 Initially, he had read the writings of the "Maskilim", the leaders of "Haskalah", particularly those of Mapu and M. A. Ginzburg.These produced in him a feeling of dissatisfaction with traditional Talmudic studies and an abhorrence for the ignorance and superstition surrounding him; he decided, therefore, to combat these faults.In an article entitled "Orḥot ha-Talmud", in "Ha-Meliẓ", 1868, he arraigned the superstitious beliefs and practises of his people, demanded the reform of Judaism, and insisted upon the necessity of establishing a "closer connection between religion and life."