Nathan Adler

Nathan Adler (1741–1800) was a prominent German kabbalist and rosh yeshiva in Frankfurt. A deeply revered yet controversial figure, he mentored several of the era's most influential rabbis, most notably the Chatam Sofer. While Adler's unique practices led to significant institutional opposition and repeated threats or decrees of excommunication (cherem), his standing and reputation were formally restored by the Frankfurt community just prior to his death. His tombstone bears the rare honorific HaNesher HaGadol (Hebrew: הנשר הגדול, lit. 'The Great Eagle'), a title reflecting both a play on his surname and his ultimate recognition as a preeminent spiritual authority.