Heinrich Josefsohn

Bible translator from Prague (c.1770–1840)

Heinrich Josefsohn was a prominent figure in the literary scene of Prague, active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Born around 1770, he went on to become a renowned translator of the Hebrew Bible, as well as a skilled poet and dramatist. His work was deeply rooted in the Hebrew literary tradition, and he played a significant role in promoting and continuing the legacy of earlier literary figures.

As a member of the Biurists and the Me'assfim, Josefsohn was part of a larger movement to revitalize and modernize Hebrew literature. He drew inspiration from the works of Moses Mendelssohn, a leading figure in the Hebrew Enlightenment, and other prominent literary figures in Berlin. Through his translations, poetry, and dramas, Josefsohn made important contributions to the field of literature, leaving a lasting impact on the development of Hebrew literary culture. He passed away in 1840, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated and accomplished literary figure.