Moses Gomez de Mesquita facts for kids

Moses Gomez de Mesquita (born in 1688 – died May 8, 1751) was an important Jewish leader. He served as the ḥakham (chief rabbi or wise leader) for the Spanish and Portuguese Jews in London. This group of Jewish people has a unique history, tracing back to communities from Spain and Portugal.

Life Story of Moses Gomez de Mesquita

Moses Gomez de Mesquita was born and received his religious training in Amsterdam. This city was a major center for Jewish learning at the time.

In 1744, he was chosen to become the ḥakham in London. He took over this important role from Isaac Nieto, who had decided to step down. Moses Gomez de Mesquita held this position until he passed away.

He was involved in important community events. For example, he led the ceremony for Isaac Nieto's second marriage in 1747. In 1749, he also led the wedding ceremony for his own daughter. She married Moses Cohen d'Azevedo, who later became a ḥakham himself in 1760.

Moses Gomez de Mesquita died on May 8, 1751, when he was 63 years old. At his funeral, both Isaac Nieto and Aaron Hart, who was the rabbi of the Great Synagogue of London, spoke at his graveside. This showed the respect they had for him.