Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
Displaying 1 - 12 of 16
![Manuscript, Torah novellae handwritten and signed by R. Yaakov Berdugo. [Morocco, ca. first half of the 19th century]. These](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/46_1.jpg "Manuscript, Torah Novellae Handwritten and Signed by Rabbi Yaakov Berd")
![Manuscript, Torah novellae handwritten and signed by R. Yaakov Berdugo. [Morocco, ca. first half of the 19th century]. These](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/46_2.jpg "Manuscript, Torah Novellae Handwritten and Signed by Rabbi Yaakov Berd")
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $2,000
Sold for: $2,500
Including buyer's premium
Manuscript, Torah novellae handwritten and signed by R. Yaakov Berdugo. [Morocco, ca. first half of the 19th century].
These leaves were handwritten by R. Yaakov Berdugo, head of the Meknes Beit Din. They contain two halachic treatises: 1. Property claimed against an unpaid debt. R. Yaakov's signature appears at the end of the responsum, on p. [7b]: "Tolaat Yaakov", with his distinctive flourish. 2. Shtar Hatava (a deed giving the right to buy back sold property). This part contains many interlinear and marginal deletions, additions and emendations. He mentions the dayanim R. Yosef Ashriki and R. Aharon Monsonego. R. Yaakov writes: "In regard to this topic of Hatava, I see a troop of scholars debating in Halacha, one building and the other one destroying, one obligating and the other one exempting… and I was requested to express my opinion, according to which opinion Halacha should be established, even though I am unintelligent…".
R. Yaakov Berdugo (1786-1843), leading Meknes Torah scholar, served as head of the Meknes Beit Din. He was the son of R. Yekutiel Berdugo (eldest brother of HaMalach Refael Berdugo). "He was renowned throughout the Maghreb for his wisdom and holiness" (Malchei Rabbanan, p. 70). He was known in his times as "L'Haham" (=the Chacham), a title which expressed the veneration for him, and wondrous stories are retold about him (see article). He authored Shufreih DeYaakov, Kol Yaakov and other books.
[9] leaves (18 written pages). 19 cm. Fair condition. Worming and dampness damage, traces of mold, affecting text. Leaves professionally restored.
These leaves were handwritten by R. Yaakov Berdugo, head of the Meknes Beit Din. They contain two halachic treatises: 1. Property claimed against an unpaid debt. R. Yaakov's signature appears at the end of the responsum, on p. [7b]: "Tolaat Yaakov", with his distinctive flourish. 2. Shtar Hatava (a deed giving the right to buy back sold property). This part contains many interlinear and marginal deletions, additions and emendations. He mentions the dayanim R. Yosef Ashriki and R. Aharon Monsonego. R. Yaakov writes: "In regard to this topic of Hatava, I see a troop of scholars debating in Halacha, one building and the other one destroying, one obligating and the other one exempting… and I was requested to express my opinion, according to which opinion Halacha should be established, even though I am unintelligent…".
R. Yaakov Berdugo (1786-1843), leading Meknes Torah scholar, served as head of the Meknes Beit Din. He was the son of R. Yekutiel Berdugo (eldest brother of HaMalach Refael Berdugo). "He was renowned throughout the Maghreb for his wisdom and holiness" (Malchei Rabbanan, p. 70). He was known in his times as "L'Haham" (=the Chacham), a title which expressed the veneration for him, and wondrous stories are retold about him (see article). He authored Shufreih DeYaakov, Kol Yaakov and other books.
[9] leaves (18 written pages). 19 cm. Fair condition. Worming and dampness damage, traces of mold, affecting text. Leaves professionally restored.
Category
North African Jewry - Manuscripts and Letters
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Sold for: $813
Including buyer's premium
Collection of handwritten leaves found in the binding of a book - fragments of various compositions; signatures of rabbis of Ghris, Morocco (today: Goulmima). [Morocco, first half of the 19th century].
All the leaves were found in the binding of one book. The leaves include: • Leaves with lists of names of people. • Many leaves handwritten by R. Moshe Abikhzer. Some bear his calligraphic signature. One leaf states: "My writing… Moshe son of Yosef… Abikhzer". One leaf (double leaf, 3 pages) opens with: "A person must set times to study Torah especially at night…". Signed at the end of the page: "Moshe Abikhzer". The second page contains another passage with a personal testimony of his study schedule: "And this is the Torah learning schedule I established, I… whose signature appears below…", with an additional signature; the third page features another passage, also signed (the third signature and part of the text were damaged from worming). The leaf is dated 1819. This may be his will. • A fragment of a contract from 1818, with the calligraphic signatures of the rabbis of Ghris: R. Sa'id son of Moshe Illouz, R. Yaakov son of Yitzchak Simchon and R. Moshe Bensoussan. • A contract from 1780, signed by R. Machlouf son of Yosef Andam and R. Ya'ish son of Yosef Attia. • Fragment of a calendar of Tekufot, for 1740-1762. • Leaf with illustrations of the Menorah and Temple utensils. • Leaf with a passage from a commentary to the Thirteen principles of Faith of the Rambam. • Fragment of a decorated ketubah. • Fragments of other compositions.
The collection includes the binding from which these leaves were removed; enclosed are photographs from the process of disassembling the binding, and the separation of the leaves.
R. Moshe son of R. Yosef Abikhzer, a foremost Torah scholar in the Tafilalt region of Morocco in the 19th century. He was a close friend of R. Yaakov Abuchatzeira - the Abir Yaakov, and their signatures appear together on halachic rulings. He lived in the village of Ghris, "and all the neighboring villages subjected themselves to his authority. He was a great scholar and collected many books from distant countries at great personal effort. Eventually, he established a library, and all the books scattered throughout the villages of Tafilalt were left by him" (Malchei Rabbanan, in his entry). Two questions he addressed to R. Yaakov Berdugo were published in the latter's book Shufreih DeYaakov.
Approx. 50 leaves and leaf fragments. Size and condition vary (various degrees of damage due to use as binding and worming).
All the leaves were found in the binding of one book. The leaves include: • Leaves with lists of names of people. • Many leaves handwritten by R. Moshe Abikhzer. Some bear his calligraphic signature. One leaf states: "My writing… Moshe son of Yosef… Abikhzer". One leaf (double leaf, 3 pages) opens with: "A person must set times to study Torah especially at night…". Signed at the end of the page: "Moshe Abikhzer". The second page contains another passage with a personal testimony of his study schedule: "And this is the Torah learning schedule I established, I… whose signature appears below…", with an additional signature; the third page features another passage, also signed (the third signature and part of the text were damaged from worming). The leaf is dated 1819. This may be his will. • A fragment of a contract from 1818, with the calligraphic signatures of the rabbis of Ghris: R. Sa'id son of Moshe Illouz, R. Yaakov son of Yitzchak Simchon and R. Moshe Bensoussan. • A contract from 1780, signed by R. Machlouf son of Yosef Andam and R. Ya'ish son of Yosef Attia. • Fragment of a calendar of Tekufot, for 1740-1762. • Leaf with illustrations of the Menorah and Temple utensils. • Leaf with a passage from a commentary to the Thirteen principles of Faith of the Rambam. • Fragment of a decorated ketubah. • Fragments of other compositions.
The collection includes the binding from which these leaves were removed; enclosed are photographs from the process of disassembling the binding, and the separation of the leaves.
R. Moshe son of R. Yosef Abikhzer, a foremost Torah scholar in the Tafilalt region of Morocco in the 19th century. He was a close friend of R. Yaakov Abuchatzeira - the Abir Yaakov, and their signatures appear together on halachic rulings. He lived in the village of Ghris, "and all the neighboring villages subjected themselves to his authority. He was a great scholar and collected many books from distant countries at great personal effort. Eventually, he established a library, and all the books scattered throughout the villages of Tafilalt were left by him" (Malchei Rabbanan, in his entry). Two questions he addressed to R. Yaakov Berdugo were published in the latter's book Shufreih DeYaakov.
Approx. 50 leaves and leaf fragments. Size and condition vary (various degrees of damage due to use as binding and worming).
Category
North African Jewry - Manuscripts and Letters
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $750
Sold for: $938
Including buyer's premium
Signed letter, containing a copying of the letter sent from the Tunis Beit Din to the Livorno community, Italy, documenting the expulsion of the kabbalist R. Avraham Lulu from Tunis, for his use of Holy Names and practical Kabbalah. [Tunis], Cheshvan 1804.
This letter is an official copying of the letter from 1804 which the Tunis Torah scholars sent to Livorno. This copy, (also sent to Livorno), is signed by two Tunis Torah scholars: R. Shlomo Kohen and R. Mordechai Darmon. A countersign in Italian dated February 1805 was added at the foot of the letter, written and signed by R. Yaakov Nunez Vais, rabbi of Livorno, with the signature of R. Avraham Vita (Chaim) Tapia. The letter was written following an inquiry from the Livorno Torah scholars as to "how the verdict regarding R. Avraham Lulu was reached". The Tunis Torah scholars responded that they investigated the claims on R. Avraham Lulu, examined the books he used and found their contents to be even worse than what had been reported, and they therefore buried them. Afraid that he would cause them harm by turning to the authorities, they decided to banish him from Tunis.
Wondrous stories of miracles performed through Holy Names and practical Kabbalah circulated in those times regarding the kabbalist R. Avraham Lulu, whom this letter discusses. Perach Shoshan by R. Shushan HaKohen (Jerusalem 1977) quotes several such stories. Reputedly, he would go to study with his friends at night in the courtyard of the king's palace, miraculously producing donkeys for them to ride on, cause the palace walls to open up, and bring them into the courtyard with no resistance. It is also retold that R. Avraham Lulu succeeded in restoring a wealthy man's entire fortune which had been stolen. Maaseh Tzaddikm by R. Avraham Khalfon (Telamim 2009) quotes "The tale of the wind with R. Avraham Lulu" (see enclosed material).
R. Avraham Lulu, was born in Marrakesh, Morocco, and later wandered to Tunis and Livorno (in the final years of the Chida). This letter reveals that he left Tunis following the opposition of the Tunis rabbis to his actions. He is described by R. Yosef HaKohen Tangi in Toldot Chachmei Tunis: "He was renowned in Tunis as exceptionally proficient in Practical Kabbalah, and could extract wine from a wall, as is retold about the Baal Shem". A lengthy halachic letter from R. Avraham Lulu was printed in the book Pekudat HaMelech by R. Yisrael Nachman Drohobyczer (Livorno 1804). The Pekudat HaMelech met R. Avraham Lulu while passing through Livorno, and printed the latter's words together with his response (this indicates that R. Avraham Lulu was already residing in Livorno in 1804). It is interesting to note that there is an extant manuscript on Practical Kabbalah previously owned by R. Avraham Lulu (National Library of France, MS Hebr. 1380).
[1] double leaf. 30.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor marginal tears. Folding marks.
This letter is an official copying of the letter from 1804 which the Tunis Torah scholars sent to Livorno. This copy, (also sent to Livorno), is signed by two Tunis Torah scholars: R. Shlomo Kohen and R. Mordechai Darmon. A countersign in Italian dated February 1805 was added at the foot of the letter, written and signed by R. Yaakov Nunez Vais, rabbi of Livorno, with the signature of R. Avraham Vita (Chaim) Tapia. The letter was written following an inquiry from the Livorno Torah scholars as to "how the verdict regarding R. Avraham Lulu was reached". The Tunis Torah scholars responded that they investigated the claims on R. Avraham Lulu, examined the books he used and found their contents to be even worse than what had been reported, and they therefore buried them. Afraid that he would cause them harm by turning to the authorities, they decided to banish him from Tunis.
Wondrous stories of miracles performed through Holy Names and practical Kabbalah circulated in those times regarding the kabbalist R. Avraham Lulu, whom this letter discusses. Perach Shoshan by R. Shushan HaKohen (Jerusalem 1977) quotes several such stories. Reputedly, he would go to study with his friends at night in the courtyard of the king's palace, miraculously producing donkeys for them to ride on, cause the palace walls to open up, and bring them into the courtyard with no resistance. It is also retold that R. Avraham Lulu succeeded in restoring a wealthy man's entire fortune which had been stolen. Maaseh Tzaddikm by R. Avraham Khalfon (Telamim 2009) quotes "The tale of the wind with R. Avraham Lulu" (see enclosed material).
R. Avraham Lulu, was born in Marrakesh, Morocco, and later wandered to Tunis and Livorno (in the final years of the Chida). This letter reveals that he left Tunis following the opposition of the Tunis rabbis to his actions. He is described by R. Yosef HaKohen Tangi in Toldot Chachmei Tunis: "He was renowned in Tunis as exceptionally proficient in Practical Kabbalah, and could extract wine from a wall, as is retold about the Baal Shem". A lengthy halachic letter from R. Avraham Lulu was printed in the book Pekudat HaMelech by R. Yisrael Nachman Drohobyczer (Livorno 1804). The Pekudat HaMelech met R. Avraham Lulu while passing through Livorno, and printed the latter's words together with his response (this indicates that R. Avraham Lulu was already residing in Livorno in 1804). It is interesting to note that there is an extant manuscript on Practical Kabbalah previously owned by R. Avraham Lulu (National Library of France, MS Hebr. 1380).
[1] double leaf. 30.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor marginal tears. Folding marks.
Category
North African Jewry - Manuscripts and Letters
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $300
Sold for: $688
Including buyer's premium
Varied collection of handwritten leaves, documents and printed items, most are presumably from Tunisian Torah scholars. [Early 20th century].
The collection includes: leaves with Torah thoughts from various writers, many of them handwritten by R. Machlouf Aidan (a Tunisian Torah scholar, rabbi in Djerba). One leaf bears his signature. • Official documents (in Arabic), signed by the rabbis of Gabès: R. Fredji Allouch, R. Michael Allouch, R. Yitzchak Gagou Serour, and others. • Manuscript, piyyutim from Tunisian composers (the manuscript is lacking the beginning and end). • Novellae notebook (in late Western script), several printed leaves and other paper items.
The collection was not thoroughly examined.
Over 100 leaves. Size and condition vary.
The collection includes: leaves with Torah thoughts from various writers, many of them handwritten by R. Machlouf Aidan (a Tunisian Torah scholar, rabbi in Djerba). One leaf bears his signature. • Official documents (in Arabic), signed by the rabbis of Gabès: R. Fredji Allouch, R. Michael Allouch, R. Yitzchak Gagou Serour, and others. • Manuscript, piyyutim from Tunisian composers (the manuscript is lacking the beginning and end). • Novellae notebook (in late Western script), several printed leaves and other paper items.
The collection was not thoroughly examined.
Over 100 leaves. Size and condition vary.
Category
North African Jewry - Manuscripts and Letters
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Unsold
Letter from the Bonn community, signed by the rabbi of the city, R. Avraham Auerbach, and by R. "Shmuel of Bonn" - one of the community leaders. Bonn, 12th Adar II 1832.
Addressed to the leaders of the Breslau community, and to their rabbi R. Shlomo Zalman Tiktin, the letter contains a request for assistance in obtaining documents for a member of the Bonn community, who was entitled to a share in the inheritance of a Jew who had passed away in Breslau. The inheritance was being held up by the Breslau court of law, due to the lack of a birth certificate.
Written by a scribe, with several corrections, presumably handwritten by R. Avraham Auerbach. The letter concludes: "So are the words of those who stand before the Jewish community, the members of the Israelite Consistory in the Bonn district", followed by the signature of R. Avraham Auerbach in Hebrew and German. Another signature, of "Shmuel of Bonn, known as S. Chevalier", presumably a head of the Bonn consistory.
R. Avraham Auerbach (1763-1845), disciple of R. Natan Adler and colleague of the Chatam Sofer. Leading rabbi of Germany and the Rhinelands. Son of R. Aviezri Zelig Auerbach Rabbi of Bouxwiller (1724-1768), and son-in-law of his uncle R. David Sinzheim (president of the Sanhedrin of French rabbis). He was raised by his grandfather R. Tzvi Hirsh Auerbach Rabbi of Worms, and later studied under R. Natan Adler in Frankfurt am Main, together with the Chatam Sofer (who later eulogized him; see: Ishim BiTeshuvot HaChatam Sofer, p. 20). He served as rabbi of several German communities. In 1808, he was appointed rabbi of Bonn. His descendants include prominent rabbis and Torah leaders, including: his eldest son, R. Tzvi Binyamin Auerbach - author of Nachal Eshkol and rabbi of Darmstadt and Halberstadt, his son R. Aharon Auerbach Rabbi of Bonn.
[1] leaf. 25.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks. On verso: address in German and remnants of wax seal of the Bonn consistory.
Addressed to the leaders of the Breslau community, and to their rabbi R. Shlomo Zalman Tiktin, the letter contains a request for assistance in obtaining documents for a member of the Bonn community, who was entitled to a share in the inheritance of a Jew who had passed away in Breslau. The inheritance was being held up by the Breslau court of law, due to the lack of a birth certificate.
Written by a scribe, with several corrections, presumably handwritten by R. Avraham Auerbach. The letter concludes: "So are the words of those who stand before the Jewish community, the members of the Israelite Consistory in the Bonn district", followed by the signature of R. Avraham Auerbach in Hebrew and German. Another signature, of "Shmuel of Bonn, known as S. Chevalier", presumably a head of the Bonn consistory.
R. Avraham Auerbach (1763-1845), disciple of R. Natan Adler and colleague of the Chatam Sofer. Leading rabbi of Germany and the Rhinelands. Son of R. Aviezri Zelig Auerbach Rabbi of Bouxwiller (1724-1768), and son-in-law of his uncle R. David Sinzheim (president of the Sanhedrin of French rabbis). He was raised by his grandfather R. Tzvi Hirsh Auerbach Rabbi of Worms, and later studied under R. Natan Adler in Frankfurt am Main, together with the Chatam Sofer (who later eulogized him; see: Ishim BiTeshuvot HaChatam Sofer, p. 20). He served as rabbi of several German communities. In 1808, he was appointed rabbi of Bonn. His descendants include prominent rabbis and Torah leaders, including: his eldest son, R. Tzvi Binyamin Auerbach - author of Nachal Eshkol and rabbi of Darmstadt and Halberstadt, his son R. Aharon Auerbach Rabbi of Bonn.
[1] leaf. 25.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks. On verso: address in German and remnants of wax seal of the Bonn consistory.
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue
![Five Books of the Torah, with the Five Megillot, with some Yiddish explanations. Vienna: Anton Schmidt, [1815]. Special copy](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/197.jpg "Five Books of the Torah - Vienna, 1815 - Copy for Use of Jewish Witnes")
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $500
Unsold
Five Books of the Torah, with the Five Megillot, with some Yiddish explanations. Vienna: Anton Schmidt, [1815].
Special copy used for Jewish witnesses taking oath in a Christian court of law. A printed document in German is pasted before the title page, filled-in by hand, and signed by Carolus Fischer, censor, editor and Hebrew translator of the royal court, and by R. Elazar Fleckeles head of the Prague Beit Din (in German). The document confirms the exact place in the book where one must rest one's hand while taking the oath (Vayikra 26:14 onwards - the curses in Parashat Bechukotai). On the preceding leaf, another authorization signed by Carolus Fischer. Stamp of the Semily district court (northern Czech Republic).
On leaf 98, handwritten markings based on the document. Likewise, on p. 59a, inscription in German and parentheses on the verse: "Thou shall not take the name of the Lord, your G-d in vain…".
163; [1], 14, 14-43 leaves. 23 cm. Thick paper. Good condition. Stains. First gathering and binding slightly detached. Small marginal tear to final leaf (not affecting text). Original leather binding (with blocking on the spine), loose, with damage.
Special copy used for Jewish witnesses taking oath in a Christian court of law. A printed document in German is pasted before the title page, filled-in by hand, and signed by Carolus Fischer, censor, editor and Hebrew translator of the royal court, and by R. Elazar Fleckeles head of the Prague Beit Din (in German). The document confirms the exact place in the book where one must rest one's hand while taking the oath (Vayikra 26:14 onwards - the curses in Parashat Bechukotai). On the preceding leaf, another authorization signed by Carolus Fischer. Stamp of the Semily district court (northern Czech Republic).
On leaf 98, handwritten markings based on the document. Likewise, on p. 59a, inscription in German and parentheses on the verse: "Thou shall not take the name of the Lord, your G-d in vain…".
163; [1], 14, 14-43 leaves. 23 cm. Thick paper. Good condition. Stains. First gathering and binding slightly detached. Small marginal tear to final leaf (not affecting text). Original leather binding (with blocking on the spine), loose, with damage.
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,200
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Yisrael Lifshitz, author of Tiferet Yisrael. Chodzież, Tevet 1835.
Familial letter addressed to his son R. Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz and his wife "the esteemed Rebbetzin Mina", in Wronki, with mentions of the purchase and loan of books: "…and I lent you the two books, but I ordered you with the commandment of honoring one's father to return them to me after P. and P. (? = Purim and Pesach?), since then you will be able to buy them there. Nachalat Shiva as well, I will buy for you when I can…".
The address is inscribed on verso, "To the Wronki community - …to R. Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz; signatures and signature trials of "Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz".
R. Yisrael Lifshitz (1782-1860) is renowned for his monumental composition Tiferet Yisrael on the six orders of Mishna, which was accepted by the entire Jewish world and has been reprinted in hundreds of editions until this day. He was the son of R. Gedalia Lifshitz, author of Regel Yeshara, and grandson of R. Yisrael Lifshitz, rabbi of Cleves. An outstanding Torah scholar and a foremost leader of German Jewry, he sat studying Torah the entire day, bedecked in Tallit and Tefillin beneath his outer coat, and was renowned as a holy and G-d fearing man. He served as rabbi for over fifty years, in many Prussian communities, including: Wronki, Chodzież, Dessau, Danzig and others. Apart from Tiferet Yisrael on the Mishna, he composed many other books, of homily, novellae and halachic rulings.
His son, the recipient of the letter: R. Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz (1812-1878), author of Misgeret Zahav - addenda to his father's commentary on the Mishna. His numerous glosses within the Tiferet Yisrael commentary begin with the initials A.B.Y. (Amar [said] Baruch Yitzchak). A great Torah scholar, holy and G-d fearing man. Already in his youth he was ordained by his illustrious father, and was appointed rabbi of Wronki, his birthplace. R. Akiva Eger, who fought the phenomenon of appointing young unmarried men to rabbinic positions, opposed this appointment, see Igrot R. Akiva Eger, Letters 42-49, from Tammuz 1833. This letter discloses that in the winter 1835, R. Baruch Yitzchak was already married to Rebbetzin Mina, and was still residing in Wronki. He later served as rabbi of Landsberg and as Chief Rabbi of the state of Mecklenburg. In 1859, he moved to Hamburg where he taught many disciples, his sermons and lectures earning great acclaim. R. Zalman Spitzer Rabbi of Vienna, son-in-law of the Chatam Sofer, once wrote in a letter regarding R. Baruch Yitzchak: "He is a perfect Tzaddik, who wages G-d's wars in Germany" (Milei DeAvot, II, Orach Chaim section 3).
[1] leaf. Approx. 17X13.5 cm. Thick, grayish paper. 12 autograph lines and signature, with his typical calligraphic flourishes. Good condition. The bottom of the leaf was cut with scissors.
Familial letter addressed to his son R. Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz and his wife "the esteemed Rebbetzin Mina", in Wronki, with mentions of the purchase and loan of books: "…and I lent you the two books, but I ordered you with the commandment of honoring one's father to return them to me after P. and P. (? = Purim and Pesach?), since then you will be able to buy them there. Nachalat Shiva as well, I will buy for you when I can…".
The address is inscribed on verso, "To the Wronki community - …to R. Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz; signatures and signature trials of "Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz".
R. Yisrael Lifshitz (1782-1860) is renowned for his monumental composition Tiferet Yisrael on the six orders of Mishna, which was accepted by the entire Jewish world and has been reprinted in hundreds of editions until this day. He was the son of R. Gedalia Lifshitz, author of Regel Yeshara, and grandson of R. Yisrael Lifshitz, rabbi of Cleves. An outstanding Torah scholar and a foremost leader of German Jewry, he sat studying Torah the entire day, bedecked in Tallit and Tefillin beneath his outer coat, and was renowned as a holy and G-d fearing man. He served as rabbi for over fifty years, in many Prussian communities, including: Wronki, Chodzież, Dessau, Danzig and others. Apart from Tiferet Yisrael on the Mishna, he composed many other books, of homily, novellae and halachic rulings.
His son, the recipient of the letter: R. Baruch Yitzchak Lifshitz (1812-1878), author of Misgeret Zahav - addenda to his father's commentary on the Mishna. His numerous glosses within the Tiferet Yisrael commentary begin with the initials A.B.Y. (Amar [said] Baruch Yitzchak). A great Torah scholar, holy and G-d fearing man. Already in his youth he was ordained by his illustrious father, and was appointed rabbi of Wronki, his birthplace. R. Akiva Eger, who fought the phenomenon of appointing young unmarried men to rabbinic positions, opposed this appointment, see Igrot R. Akiva Eger, Letters 42-49, from Tammuz 1833. This letter discloses that in the winter 1835, R. Baruch Yitzchak was already married to Rebbetzin Mina, and was still residing in Wronki. He later served as rabbi of Landsberg and as Chief Rabbi of the state of Mecklenburg. In 1859, he moved to Hamburg where he taught many disciples, his sermons and lectures earning great acclaim. R. Zalman Spitzer Rabbi of Vienna, son-in-law of the Chatam Sofer, once wrote in a letter regarding R. Baruch Yitzchak: "He is a perfect Tzaddik, who wages G-d's wars in Germany" (Milei DeAvot, II, Orach Chaim section 3).
[1] leaf. Approx. 17X13.5 cm. Thick, grayish paper. 12 autograph lines and signature, with his typical calligraphic flourishes. Good condition. The bottom of the leaf was cut with scissors.
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Unsold
Lengthy and interesting letter handwritten and signed by R. Baruch Bendit HaLevi Duschenes. Leeuwarden, Netherlands, [Cheshvan 1844].
Addressed to R. Tzvi Hirsch Lehren of Amsterdam (president of the Pekidim and Amarkalim, a relative of R. Bendit - "my relative… beloved to me like my father"). The main part of the letter discusses the reasons for the failure of the yeshiva in his distant city (at the northwesternmost point of the country, capital of the Friesland province). The letter contains historical information describing the methods of founding yeshivot in the mid-1800s in the Netherlands. It appears from the letter that most of the students that came to the city, and subsequently abandoned Torah study in favor of other activities, such as business or secular studies. R. Bendit explains that the failure to maintain the yeshiva did not stem from difficulties in providing for the students, since he succeeded in procuring "more meals than days of the week…" (in those days, the yeshiva provided for its students with "Teg" - "days", in the homes of wealthy residents, who hosted the students for meals once or twice a week). R. Bendit suggests to raise the standard of Torah study by bringing in students from Russian or Polish yeshivot. The end of the letter discusses the fundraising activities of the Pekidim and Amarkalim on behalf of Eretz Israel Jewry.
R. Baruch Bendit Duschenes (the second), rabbi of Leeuwarden (d. 1886, Otzar HaRabbanim 4189), leading Dutch rabbi in the 19th century. In 1851, he was appointed president of the Pekidim and Amarkalim. He was a descendant of R. Baruch Bendit HaLevi Horowitz-Duschenes of Prague, rabbi and dean of Nijmegen (d. 1803, Otzar HaRabbanim 4190), who was the father-in-law of R. Avraham Moshe Lehren of the Hague - father of R. Tzvi Hirsch and R. Akiva Lehren of Amsterdam, founders and heads of the Pekidim and Amarkalim society which administrated Eretz Israel funds.
[1] double leaf (closely written on both sides). 25.5 cm. Light wear and tears.
Addressed to R. Tzvi Hirsch Lehren of Amsterdam (president of the Pekidim and Amarkalim, a relative of R. Bendit - "my relative… beloved to me like my father"). The main part of the letter discusses the reasons for the failure of the yeshiva in his distant city (at the northwesternmost point of the country, capital of the Friesland province). The letter contains historical information describing the methods of founding yeshivot in the mid-1800s in the Netherlands. It appears from the letter that most of the students that came to the city, and subsequently abandoned Torah study in favor of other activities, such as business or secular studies. R. Bendit explains that the failure to maintain the yeshiva did not stem from difficulties in providing for the students, since he succeeded in procuring "more meals than days of the week…" (in those days, the yeshiva provided for its students with "Teg" - "days", in the homes of wealthy residents, who hosted the students for meals once or twice a week). R. Bendit suggests to raise the standard of Torah study by bringing in students from Russian or Polish yeshivot. The end of the letter discusses the fundraising activities of the Pekidim and Amarkalim on behalf of Eretz Israel Jewry.
R. Baruch Bendit Duschenes (the second), rabbi of Leeuwarden (d. 1886, Otzar HaRabbanim 4189), leading Dutch rabbi in the 19th century. In 1851, he was appointed president of the Pekidim and Amarkalim. He was a descendant of R. Baruch Bendit HaLevi Horowitz-Duschenes of Prague, rabbi and dean of Nijmegen (d. 1803, Otzar HaRabbanim 4190), who was the father-in-law of R. Avraham Moshe Lehren of the Hague - father of R. Tzvi Hirsch and R. Akiva Lehren of Amsterdam, founders and heads of the Pekidim and Amarkalim society which administrated Eretz Israel funds.
[1] double leaf (closely written on both sides). 25.5 cm. Light wear and tears.
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Letter (2 pages), containing a query handwritten and signed by R. Yisrael Meir Freimann Rabbi of Filehne (Wieleń), addressed to his father-in-law R. Yaakov Ettlinger, author of Aruch LaNer; with a response (7 lines, unsigned) handwritten by the Aruch LaNer further on the page and on the verso. [Filehne and Altona, ca. 1870].
R. Yisrael Meir Freimann, who prepared the book VeHizhir for print, sent his father-in-law the Aruch LaNer a difficulty regarding the punishment for eating non-slaughtered meat. His father-in-law responded to the letter on the same leaf. This correspondence is mentioned briefly by R. Yisrael Meir in a footnote printed in VeHizhir on Shemot (Leipzig, 1873, p. 4a, footnote 3): "These laws are difficult, and I discussed them with my father-in-law, and please G-d in part II they will be addressed". Ultimately, R. Yisrael Meir did not publish this discussion in part II of his book, and this correspondence was only printed recently based on a manuscript, in the third part of Responsa Binyan Tzion, published by Dvar Yerushalayim (Jerusalem, 2002, section 176).
R. Yaakov Ettlinger (1789-1872), chief rabbi of Altona and the surroundings and rabbi of Altona, was a foremost leader of German Jewry and one of the strongest opponents of the Reform movement. In his youth, he served as lecturer in the yeshiva of his father, R. Aharon Ettlinger in Karlsruhe, and was one of the primary disciples of R. Asher Wallerstein, son of the Shaagat Aryeh and rabbi of the city. He also studied in the Würzburg yeshiva under R. Avraham Bing, and was a colleague of Chacham Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg and R. Elazar Bergman of Jerusalem.
In ca. 1828, he was appointed dean of the yeshiva and rabbi of the Kloiz in Mannheim, and in 1836, went to serve as rabbi of the Three Communities (Altona, Hamburg and Wandsbeck), where he established a prominent yeshiva. R. Yaakov Ettlinger dedicated his life to disseminating Torah, and leading German rabbis were his disciples, the most renowned ones include: R. Samson Refael Hirsch; R. Azriel Hildesheimer, R. Tzvi Binyamin Auerbach Rabbi of Halberstadt and author of Nachal Eshkol, R. Getsch Schlesinger dayan in Hamburg, R. Eliyahu Munk dayan in Altona and his son R. Yehuda Munk Rabbi of Marburg, R. Zev Yitzchak HaLevi Dunner of Köln author of LiChevod Amudei HaTorah, R. Moshe Weisskopf Rabbi of Paris, and other renowned disciples who glorified German communities in that generation.
He authored the following books: Aruch LaNer on Talmudic tractates, Bikurei Yaakov, Responsa Binyan Tzion, Minchat Ani on the Torah and others. He was the founder and editor of the Orthodox periodical Shomer Tzion HaNe'eman. His books are studied until this day in Torah study halls, and his teachings are quoted extensively in Halachic literature. Already in his generation, he was considered a leading Halachic authority, and Halachic questions were referred to him from Jerusalem and throughout the Jewish world. R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn wrote in several dispensations for Agunot, that he will issue a permission only if the "Gaon from Altona" will concur with him (Shoel UMeshiv, Telitaa, part II, 216; part III, 87). He was the supreme authority amongst German rabbis, and even the great Torah scholar from Würzburg, R. Yitzchak Dov Bamberger, wrote regarding him: "Since then, I would bring any difficulty before one of the leading Torah scholars of the generation, R. M. Kargau and my mechutan R. Yaakov Ettlinger… before them I posed any difficult matter" (Responsa Yad HaLevi, Jerusalem 1988, p. 60). After his passing and that of the Ktav Sofer the same year, Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Deyzh termed them the righteous men of the generation (Maaglei Tzedek, I, Parashat Vaera).
His son-in-law R. Yisrael Meir Freimann (1830-1884), rabbi of Filehne (Wieleń) and Ostrowo (Ostrów Wielkopolski, Posen Province), author of Anfei Yehuda on VeHizhir. He exchanged extensive correspondence with his father-in-law the Aruch LaNer on various topics, some of which was published in Responsa Binyan Tzion, mostly in part III of the new edition of Likutei Teshuvot - Binyan Tzion (Dvar Yerushalayim publication, Jerusalem 2002).
[1] leaf (written on both sides). Approx. 11X14 cm. Thin stationery. Good condition. Creases and light stains.
R. Yisrael Meir Freimann, who prepared the book VeHizhir for print, sent his father-in-law the Aruch LaNer a difficulty regarding the punishment for eating non-slaughtered meat. His father-in-law responded to the letter on the same leaf. This correspondence is mentioned briefly by R. Yisrael Meir in a footnote printed in VeHizhir on Shemot (Leipzig, 1873, p. 4a, footnote 3): "These laws are difficult, and I discussed them with my father-in-law, and please G-d in part II they will be addressed". Ultimately, R. Yisrael Meir did not publish this discussion in part II of his book, and this correspondence was only printed recently based on a manuscript, in the third part of Responsa Binyan Tzion, published by Dvar Yerushalayim (Jerusalem, 2002, section 176).
R. Yaakov Ettlinger (1789-1872), chief rabbi of Altona and the surroundings and rabbi of Altona, was a foremost leader of German Jewry and one of the strongest opponents of the Reform movement. In his youth, he served as lecturer in the yeshiva of his father, R. Aharon Ettlinger in Karlsruhe, and was one of the primary disciples of R. Asher Wallerstein, son of the Shaagat Aryeh and rabbi of the city. He also studied in the Würzburg yeshiva under R. Avraham Bing, and was a colleague of Chacham Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg and R. Elazar Bergman of Jerusalem.
In ca. 1828, he was appointed dean of the yeshiva and rabbi of the Kloiz in Mannheim, and in 1836, went to serve as rabbi of the Three Communities (Altona, Hamburg and Wandsbeck), where he established a prominent yeshiva. R. Yaakov Ettlinger dedicated his life to disseminating Torah, and leading German rabbis were his disciples, the most renowned ones include: R. Samson Refael Hirsch; R. Azriel Hildesheimer, R. Tzvi Binyamin Auerbach Rabbi of Halberstadt and author of Nachal Eshkol, R. Getsch Schlesinger dayan in Hamburg, R. Eliyahu Munk dayan in Altona and his son R. Yehuda Munk Rabbi of Marburg, R. Zev Yitzchak HaLevi Dunner of Köln author of LiChevod Amudei HaTorah, R. Moshe Weisskopf Rabbi of Paris, and other renowned disciples who glorified German communities in that generation.
He authored the following books: Aruch LaNer on Talmudic tractates, Bikurei Yaakov, Responsa Binyan Tzion, Minchat Ani on the Torah and others. He was the founder and editor of the Orthodox periodical Shomer Tzion HaNe'eman. His books are studied until this day in Torah study halls, and his teachings are quoted extensively in Halachic literature. Already in his generation, he was considered a leading Halachic authority, and Halachic questions were referred to him from Jerusalem and throughout the Jewish world. R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn wrote in several dispensations for Agunot, that he will issue a permission only if the "Gaon from Altona" will concur with him (Shoel UMeshiv, Telitaa, part II, 216; part III, 87). He was the supreme authority amongst German rabbis, and even the great Torah scholar from Würzburg, R. Yitzchak Dov Bamberger, wrote regarding him: "Since then, I would bring any difficulty before one of the leading Torah scholars of the generation, R. M. Kargau and my mechutan R. Yaakov Ettlinger… before them I posed any difficult matter" (Responsa Yad HaLevi, Jerusalem 1988, p. 60). After his passing and that of the Ktav Sofer the same year, Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Deyzh termed them the righteous men of the generation (Maaglei Tzedek, I, Parashat Vaera).
His son-in-law R. Yisrael Meir Freimann (1830-1884), rabbi of Filehne (Wieleń) and Ostrowo (Ostrów Wielkopolski, Posen Province), author of Anfei Yehuda on VeHizhir. He exchanged extensive correspondence with his father-in-law the Aruch LaNer on various topics, some of which was published in Responsa Binyan Tzion, mostly in part III of the new edition of Likutei Teshuvot - Binyan Tzion (Dvar Yerushalayim publication, Jerusalem 2002).
[1] leaf (written on both sides). Approx. 11X14 cm. Thin stationery. Good condition. Creases and light stains.
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $2,200
Sold for: $4,500
Including buyer's premium
Three letters handwritten and signed by R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch, part of his efforts against the Shechita Decree in Germany. Frankfurt, November-December 1886. German.
The letters concern the decree against Jewish ritual slaughter, instigated by antisemitic groups in Germany of those times. The Thierschutzverein - Society for the Protection of Animals, mentioned in these letters, presented a petition to the German parliament in 1886, calling to pass a law forbidding Shechita. R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch responded by leading a public and diplomatic battle against the Shechita Decree. These letters were written in the framework of his efforts, and he mentions in them various steps he took (publishing of books and booklets, negotiation with the German parliament, and others). The identity of the recipient of these letters is not known (all three letters begin with the words "Honorable Sir").
R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch was assisted in his battle against the Shechita Decree by his colleague, R. Azriel Hildesheimer, and he is mentioned in the first letter (letters they exchanged on this topic that year were published in Yad Shaul - memorial book for Rabbi Dr. Shaul Weingort, Tel Aviv 1953, pp. 245-251; and in Igrot R. Azriel Hildesheimer, German section, pp. 224-228. See enclosed material).
3 letters (5 written pages). 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Folding marks. Tears, slightly affecting several words.
The letters concern the decree against Jewish ritual slaughter, instigated by antisemitic groups in Germany of those times. The Thierschutzverein - Society for the Protection of Animals, mentioned in these letters, presented a petition to the German parliament in 1886, calling to pass a law forbidding Shechita. R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch responded by leading a public and diplomatic battle against the Shechita Decree. These letters were written in the framework of his efforts, and he mentions in them various steps he took (publishing of books and booklets, negotiation with the German parliament, and others). The identity of the recipient of these letters is not known (all three letters begin with the words "Honorable Sir").
R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch was assisted in his battle against the Shechita Decree by his colleague, R. Azriel Hildesheimer, and he is mentioned in the first letter (letters they exchanged on this topic that year were published in Yad Shaul - memorial book for Rabbi Dr. Shaul Weingort, Tel Aviv 1953, pp. 245-251; and in Igrot R. Azriel Hildesheimer, German section, pp. 224-228. See enclosed material).
3 letters (5 written pages). 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Folding marks. Tears, slightly affecting several words.
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue
![Letter handwritten and signed by R. Azriel Hildesheimer, addressed to R. Eliyahu Menachem Goitein Rabbi of Hőgyész. [Berlin],](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/202.jpg "Letter from Rabbi Azriel Hildesheimer - To R. Eliyahu Menachem Goitein")
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $600
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Azriel Hildesheimer, addressed to R. Eliyahu Menachem Goitein Rabbi of Hőgyész. [Berlin], Av 1876.
Letter of Torah thoughts on various topics. At the end of the letter, R. Azriel responds to the innovative proposal presented by R. Eliyahu Menachem. It appears that R. Eliyahu Menachem suggested to publish the letters of queries sent by rabbis to their colleagues on halachic issues, since most responsa books contain mainly answers, whilst the questions are only mentioned succinctly. R. Azriel replies to R. Eliyahu Menachem that there is indeed value in printing the letters of queries as well, and such a project would be considered "holy work", with the power to "glorify and raise the prestige of the Torah". R. Eliyahu Menachem's initiative presumably never materialized.
To the best of our knowledge, this letter was not published.
R. Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899), a leader in his times, was a disciple of the Aruch LaNer and of R. Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg. He served as rabbi of Eisenstadt between 1851-1869 where he founded an innovative yeshiva integrating secular studies according to the Torah with Derech Eretz doctrine. This move drew opposition and criticism both from the Reform movement and from certain sects of Orthodox Judaism. However, the leading rabbis of Hungary and Germany recognized his greatness and backed his yeshiva. In 1869, he was appointed rabbi of Berlin, where he established the Rabbinical seminary, standing at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in Germany.
R. Eliyahu Menachem Goitein (1839-1902), recipient of this letter, son of R. Tzvi Hirsch Goitein and grandson of R. Baruch Bendit Goitein author of Kesef Nivchar. A disciple of the Ketav Sofer. Just like his father and grandfather, he served as rabbi of Hőgyész. He was a colleague of R. Azriel Hildesheimer and corresponded with him extensively.
[1] leaf. 22.5 cm. Approx. 20 autograph lines and signature. Good condition. Stains. Folding marks. Address in German on verso.
Letter of Torah thoughts on various topics. At the end of the letter, R. Azriel responds to the innovative proposal presented by R. Eliyahu Menachem. It appears that R. Eliyahu Menachem suggested to publish the letters of queries sent by rabbis to their colleagues on halachic issues, since most responsa books contain mainly answers, whilst the questions are only mentioned succinctly. R. Azriel replies to R. Eliyahu Menachem that there is indeed value in printing the letters of queries as well, and such a project would be considered "holy work", with the power to "glorify and raise the prestige of the Torah". R. Eliyahu Menachem's initiative presumably never materialized.
To the best of our knowledge, this letter was not published.
R. Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899), a leader in his times, was a disciple of the Aruch LaNer and of R. Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg. He served as rabbi of Eisenstadt between 1851-1869 where he founded an innovative yeshiva integrating secular studies according to the Torah with Derech Eretz doctrine. This move drew opposition and criticism both from the Reform movement and from certain sects of Orthodox Judaism. However, the leading rabbis of Hungary and Germany recognized his greatness and backed his yeshiva. In 1869, he was appointed rabbi of Berlin, where he established the Rabbinical seminary, standing at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in Germany.
R. Eliyahu Menachem Goitein (1839-1902), recipient of this letter, son of R. Tzvi Hirsch Goitein and grandson of R. Baruch Bendit Goitein author of Kesef Nivchar. A disciple of the Ketav Sofer. Just like his father and grandfather, he served as rabbi of Hőgyész. He was a colleague of R. Azriel Hildesheimer and corresponded with him extensively.
[1] leaf. 22.5 cm. Approx. 20 autograph lines and signature. Good condition. Stains. Folding marks. Address in German on verso.
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Letter (21 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Eliyahu Guttmacher, Rabbi of Greiditz (Grodzisk Wielkopolski). [Greiditz, ca. 1860s-1870s].
Letter of rebuke, presumably addressed to the trustee of his institutions in Jerusalem (the upper part of the leaf, with the date and name of recipient were cut off, possibly to hide the identity of the addressee, recipient of this reproof. The recipient may have been R. Yaakov Mordechai Hirschensohn, founder and gabbai of his Beit Midrash Sukkat Shalom in Jerusalem). R. Guttmacher reproaches him for not sending receipts for the Passover funds, adding that this is delaying the expedition of funds for Shavuot. R. Eliyahu describes the grievances being leveled against him personally, for backing his trustee against his rivals. He relates that he received letters on this topic from "the Sephardi Chacham… and from the Kalischer Gaon", accusing the trustee of refusing to present himself for mediation. "In this country as well, many criticize my confidence in one individual against many", and now he is aggravating his case with his delay in sending receipts. Following this scathing reprimand, R. Eliyahu tries to find extenuating circumstances which could explain this lapse, such as postal delays, and writes that if the letters arrive "within a few days, I will send the usual funds for distribution, with a little extra, and perhaps I will send immediately or shortly one hundred Reichsthaler for Shavuot. So are the words of his friend Eliyahu, residing here Greiditz…".
R. Eliyahu Guttmacher Rabbi of Greiditz (1796-1875), disciple of R. Akiva Eger, served as rabbi of Pleschen (Pleszew) until 1841, thereafter moving to serve in the Greiditz rabbinate. His eldest son, R. Tzvi Hirsh, succeeded him as rabbi of Pleschen. Famed as a holy kabbalist, in his senior years his name spread throughout the Jewish world as a wonder-worker, with amazing stories circulating of the great miracles and salvations attained through the blessings of "der Greiditzer Tzaddik" (the Tzaddik of Greiditz), "from all countries people came to seek his blessings and prayers, each one according to his needs" (Igrot Sofrim, at the foot of letter 29).
R. Eliyahu Guttmacher was very active on behalf of Eretz Israel Jewry, and founded a yeshiva in Jerusalem named Chevrat Sukkat Shalom and Meor Yaakov. This yeshiva was established in the Shenot Eliyahu Beit Midrash which was located in R. Eliyahu Guttmacher's courtyard in Jerusalem, purchased by his trustee R. Yaakov Mordechai Hirschensohn. R. Eliyahu financed the yeshiva until his final days. In addition, together with R. Tzvi Hirsch Kalischer, he was a leading member of the Chevrat Yishuv Eretz Israel society, founded in Frankfurt in 1860. The goal of this society was to increase agricultural Jewish settlement in Eretz Israel, by redeeming the land from non-Jews and settling instead Jewish farmers, who would work it, be sustained by it, and perform mitzvot pertaining to it. These two rabbis propagated this ideal extensively in their books, writings, letters and sermons. They prove repeatedly in their books that these activities bring the Redemption closer and awaken Heavenly mercy and salvation.
[1] leaf. Approx. 18 cm. Good condition. Lacking upper part of leaf (cut unsymmetrically).
Letter of rebuke, presumably addressed to the trustee of his institutions in Jerusalem (the upper part of the leaf, with the date and name of recipient were cut off, possibly to hide the identity of the addressee, recipient of this reproof. The recipient may have been R. Yaakov Mordechai Hirschensohn, founder and gabbai of his Beit Midrash Sukkat Shalom in Jerusalem). R. Guttmacher reproaches him for not sending receipts for the Passover funds, adding that this is delaying the expedition of funds for Shavuot. R. Eliyahu describes the grievances being leveled against him personally, for backing his trustee against his rivals. He relates that he received letters on this topic from "the Sephardi Chacham… and from the Kalischer Gaon", accusing the trustee of refusing to present himself for mediation. "In this country as well, many criticize my confidence in one individual against many", and now he is aggravating his case with his delay in sending receipts. Following this scathing reprimand, R. Eliyahu tries to find extenuating circumstances which could explain this lapse, such as postal delays, and writes that if the letters arrive "within a few days, I will send the usual funds for distribution, with a little extra, and perhaps I will send immediately or shortly one hundred Reichsthaler for Shavuot. So are the words of his friend Eliyahu, residing here Greiditz…".
R. Eliyahu Guttmacher Rabbi of Greiditz (1796-1875), disciple of R. Akiva Eger, served as rabbi of Pleschen (Pleszew) until 1841, thereafter moving to serve in the Greiditz rabbinate. His eldest son, R. Tzvi Hirsh, succeeded him as rabbi of Pleschen. Famed as a holy kabbalist, in his senior years his name spread throughout the Jewish world as a wonder-worker, with amazing stories circulating of the great miracles and salvations attained through the blessings of "der Greiditzer Tzaddik" (the Tzaddik of Greiditz), "from all countries people came to seek his blessings and prayers, each one according to his needs" (Igrot Sofrim, at the foot of letter 29).
R. Eliyahu Guttmacher was very active on behalf of Eretz Israel Jewry, and founded a yeshiva in Jerusalem named Chevrat Sukkat Shalom and Meor Yaakov. This yeshiva was established in the Shenot Eliyahu Beit Midrash which was located in R. Eliyahu Guttmacher's courtyard in Jerusalem, purchased by his trustee R. Yaakov Mordechai Hirschensohn. R. Eliyahu financed the yeshiva until his final days. In addition, together with R. Tzvi Hirsch Kalischer, he was a leading member of the Chevrat Yishuv Eretz Israel society, founded in Frankfurt in 1860. The goal of this society was to increase agricultural Jewish settlement in Eretz Israel, by redeeming the land from non-Jews and settling instead Jewish farmers, who would work it, be sustained by it, and perform mitzvot pertaining to it. These two rabbis propagated this ideal extensively in their books, writings, letters and sermons. They prove repeatedly in their books that these activities bring the Redemption closer and awaken Heavenly mercy and salvation.
[1] leaf. Approx. 18 cm. Good condition. Lacking upper part of leaf (cut unsymmetrically).
Category
Letters - German and North European Rabbis
Catalogue