Meshullam Solomon

Israel Meshullam Solomon, also known as Meshullam Solomon, was a prominent figure in the Jewish community, serving as one of the two rival Chief Rabbis of the United Kingdom. Born in 1723 in Altona, near Hamburg, he was the son of Jacob Emden and a descendant of notable Jewish scholars, including the Chacham Tzvi and Elijah Ba'al Shem of Chelm. His lineage and education prepared him for a career in Jewish leadership, which he pursued with distinction.

Solomon's rabbinical career included positions in Podhajce and later as the rabbi of the Hambro' Synagogue in London, to which he was appointed in 1764. During his tenure, the synagogue increased his salary to £150 and provided additional funds for travel and settling in London. He claimed authority as Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom from 1765 to 1780, a period during which he played a significant role in the Jewish community, although his claim was rivaled by Rabbi Tevele Schiff. Solomon passed away in 1794, leaving behind a legacy as a respected Jewish leader and scholar.