Elias of London facts for kids

Elias of London, also known as Elijah ben Moses, was an important leader of the Jewish community in England during the 1200s. He was sometimes called the "Presbyter Judaeorum," which means "leader of the Jews."

It's important not to confuse him with another person named Eliyahu Menachem of London, who was also a respected Jewish scholar around the same time.

Who Was Elias of London?

Elias of London took over the role of community leader from Aaron of York. He represented the Jewish community of London at a special meeting in Worcester in 1240. This meeting was sometimes called the "Jewish Parliament."

Elias and King Henry III

King Henry III of England often asked Elias for large sums of money. For example, the King once demanded about £10,000 from him. He also had to pay £100 every year for four years.

In 1253, Elias led a group that asked the king for permission to leave England. Two years later, in 1255, he was put in prison. This happened because he was a guarantee for taxes owed by the Jewish community.

Changes in Leadership

Elias was removed from his position in 1257. His brother, Hagin, took over as the new leader.

In 1259, some reports claimed that Elias had converted to another religion. However, by 1266, he was again recognized as a Jew. He even received £50 as payment for losses he suffered during a conflict called the Barons' War.

Later Life and Work

Elias remained an important figure in London in 1277. He was one of the few Jewish people allowed to trade as merchants. This was special because they were not part of the main merchant groups.

He was also a well-known physician (doctor). In 1280, Jean d'Avesnes, the Count of Hainault, asked for his help. Elias received permission to visit the Count that year.

Elias's Wealth and Family

When Elias died, an investigation of his property was done. It showed he owned personal items worth about 400 marks. He also had houses that brought in 100 shillings in rent each year.

His wife, Fluria, was allowed to keep these properties. She paid the king 400 marks for them. One of his houses was on Sporier Street, close to the Tower of London. After the Edict of Expulsion in 1290, this house was given to the prior of Chicksands.

His Knowledge of Jewish Law

Elias was very skilled in Jewish law. The king sometimes called upon him to help decide important questions. One of his legal opinions is even mentioned in a famous Jewish book called the "Mordechai."

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