Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
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Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $1,250
Including buyer's premium
Biurei HaZohar, commentary to the Zohar, by Rebbe Shneur Zalman of Liadi - the Baal HaTanya. Kopust (Kopys): R. Yisrael Yoffe, prominent disciple of the Baal HaTanya, [1816]. First edition.
A fundamental book clarifying many concepts of the Arizal's Kabbalah, according to Chassidic teachings. The commentaries to the Zohar, which the Baal HaTanya imparted to his sons and the elite of his disciples on Shabbat eves, were recorded by his son R. Dov Ber, the Mitteler Rebbe of Lubavitch. The Baal HaTanya taught these commentaries from 19th Kislev 1801, until his final years. This book contains only a quarter of his commentaries to the Zohar (as his son writes in the foreword).
The title page states: "…and for the most part these holy writings were reviewed by the Rebbe, and he was very satisfied with them". In the foreword, his son the Mitteler Rebbe - R. Dov Ber (Schneuri) of Lubavitch describes the contents of the commentaries in the book: "…which we heard from his holy mouth, every Shabbat eve, commentaries and explanations of the essays of the Zohar, one leaf from every portion, for several years, and it is plainly visible to all that Divine Inspiration rested upon him as he revealed the light of the secrets of the Torah, in particular in his explanations of the essays, he attained their absolutely true meaning. As I heard directly from him, more than once, that throughout his life, he specifically set Shabbat as the time for studying Zohar … and he attested on himself that he only studies each Shabbat one or two leaves, but in great depth, with great toil, and investigating each word, to reach the true understanding of Kabbalah…".
At the end of the foreword, the Mitteler Rebbe describes the method of writing and arranging the book: "It is known to all those who study my father's teachings, that none of the writings contain anything of my own, except when explaining and clarifying in places where he was concise, and even that was taken from his teachings, when he elaborated further in other places…".
Rebbe Eliezer Tzvi Safrin of Komarno writes in his preface to his commentary Damesek Eliezer on the Zohar, that one of the books which were before him while he composed his commentary was the Biurei HaZohar by R. Dov Ber, son of R. Shneur Zalman.
[4], 139; 57 leaves. 20.5 cm. Printed in part on bluish paper. Uneven edges. Good-fair condition. Stains. Dark dampstains to some leaves. Worming to first and final leaves and to other leaves, slightly affecting text. Printing defect and tear to leaf 138, affecting text with some loss. Marginal tears to several leaves. Stamps to title page and in other places. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 79.
A fundamental book clarifying many concepts of the Arizal's Kabbalah, according to Chassidic teachings. The commentaries to the Zohar, which the Baal HaTanya imparted to his sons and the elite of his disciples on Shabbat eves, were recorded by his son R. Dov Ber, the Mitteler Rebbe of Lubavitch. The Baal HaTanya taught these commentaries from 19th Kislev 1801, until his final years. This book contains only a quarter of his commentaries to the Zohar (as his son writes in the foreword).
The title page states: "…and for the most part these holy writings were reviewed by the Rebbe, and he was very satisfied with them". In the foreword, his son the Mitteler Rebbe - R. Dov Ber (Schneuri) of Lubavitch describes the contents of the commentaries in the book: "…which we heard from his holy mouth, every Shabbat eve, commentaries and explanations of the essays of the Zohar, one leaf from every portion, for several years, and it is plainly visible to all that Divine Inspiration rested upon him as he revealed the light of the secrets of the Torah, in particular in his explanations of the essays, he attained their absolutely true meaning. As I heard directly from him, more than once, that throughout his life, he specifically set Shabbat as the time for studying Zohar … and he attested on himself that he only studies each Shabbat one or two leaves, but in great depth, with great toil, and investigating each word, to reach the true understanding of Kabbalah…".
At the end of the foreword, the Mitteler Rebbe describes the method of writing and arranging the book: "It is known to all those who study my father's teachings, that none of the writings contain anything of my own, except when explaining and clarifying in places where he was concise, and even that was taken from his teachings, when he elaborated further in other places…".
Rebbe Eliezer Tzvi Safrin of Komarno writes in his preface to his commentary Damesek Eliezer on the Zohar, that one of the books which were before him while he composed his commentary was the Biurei HaZohar by R. Dov Ber, son of R. Shneur Zalman.
[4], 139; 57 leaves. 20.5 cm. Printed in part on bluish paper. Uneven edges. Good-fair condition. Stains. Dark dampstains to some leaves. Worming to first and final leaves and to other leaves, slightly affecting text. Printing defect and tear to leaf 138, affecting text with some loss. Marginal tears to several leaves. Stamps to title page and in other places. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 79.
Category
Chassidic Books – Chabad
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Unsold
Ner Mitzva VeTorah Or, foundations of Chabad Chassidic thought, by Rebbe Dov Ber Shneuri – the "Mitteler Rebbe" of Chabad. Kopust (Kopys): R. Yisrael Yoffe, prominent disciple of the Baal HaTanya, 1820. First edition.
The book comprises two parts. The first part is entitled Shaar HaEmuna, "regarding the essence of the mitzva of faith, which is the foundation and root of all mitzvot". The chapters in this part discuss the topics of the Exodus from Egypt, the eating of Matza and the Splitting of the Sea. The second part, named Shaar HaYichud, contains a concise explanation of the kabbalistic notions of Hishtalshelut HaOlamot and Sefirot (a complete composition entitled Likutei Biurim, Warsaw 1868, was written to explain the profound meaning of Shaar HaYichud, by R. Hillel of Paritch, close disciple of the author).
Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch stated that each of the Mitteler Rebbe's books was intended for a specific type of Chassid, yet "Shaar HaYichud is the key to Chassidism", and it was written for all Chassidim (Rebbe Rayatz, Limud HaChassidut, p. 30).
Stamps and ownership inscriptions of "Yaakov Dokter – son of Avraham Segal" [of Safed].
4, [7], 133, [1]; 57 leaves. 16 cm. Bluish paper. Good condition. Stains. Tears and worming to title page and several other leaves, affecting text, partially repaired with paper. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 395.
The book comprises two parts. The first part is entitled Shaar HaEmuna, "regarding the essence of the mitzva of faith, which is the foundation and root of all mitzvot". The chapters in this part discuss the topics of the Exodus from Egypt, the eating of Matza and the Splitting of the Sea. The second part, named Shaar HaYichud, contains a concise explanation of the kabbalistic notions of Hishtalshelut HaOlamot and Sefirot (a complete composition entitled Likutei Biurim, Warsaw 1868, was written to explain the profound meaning of Shaar HaYichud, by R. Hillel of Paritch, close disciple of the author).
Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch stated that each of the Mitteler Rebbe's books was intended for a specific type of Chassid, yet "Shaar HaYichud is the key to Chassidism", and it was written for all Chassidim (Rebbe Rayatz, Limud HaChassidut, p. 30).
Stamps and ownership inscriptions of "Yaakov Dokter – son of Avraham Segal" [of Safed].
4, [7], 133, [1]; 57 leaves. 16 cm. Bluish paper. Good condition. Stains. Tears and worming to title page and several other leaves, affecting text, partially repaired with paper. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 395.
Category
Chassidic Books – Chabad
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Unsold
Imrei Binah, explanations on the topics of Kriyat Shema, Tzitzit and Tefillin, based on Kabbalah and Chassidic teachings, by Rebbe Dov Ber Shneuri of Lubavitch, the "Mitteler Rebbe". Kopust: R. Yisrael Yoffe, prominent disciple of the Baal HaTanya, [1821]. First edition.
Imrei Binah is considered the most profound of the books composed and published by the Mitteler Rebbe. The main part of the book is dedicated to clarifying the kabbalistic concepts of Yichuda Ilaa and Yichuda Tataa, based on the teachings of the author's father – the Baal HaTanya. The book is divided into four sections: Petach HaShaar, Shaar Kriyat Shema, Shaar HaTzitzit and Shaar HaTefillin.
The Mitteler Rebbe published during the course of his life ten compositions, which he stated were each intended for a different kind of person. His book Imrei Binah was directed at the most profound scholars, and he once even stated that he had written it for his disciple R. Yekutiel Liepler. Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch related that he was once experiencing difficulty in grasping chapters 32 and 37 of the book, and he approached his father the Tzemach Tzedek for help in understanding them. However, his father instructed him to go ask R. Yekutiel (Rebbe Rayatz, Limud HaChassidut, p. 30).
Reputedly, the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz would study the book Imrei Binah every night before going to sleep (Sheloshet HaRo'im, Brooklyn 2004, p. 320). The Divrei Chaim even quotes it in his book Divrei Chaim on the Torah, Parashat Vayakhel (p. 28).
Rebbe Dov Ber Schneuri, known as the Mitteler Rebbe of Lubavitch (1774-1828) was the son of R. Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the Baal HaTanya. After his father passed away while fleeing the French Invasion of Russia, he began serving as rabbi of Lubavitch (Lyubavichi). In his father's lifetime, he recorded the latter's teachings, and delivered public lectures based on them, even in his presence, with the addition of his own commentaries. He was gifted with brilliant profundity and an unlimited wellspring of Torah thoughts. His Chassidic discourses would extend over many hours. He had an exceptional talent for clear explanations, whether in writing or orally, and was able to clarify and simplify before laymen the most profound and abstract concepts in Kabbalah and Chassidism. He was endowed with a rare ability to concentrate, and was able to contemplate G-dly concepts for hours on end, completely unaware of his surroundings. The Lubavitcher Rebbe retold that on Yom Kippur, he would stand in his place the entire day, in devoted prayer detached from physicality, without budging, with sweat pouring from his head. He passed away whilst delivering a Chassidic discourse.
[2], 21; 1-56, [1], 55-140 leaves. 20.5 cm. Greenish paper. Good condition. Tears and worming to title page, not affecting text. Worming to first and final leaves. Light wear to first leaves. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 55.
Imrei Binah is considered the most profound of the books composed and published by the Mitteler Rebbe. The main part of the book is dedicated to clarifying the kabbalistic concepts of Yichuda Ilaa and Yichuda Tataa, based on the teachings of the author's father – the Baal HaTanya. The book is divided into four sections: Petach HaShaar, Shaar Kriyat Shema, Shaar HaTzitzit and Shaar HaTefillin.
The Mitteler Rebbe published during the course of his life ten compositions, which he stated were each intended for a different kind of person. His book Imrei Binah was directed at the most profound scholars, and he once even stated that he had written it for his disciple R. Yekutiel Liepler. Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch related that he was once experiencing difficulty in grasping chapters 32 and 37 of the book, and he approached his father the Tzemach Tzedek for help in understanding them. However, his father instructed him to go ask R. Yekutiel (Rebbe Rayatz, Limud HaChassidut, p. 30).
Reputedly, the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz would study the book Imrei Binah every night before going to sleep (Sheloshet HaRo'im, Brooklyn 2004, p. 320). The Divrei Chaim even quotes it in his book Divrei Chaim on the Torah, Parashat Vayakhel (p. 28).
Rebbe Dov Ber Schneuri, known as the Mitteler Rebbe of Lubavitch (1774-1828) was the son of R. Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the Baal HaTanya. After his father passed away while fleeing the French Invasion of Russia, he began serving as rabbi of Lubavitch (Lyubavichi). In his father's lifetime, he recorded the latter's teachings, and delivered public lectures based on them, even in his presence, with the addition of his own commentaries. He was gifted with brilliant profundity and an unlimited wellspring of Torah thoughts. His Chassidic discourses would extend over many hours. He had an exceptional talent for clear explanations, whether in writing or orally, and was able to clarify and simplify before laymen the most profound and abstract concepts in Kabbalah and Chassidism. He was endowed with a rare ability to concentrate, and was able to contemplate G-dly concepts for hours on end, completely unaware of his surroundings. The Lubavitcher Rebbe retold that on Yom Kippur, he would stand in his place the entire day, in devoted prayer detached from physicality, without budging, with sweat pouring from his head. He passed away whilst delivering a Chassidic discourse.
[2], 21; 1-56, [1], 55-140 leaves. 20.5 cm. Greenish paper. Good condition. Tears and worming to title page, not affecting text. Worming to first and final leaves. Light wear to first leaves. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 55.
Category
Chassidic Books – Chabad
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $2,500
Estimate: $4,000 - $6,000
Unsold
Collection of three books – first editions of the three parts of Shaar HaTeshuva VehaTefillah, teachings of the second rebbe of the Chabad dynasty R. Dov Ber Schneuri – the Mitteler Rebbe. Printed in the Rebbe's lifetime. Shklow and Kopust (Kopys), 1817-1819.
1. Shaar HaTeshuva VehaTefillah, Part I – repentance and prayer, joy and bitterness. With the Shaar HaBechira section, "Discusses matters which subdue a person's heart to complete repentance". Shklow, [1817].
Signature on final leaf: "Meir son of Chaim Katz Bichever". Additional signatures on other leaves.
[4], 22; 11, [1], [2]; 84, [2] leaves. 16.5 cm. Mostly printed on greenish paper. Overall good condition. Stains and wear. Worming and wear to several leaves (with minor damage, mostly repaired). Inscriptions and stamps. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 586. The Bibliography of the Hebrew Book quotes the Chabad bibliographer Chaim Lieberman, who contends that the book may have been printed in Kopust and not in Shklow.
2. Shaar HaTeshuvah VehaTefillah, Part II, "regarding repentance and service of the heart". Shklow, [1818]. First edition.
2, 42, 2, 5-81, [1] leaves. 16 cm. Greenish paper. Overall good condition. Several leaves in fair condition. Stains. Dampstains. Tears and worming to several leaves, affecting text. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 586. This book has several variants (differences in page headings of first gathering).
3. Derech Chaim VeTochachot Mussar Haskel… Part III of Shaar HaTeshuva – "Words of reproach, which subjugate man's heart and bring him closer to his Father in Heaven, in complete repentance". Kopust: R. Yisrael Yoffe, prominent disciple of the Baal HaTanya, [1819]. First edition.
At the end of his preface to this book, the Mitteler Rebbe mentions how Chabad Chassidim cherish manuscripts, preferring them over printed books.
136 leaves. 18 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor marginal tears to several leaves. Stamps. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 138. This book has several variants (differences in pagination).
1. Shaar HaTeshuva VehaTefillah, Part I – repentance and prayer, joy and bitterness. With the Shaar HaBechira section, "Discusses matters which subdue a person's heart to complete repentance". Shklow, [1817].
Signature on final leaf: "Meir son of Chaim Katz Bichever". Additional signatures on other leaves.
[4], 22; 11, [1], [2]; 84, [2] leaves. 16.5 cm. Mostly printed on greenish paper. Overall good condition. Stains and wear. Worming and wear to several leaves (with minor damage, mostly repaired). Inscriptions and stamps. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 586. The Bibliography of the Hebrew Book quotes the Chabad bibliographer Chaim Lieberman, who contends that the book may have been printed in Kopust and not in Shklow.
2. Shaar HaTeshuvah VehaTefillah, Part II, "regarding repentance and service of the heart". Shklow, [1818]. First edition.
2, 42, 2, 5-81, [1] leaves. 16 cm. Greenish paper. Overall good condition. Several leaves in fair condition. Stains. Dampstains. Tears and worming to several leaves, affecting text. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 586. This book has several variants (differences in page headings of first gathering).
3. Derech Chaim VeTochachot Mussar Haskel… Part III of Shaar HaTeshuva – "Words of reproach, which subjugate man's heart and bring him closer to his Father in Heaven, in complete repentance". Kopust: R. Yisrael Yoffe, prominent disciple of the Baal HaTanya, [1819]. First edition.
At the end of his preface to this book, the Mitteler Rebbe mentions how Chabad Chassidim cherish manuscripts, preferring them over printed books.
136 leaves. 18 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor marginal tears to several leaves. Stamps. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 138. This book has several variants (differences in pagination).
Category
Chassidic Books – Chabad
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $500
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $1,063
Including buyer's premium
Book of responsa by Rebbe Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the Baal HaTanya. Zhitomir: R. Chanina Lipa and R. Yehoshua Heshel Shapira, grandsons of the rabbi of Slavita, 1857.
Exceptional copy. Printed on high-quality paper, with particularly wide margins. Instead of the foreword on p. 3, an illustration was printed, depicting the Tablets of Law on Mt. Sinai (such copy is recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, listing 000181206).
The responsa of the Baal HaTanya were first published in his Shulchan Aruch edition, printed in Zhitomir 1847, and later in Zhitomir 1857. In both editions, the responsa were printed both as independent volumes, and as part of the Shulchan Aruch.
In the foreword to the responsa, R. Chaim Avraham, son of the Baal HaTanya, describes the printing of the responsa book as an independent volume: "In his lifetime, many approached him with various questions… he responded to each one with his pleasant letters, clarifying the Halacha. In order to benefit the public who already possess a Shulchan Aruch… I decided to publish the responsa on their own as well".
Bound with three other books (at the beginning of the volume):
• Sifri, halachic midrash on the Books of Bamidbar and Devarim, with the notes of R. Yosef Shaul Nathansohn. Lviv, 1866. • Responsa of the Ran, by Rabbenu Nissim Gerondi. Lviv, 1860. • Seder HaYom, laws, ethics and conduct, by R. Moshe ben Machir. Lviv, 1875.
Sifri: [2], 2-82 leaves. Responsa of the Ran: [38] leaves. Seder HaYom: 38 leaves. Responsa of the Baal HaTanya: 42 leaves. Approx. 24.5 cm. Good condition. Wear and stains. Signatures and various inscriptions. Old binding, partially detached. Torn and damaged leather spine.
Exceptional copy. Printed on high-quality paper, with particularly wide margins. Instead of the foreword on p. 3, an illustration was printed, depicting the Tablets of Law on Mt. Sinai (such copy is recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, listing 000181206).
The responsa of the Baal HaTanya were first published in his Shulchan Aruch edition, printed in Zhitomir 1847, and later in Zhitomir 1857. In both editions, the responsa were printed both as independent volumes, and as part of the Shulchan Aruch.
In the foreword to the responsa, R. Chaim Avraham, son of the Baal HaTanya, describes the printing of the responsa book as an independent volume: "In his lifetime, many approached him with various questions… he responded to each one with his pleasant letters, clarifying the Halacha. In order to benefit the public who already possess a Shulchan Aruch… I decided to publish the responsa on their own as well".
Bound with three other books (at the beginning of the volume):
• Sifri, halachic midrash on the Books of Bamidbar and Devarim, with the notes of R. Yosef Shaul Nathansohn. Lviv, 1866. • Responsa of the Ran, by Rabbenu Nissim Gerondi. Lviv, 1860. • Seder HaYom, laws, ethics and conduct, by R. Moshe ben Machir. Lviv, 1875.
Sifri: [2], 2-82 leaves. Responsa of the Ran: [38] leaves. Seder HaYom: 38 leaves. Responsa of the Baal HaTanya: 42 leaves. Approx. 24.5 cm. Good condition. Wear and stains. Signatures and various inscriptions. Old binding, partially detached. Torn and damaged leather spine.
Category
Chassidic Books – Chabad
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $8,000 - $12,000
Sold for: $6,250
Including buyer's premium
Ashkenazi rite siddur, with the commentary of R. Yaakov Emden, Part I – Amudei Shamayim (prayers for weekdays and Shabbat); Part II – Shaarei Shamayim (prayers for festivals and more); Part III – Birkot Shamayim – Birat Migdal Oz (order of Brit Mila and words of ethics). Altona: [Printed in the home of the author R. Yaakov Rabbi of Emden - the Yaavetz], [1745-1748]. First edition. Three parts in three volumes.
All three parts of the siddur with R. Yaakov Emden's commentaries, based on revealed parts of the Torah and on Kabbalah – following the teachings of the Arizal. The third part includes laws and customs encompassing the human life cycle, from birth until death, methods of education, laws of kashrut and more. The first edition of this siddur is renowned for its great precision. R. Yaakov Emden expended great effort in establishing the exact text of the siddur, in the vocalization and accuracy of the words. This siddur was reprinted in many editions and was named by later printers "the Beit Yaakov siddur". In the siddur's later editions (Lviv and Warsaw), modifications and errors affected the text of the prayers, and all that remains of R. Yaakov Emden's corrections and precisions are his comments, integrated in his commentary printed in the margins. R. Yaakov Emden's siddur became widely accepted in the Chassidic world, and its second edition was printed in Korets in 1818, at the initiative and with the approbation of great Chassidic leaders: the rabbi of Apta and R. Mordechai of Chernobyl. The latter describes in his approbation the rarity of the first edition - the teachings of the Yaavetz are so cherished that "the siddurim have already become worn out, and there is not one to be found in the whole city". The Korets edition included only parts I and II, and in 1835, the third part was printed in Berditchev at the initiative and with the approbation of R. Mordechai of Chernobyl and R. Yisrael of Ruzhin (who praised the siddur in his approbation: "It was established and originates from golden foundations, in order to indicate the correct path with pure intellect on the topic of prayer"). The Imrei Yosef of Spinka wrote in the name of the sons of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, who heard from their father who had a tradition that the Baal Shem Tov one told R. Efraim, brother of the Yaavetz: "Your brother the Yaavetz was connected to the Upper spheres all day" (approbation of R. Moshe Halberstam to the Eshkol edition of the siddur, Jerusalem 1993). Tzror HaChaim (by R. Ch. Liebersohn, Biłgoraj 1913, p. 22), quotes in the name of the Baal Shem Tov: "Chacham Tzvi had five sons, whom the Baal Shem Tov attested all merited Divine Inspiration, yet he offered especially effusive praise on one of them, without disclosing which one, but his friends confirmed that he was referring to the Yaavetz". The Yeshuot Moshe of Vizhnitz writes in his approbation to that same edition: "…this siddur did not depart from the tables of our teachers and ancestors, who utilized it constantly, especially while leading the Seder on Passover night". Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Lubavitch quoted precisions and practices from this siddur several times in his discourses, and once remarked "R. Yaakov Emden exercised ultimate precision in every way, to the point of being meticulous even regarding the letters etc." (BeTzel HaChochma, p. 265). Title page of Part I: "Palatin Bet El, resting upon seven Amudei Shamayim, also called Or Shivat HaYamim". On the verso of the title page, approbation by R. Yechezkel Katzenellenbogen Rabbi of Altona-Hamburg-Wandsbek, extolling the virtues of the siddur. He relates in his approbation of cantors who are not meticulous to follow the rules of grammar "and sometimes upon hearing such mistakes, I berated them…". Title page of Part II: "The palace of the city of G-d, is open to 14 gates… Shaarei Shamayim… for the days and months of the year". The approbation of R. Aryeh Leib Rabbi of Amsterdam, brother-in-law of the author and son-in-law of Chacham Tzvi, is presented at the end of part II (on p. 159b), followed by the author's apology for printing the approbation at the end of the siddur (rather than at the beginning, as is customary), explaining that it was received only at the end of the printing: "…and it is already known that the position does not bring honor to the person, and we find that the last one is the most cherished, and the Torah does not follow chronological order...".
The third volume, which contains 32 "Aliyot" (chapters) – corresponding with the 32 paths of wisdom, ends with the conclusion to "Aliya 32 – Aliya of Fear", followed by a conclusion and indexes to all 32 "Aliyot". The book originally ended here, though the author later composed some additional chapters ("Aliya of Honor" and others), which were added to some copies only (see below).
Three parts in three volumes. Incomplete set (lacking a gathering in part I, and without the additional gatherings at end of part III). Vol. I: [1], 41, 54-356, 354-385, 389-415, 417-418 leaves. Lacking gathering of 12 leaves: 42-53. 16.5 cm. Vol. II: 159 leaves. 16.5 cm. Vol. III: 314 leaves. 17 cm. Darkened leaves. Condition varies. Stains and wear. Damage to title page of part III, affecting text. Tears to several other leaves, affecting text. Stamps of the "Old and new Kloiz" of Hamburg in parts I and II. Ownership inscriptions and stamps. New leather bindings.
The printing of part III was interrupted and never completed. This part has several variants: Some copies end with leaf 395, in the middle of a topic (with the catchword "Aroch" on the last page), and some copies, such as this one, end with leaf 314, with the conclusion to the first 32 chapters of the book.
All three parts of the siddur with R. Yaakov Emden's commentaries, based on revealed parts of the Torah and on Kabbalah – following the teachings of the Arizal. The third part includes laws and customs encompassing the human life cycle, from birth until death, methods of education, laws of kashrut and more. The first edition of this siddur is renowned for its great precision. R. Yaakov Emden expended great effort in establishing the exact text of the siddur, in the vocalization and accuracy of the words. This siddur was reprinted in many editions and was named by later printers "the Beit Yaakov siddur". In the siddur's later editions (Lviv and Warsaw), modifications and errors affected the text of the prayers, and all that remains of R. Yaakov Emden's corrections and precisions are his comments, integrated in his commentary printed in the margins. R. Yaakov Emden's siddur became widely accepted in the Chassidic world, and its second edition was printed in Korets in 1818, at the initiative and with the approbation of great Chassidic leaders: the rabbi of Apta and R. Mordechai of Chernobyl. The latter describes in his approbation the rarity of the first edition - the teachings of the Yaavetz are so cherished that "the siddurim have already become worn out, and there is not one to be found in the whole city". The Korets edition included only parts I and II, and in 1835, the third part was printed in Berditchev at the initiative and with the approbation of R. Mordechai of Chernobyl and R. Yisrael of Ruzhin (who praised the siddur in his approbation: "It was established and originates from golden foundations, in order to indicate the correct path with pure intellect on the topic of prayer"). The Imrei Yosef of Spinka wrote in the name of the sons of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, who heard from their father who had a tradition that the Baal Shem Tov one told R. Efraim, brother of the Yaavetz: "Your brother the Yaavetz was connected to the Upper spheres all day" (approbation of R. Moshe Halberstam to the Eshkol edition of the siddur, Jerusalem 1993). Tzror HaChaim (by R. Ch. Liebersohn, Biłgoraj 1913, p. 22), quotes in the name of the Baal Shem Tov: "Chacham Tzvi had five sons, whom the Baal Shem Tov attested all merited Divine Inspiration, yet he offered especially effusive praise on one of them, without disclosing which one, but his friends confirmed that he was referring to the Yaavetz". The Yeshuot Moshe of Vizhnitz writes in his approbation to that same edition: "…this siddur did not depart from the tables of our teachers and ancestors, who utilized it constantly, especially while leading the Seder on Passover night". Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Lubavitch quoted precisions and practices from this siddur several times in his discourses, and once remarked "R. Yaakov Emden exercised ultimate precision in every way, to the point of being meticulous even regarding the letters etc." (BeTzel HaChochma, p. 265). Title page of Part I: "Palatin Bet El, resting upon seven Amudei Shamayim, also called Or Shivat HaYamim". On the verso of the title page, approbation by R. Yechezkel Katzenellenbogen Rabbi of Altona-Hamburg-Wandsbek, extolling the virtues of the siddur. He relates in his approbation of cantors who are not meticulous to follow the rules of grammar "and sometimes upon hearing such mistakes, I berated them…". Title page of Part II: "The palace of the city of G-d, is open to 14 gates… Shaarei Shamayim… for the days and months of the year". The approbation of R. Aryeh Leib Rabbi of Amsterdam, brother-in-law of the author and son-in-law of Chacham Tzvi, is presented at the end of part II (on p. 159b), followed by the author's apology for printing the approbation at the end of the siddur (rather than at the beginning, as is customary), explaining that it was received only at the end of the printing: "…and it is already known that the position does not bring honor to the person, and we find that the last one is the most cherished, and the Torah does not follow chronological order...".
The third volume, which contains 32 "Aliyot" (chapters) – corresponding with the 32 paths of wisdom, ends with the conclusion to "Aliya 32 – Aliya of Fear", followed by a conclusion and indexes to all 32 "Aliyot". The book originally ended here, though the author later composed some additional chapters ("Aliya of Honor" and others), which were added to some copies only (see below).
Three parts in three volumes. Incomplete set (lacking a gathering in part I, and without the additional gatherings at end of part III). Vol. I: [1], 41, 54-356, 354-385, 389-415, 417-418 leaves. Lacking gathering of 12 leaves: 42-53. 16.5 cm. Vol. II: 159 leaves. 16.5 cm. Vol. III: 314 leaves. 17 cm. Darkened leaves. Condition varies. Stains and wear. Damage to title page of part III, affecting text. Tears to several other leaves, affecting text. Stamps of the "Old and new Kloiz" of Hamburg in parts I and II. Ownership inscriptions and stamps. New leather bindings.
The printing of part III was interrupted and never completed. This part has several variants: Some copies end with leaf 395, in the middle of a topic (with the catchword "Aroch" on the last page), and some copies, such as this one, end with leaf 314, with the conclusion to the first 32 chapters of the book.
Category
Bibles and Prayer Books
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $2,500
Including buyer's premium
Machzor for Yom Kippur, Sephardi rite, with prayers from the writings of the Arizal and from the book Chemdat Yamim. Venice, [1792].
Fine copy, with original leather binding.
A printed leaf entitled " Tefillah LeVayaavor" was attached to the front endpaper (with a metal pin). The leaf contains a prayer composed R. Chaim ibn Attar, the Or HaChaim, "to be recited on Yom Kippur while the cantor says VaYaavor". This is a prayer about the Shechina being in exile, and expresses the Jewish people's passionate desire and yearning for G-d.
The prayer first appeared in a small, rare booklet named Seder Tikkun Shovavim (on leaf 34) printed in Livorno in 1740, during the Or HaChaim's sojourn in Livorno on his way to Eretz Israel. The heading at the beginning of the prayer states that the prayer was composed by R. Chaim ben Attar, and is to be recited in the three prayers of Rosh Hashana at the end of the Amida prayer, before Elokai Netzor, and on Yom Kippur while the cantor is saying VaYaavor. The prayer quickly became widespread, and was printed in machzorim and siddurim in Italy and Turkey. Additionally, it was copied in many manuscripts, and eventually even printed in the Chassidic Berditchev siddur named Tefilla Yeshara Keter Nehora (due to the rarity of Seder Tikkun Shovavim, later copyists did not indicate that the prayer was intended also for Rosh Hashana, and they recorded it as a prayer for Yom Kippur only).
The prayer is quoted and mentioned several times in the books of R. Chaim Palachi. In his book Yimatzeh Chaim (section 3), R. Chaim Palachi writes: "On Yom Kippur after Musaf, when the cantor recites the final VaYaavor, one should recite this prayer composed by R. Chaim ibn Attar". In his book Moed LeKol Chai (section 19, 29), R. Chaim writes: "And I would recite it aloud following the conclusion of the Selichot of Musaf, prior to Kaddish". The Torah researcher R. Reuven Margolies writes regarding this prayer: "This prayer… is completely dedicated to G-d, without any physical requests…" (Margolies, Toldot Rabbenu Chaim ibn Attar, p. 25).
This leaf was printed alone, presumably in Livorno, close to the time of printing of this machzor. The leaf was not recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, nor does it appear in the NLI catalog. To the best of our knowledge, this is the sole exemplar in the world of this leaf.
[1], 146-206, 193-352, 2 leaves + [1] printed leaf. 18.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Worming to final leaves. Gilt edges. Original leather binding with gilt decorations, with damage. Wear and minor tears to the enclosed leaf.
Fine copy, with original leather binding.
A printed leaf entitled " Tefillah LeVayaavor" was attached to the front endpaper (with a metal pin). The leaf contains a prayer composed R. Chaim ibn Attar, the Or HaChaim, "to be recited on Yom Kippur while the cantor says VaYaavor". This is a prayer about the Shechina being in exile, and expresses the Jewish people's passionate desire and yearning for G-d.
The prayer first appeared in a small, rare booklet named Seder Tikkun Shovavim (on leaf 34) printed in Livorno in 1740, during the Or HaChaim's sojourn in Livorno on his way to Eretz Israel. The heading at the beginning of the prayer states that the prayer was composed by R. Chaim ben Attar, and is to be recited in the three prayers of Rosh Hashana at the end of the Amida prayer, before Elokai Netzor, and on Yom Kippur while the cantor is saying VaYaavor. The prayer quickly became widespread, and was printed in machzorim and siddurim in Italy and Turkey. Additionally, it was copied in many manuscripts, and eventually even printed in the Chassidic Berditchev siddur named Tefilla Yeshara Keter Nehora (due to the rarity of Seder Tikkun Shovavim, later copyists did not indicate that the prayer was intended also for Rosh Hashana, and they recorded it as a prayer for Yom Kippur only).
The prayer is quoted and mentioned several times in the books of R. Chaim Palachi. In his book Yimatzeh Chaim (section 3), R. Chaim Palachi writes: "On Yom Kippur after Musaf, when the cantor recites the final VaYaavor, one should recite this prayer composed by R. Chaim ibn Attar". In his book Moed LeKol Chai (section 19, 29), R. Chaim writes: "And I would recite it aloud following the conclusion of the Selichot of Musaf, prior to Kaddish". The Torah researcher R. Reuven Margolies writes regarding this prayer: "This prayer… is completely dedicated to G-d, without any physical requests…" (Margolies, Toldot Rabbenu Chaim ibn Attar, p. 25).
This leaf was printed alone, presumably in Livorno, close to the time of printing of this machzor. The leaf was not recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, nor does it appear in the NLI catalog. To the best of our knowledge, this is the sole exemplar in the world of this leaf.
[1], 146-206, 193-352, 2 leaves + [1] printed leaf. 18.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Worming to final leaves. Gilt edges. Original leather binding with gilt decorations, with damage. Wear and minor tears to the enclosed leaf.
Category
Bibles and Prayer Books
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $2,000
Including buyer's premium
Tefillat Yisrael siddur – year-round prayers, with Derech HaChaim – anthology of laws and customs, by R. Yaakov of Lissa (author of Netivot HaMishpat). Including Pirkei Avot with the commentary of the Gaon of Vilna. Altona, 1831. Third edition, with the addition of several new sections from the author.
The Derech HaChaim siddur by R. Yaakov of Lissa was greatly cherished and widely distributed. Already in the author's lifetime, it was printed in several editions. The first edition of this siddur was printed in Zhovkva, 1828, and then again in 1829. In 1831, this siddur was published, followed by another edition in Zhovkva the same year. This edition contains new laws and additions which the author sent to the publisher. In his approbation to this siddur, R. Akiva Eger refers to the author as "my dear friend, the outstanding and true Torah scholar, the renowned Tzaddik, may the likes of him increase amongst the Jewish people, R. Yaakov, rabbi and dean of Lissa…", adding that this edition includes additions which R. Yaakov sent to the publisher together with his permission to reprint the siddur.
This is the first siddur edition to include the commentary of the Gaon of Vilna to Tractate Avot (the commentary was previously printed in Tractate Avot, Shklow 1804).
On the title page of the siddur, the publisher lists the advantages of this edition: "1. Correction of all errors which crept into earlier editions. 2. Addition of passages from the author, omitted in previous editions. 3. Laws of muktzeh and blessings, compiled by the author. 4. Commentary to Hallel by the author. 5. Wonderful commentary to Pirkei Avot by R. Eliyahu of Vilna…". The laws of Rosh Chodesh Adar and Pidyon HaBen were also added by the author to this edition for the first time (see: R. Pinchas Menachem Lifshitz, Regarding the Identity of the Author of the Laws of Rosh Chodesh Adar and Pidyon HaBen in the Derech HaChaim Siddur, Beit Aharon VeYisrael, IV (94), Nisan-Iyar 2001, pp. 136-138).
Owner's signature of R. Yaakov Posen on the title page: "Yaakov son of R. Zalman Pozna".
R. Yaakov Posen (or Pozna, 1772-1849), a dayan in Frankfurt am Main, who served in the Beit Din of the Haflaa and the latter's son, the Machaneh Levi. He was the son of R. Yekutiel Zalman Posen, dayan in Offenbach and rabbi of Friedberg (d. 1793). His son was R. Eliezer Posen, rabbi of the Chevrat Kloiz in Frankfurt am Main (1803-1866), and his grandson was R. Gershon Posen, who served as dayan in Frankfurt for fifty years. The rabbinical dynasty of the Posen family, which stemmed from leading German rabbis, continues until this day with its descendants serving as rabbis in Eretz Israel, the United States and Europe.
At R. Yaakov Posen's funeral, the Frankfurt community board intervened, and barred rabbis who battled the Reform movement from eulogizing him at the cemetery. The Posen family consequently initiated the establishment of R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch's independent Orthodox community.
[2], 3-285, [1] leaf. [1] leaf of the approbations was bound at the end of the book instead of at the beginning. Without the [2] leaves of prenumeranten, which were originally bound at the beginning of the book, after the leaf of approbations. 20 cm. Good condition. Stains. Dark dampstains to some leaves. Light worming. Stamps. Old, worn binding, without spine.
The Derech HaChaim siddur by R. Yaakov of Lissa was greatly cherished and widely distributed. Already in the author's lifetime, it was printed in several editions. The first edition of this siddur was printed in Zhovkva, 1828, and then again in 1829. In 1831, this siddur was published, followed by another edition in Zhovkva the same year. This edition contains new laws and additions which the author sent to the publisher. In his approbation to this siddur, R. Akiva Eger refers to the author as "my dear friend, the outstanding and true Torah scholar, the renowned Tzaddik, may the likes of him increase amongst the Jewish people, R. Yaakov, rabbi and dean of Lissa…", adding that this edition includes additions which R. Yaakov sent to the publisher together with his permission to reprint the siddur.
This is the first siddur edition to include the commentary of the Gaon of Vilna to Tractate Avot (the commentary was previously printed in Tractate Avot, Shklow 1804).
On the title page of the siddur, the publisher lists the advantages of this edition: "1. Correction of all errors which crept into earlier editions. 2. Addition of passages from the author, omitted in previous editions. 3. Laws of muktzeh and blessings, compiled by the author. 4. Commentary to Hallel by the author. 5. Wonderful commentary to Pirkei Avot by R. Eliyahu of Vilna…". The laws of Rosh Chodesh Adar and Pidyon HaBen were also added by the author to this edition for the first time (see: R. Pinchas Menachem Lifshitz, Regarding the Identity of the Author of the Laws of Rosh Chodesh Adar and Pidyon HaBen in the Derech HaChaim Siddur, Beit Aharon VeYisrael, IV (94), Nisan-Iyar 2001, pp. 136-138).
Owner's signature of R. Yaakov Posen on the title page: "Yaakov son of R. Zalman Pozna".
R. Yaakov Posen (or Pozna, 1772-1849), a dayan in Frankfurt am Main, who served in the Beit Din of the Haflaa and the latter's son, the Machaneh Levi. He was the son of R. Yekutiel Zalman Posen, dayan in Offenbach and rabbi of Friedberg (d. 1793). His son was R. Eliezer Posen, rabbi of the Chevrat Kloiz in Frankfurt am Main (1803-1866), and his grandson was R. Gershon Posen, who served as dayan in Frankfurt for fifty years. The rabbinical dynasty of the Posen family, which stemmed from leading German rabbis, continues until this day with its descendants serving as rabbis in Eretz Israel, the United States and Europe.
At R. Yaakov Posen's funeral, the Frankfurt community board intervened, and barred rabbis who battled the Reform movement from eulogizing him at the cemetery. The Posen family consequently initiated the establishment of R. Shimshon Refael Hirsch's independent Orthodox community.
[2], 3-285, [1] leaf. [1] leaf of the approbations was bound at the end of the book instead of at the beginning. Without the [2] leaves of prenumeranten, which were originally bound at the beginning of the book, after the leaf of approbations. 20 cm. Good condition. Stains. Dark dampstains to some leaves. Light worming. Stamps. Old, worn binding, without spine.
Category
Bibles and Prayer Books
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $2,000
Including buyer's premium
Tehillim, with the Naava Tehilla commentary, by R. Yaakov son of R. Yosef the physician. [Jerusalem]: R. Yisrael Bak, [1845].
A handwritten inscription on p. [4b], containing a prayer to be recited after saying Psalms. Stamp on this page and on final page of "Avraham Marciano, emissary of the Maghrebian Kollel in Jerusalem".
The author, R. Yaakov son of R. Yosef the physician (ca. 1780-1852), was a Torah scholar and rabbi in Baghdad.
[4], 166, [2] leaves. 14.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains. Dampstains. Tears and worming to several leaves, slightly affecting text. Inscriptions. New leather binding.
An early Jerusalem publication. Sh. HaLevy, no. 32.
A handwritten inscription on p. [4b], containing a prayer to be recited after saying Psalms. Stamp on this page and on final page of "Avraham Marciano, emissary of the Maghrebian Kollel in Jerusalem".
The author, R. Yaakov son of R. Yosef the physician (ca. 1780-1852), was a Torah scholar and rabbi in Baghdad.
[4], 166, [2] leaves. 14.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains. Dampstains. Tears and worming to several leaves, slightly affecting text. Inscriptions. New leather binding.
An early Jerusalem publication. Sh. HaLevy, no. 32.
Category
Bibles and Prayer Books
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $2,000
Including buyer's premium
Kehillot Moshe, Mikraot Gedolot – Torah, Neviim and Ketuvim, with all the commentaries. Amsterdam: R. Moses Frankfurter the dayan, [1724-1728].
Complete, elegant set. Four parts in four, particularly large-format volumes. With a decorated handwritten leaf presenting a study program of the Bible and the Mishna, divided into weekly portions.
This edition includes many compositions and commentaries from leading Torah scholars, some of which are published here for the first time. This edition also includes Masorah Gedola and Masorah Ketana, copied from earlier editions of Mikraot Gedolot printed in Venice, with the correction of some of the errors which had crept into the Masorah texts. The publisher, editor and printer of this edition was R. Moshe Frankfurter (1678-1868), a dayan in Amsterdam, who authored and published many books in his own and in other printing presses in Amsterdam (Nefesh Yehuda on Menorat HaMaor; Shiva Petilot – a summary of Menorat HaMaor; Zeh Yenachamenu on Mechilta; Kometz HaMincha, Mincha Ketana and Mincha Gedola – printed in this edition; and more). He is especially celebrated for his new edition of Be'er HaGolah on Shulchan Aruch.
Many signatures and ownership inscriptions on each of the title pages and on other leaves (especially on the title page of the first volume), including: "Eliyah Yitzchak Madai", "Yaakov Yonah Yitzchak" (a notable of the Calcutta community, India, see: Avraham Ben-Yaakov, Yehudei Bavel BaTefutzot, p. 137), "Binyamin Shlomo Atzlan", "I purchased it in Surat from R. Binyamin Shlomo Atzlan… Cheshvan 1806, Suleiman Yosef Nissim Suleiman", "I gave it as a gift to R. Moshe Rachamim… Suleiman Yosef Nissim… Roch Chodesh Menachem [Av] 1811", "Moshe Rachamim Yaakov Yitzchak David, today, Monday Rosh Chodesh Menachem 1811", "I acquired this, Chaim David Chaim Shlomo David, purchased from… Rachamim Yaakov Yitzchak David, here Surat… Tevet 1812…", "The honor of the second buyer is greater than that of the first… and here is my name in the signature, Chaim David Chaim" (a notable of Surat, India, see Ben-Yaakov, ibid, p. 45), "I sold it to R. Moshe Ch. Shaul, from all my possessions, today Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan 1848… David Chaim David Chaim".
A complete handwritten leaf (square and semi-cursive Oriental script; Iraq or India) was bound into vol. II – Neviim Rishonim, after the Book of Shmuel, between leaves 248-249. At the center of the leaf is a table presenting the order of study of the Bible and the Six Orders of the Mishnah divided into weekly portions, set on a background of geometric designs. The table is topped with a beautiful, decorated heading – "Seder HaLimud" (on a floral black and white background, reminiscent of a papercut), followed by (in smaller writing): "This is the order of study for one who wishes the merit of completing every year all Five Books of the Torah, as well as Neviim and Ketuvim, and the Six Orders of the Mishnah, he should divide them as follows in portions for every week, and the tractates are divided according to the topic of that week's Torah portion".
The name of the writer is inscribed on both sides of the table, in hollow letters on a black background: "And I, with my quill, Chaim David Chaim Sh.". A closeup look of the inscription on the left side of the leaf shows that a different name was originally inscribed – "Suleiman Yosef Nissim" (one of the early owners of the book, whose signature appears on the title pages), and it was filled with ink to create the name currently appearing – "Chaim David Chaim" (a later owner, also featured amongst the signatures on the title pages).
Four volumes: Vol I: [10], 293, [2] leaves. Vol. II: [2], 46, [4], 47-378 leaves. Vol. III: [2], 322 leaves. Vol. IV: [5], 413 [i.e. 415]; 65 leaves. Leaves 263-264 bound out of sequence. 43 cm. Some particularly darkened leaves. Overall good-fair condition. Stains. Dampstains. Singeing in many places (possibly from study by candlelight), slightly affecting text. New, matching bindings.
Complete, elegant set. Four parts in four, particularly large-format volumes. With a decorated handwritten leaf presenting a study program of the Bible and the Mishna, divided into weekly portions.
This edition includes many compositions and commentaries from leading Torah scholars, some of which are published here for the first time. This edition also includes Masorah Gedola and Masorah Ketana, copied from earlier editions of Mikraot Gedolot printed in Venice, with the correction of some of the errors which had crept into the Masorah texts. The publisher, editor and printer of this edition was R. Moshe Frankfurter (1678-1868), a dayan in Amsterdam, who authored and published many books in his own and in other printing presses in Amsterdam (Nefesh Yehuda on Menorat HaMaor; Shiva Petilot – a summary of Menorat HaMaor; Zeh Yenachamenu on Mechilta; Kometz HaMincha, Mincha Ketana and Mincha Gedola – printed in this edition; and more). He is especially celebrated for his new edition of Be'er HaGolah on Shulchan Aruch.
Many signatures and ownership inscriptions on each of the title pages and on other leaves (especially on the title page of the first volume), including: "Eliyah Yitzchak Madai", "Yaakov Yonah Yitzchak" (a notable of the Calcutta community, India, see: Avraham Ben-Yaakov, Yehudei Bavel BaTefutzot, p. 137), "Binyamin Shlomo Atzlan", "I purchased it in Surat from R. Binyamin Shlomo Atzlan… Cheshvan 1806, Suleiman Yosef Nissim Suleiman", "I gave it as a gift to R. Moshe Rachamim… Suleiman Yosef Nissim… Roch Chodesh Menachem [Av] 1811", "Moshe Rachamim Yaakov Yitzchak David, today, Monday Rosh Chodesh Menachem 1811", "I acquired this, Chaim David Chaim Shlomo David, purchased from… Rachamim Yaakov Yitzchak David, here Surat… Tevet 1812…", "The honor of the second buyer is greater than that of the first… and here is my name in the signature, Chaim David Chaim" (a notable of Surat, India, see Ben-Yaakov, ibid, p. 45), "I sold it to R. Moshe Ch. Shaul, from all my possessions, today Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan 1848… David Chaim David Chaim".
A complete handwritten leaf (square and semi-cursive Oriental script; Iraq or India) was bound into vol. II – Neviim Rishonim, after the Book of Shmuel, between leaves 248-249. At the center of the leaf is a table presenting the order of study of the Bible and the Six Orders of the Mishnah divided into weekly portions, set on a background of geometric designs. The table is topped with a beautiful, decorated heading – "Seder HaLimud" (on a floral black and white background, reminiscent of a papercut), followed by (in smaller writing): "This is the order of study for one who wishes the merit of completing every year all Five Books of the Torah, as well as Neviim and Ketuvim, and the Six Orders of the Mishnah, he should divide them as follows in portions for every week, and the tractates are divided according to the topic of that week's Torah portion".
The name of the writer is inscribed on both sides of the table, in hollow letters on a black background: "And I, with my quill, Chaim David Chaim Sh.". A closeup look of the inscription on the left side of the leaf shows that a different name was originally inscribed – "Suleiman Yosef Nissim" (one of the early owners of the book, whose signature appears on the title pages), and it was filled with ink to create the name currently appearing – "Chaim David Chaim" (a later owner, also featured amongst the signatures on the title pages).
Four volumes: Vol I: [10], 293, [2] leaves. Vol. II: [2], 46, [4], 47-378 leaves. Vol. III: [2], 322 leaves. Vol. IV: [5], 413 [i.e. 415]; 65 leaves. Leaves 263-264 bound out of sequence. 43 cm. Some particularly darkened leaves. Overall good-fair condition. Stains. Dampstains. Singeing in many places (possibly from study by candlelight), slightly affecting text. New, matching bindings.
Category
Bibles and Prayer Books
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $2,500
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Unsold
Five Books of the Torah – The Law of G-d, with Haftarot and English translation. Philadelphia: C. Sherman, [1845-1846]. Five volumes. Hebrew and English, on facing pages.
The Five Books of the Torah and Haftarot, with English translation by Isaac Leeser. Hebrew and English title pages for each volume. The Book of Esther is included at the end of the book of Vayikra. At the end of the book of Shemot, instructions for the reading of the Ten Commandments, and (before the Haftarot) the Song of the Sea as written in the Torah scroll. At the end of the book of Devarim: the form of the cantillation marks (Hebrew) and directions for the Torah reading (English).
This is the first English translation of the Five Books of the Torah produced by a Jew. Earlier translations merely contained the text of the King James version (translation commissioned by King James I, King of England, in 1611, and considered the authorized English translation of the Bible).
Isaac Leeser (1806-1868) was a leader of traditional Judaism in America and one of the first builders of American Jewry, a philosopher and literary editor, who also worked on translating holy literature to English, and authored many essays and sermons.
Leeser worked on this translation, singlehandedly, for seven years. In his preface at the beginning of vol. I, he describes the significance of a translation of the Torah produced by a Jew: “I speak of my Jewish friends in particular, for however much a revised translation may be desired by all believers in the Word of G-d, there is no probability that the gentiles will encourage any publication of this nature, emanating from a Jewish writer…". He adds further: "My intention was to furnish a book for the service of the synagogue, both German and Portuguese".
Five volumes. X pages, 175 leaves; 168 leaves; 153 leaves; 149 leaves; 135 leaves, 136-147 pages. Approx. 19 cm. Light-colored, high-quality paper. Colored edges. Good condition. A few stains. Light wear and several loose gatherings. Marginal creases to some leaves. Original leather bindings, with fine marbled endpapers (part of endpaper lacking in vol. II). Names and numbers of volumes embossed on spines. Wear and minor damage to spines, edges and corners of bindings.
Singerman 884, Goldman 7.
The Five Books of the Torah and Haftarot, with English translation by Isaac Leeser. Hebrew and English title pages for each volume. The Book of Esther is included at the end of the book of Vayikra. At the end of the book of Shemot, instructions for the reading of the Ten Commandments, and (before the Haftarot) the Song of the Sea as written in the Torah scroll. At the end of the book of Devarim: the form of the cantillation marks (Hebrew) and directions for the Torah reading (English).
This is the first English translation of the Five Books of the Torah produced by a Jew. Earlier translations merely contained the text of the King James version (translation commissioned by King James I, King of England, in 1611, and considered the authorized English translation of the Bible).
Isaac Leeser (1806-1868) was a leader of traditional Judaism in America and one of the first builders of American Jewry, a philosopher and literary editor, who also worked on translating holy literature to English, and authored many essays and sermons.
Leeser worked on this translation, singlehandedly, for seven years. In his preface at the beginning of vol. I, he describes the significance of a translation of the Torah produced by a Jew: “I speak of my Jewish friends in particular, for however much a revised translation may be desired by all believers in the Word of G-d, there is no probability that the gentiles will encourage any publication of this nature, emanating from a Jewish writer…". He adds further: "My intention was to furnish a book for the service of the synagogue, both German and Portuguese".
Five volumes. X pages, 175 leaves; 168 leaves; 153 leaves; 149 leaves; 135 leaves, 136-147 pages. Approx. 19 cm. Light-colored, high-quality paper. Colored edges. Good condition. A few stains. Light wear and several loose gatherings. Marginal creases to some leaves. Original leather bindings, with fine marbled endpapers (part of endpaper lacking in vol. II). Names and numbers of volumes embossed on spines. Wear and minor damage to spines, edges and corners of bindings.
Singerman 884, Goldman 7.
Category
Bibles and Prayer Books
Catalogue
Auction 69 - Part I -Rare and Important Items
December 3, 2019
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $12,000 - $15,000
Unsold
Ho'il Moshe Be'er by R. Moshe Carmi (Crémieu), supercommentary to the Ibn Ezra on the Torah, Part I – Bereshit and Part IV – Bamidbar. Aix (Aix-en-Provence, Southern France), [1833-1836]. Two volumes.
Ho'il Moshe Be'er is a thirteen-part composition, in two series: the first series, in six parts, is a commentary to the year-round prayers according to the rite of the communities of Carpentras and the region (Carpentras, Cavaillon, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Avignon). The second series, in seven parts, comprises a supercommentary to the Ibn Ezra on the Torah, the Five Megillot and the books of Mishlei and Iyov. Five additional parts, commentaries to other works by the Ibn Ezra, where never printed, due to the passing of the author in 1837, and the manuscripts were presumably lost. These two volumes, with the supercommentaries to Bereshit and Bamidbar, are the first and fourth parts of the seven volumes of commentary to the Ibn Ezra.
Reputedly, this series was printed in twenty-five copies only, which were intended to be distributed to the close friends of the author, and this explains the extreme rarity of these volumes.
The author, R. Moshe Carmi (Crémieu; 1766-1837), born in Carpentras, a Torah scholar who dealt in biblical commentary and early piyyut. He presumably held an important private library in his home, comprising rare manuscripts and printed books. His father, R. Shlomo Chaim, composed a supercommentary to Rashi on the Torah named Cheshek Shlomo, and R. Moshe frequently quotes Torah thoughts in his name. His father-in-law, R. Mordechai Carmi, who was also his uncle, authored Maamar Mordechai and Divrei Mordechai. In 1790, R. Moshe, his father and father-in-law left Carpentras for Aix.
See: N. Ben-Menachem, BeShaarei Sefer, Jerusalem 1967, pp. 164-172, for a detailed description of the various parts of this composition, and other details regarding this work and its author.
Ownership inscription and signatures of "Chaim Touboul" (with his stamps: "Haim Touboul", Oran, Algeria). Several glosses.
Two volumes. Vol. I, Bereshit: [3], 28, 33-115 [i.e. 116], 118-292, [5] leaves. Lacking four leaves: 29-32. 20 cm. Vol. II, Bamidbar: [2], 132, [4] leaves. 21 cm. Edges slightly rough-cut and sometimes uneven (mostly in vol. II). High-quality paper. Condition varies. Vol. I in good condition, vol. II in good-fair condition. Stains. Worming to first and last leaves of vol. II (extensive worming to last two leaves, affecting text). Marginal tear to one leaf in vol I, minimally affecting a few letters of text. Tears in a few other places, not affecting text. New, matching bindings, slipcased.
Of the few Hebrew books ever printed in Aix.
Part I (Bereshit) of the NLI copy is in photocopy.
The Bibliography of the Hebrew Book and the NLI catalog list only [3] leaves at the end of the Bamidbar volume, while this copy features [4] leaves at the end.
Ho'il Moshe Be'er is a thirteen-part composition, in two series: the first series, in six parts, is a commentary to the year-round prayers according to the rite of the communities of Carpentras and the region (Carpentras, Cavaillon, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Avignon). The second series, in seven parts, comprises a supercommentary to the Ibn Ezra on the Torah, the Five Megillot and the books of Mishlei and Iyov. Five additional parts, commentaries to other works by the Ibn Ezra, where never printed, due to the passing of the author in 1837, and the manuscripts were presumably lost. These two volumes, with the supercommentaries to Bereshit and Bamidbar, are the first and fourth parts of the seven volumes of commentary to the Ibn Ezra.
Reputedly, this series was printed in twenty-five copies only, which were intended to be distributed to the close friends of the author, and this explains the extreme rarity of these volumes.
The author, R. Moshe Carmi (Crémieu; 1766-1837), born in Carpentras, a Torah scholar who dealt in biblical commentary and early piyyut. He presumably held an important private library in his home, comprising rare manuscripts and printed books. His father, R. Shlomo Chaim, composed a supercommentary to Rashi on the Torah named Cheshek Shlomo, and R. Moshe frequently quotes Torah thoughts in his name. His father-in-law, R. Mordechai Carmi, who was also his uncle, authored Maamar Mordechai and Divrei Mordechai. In 1790, R. Moshe, his father and father-in-law left Carpentras for Aix.
See: N. Ben-Menachem, BeShaarei Sefer, Jerusalem 1967, pp. 164-172, for a detailed description of the various parts of this composition, and other details regarding this work and its author.
Ownership inscription and signatures of "Chaim Touboul" (with his stamps: "Haim Touboul", Oran, Algeria). Several glosses.
Two volumes. Vol. I, Bereshit: [3], 28, 33-115 [i.e. 116], 118-292, [5] leaves. Lacking four leaves: 29-32. 20 cm. Vol. II, Bamidbar: [2], 132, [4] leaves. 21 cm. Edges slightly rough-cut and sometimes uneven (mostly in vol. II). High-quality paper. Condition varies. Vol. I in good condition, vol. II in good-fair condition. Stains. Worming to first and last leaves of vol. II (extensive worming to last two leaves, affecting text). Marginal tear to one leaf in vol I, minimally affecting a few letters of text. Tears in a few other places, not affecting text. New, matching bindings, slipcased.
Of the few Hebrew books ever printed in Aix.
Part I (Bereshit) of the NLI copy is in photocopy.
The Bibliography of the Hebrew Book and the NLI catalog list only [3] leaves at the end of the Bamidbar volume, while this copy features [4] leaves at the end.
Category
Bibles and Prayer Books
Catalogue