzhak Akriş, while the reformist camp included prominent communal leaders such as Avraham Camondo, Yehezkel Carmona, and Rabbi Avigdor himself. The article also explores the socio-political background of these conflicts, with particular attention to the secular leadership and the community’s tax crisis. A central focus is the challenge to the authority of the Hakham Bashi and the involvement of the Ottoman government in the dismissal proceedings. The article is primarily based on the ruling of Rabbi Hayim Palaggi, who served as head of the rabbinical court and adjudicated the case at the request of the Grand Vizier, ultimately ruling in favor of Rabbi Avigdor. Additional sources include Jewish press reports and archival materials. Nevertheless, the dispute remained unresolved, and the dismissal was carried out. The article highlights the influence and power of wealthy communal figures in shaping the leadership and direction of the Jewish community during this period. It also discusses the appointment of Rabbi Yakir Geronas Avigdor’s successor.