Rubinstein's Religion

1895

Born a Jew, Baptized a Christian, but Still an Unbeliever.

Although a Jew by birth, Rubinstein was baptized when a mere infant, and, as religion is a necessity in Russia, was forced, when residing there, to follow the prescribed forms once a year at least. But in reality he had little sympathy with the religion of the priest. The question of the hereafter had for him a fascination and a certain awe; but, although he went so far at times as to profess a belief in annihilation after death, yet it is to be doubted if Rubinstein himself really knew what he did believe. He certainly had his full share of Jewish skepticism, but at the same time was full of superstition — a sure sign, at least, that he could not have believed in nothing, since he feared something. He would never set out on a journey on Friday, neither would he, unless forced by circumstances, mention any of his undertakings before they were accomplished — a superstition which I encountered only the other day in Paderewski.

In his physiognomy Rubinstein had nothing whatever of the Israelite. He resembled Beethoven strangely, and for this was laughingly dubbed "Van II" by Liszt. It is worthy of notice and stands greatly to his credit that in Russia, where it is better to be born a dog than a Jew, Rubinstein, despite his baptism, never sought to deny his Jewish origin. In a certain way he was even proud of it and always boldly acknowledged it.

He was an ardent patriot and loved Russia with heart and soul, working unceasingly for the musical future of his country, having devoted the best part of his life to this cause. Without doubt he did for musical Russia more than any other man, and the best conservatory in the world today — that of St. Petersburg — owes its existence to his enthusiasm and the lavish gifts of money he made from time to time. He was curiously proud of this work, and he said once to me: "When I am dead, all that I care men should remember me by is this conservatory; that they should say it was Anton Rubinstein's work." — Alexander McArthur in Century.