Career
In 1828, he entered the University of Prague, where he applied himself to philosophy, while devoting his spare time to rabbinical studies. In July, 1833, he was appointed rabbi of Hohenems, Vorarlberg, where he remained for eleven years. Besides organizing various charitable societies, he greatly improved the educational facilities for the young, and introduced many reforms into the public service.
In May, 1844, he accepted the rabbinate of Lemberg.
Here in a comparatively short time he opened a well-equipped "Normalschule" of which he was the superintendent, dedicated a new reform temple, abolished many old abuses, and did not rest until the degrading tax on kosher meat and Sabbath candles, imposed upon the Jewish community by the government, was removed. While the less traditional element rallied about him, the traditionalists of the community bitterly protested changes to their religion.
On September 6, 1848, Abraham Ber Pilpel, said to be hired by a fanatical clique, entered Kohn"s kitchen and poisoned the family"s dinner with arsenic. After Kohn died Pilpel stood trial for his murder and was convicted.
However, on appeal this was overturned.
After the verdict was overturned, it was again reviewed by the highest court and the appellate court"s judgment was upheld.
