Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
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Displaying 361 - 372 of 434
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $400
Sold for: $875
Including buyer's premium
Endpaper of a book, with many handwritten inscriptions in early Ashkenazic script. [Typical of the early 18th century].
On one side of the leaf, inscription (appears to be a signature): "Tzvi Hirsh son of the renowned R. Yoel Baal Shem Tov of Zamość, scribe of the Zamość community". Additional inscriptions in the upper part of the same page: "Yoel Heilprin" (twice) and "Tzvi Heilprin" (no other signatures or handwritten text were found for comparison). At the foot of the page, an inscription mentioning: "The renowned R. Yaakov Yehoshua of Kraków, rabbi and yeshiva dean in Berlin".
On the verso of the leaf, additional inscription of "Tzvi Hirsh son of R. Yoel Heilprin…", and the text of a contract dated 27th Tammuz 1746, with various signatories (whom we were not able to identify): "Elazar of Kraków", "Yehoshua Moshe, author of Pnei Yehoshua, of Prague", "Yosef Yozel of Kraków, who is laden with the burden of the country of Lithuania, signing here in Brody on market day…", "Chaim son of R. Yaakov Yehoshua of Kraków".
The leaf also contains other inscriptions, scribbles and pen trials.
In Chabad-Chassidic literature, it is written about the kabbalists R. Yoel Baal Shem I of Zamość, and his grandson R. Yoel Baal Shem II of Zamość, that they belonged to the "company of hidden men" - kabbalists named "Baal Shem", from which the Chassidic movement emerged.
R. Yoel Baal Shem I of Zamość - R. Yoel son of R. Yitzchak Eizik Heilprin (d. 1713), renowned kabbalist and wonder-worker who lived at the time of the 1648-1649 Chmielnicki massacres, and served as rabbi of various prominent Polish communities, including Zamość, Lviv and others. In 1692, he succeeded R. Naftali Katz as rabbi of Ostroh. He was a member of the Council of Four Lands and the Council of Lithuanian Rabbis. A kabbalist and wonder-worker, he dealt in practical kabbalah and earned the renown of a Baal Shem throughout Podolia. Wondrous accounts of barren women who conceived, ill people who recovered, dybbukim exorcised and salvation from other destructive elements are retold about him. Books of practical kabbalah published in the 1720s-1730s quote segulot and amulets from the teachings of R. Yoel Baal Shem I, which were in the possession of his grandson R. Yoel Baal Shem II (see below). Sefer HaZichronot of Rebbe Rayatz of Lubavitch records that R. Yoel Baal Shem I belonged to the "company of hidden men", and was the teacher of the kabbalist R. Adam Baal Shem - teacher of the Baal Shem Tov.
His grandson, R. Yoel Baal Shem II - R. Yoel son of R. Uri Heilprin (ca. 1690-ca. 1755) was a kabbalist and wonder-worker, who also earned the reputation of a Baal Shem. He resided in Zamość, and many would come to him in quest of salvations, amulets and segulot. R. Avraham Rabbi of Zhovkva described him as "reputed in our generation as an expert…" (in his approbation to the book Mif’alot Elokim, Zhovkva 1725). The printer of the book Toldot Adam (Zhovkva, 1720) writes about him: "He is renowned for being sought out daily from nearby and distant cities".
During the time of R. Yoel Baal Shem II, several books of practical kabbalah were published under his supervision, after undergoing his editing and receiving his approbation. In 1720, the book Toldot Adam was published in Zhovkva - a compilation of segulot and cures, instructions for writing amulets, incantations and hashbaot, from leading Baalei Shem - R. Eliyahu Baal Shem (of Chelm) and R. Yoel Baal Shem I, alongside segulot from Shlomo HaMelech, the Ramban, the Arizal and others. The publisher states that the book was published based on the holy writings of R. Yoel Baal Shem I. Two approbations by the grandson - R. Yoel Baal Shem II, were printed at the beginning and end of the book. In his foreword, the publisher writes about R. Yoel Baal Shem II: "We have no knowledge in practical kabbalah… all we have is the words of the great rabbi, exceptionally well-versed in both revealed and hidden realms of Torah… the renowned kabbalist R. Yoel Baal Shem, son of the prominent R. Uri of Zamość, grandson of the renowned kabbalist R. Yoel Baal Shem, and everyone knows that this R. Yoel Baal Shem is an authority and expert in this generation, and if he alone approves, the Jewish people will believe…". R. Yoel Baal Shem II signs his second approbation: "So says Yoel son of R. Uri Heilprin of Zamość and son-in-law of the renowned R. David son of R. Aryeh Yehuda Leib who was rabbi of Kraków and Brisk (Brest)". In 1722, a book of segulot and incantations titled Zevach Pesach was published in Zhovkva. It also contained amulets from R. Yoel Baal Shem I. His grandson R. Yoel Baal Shem II accorded his approbation to this book as well. A book with similar content was published in Zhovkva in 1725, titled Mif’alot Elokim, also containing amulets from R. Yoel Baal Shem I. This book too bears the approbation of R. Yoel Baal Shem II, alongside an approbation by R. Avraham Rabbi of Zhovkva who writes that since he does not deal in practical kabbalah, he at first refrained from giving an approbation to this book, yet upon seeing that R. Yoel Baal Shem II gave his approbation, and even proofread the entire book, he relied on him and added his approbation. Another book of practical kabbalah containing segulot, cures and amulets which received the approbation of R. Yoel Baal Shem II is the book Minchot Yaakov Solet, printed in Wilhelmsdorf, 1731.
This leaf contains inscriptions by his son R. Tzvi Hirsh, about whom no other information is known from other sources.
[1] leaf. 17.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Worming.
On one side of the leaf, inscription (appears to be a signature): "Tzvi Hirsh son of the renowned R. Yoel Baal Shem Tov of Zamość, scribe of the Zamość community". Additional inscriptions in the upper part of the same page: "Yoel Heilprin" (twice) and "Tzvi Heilprin" (no other signatures or handwritten text were found for comparison). At the foot of the page, an inscription mentioning: "The renowned R. Yaakov Yehoshua of Kraków, rabbi and yeshiva dean in Berlin".
On the verso of the leaf, additional inscription of "Tzvi Hirsh son of R. Yoel Heilprin…", and the text of a contract dated 27th Tammuz 1746, with various signatories (whom we were not able to identify): "Elazar of Kraków", "Yehoshua Moshe, author of Pnei Yehoshua, of Prague", "Yosef Yozel of Kraków, who is laden with the burden of the country of Lithuania, signing here in Brody on market day…", "Chaim son of R. Yaakov Yehoshua of Kraków".
The leaf also contains other inscriptions, scribbles and pen trials.
In Chabad-Chassidic literature, it is written about the kabbalists R. Yoel Baal Shem I of Zamość, and his grandson R. Yoel Baal Shem II of Zamość, that they belonged to the "company of hidden men" - kabbalists named "Baal Shem", from which the Chassidic movement emerged.
R. Yoel Baal Shem I of Zamość - R. Yoel son of R. Yitzchak Eizik Heilprin (d. 1713), renowned kabbalist and wonder-worker who lived at the time of the 1648-1649 Chmielnicki massacres, and served as rabbi of various prominent Polish communities, including Zamość, Lviv and others. In 1692, he succeeded R. Naftali Katz as rabbi of Ostroh. He was a member of the Council of Four Lands and the Council of Lithuanian Rabbis. A kabbalist and wonder-worker, he dealt in practical kabbalah and earned the renown of a Baal Shem throughout Podolia. Wondrous accounts of barren women who conceived, ill people who recovered, dybbukim exorcised and salvation from other destructive elements are retold about him. Books of practical kabbalah published in the 1720s-1730s quote segulot and amulets from the teachings of R. Yoel Baal Shem I, which were in the possession of his grandson R. Yoel Baal Shem II (see below). Sefer HaZichronot of Rebbe Rayatz of Lubavitch records that R. Yoel Baal Shem I belonged to the "company of hidden men", and was the teacher of the kabbalist R. Adam Baal Shem - teacher of the Baal Shem Tov.
His grandson, R. Yoel Baal Shem II - R. Yoel son of R. Uri Heilprin (ca. 1690-ca. 1755) was a kabbalist and wonder-worker, who also earned the reputation of a Baal Shem. He resided in Zamość, and many would come to him in quest of salvations, amulets and segulot. R. Avraham Rabbi of Zhovkva described him as "reputed in our generation as an expert…" (in his approbation to the book Mif’alot Elokim, Zhovkva 1725). The printer of the book Toldot Adam (Zhovkva, 1720) writes about him: "He is renowned for being sought out daily from nearby and distant cities".
During the time of R. Yoel Baal Shem II, several books of practical kabbalah were published under his supervision, after undergoing his editing and receiving his approbation. In 1720, the book Toldot Adam was published in Zhovkva - a compilation of segulot and cures, instructions for writing amulets, incantations and hashbaot, from leading Baalei Shem - R. Eliyahu Baal Shem (of Chelm) and R. Yoel Baal Shem I, alongside segulot from Shlomo HaMelech, the Ramban, the Arizal and others. The publisher states that the book was published based on the holy writings of R. Yoel Baal Shem I. Two approbations by the grandson - R. Yoel Baal Shem II, were printed at the beginning and end of the book. In his foreword, the publisher writes about R. Yoel Baal Shem II: "We have no knowledge in practical kabbalah… all we have is the words of the great rabbi, exceptionally well-versed in both revealed and hidden realms of Torah… the renowned kabbalist R. Yoel Baal Shem, son of the prominent R. Uri of Zamość, grandson of the renowned kabbalist R. Yoel Baal Shem, and everyone knows that this R. Yoel Baal Shem is an authority and expert in this generation, and if he alone approves, the Jewish people will believe…". R. Yoel Baal Shem II signs his second approbation: "So says Yoel son of R. Uri Heilprin of Zamość and son-in-law of the renowned R. David son of R. Aryeh Yehuda Leib who was rabbi of Kraków and Brisk (Brest)". In 1722, a book of segulot and incantations titled Zevach Pesach was published in Zhovkva. It also contained amulets from R. Yoel Baal Shem I. His grandson R. Yoel Baal Shem II accorded his approbation to this book as well. A book with similar content was published in Zhovkva in 1725, titled Mif’alot Elokim, also containing amulets from R. Yoel Baal Shem I. This book too bears the approbation of R. Yoel Baal Shem II, alongside an approbation by R. Avraham Rabbi of Zhovkva who writes that since he does not deal in practical kabbalah, he at first refrained from giving an approbation to this book, yet upon seeing that R. Yoel Baal Shem II gave his approbation, and even proofread the entire book, he relied on him and added his approbation. Another book of practical kabbalah containing segulot, cures and amulets which received the approbation of R. Yoel Baal Shem II is the book Minchot Yaakov Solet, printed in Wilhelmsdorf, 1731.
This leaf contains inscriptions by his son R. Tzvi Hirsh, about whom no other information is known from other sources.
[1] leaf. 17.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Worming.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Lot 362 Letter from Rebbe Shimon Shlomo (the First) of Bender - Invitation to his Daughter’s Wedding
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Sold for: $1,625
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe "Shimon Shlomo son of the Rabbi of Bender". Bender (Bendery, Bessarabia), Av 1857.
Written by a scribe and signed by the Rebbe himself. Invitation to his daughter Malka’s wedding, sent to a relative, "renowned tzaddik… R. Yochanan" (apparently, a rebbe of the Chernobyl dynasty, maternal relative of Rebbe Shimon Shlomo. The latter’s mother was the daughter of R. Avraham of Korostýšiv, son-in-law of R. Nachum of Chernobyl).
Rebbe Shimon Shlomo Wertheim (1805-1864), author of Or HaShemesh. Son and successor of Rebbe Aryeh Leib of Bender (1772-1854), and grandson of the Maggid of Savran, R. Shimon Shlomo (died 1802), disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch. R. Aryeh Leib of Bender took the family name Wertheim, since his family descended from the Court Jew, R. Shimshon Wertheimer of Vienna (1658-1724). R. Shimon Shlomo of Bender was a close disciple of his uncle Rebbe Moshe Tzvi Gutterman of Savran, who was well-known for his knowledge of kabbalah. On the title page of the manuscript of Rebbe Shimon Shlomo’s book Or HaShemesh, his son R. Yitzchak of Bender writes about him: "The illustrious kabbalist… as he received from his uncle and teacher R. M.Tz.". Rebbe Shimon Shlomo was renowned for the wonders he performed for the Jewish People. In his book Or HaShemesh (Parashat VaYakhel), he writes that "in every generation, tzaddikim intend wondrous yichudim and these bring abundant blessing in all the spheres…". His descendants continued the Bender dynasty until the Holocaust.
The first marriage of his daughter Malka was to R. "Mordechai Motel son of Hodl" (see: Or HaShemesh, Savran-Bender Holy Dynasty, p. 51), and her second marriage was to her relative Rebbe David Gutterman of Savran (Shem UShe’erit, Tel Aviv 1943, p. 68).
[1] leaf. Approx. 17 cm. Good-fair condition. Dampstains. Wear and folding marks. Filing holes.
Written by a scribe and signed by the Rebbe himself. Invitation to his daughter Malka’s wedding, sent to a relative, "renowned tzaddik… R. Yochanan" (apparently, a rebbe of the Chernobyl dynasty, maternal relative of Rebbe Shimon Shlomo. The latter’s mother was the daughter of R. Avraham of Korostýšiv, son-in-law of R. Nachum of Chernobyl).
Rebbe Shimon Shlomo Wertheim (1805-1864), author of Or HaShemesh. Son and successor of Rebbe Aryeh Leib of Bender (1772-1854), and grandson of the Maggid of Savran, R. Shimon Shlomo (died 1802), disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch. R. Aryeh Leib of Bender took the family name Wertheim, since his family descended from the Court Jew, R. Shimshon Wertheimer of Vienna (1658-1724). R. Shimon Shlomo of Bender was a close disciple of his uncle Rebbe Moshe Tzvi Gutterman of Savran, who was well-known for his knowledge of kabbalah. On the title page of the manuscript of Rebbe Shimon Shlomo’s book Or HaShemesh, his son R. Yitzchak of Bender writes about him: "The illustrious kabbalist… as he received from his uncle and teacher R. M.Tz.". Rebbe Shimon Shlomo was renowned for the wonders he performed for the Jewish People. In his book Or HaShemesh (Parashat VaYakhel), he writes that "in every generation, tzaddikim intend wondrous yichudim and these bring abundant blessing in all the spheres…". His descendants continued the Bender dynasty until the Holocaust.
The first marriage of his daughter Malka was to R. "Mordechai Motel son of Hodl" (see: Or HaShemesh, Savran-Bender Holy Dynasty, p. 51), and her second marriage was to her relative Rebbe David Gutterman of Savran (Shem UShe’erit, Tel Aviv 1943, p. 68).
[1] leaf. Approx. 17 cm. Good-fair condition. Dampstains. Wear and folding marks. Filing holes.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $10,000
Unsold
Letter (5 long lines) handwritten and signed by Rebbe Chanoch Henich HaKohen of Aleksander. [Warsaw, ca. 1860s].
Sent to Lodz to his son R. Yechiel Efraim Fishel HaKohen. He mentions that he has enclosed a letter intended for R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Biala (son-in-law of the Gerrer Rebbe, author of Chiddushei HaRim), on the occasion of his son’s wedding with the daughter of the wealthy R. Yaakov Krohl: "Send the enclosed letter to R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Biala, son-in-law of our great and holy Rebbe of Ger, who has invited me to participate in the joyous occasion of his son’s wedding…".
On verso, the address in the city of Lodz and postmarks, with the following inscription in the handwriting of R. Chanoch Henich: "Please give this letter to my son… R. Yechiel Efraim Fishel HaKohen of Mielec".
Rebbe Chanoch Henich HaKohen Levin of Alexander (1798-1870), leading disciple of R. Simcha Bunim of Peshischa and of the Yehudi HaKadosh of Peshischa. He held a rabbinic position for close to 40 years. He first served as rabbi of Alexander and Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki, and from 1859, as rabbi of Proshnitz (in 1865, he retired from the rabbinate, and returned to Alexander as a private person). He was a descendant of R. Shmuel Schotten HaKohen of Frankfurt (the Maharshashach - who was also the grandfather of the Chatam Sofer). After supporting the Polish revolution in 1830, he was compelled to change his surname from Schotten to Levin. Renowned from his youth for his prodigious brilliance, and for his Peshischa-Kotzk style of sharpness. All his actions were concealed and performed with great wisdom. His sayings were penetrating and peppered with incisive humor, and he knew how to disguise exalted matters with humor which only a precious-few would understand. He would frequently cite the saying of his teacher R. Bunim of Peshischa: "All the negative commandments in the Torah can be condensed into one negative commandment - do not be a fool! and all the positive commandments in the Torah can be encapsulated in one - be wise!".
While still a young man, his teacher the Yehudi HaKadosh appointed him rebbe by removing his spodik (tall shtreimel) from his head and placing it on that of his young student, R. Henich, saying: "This spodik suits you well…". About one year after the passing of R. Bunim of Peshischa, R. Henich subjected himself to the authority of his colleague, Rebbe Mendel of Kotsk. After the latter’s death, R. Henich followed his (younger) colleague R. Yitzchak Meir Alter of Ger. Only after the passing of the Chiddushei HaRim in 1866 did the elderly R. Henich agree to serve as rebbe and lead the Chassidic courts of Kotzk and Ger. His disciples and relatives attested to the Divine inspiration he benefitted from, and the wonders and miracles which he performed. His nephew testified that he was present when souls came down to R. Henich from Upper Spheres, requesting reparation. These accounts were recorded in the new edition of his book Chashava LeTova VeLikutim (published by Mossad HaRim Levin, Jerusalem, 1990), see ibid.
The foreword of the new edition contains a beautiful description of the Chassidic legacy which R. Henich transmitted to future generations, and his molding of the character of the Ger Chassidic dynasty: "Alexander of Rebbe Henich was concealed for about seventy years; in those years the Peshischa Chassidism branched out into seventy facets. For decades, he stood as a disciple before his colleagues, subjected himself to their authority and enjoyed the Peshischa elevation in the hidden parts of his soul, until the crown of leadership was placed upon him… R. Henich of Alexander combined in his leadership all the wellsprings deriving from Peshischa. With rare and unparalleled wisdom, he merged a following of elite, truth-seeking Chassidim into a single unit, and they together rose to high levels of Torah and worship of G-d. He brought Peshischa, Kotsk and Ger together under one roof, selecting the unique points of each of them - their light, to create a center of Torah, Chassidism, sharpness, holiness and total devotion".
He was one of the teachers of the Sfat Emet, Rebbe of Ger (grandson of the Chiddushei HaRim), whom he appointed as his successor. His descendants were leading members of the Ger court, and his grandson R. Chanoch Tzvi HaKohen Levin Rabbi of Bendin was the son-in-law of the Sfat Emet. His disciples became the leading Torah scholars and rebbes of Poland, including: R. Ze’ev Nachum of Biala and his son Rebbe Avraham of Sochatchov author of Avnei Nezer; Rebbe Avraham of Porisov; R. Pinchas Menachem Justman Rabbi of Piltz; R. Yoav Yehoshua of Kintzk the Chelkat Yoav; R. Yitzchak Feigenbaum of Warsaw, and others. His teachings are recorded in his book Chashava LeTova.
[1] leaf. 15X21 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Wear and folding marks.
This letter and a picture of it were printed in the book Michtavim VeIgrot Kodesh, New York, 2003, pp. 38-39 (apparently, the publisher did not have the original letter, since the picture shows the verso of a different letter - see enclosed material).
Sent to Lodz to his son R. Yechiel Efraim Fishel HaKohen. He mentions that he has enclosed a letter intended for R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Biala (son-in-law of the Gerrer Rebbe, author of Chiddushei HaRim), on the occasion of his son’s wedding with the daughter of the wealthy R. Yaakov Krohl: "Send the enclosed letter to R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Biala, son-in-law of our great and holy Rebbe of Ger, who has invited me to participate in the joyous occasion of his son’s wedding…".
On verso, the address in the city of Lodz and postmarks, with the following inscription in the handwriting of R. Chanoch Henich: "Please give this letter to my son… R. Yechiel Efraim Fishel HaKohen of Mielec".
Rebbe Chanoch Henich HaKohen Levin of Alexander (1798-1870), leading disciple of R. Simcha Bunim of Peshischa and of the Yehudi HaKadosh of Peshischa. He held a rabbinic position for close to 40 years. He first served as rabbi of Alexander and Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki, and from 1859, as rabbi of Proshnitz (in 1865, he retired from the rabbinate, and returned to Alexander as a private person). He was a descendant of R. Shmuel Schotten HaKohen of Frankfurt (the Maharshashach - who was also the grandfather of the Chatam Sofer). After supporting the Polish revolution in 1830, he was compelled to change his surname from Schotten to Levin. Renowned from his youth for his prodigious brilliance, and for his Peshischa-Kotzk style of sharpness. All his actions were concealed and performed with great wisdom. His sayings were penetrating and peppered with incisive humor, and he knew how to disguise exalted matters with humor which only a precious-few would understand. He would frequently cite the saying of his teacher R. Bunim of Peshischa: "All the negative commandments in the Torah can be condensed into one negative commandment - do not be a fool! and all the positive commandments in the Torah can be encapsulated in one - be wise!".
While still a young man, his teacher the Yehudi HaKadosh appointed him rebbe by removing his spodik (tall shtreimel) from his head and placing it on that of his young student, R. Henich, saying: "This spodik suits you well…". About one year after the passing of R. Bunim of Peshischa, R. Henich subjected himself to the authority of his colleague, Rebbe Mendel of Kotsk. After the latter’s death, R. Henich followed his (younger) colleague R. Yitzchak Meir Alter of Ger. Only after the passing of the Chiddushei HaRim in 1866 did the elderly R. Henich agree to serve as rebbe and lead the Chassidic courts of Kotzk and Ger. His disciples and relatives attested to the Divine inspiration he benefitted from, and the wonders and miracles which he performed. His nephew testified that he was present when souls came down to R. Henich from Upper Spheres, requesting reparation. These accounts were recorded in the new edition of his book Chashava LeTova VeLikutim (published by Mossad HaRim Levin, Jerusalem, 1990), see ibid.
The foreword of the new edition contains a beautiful description of the Chassidic legacy which R. Henich transmitted to future generations, and his molding of the character of the Ger Chassidic dynasty: "Alexander of Rebbe Henich was concealed for about seventy years; in those years the Peshischa Chassidism branched out into seventy facets. For decades, he stood as a disciple before his colleagues, subjected himself to their authority and enjoyed the Peshischa elevation in the hidden parts of his soul, until the crown of leadership was placed upon him… R. Henich of Alexander combined in his leadership all the wellsprings deriving from Peshischa. With rare and unparalleled wisdom, he merged a following of elite, truth-seeking Chassidim into a single unit, and they together rose to high levels of Torah and worship of G-d. He brought Peshischa, Kotsk and Ger together under one roof, selecting the unique points of each of them - their light, to create a center of Torah, Chassidism, sharpness, holiness and total devotion".
He was one of the teachers of the Sfat Emet, Rebbe of Ger (grandson of the Chiddushei HaRim), whom he appointed as his successor. His descendants were leading members of the Ger court, and his grandson R. Chanoch Tzvi HaKohen Levin Rabbi of Bendin was the son-in-law of the Sfat Emet. His disciples became the leading Torah scholars and rebbes of Poland, including: R. Ze’ev Nachum of Biala and his son Rebbe Avraham of Sochatchov author of Avnei Nezer; Rebbe Avraham of Porisov; R. Pinchas Menachem Justman Rabbi of Piltz; R. Yoav Yehoshua of Kintzk the Chelkat Yoav; R. Yitzchak Feigenbaum of Warsaw, and others. His teachings are recorded in his book Chashava LeTova.
[1] leaf. 15X21 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Wear and folding marks.
This letter and a picture of it were printed in the book Michtavim VeIgrot Kodesh, New York, 2003, pp. 38-39 (apparently, the publisher did not have the original letter, since the picture shows the verso of a different letter - see enclosed material).
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $4,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by Rebbe David Morgenstern of Kotsk: "David son of the rabbi Morgenstern". Kotsk (Kock), 1863.
Addressed to R. Yitzchak, one of his Chassidim, whom he had asked to mediate between family members regarding familial monetary matters, inheritance and financial obligations for expenses of marriage and exemption (from conscription in the Polish army). The Rebbe offers detailed advice on every issue, indicating whom to approach for each matter, and how to resolve the disputes between the members of that family: "…and regarding the fact that he wishes to give his youngest brother only two hundred Reichsthaler rather than two hundred silver rubles, tell him that he is very stubborn to insist on this, especially since this is for his youngest brother…". Further in the letter, he writes: "And regarding the widow, in my opinion he should not put pressure on her to pay him… since to be a partner with her in the tavern… is right now not possible, and why cause her needless anguish by fighting with her, better use positive measures and compromise… his honor should make sure to mediate between them as needed…".
R. David Morgenstern - second rebbe of the Kotsk dynasty (1809-1873), eldest son of R. Mendel - the "Saraf" of Kotsk, and his successor as rebbe. He was a disciple of R. Bunim of Peshischa. He was renowned for his brilliance and great holiness. After the passing of his father in 1859, most of the Chassidim chose the Chiddushei HaRim of Ger as their rebbe, yet a significant number of sharp Kotskers were drawn to his close colleague R. David, who embodied the teachings of his father, the Rebbe of Kotsk. His sayings were sharp and brief, touching the soul to the core, in demand of self-perfection with profound understanding and awareness. This letter discloses his great wisdom in setting a shattered family back on its feet, and guaranteeing funding for all the orphans’ needs.
[1] leaf. 21 cm. Fair condition. Creases and tears, stains and extensive wear. Mounted on a notebook leaf for preservation.
Addressed to R. Yitzchak, one of his Chassidim, whom he had asked to mediate between family members regarding familial monetary matters, inheritance and financial obligations for expenses of marriage and exemption (from conscription in the Polish army). The Rebbe offers detailed advice on every issue, indicating whom to approach for each matter, and how to resolve the disputes between the members of that family: "…and regarding the fact that he wishes to give his youngest brother only two hundred Reichsthaler rather than two hundred silver rubles, tell him that he is very stubborn to insist on this, especially since this is for his youngest brother…". Further in the letter, he writes: "And regarding the widow, in my opinion he should not put pressure on her to pay him… since to be a partner with her in the tavern… is right now not possible, and why cause her needless anguish by fighting with her, better use positive measures and compromise… his honor should make sure to mediate between them as needed…".
R. David Morgenstern - second rebbe of the Kotsk dynasty (1809-1873), eldest son of R. Mendel - the "Saraf" of Kotsk, and his successor as rebbe. He was a disciple of R. Bunim of Peshischa. He was renowned for his brilliance and great holiness. After the passing of his father in 1859, most of the Chassidim chose the Chiddushei HaRim of Ger as their rebbe, yet a significant number of sharp Kotskers were drawn to his close colleague R. David, who embodied the teachings of his father, the Rebbe of Kotsk. His sayings were sharp and brief, touching the soul to the core, in demand of self-perfection with profound understanding and awareness. This letter discloses his great wisdom in setting a shattered family back on its feet, and guaranteeing funding for all the orphans’ needs.
[1] leaf. 21 cm. Fair condition. Creases and tears, stains and extensive wear. Mounted on a notebook leaf for preservation.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $2,000
Sold for: $3,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager. Vizhnitz, [ca. 1870s-1880s].
Written by a scribe and hand-signed by Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager: "Menachem Mendel son of the Rabbi the Tzaddik". The letter, the beginning of which is lacking, deals with sending receipts for funds donated to Eretz Israel. Among other matters, he mentions the funds of Kollel Vizhnitz in Safed.
The first Rebbe of Vizhnitz, R. Menachem Mendel Hager, author of Tzemach Tzaddik (1830-1884), son of Rebbe Chaim of Kosov and son-in-law of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin. He was appointed as rabbi of Vizhnitz, near Kosov, during his father’s lifetime. In 1854, after the passing of his father, author of Torat Chayim, he began serving as rebbe in Vizhnitz. At the same time, his elder brother R. Yaakov Shimshon was appointed rebbe in Kosov, and their third brother moved to Rădăuţi. R. Mendel soon became the most esteemed of the three brothers, and thousands of Chassidim flocked to his Beit Midrash in Vizhnitz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker and beloved by all. Known for his fiery prayers and generous distribution of charity (in his lifetime, he is said to have distributed tens of thousands of silver coins to the poor). He was highly esteemed by the great tzaddikim of his generation: R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, R. Shmuel Shmelke of Selish, his brother-in-law R. Mordechai Shraga of Husyatyn, and others. R. Chaim of Sanz said that "R. Mendele sacrifices his soul to G-d every moment…".
R. Menachem Mendel had a great influence in the regions of Maramureş and Bukovina, and all public matters were decided by him. Due to various problems in the Kosov Kollel’s collection and distribution of Eretz Israel funds, R. Mendel left and subsequently founded the Vizhnitz Kollel. He was very active in collecting funds for the needy population of Safed and Tiberias, and appointed R. Moshe Tzeiger, a noted Chassidic leader in Safed, as trustee of the kollel. Eventually, the Viznitz Kollel became the central kollel for immigrants from Bukovina and Eastern Galicia, also supervising the Lviv Kollel and the Kosov Kollel. This letter deals with the Eretz Israel funds sent to Safed.
[1] leaf. Approx. 6.5X10.5 cm. Fair condition. Trimmed margins; missing top of letter. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Written by a scribe and hand-signed by Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager: "Menachem Mendel son of the Rabbi the Tzaddik". The letter, the beginning of which is lacking, deals with sending receipts for funds donated to Eretz Israel. Among other matters, he mentions the funds of Kollel Vizhnitz in Safed.
The first Rebbe of Vizhnitz, R. Menachem Mendel Hager, author of Tzemach Tzaddik (1830-1884), son of Rebbe Chaim of Kosov and son-in-law of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin. He was appointed as rabbi of Vizhnitz, near Kosov, during his father’s lifetime. In 1854, after the passing of his father, author of Torat Chayim, he began serving as rebbe in Vizhnitz. At the same time, his elder brother R. Yaakov Shimshon was appointed rebbe in Kosov, and their third brother moved to Rădăuţi. R. Mendel soon became the most esteemed of the three brothers, and thousands of Chassidim flocked to his Beit Midrash in Vizhnitz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker and beloved by all. Known for his fiery prayers and generous distribution of charity (in his lifetime, he is said to have distributed tens of thousands of silver coins to the poor). He was highly esteemed by the great tzaddikim of his generation: R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, R. Shmuel Shmelke of Selish, his brother-in-law R. Mordechai Shraga of Husyatyn, and others. R. Chaim of Sanz said that "R. Mendele sacrifices his soul to G-d every moment…".
R. Menachem Mendel had a great influence in the regions of Maramureş and Bukovina, and all public matters were decided by him. Due to various problems in the Kosov Kollel’s collection and distribution of Eretz Israel funds, R. Mendel left and subsequently founded the Vizhnitz Kollel. He was very active in collecting funds for the needy population of Safed and Tiberias, and appointed R. Moshe Tzeiger, a noted Chassidic leader in Safed, as trustee of the kollel. Eventually, the Viznitz Kollel became the central kollel for immigrants from Bukovina and Eastern Galicia, also supervising the Lviv Kollel and the Kosov Kollel. This letter deals with the Eretz Israel funds sent to Safed.
[1] leaf. Approx. 6.5X10.5 cm. Fair condition. Trimmed margins; missing top of letter. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $5,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten, signed and stamped by Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno. Komarno, 1905.
Letter of recommendation for R. Yaakov Yisrael [Schmerler] of Safed, who was compelled to travel abroad to repay his medical debts. The rebbe lists in this letter R. Yaakov Yisrael’s lineage, up to the Tzaddikim R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, R. Meir of Premishlan, "the Bach, Taz and other righteous and holy men". The rebbe concludes the letter with a blessing: "And in the merit of this important mitzva, and in the merit of his holy ancestors, G-d will shower upon you much blessing and an abundance of success".
Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno (1861-1929), a G-dly kabbalist and holy man. Son of Rebbe Eliezer Tzvi author of Ben Beiti and Damesek Eliezer, and grandson of the Heichal Bracha. He was a disciple of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, and the Maggid of Trisk, who greatly cherished and revered him. In 1898, following his father’s passing, he began leading a Chassidic community in Komarno. His prayers were recited with tremendous passion and weeping, and many were aroused to full repentance through his prayers. He was renowned as a wonder-worker and a G-dly kabbalist benefitting from Divine Inspiration. He became known as the Chozeh of Komarno, appellation earned by astounding revelations he was privy to with Divine Inspiration. He became famous mostly after WWI, when many Polish Jews began frequenting his court, and leading rebbes of Alexander, Radomsk and Ostrovtza would send him kvitelach for prayer and blessing. Some Jews were blessed with wealth through his blessings and advice. He authored three books which were lost in the Holocaust. His renowned son-in-law, the Minchat Elazar of Munkacs, eulogized him: "My father-in-law benefitted from Divine Inspiration. Behold, I had private matters, which apart from G-d and myself, no one knew about, and when I stood before my father-in-law, he revealed them all to me through Divine Inspiration" (Imrei Kodesh, Komarno, Bnei Brak 2003, p. 531). He was the son-in-law (in his second marriage) of the Imrei Yosef of Spinka.
[1] leaf. Approx. 20 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears to folds, slightly affecting text. Mounted of paper for reinforcement.
This letter was published in Shalshelet Komarno (Jerusalem 2001, pp. 412-413), and its picture was printed in Shoshelet Spinka (Bnei Brak 1990, p. 221).
Letter of recommendation for R. Yaakov Yisrael [Schmerler] of Safed, who was compelled to travel abroad to repay his medical debts. The rebbe lists in this letter R. Yaakov Yisrael’s lineage, up to the Tzaddikim R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, R. Meir of Premishlan, "the Bach, Taz and other righteous and holy men". The rebbe concludes the letter with a blessing: "And in the merit of this important mitzva, and in the merit of his holy ancestors, G-d will shower upon you much blessing and an abundance of success".
Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno (1861-1929), a G-dly kabbalist and holy man. Son of Rebbe Eliezer Tzvi author of Ben Beiti and Damesek Eliezer, and grandson of the Heichal Bracha. He was a disciple of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, and the Maggid of Trisk, who greatly cherished and revered him. In 1898, following his father’s passing, he began leading a Chassidic community in Komarno. His prayers were recited with tremendous passion and weeping, and many were aroused to full repentance through his prayers. He was renowned as a wonder-worker and a G-dly kabbalist benefitting from Divine Inspiration. He became known as the Chozeh of Komarno, appellation earned by astounding revelations he was privy to with Divine Inspiration. He became famous mostly after WWI, when many Polish Jews began frequenting his court, and leading rebbes of Alexander, Radomsk and Ostrovtza would send him kvitelach for prayer and blessing. Some Jews were blessed with wealth through his blessings and advice. He authored three books which were lost in the Holocaust. His renowned son-in-law, the Minchat Elazar of Munkacs, eulogized him: "My father-in-law benefitted from Divine Inspiration. Behold, I had private matters, which apart from G-d and myself, no one knew about, and when I stood before my father-in-law, he revealed them all to me through Divine Inspiration" (Imrei Kodesh, Komarno, Bnei Brak 2003, p. 531). He was the son-in-law (in his second marriage) of the Imrei Yosef of Spinka.
[1] leaf. Approx. 20 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears to folds, slightly affecting text. Mounted of paper for reinforcement.
This letter was published in Shalshelet Komarno (Jerusalem 2001, pp. 412-413), and its picture was printed in Shoshelet Spinka (Bnei Brak 1990, p. 221).
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $400
Unsold
Handwritten leaf, Tenaim document upon the engagement of the groom "R. Meir Yisrael Leib" son of R. Avraham Dov Sharf of Safed with the bride Tamar Hinda daughter of R. Yaakov Yosef Biderman "and on his behalf, stands his father R. David Tzvi Shlomo", signed by the witnesses R. "Shmuel Meir Wir[th?]" and R. "Asher Lemel HaKohen from Jerusalem". Safed, 25th Iyar 1897.
The bride was the only daughter of R. Yaakov Yosef Biderman - the eldest son of Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo of Lelov-Jerusalem (see enclosed material). R. Yaakov Yosef died young in 1900 (in the lifetime of his father), and already in 1897, his father the rebbe undertook all the financial obligations of the marriage: "R. David Tzvi Shlomo undertook to give 15 napoléons as dowry for his son, and five napoléons for the gifts to the groom… and to support the couple at his table for two years after the wedding…". Interestingly, at the time of his engagement, the groom was not yet of bar-mitzva age and the date of the wedding was set for "the time the groom will reach the age to don tefillin…".
Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo Biderman (1844-1918) was the son of Rebbe Elazar Menachem Mendel of Lelov (1827-1883), leader of the Chassidic communities of Jerusalem. R. David Tzvi was holy and pure from his youth. In 1850, when his grandfather, Rebbe Moishe’le, travelled to Eretz Israel and took leave of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, the Ruzhiner said that the boy David has "shining, bright eyes". Over the years, R. David Tzvi Shlomo travelled from Jerusalem to Karlin and became one of the leading Chassidim of the Beit Aharon. His father, Rebbe Elazar Mendel, attested that he always saw the Shiviti before his eyes. The Yismach Yisrael of Aleksander dubbed him "a Sefer Torah". R. Chaim Shmuel of Chęciny said that for many years he was the "tzaddik of the generation". Upon his father’s death in 1883 he was appointed rebbe, and was the primary leader of the Chassidic community of Jerusalem.
[1] leaf. 25.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears, some repaired with tape on verso.
The bride was the only daughter of R. Yaakov Yosef Biderman - the eldest son of Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo of Lelov-Jerusalem (see enclosed material). R. Yaakov Yosef died young in 1900 (in the lifetime of his father), and already in 1897, his father the rebbe undertook all the financial obligations of the marriage: "R. David Tzvi Shlomo undertook to give 15 napoléons as dowry for his son, and five napoléons for the gifts to the groom… and to support the couple at his table for two years after the wedding…". Interestingly, at the time of his engagement, the groom was not yet of bar-mitzva age and the date of the wedding was set for "the time the groom will reach the age to don tefillin…".
Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo Biderman (1844-1918) was the son of Rebbe Elazar Menachem Mendel of Lelov (1827-1883), leader of the Chassidic communities of Jerusalem. R. David Tzvi was holy and pure from his youth. In 1850, when his grandfather, Rebbe Moishe’le, travelled to Eretz Israel and took leave of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, the Ruzhiner said that the boy David has "shining, bright eyes". Over the years, R. David Tzvi Shlomo travelled from Jerusalem to Karlin and became one of the leading Chassidim of the Beit Aharon. His father, Rebbe Elazar Mendel, attested that he always saw the Shiviti before his eyes. The Yismach Yisrael of Aleksander dubbed him "a Sefer Torah". R. Chaim Shmuel of Chęciny said that for many years he was the "tzaddik of the generation". Upon his father’s death in 1883 he was appointed rebbe, and was the primary leader of the Chassidic community of Jerusalem.
[1] leaf. 25.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears, some repaired with tape on verso.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $500
Unsold
Responsum letter of Torah thoughts on the laws of shelichut, sent to R. Yitzchak Teitelbaum dayan and posek in Bardiov (Bardejov), signed "Ben Z[ion]". [Bobov?, before 1905?].
The handwriting is similar to that of known letters from the court of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. The signature is torn and damaged, making it difficult to compare to other signatures, however, it seems to be the signature of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. At the foot of the letter, he writes "Regards from my father"; this indicates that the letter was written before 1905, the year his father, Rebbe Shlomo of Bobov, passed away.
The recipient: R. Yitzchak Teitelbaum (1858-1942, perished in the Holocaust) served as dayan and posek in Bardiov (Bardejov, in German: Bartfeld). He was the disciple of Maharam Schick, and was beloved by the Yitav Lev of Sighet. Likewise, he was revered and cherished by the rebbes of Bobov, R. Shlomo Halberstam and his son R. Ben Zion - author of Kedushat Tzion. Reputedly, when the Kedushat Tzion of Bobov visited Bardiov, of all the prominent rabbis and community notables who came to greet him, he chose R. Yitzchak to sit beside him in the carriage on his way from the train station to his lodgings. He explained his choice by saying: "Do not be surprised that I chose him and none other from among the elder rabbis. This is because my father [Rebbe Shlomo] attested that he learns Torah for the sake of Heaven". R. Yitzchak perished in Auschwitz on 9th Av 1942. Some of his writings were published in the book Divrei Yitzchak.
Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam, author of Kedushat Tzion (1874-1941, perished in the Holocaust), was the second rebbe of the Bobov dynasty, one of the leading rebbes of his generation and leader of West Galician Jewry. Prominent Torah scholar, clever and sharp, he had an aristocratic demeanour (Encyclopedia L’Chassidut, I, p. 360). He was the son and successor of Rebbe Shlomo (the first) of Bobov, and son-in-law of his great-uncle Rebbe Shalom Eliezer Halberstam of Ratzfert. In 1892, he was appointed Junior Rabbi of Bobov, and already in his father’s lifetime he led the city’s rabbinate and the "holy court". For over 35 years, he served as rabbi and rebbe of thousands of Chassidic families. Many disciples flocked to his yeshiva in Bobov, and under his guidance the studies in the yeshiva reached a very high level. After WWI, he rebuilt the Galician Torah world, establishing the large network of Etz Chaim yeshivot. In the aftermath of WWI and the severe crisis of Galician Chassidism, these yeshivot gave rise to a new generation of Chassidim. He was very active in rabbinical and communal matters, and in 1928, founded the Western-Galicia rabbinic organization. During the Holocaust, he escaped to Lviv, where he was murdered by the Nazis. His son, Rebbe Shlomo (the second) of Bobov, arrived in the United States after the Holocaust and re-established the Bobov Chassidism, which today is one of the largest Chassidic communities in the world.
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 24 cm. Fair condition. The letter is damaged, with a large open tear at the top of the leaf (repaired with paper), affecting text and signature. Tears (repaired) and stains.
The handwriting is similar to that of known letters from the court of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. The signature is torn and damaged, making it difficult to compare to other signatures, however, it seems to be the signature of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. At the foot of the letter, he writes "Regards from my father"; this indicates that the letter was written before 1905, the year his father, Rebbe Shlomo of Bobov, passed away.
The recipient: R. Yitzchak Teitelbaum (1858-1942, perished in the Holocaust) served as dayan and posek in Bardiov (Bardejov, in German: Bartfeld). He was the disciple of Maharam Schick, and was beloved by the Yitav Lev of Sighet. Likewise, he was revered and cherished by the rebbes of Bobov, R. Shlomo Halberstam and his son R. Ben Zion - author of Kedushat Tzion. Reputedly, when the Kedushat Tzion of Bobov visited Bardiov, of all the prominent rabbis and community notables who came to greet him, he chose R. Yitzchak to sit beside him in the carriage on his way from the train station to his lodgings. He explained his choice by saying: "Do not be surprised that I chose him and none other from among the elder rabbis. This is because my father [Rebbe Shlomo] attested that he learns Torah for the sake of Heaven". R. Yitzchak perished in Auschwitz on 9th Av 1942. Some of his writings were published in the book Divrei Yitzchak.
Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam, author of Kedushat Tzion (1874-1941, perished in the Holocaust), was the second rebbe of the Bobov dynasty, one of the leading rebbes of his generation and leader of West Galician Jewry. Prominent Torah scholar, clever and sharp, he had an aristocratic demeanour (Encyclopedia L’Chassidut, I, p. 360). He was the son and successor of Rebbe Shlomo (the first) of Bobov, and son-in-law of his great-uncle Rebbe Shalom Eliezer Halberstam of Ratzfert. In 1892, he was appointed Junior Rabbi of Bobov, and already in his father’s lifetime he led the city’s rabbinate and the "holy court". For over 35 years, he served as rabbi and rebbe of thousands of Chassidic families. Many disciples flocked to his yeshiva in Bobov, and under his guidance the studies in the yeshiva reached a very high level. After WWI, he rebuilt the Galician Torah world, establishing the large network of Etz Chaim yeshivot. In the aftermath of WWI and the severe crisis of Galician Chassidism, these yeshivot gave rise to a new generation of Chassidim. He was very active in rabbinical and communal matters, and in 1928, founded the Western-Galicia rabbinic organization. During the Holocaust, he escaped to Lviv, where he was murdered by the Nazis. His son, Rebbe Shlomo (the second) of Bobov, arrived in the United States after the Holocaust and re-established the Bobov Chassidism, which today is one of the largest Chassidic communities in the world.
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 24 cm. Fair condition. The letter is damaged, with a large open tear at the top of the leaf (repaired with paper), affecting text and signature. Tears (repaired) and stains.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $600
Sold for: $875
Including buyer's premium
Printed invitation to the wedding of R. Yehoshua Rokeach son of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz, with the bride Shifra Chana daughter of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a Fromer, in Belz on 13th Kislev 1924. (Radom): "M. Zucker, Radom", [1924].
A handwritten invitation letter is inscribed on the verso, including one line handwritten and signed by the father of the bride: "From me, who awaits the Redemption and salvation, Moshe E.B. son of R. Y.". The letter was sent to Łódź to his mechutan Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander: "To my honored… mechutan, the holy rabbi and Tzaddik… R. Betzalel Yair". The leaf also contains various inscriptions in pen and pencil, including kvitel inscriptions of names to be mentioned in prayer and for blessing.
The groom: R. Yehoshua Rokeach, later rebbe of Yaroslav (Jarosław; 1897-perished in the Holocaust 1943), son of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (elder Chassidim asserted that his attributes were similar to those of his father). He was the son-in-law of Rebbe Yosef Meir Twersky of Machnovka in his first marriage, and of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a of Ostrovtza (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski) in his second marriage. Following his father’s passing in 1927, he moved to Yaroslav, where he served as rebbe, occasionally frequenting the court of his brother Rebbe Aharon of Belz. During the Holocaust, he fled to Zborov, where he was murdered by the Nazis together with his wife and children. His eldest son (from his first marriage) immigrated to Eretz Israel, and was the father of Rebbe Yehoshua Rokeach of Machnovka.
Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a Fromer (1877-perished in the Holocaust 1942), father of the bride who signed the letter and invitation, was the son and successor of Rebbe Yerachmiel Fromer of Ostrovtza. A scion of the rebbes of the Lipsk-Kozhnitz dynasties. In 1909, he was appointed rebbe in Radom. His son Rebbe Yechiel Elimelech Fromer of Łódź served as rebbe already in his father’s lifetime, and was the son-in-law of the recipient of this invitation, Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander and Łódź (1865-1934).
[1] double leaf. Approx. 23.5 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folds (professionally restored). Stains. Old tape stains.
A handwritten invitation letter is inscribed on the verso, including one line handwritten and signed by the father of the bride: "From me, who awaits the Redemption and salvation, Moshe E.B. son of R. Y.". The letter was sent to Łódź to his mechutan Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander: "To my honored… mechutan, the holy rabbi and Tzaddik… R. Betzalel Yair". The leaf also contains various inscriptions in pen and pencil, including kvitel inscriptions of names to be mentioned in prayer and for blessing.
The groom: R. Yehoshua Rokeach, later rebbe of Yaroslav (Jarosław; 1897-perished in the Holocaust 1943), son of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (elder Chassidim asserted that his attributes were similar to those of his father). He was the son-in-law of Rebbe Yosef Meir Twersky of Machnovka in his first marriage, and of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a of Ostrovtza (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski) in his second marriage. Following his father’s passing in 1927, he moved to Yaroslav, where he served as rebbe, occasionally frequenting the court of his brother Rebbe Aharon of Belz. During the Holocaust, he fled to Zborov, where he was murdered by the Nazis together with his wife and children. His eldest son (from his first marriage) immigrated to Eretz Israel, and was the father of Rebbe Yehoshua Rokeach of Machnovka.
Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a Fromer (1877-perished in the Holocaust 1942), father of the bride who signed the letter and invitation, was the son and successor of Rebbe Yerachmiel Fromer of Ostrovtza. A scion of the rebbes of the Lipsk-Kozhnitz dynasties. In 1909, he was appointed rebbe in Radom. His son Rebbe Yechiel Elimelech Fromer of Łódź served as rebbe already in his father’s lifetime, and was the son-in-law of the recipient of this invitation, Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander and Łódź (1865-1934).
[1] double leaf. Approx. 23.5 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folds (professionally restored). Stains. Old tape stains.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Yechezkel HaLevi Halstock at the time he served as Rabbi of Inowłódz (Poland), Elul 1913.
Addressed to one of his disciples: "Peace to my beloved friend… astute and well-versed… Yaakov". At the beginning of the letter, he writes: "I have received your letter with your dear and pleasant Torah novellae, which I cherish… G-d willing, I will take the time to study your words well and then write to you a longer response…". The letter concludes with blessings for the New Year, signed "Yechezkel HaLevi…".
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Halstock, second Ostrovtza Rebbe (1887-1942, perished in the Holocaust), was the son of Rebbe Meir Yechiel HaLevi Rabbi of Ostrovtza ("the rebbe who fasted for 40 years") and the son-in-law of R. Naftali of Melitz-Ropshitz. An outstanding Torah scholar and holy man, he was known for his ingenious study methods learned from his scholarly father. In 1911, he was appointed rabbi of Inowłódz near Tomaszów, and in 1921 moved to serve in the Nasielsk rabbinate. In 1928, he became rebbe and rabbi of Ostrovtza, succeeding his holy father. He founded the Beit Meir network of yeshivot and stood at their helm. Many students studied in these yeshivot, adopting the special study method of the Ostrovtza rebbes - sharpness and proficiency in all areas of Torah study. He and all his descendants (seven sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren) were murdered in the Holocaust. Remnants of his Torah novellae on Seder Kodshim, homilies on the Torah and more, were printed in Kodshei Yechezkel.
Postcard. 14 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and creases. Postmarks.
Addressed to one of his disciples: "Peace to my beloved friend… astute and well-versed… Yaakov". At the beginning of the letter, he writes: "I have received your letter with your dear and pleasant Torah novellae, which I cherish… G-d willing, I will take the time to study your words well and then write to you a longer response…". The letter concludes with blessings for the New Year, signed "Yechezkel HaLevi…".
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Halstock, second Ostrovtza Rebbe (1887-1942, perished in the Holocaust), was the son of Rebbe Meir Yechiel HaLevi Rabbi of Ostrovtza ("the rebbe who fasted for 40 years") and the son-in-law of R. Naftali of Melitz-Ropshitz. An outstanding Torah scholar and holy man, he was known for his ingenious study methods learned from his scholarly father. In 1911, he was appointed rabbi of Inowłódz near Tomaszów, and in 1921 moved to serve in the Nasielsk rabbinate. In 1928, he became rebbe and rabbi of Ostrovtza, succeeding his holy father. He founded the Beit Meir network of yeshivot and stood at their helm. Many students studied in these yeshivot, adopting the special study method of the Ostrovtza rebbes - sharpness and proficiency in all areas of Torah study. He and all his descendants (seven sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren) were murdered in the Holocaust. Remnants of his Torah novellae on Seder Kodshim, homilies on the Torah and more, were printed in Kodshei Yechezkel.
Postcard. 14 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and creases. Postmarks.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $875
Including buyer's premium
Three letters handwritten and signed by Rebbe Baruch Hager of Seret-Vizhnitz and Haifa:
1. Letter of recommendation to assist a man wishing to live near Haifa. The Rebbe implores on behalf of this person, as if it were for himself: "…and you are literally doing me a personal favor. He is an elevated and G-d fearing person. I hope you will do whatever you can. Your friend Baruch". Haifa, Adar I 1951.
2. Letter to the Gaon of Turda R. Yosef Adler - congratulations for his daughter’s wedding: "…may you merit seeing from her and from all your descendants blessed, upright and learned generations… and may we all merit to rejoice upon the holy land with the coming of the true redeemer, to hear and tell only good tidings… Baruch son of R. Y.". Haifa, Tammuz 1953.
3. Letter of Torah thoughts, addressed to R. Naftali HaKohen. The Rebbe concludes the letter with blessings: "May G-d lengthen your years in good health, to serve G-d in contentment and tranquility. Your friend… who awaits Heavenly mercy. Baruch son of R. Y.". Ramat Vizhnitz, Haifa, Tevet 1957.
Rebbe Baruch Hager of Seret-Vizhnitz (1895-1963) was the fourth son of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. He received rabbinical ordination from R. Meir Arik and R. Avraham Menachem Steinberg of Brody, and served in the rabbinate from 1923. In 1936 he was appointed Rebbe in Seret (Siret). In 1947 he immigrated to Haifa, where he reestablished his Beit Midrash and community institutions, which exist until this day in Haifa and other cities. Over the years he founded Kiryat Ramat Vizhnitz in Haifa. A member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael.
Three letters, official stationery. 18.5-22 cm. Condition varies, good to good-fair. Creases, ink stains and traces of past dampness.
1. Letter of recommendation to assist a man wishing to live near Haifa. The Rebbe implores on behalf of this person, as if it were for himself: "…and you are literally doing me a personal favor. He is an elevated and G-d fearing person. I hope you will do whatever you can. Your friend Baruch". Haifa, Adar I 1951.
2. Letter to the Gaon of Turda R. Yosef Adler - congratulations for his daughter’s wedding: "…may you merit seeing from her and from all your descendants blessed, upright and learned generations… and may we all merit to rejoice upon the holy land with the coming of the true redeemer, to hear and tell only good tidings… Baruch son of R. Y.". Haifa, Tammuz 1953.
3. Letter of Torah thoughts, addressed to R. Naftali HaKohen. The Rebbe concludes the letter with blessings: "May G-d lengthen your years in good health, to serve G-d in contentment and tranquility. Your friend… who awaits Heavenly mercy. Baruch son of R. Y.". Ramat Vizhnitz, Haifa, Tevet 1957.
Rebbe Baruch Hager of Seret-Vizhnitz (1895-1963) was the fourth son of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. He received rabbinical ordination from R. Meir Arik and R. Avraham Menachem Steinberg of Brody, and served in the rabbinate from 1923. In 1936 he was appointed Rebbe in Seret (Siret). In 1947 he immigrated to Haifa, where he reestablished his Beit Midrash and community institutions, which exist until this day in Haifa and other cities. Over the years he founded Kiryat Ramat Vizhnitz in Haifa. A member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael.
Three letters, official stationery. 18.5-22 cm. Condition varies, good to good-fair. Creases, ink stains and traces of past dampness.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $500
Unsold
Printed wedding invitation, with letters signed by Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim and his son Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, author of Yeshuot Moshe. Bnei Brak, 1966.
Printed invitation, on behalf of the Rebbe author of Imrei Chaim, to the wedding of his granddaughter, daughter of his son Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, with Rebbe Aharon Teitelbaum of Siget-Satmar, on 21st Sivan 1966. On verso is a letter handwritten by a scribe an hand-signed by the bride’s grandfather, Rebbe "Chaim Meir", and a letter handwritten and signed by the bride’s father "Moshe Yehoshua".
The invitation was sent to their relative R. Mordechai Aryeh Horwitz Rabbi of Banyliv.
Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim (1888-1972), son and successor of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Following the Holocaust, he returned to Grosswardein (Oradea), moving in 1947 to Antwerp and then to Tel Aviv. He established the Kiryat Vizhnitz neighborhood in Bnei Brak, rebuilt the Vizhnitz Chassidic dynasty, and set up its institutions. He was one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Eretz Israel, and a member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. His teachings were published in the Imrei Chaim series. His wife, Rebbetzin Margalit was the daughter of Rebbe Zeev Twersky of Rachmastrivka.
His son and successor, Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, author of Yeshuot Moshe (1916-2012), served as Rabbi of Vil’khovets. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Upon his arrival, he was appointed dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva, and assisted his father in establishing and expanding the Vizhnitz Chassidism. Following his father’s passing in 1972, he succeeded him and led the large court of Vizhnitz Chassidim for forty years. He was renowned for his exceptional diligence, holiness and outstanding service of G-d. Multitudes flocked to his Tishim, to be inspired by his fiery passion and typical Vizhnitz "sweetness", which enraptured and aroused the crowd. From 1989, he served as president of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. Some of his discourses and letters were published in the nine-volume Yeshuot Moshe series, including a collection of his lectures on Tractate Pesachim. His sons are Rebbe Yisrael Hager and Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager. His sons-in-law are the Rebbes of Skver and Belz, Rebbe Aharon of Satmar and R. Menachem Ernster dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva.
[1] leaf. 22 cm. Good-fair condition. Dark stains. Folding marks and creases.
Printed invitation, on behalf of the Rebbe author of Imrei Chaim, to the wedding of his granddaughter, daughter of his son Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, with Rebbe Aharon Teitelbaum of Siget-Satmar, on 21st Sivan 1966. On verso is a letter handwritten by a scribe an hand-signed by the bride’s grandfather, Rebbe "Chaim Meir", and a letter handwritten and signed by the bride’s father "Moshe Yehoshua".
The invitation was sent to their relative R. Mordechai Aryeh Horwitz Rabbi of Banyliv.
Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim (1888-1972), son and successor of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Following the Holocaust, he returned to Grosswardein (Oradea), moving in 1947 to Antwerp and then to Tel Aviv. He established the Kiryat Vizhnitz neighborhood in Bnei Brak, rebuilt the Vizhnitz Chassidic dynasty, and set up its institutions. He was one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Eretz Israel, and a member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. His teachings were published in the Imrei Chaim series. His wife, Rebbetzin Margalit was the daughter of Rebbe Zeev Twersky of Rachmastrivka.
His son and successor, Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, author of Yeshuot Moshe (1916-2012), served as Rabbi of Vil’khovets. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Upon his arrival, he was appointed dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva, and assisted his father in establishing and expanding the Vizhnitz Chassidism. Following his father’s passing in 1972, he succeeded him and led the large court of Vizhnitz Chassidim for forty years. He was renowned for his exceptional diligence, holiness and outstanding service of G-d. Multitudes flocked to his Tishim, to be inspired by his fiery passion and typical Vizhnitz "sweetness", which enraptured and aroused the crowd. From 1989, he served as president of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. Some of his discourses and letters were published in the nine-volume Yeshuot Moshe series, including a collection of his lectures on Tractate Pesachim. His sons are Rebbe Yisrael Hager and Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager. His sons-in-law are the Rebbes of Skver and Belz, Rebbe Aharon of Satmar and R. Menachem Ernster dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva.
[1] leaf. 22 cm. Good-fair condition. Dark stains. Folding marks and creases.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue