David Simonsen

David Simonsen (1853–1932) was born in Copenhagen, Denmark. He studied Oriental languages at the University of Copenhagen, and received his rabbinical training at the Jewish Theological Seminary (Jüdisch-Theologisches Seminar) in Breslau, one of the centers of the movement advocating the scientific study of Jewish history, literature and culture, as well as of the classical sources of Judaism (“Wissenschaft des Judentums”). After his graduation, Simonsen returned to Denmark and a position as Rabbi in the Jewish Congregation of Copenhagen. He married Cora Salomon (1856-1938) and for ten years (1892-1902), David Simonsen held the office of Chief Rabbi. In 1903 he was awarded the title of professor by the University of Copenhagen.

David Simonsen’s archives (which was acquired by The Royal Library, Denmark in 1932) reflect the history of several scientific disciplines over a full half century. The list of correspondents contains the names of leading scientists within Oriental and Jewish Studies, but also from other areas. During World War I, Simonsen acted as "communication central", maintaining all the important contacts in Denmark and abroad, between organisations and individuals. He was also able to relay messages between relatives on different sides of the front, and after the war, he continued to be active in different relief organisations, both in Denmark and abroad.

David Simonsen’s private library of approximately 45.000 volumes, also acquired by The Royal Library in 1932, testifies to his wide-ranging scholarly interests.