The Wonder Rabbis and Jewish Welfare in Sátoraljaújhely, Olaszliszka and Bodrogkeresztúr

Abstract

In this paper, I argue that Jewish social care should be understood not merely as a historical phenomenon but as a theological reality. I examine the institution of the wonder-working rabbi not as a superstitious practice associated with folk belief, but as 
a phenomenon embedded within the normative framework of tzedakah. Through an analysis of the activities of wonder-working rabbis in Sátoraljaújhely, Olaszliszka, and Bodrogkeresztúr, this study offers insight into the social role of charismatic religious 
leadership. I contend that miracles should not be interpreted as irrational anomalies; rather, they constitute a form of religious language that signifies the presence of a caring God. Within this interpretive framework, the tzaddik functions as an intermediary 
between individuals in need and communal resources, thereby facilitating the redistribution of charitable contributions. Furthermore, I develop a critique of rationalist approaches that construe wonder-working rabbis as merely folkloristic or irrational phenomena. In contrast, I adopt a theological–social-ethical apologetic framework in which faith and social responsibility are intrinsically interconnected. From this perspective, the activities of wonder-working rabbis do not represent a deviation from normative practice; rather, they embody a coherent expression of Jewish social ethics. The paper also addresses the contrast between Neolog and Hasidic 
approaches, interpreting this tension as a conflict between differing models of religious authority. I conclude that wonder-working rabbis can be understood as theologically grounded and socially operative expressions of Jewish social care.