NYC Gazette

In 1960, "From Twilight to Dawn: The Traditional Pessach Hagadah" emerged as a unique alternative to the common Maxwell House Hagadah in the United States. Created in Washington Heights by Rabbi Shlomo Kahn and Mr. Herbert Harwitt, the Hagadah was developed with a focus on providing family-friendly content, an educational tool designed to fill a gap in Jewish educational resources at the time.

Both creators, Kahn and Harwitt, were German-born, fleeing Nazi rule in the 1930s to settle with their families in Washington Heights. They became prominent figures in their community, with Rabbi Kahn leading at the Congregation Beth Hillel-Beth Israel and Harwitt founding Scribe Publications and participating in various community organizations.

This particular Hagadah was constructed with Rabbi Kahn compiling over sixty traditional commentaries, simplified for practical use during the Seder. Published by Harwitt's Scribe Publications, Rabbi Kahn acknowledged Harwitt's critical contributions: “Rabbi Kahn thanked Mr. Harwitt for his ‘critical reading of the book’s manuscript and his numerous valuable suggestions.’” It represented a pioneering effort to provide a clear halachic guide and accessible commentary in English, essential for many who required easier access to Jewish teachings post-World War II.

Rabbi Kahn described the Hagadah as highlighting essential religious beliefs combined with historical elements tied to Jewish origins and the establishment of the State of Israel. “When … the United Nations voted for a Jewish State in Palestine, when the armies of Israel defeated the superior forces of the Arabs, we know that these are only instruments in the hands of God and to Him only do we owe gratitude.”

From its inception, "From Twilight to Dawn" became a forerunner for similar educational publications in America, and has been reissued multiple times, most recently in 2018 by Frisch Yeshiva in Rabbi Kahn's memory. It continues to serve as a reminder of Jewish resilience and faith, bridging past and present narratives of freedom from oppression.

Herbert Harwitt, originating from a family of esteemed publishers, carried forward his legacy through Scribe Publications. This group also published "Ever Since Sinai: A modern view of Torah" by Jacob Petuchowski, a notable contemporary of Harwitt. The connection between the two, both professionally and through lineage ties relating back to the Itzkowski Press, reflects a deep-rooted heritage of preserving Jewish scholarly work.

Rabbi Shlomo Kahn passed away in 2000 and was commemorated not long after his contributions to the Jewish community in Washington Heights. The ongoing publication of the Hagadah testifies to its lasting importance as an educational and spiritual resource.

May future celebrations, echoing the Hagadah's themes, bring about peace and liberation, as hoped for those currently under duress, and may they "celebrate Passover in Jerusalem."