Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
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Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $2,000
Unsold
Emissary letter on behalf of the fund of Rabbi Meir Ba'al HaNess in Tiberias, to the emissary Rabbi Binyamin Nechmad who traveled to Baghdad, Arabistan, Kurdistan, "Calcutta and Bombay and all cities of India as well as to Persia and large city of Bukhara". Tiberias, [1865].
Handwritten on a large parchment sheet; the upper margins are cut in the shape of a dome. Semi-cursive Sephardic (Rashi) script, with some emphasized words written in large square script.
At the bottom of the sheet are 29 signatures of Tiberian rabbis, in Oriental calligraphy. Among the signatories are: "Senior" rabbi, Rabbi Chaim Shmuel HaKohen (Konverti); Rabbi Ya'akov Abulafia; Rabbi Shimon Abadi; Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Abulafia; Rabbi Mordechai Karasanti; Rabbi Menasheh Arzi HaKohen; Rabbi Yedidya HaKohen; Rabbi Chaim Asmaga; Rabbi David Esudri; Rabbi David Netanel Rofeh; Rabbi Avraham Alchadif; Rabbi Baruch Toledano; and many others.
Parchment sheet, 49X64 cm, framed. Good-fair condition. Stains. Creases on parchment. Unexamined out of the frame.
Handwritten on a large parchment sheet; the upper margins are cut in the shape of a dome. Semi-cursive Sephardic (Rashi) script, with some emphasized words written in large square script.
At the bottom of the sheet are 29 signatures of Tiberian rabbis, in Oriental calligraphy. Among the signatories are: "Senior" rabbi, Rabbi Chaim Shmuel HaKohen (Konverti); Rabbi Ya'akov Abulafia; Rabbi Shimon Abadi; Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Abulafia; Rabbi Mordechai Karasanti; Rabbi Menasheh Arzi HaKohen; Rabbi Yedidya HaKohen; Rabbi Chaim Asmaga; Rabbi David Esudri; Rabbi David Netanel Rofeh; Rabbi Avraham Alchadif; Rabbi Baruch Toledano; and many others.
Parchment sheet, 49X64 cm, framed. Good-fair condition. Stains. Creases on parchment. Unexamined out of the frame.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $6,000
Sold for: $10,000
Including buyer's premium
Parchment megillah containing two stories of deliverance of North African Jewery. [Tangier, Morocco, second half of 19th century].
Ink on parchment, engraved wood.
Charming square script on two parchment sheets. 10 columns, with purple borderlines. Rolled on original wooden handle.
This scroll is composed of two megillot which were read on the two days of "Purim Katan" celebrated in Tangier and in Morocco. The first is the story of the "Purim de las Bombas" deliverance which is followed by the megillah of the salvation of "Sebastian's Purim".
"Purim de las Bombas" (Purim of the bombs) was instituted as a festival for posterity among Tangier Jews after the miracle of the salvation of the Jews of the city in 1849, after French ships bombed the city of Tangier from the sea and the Jewish neighborhood was not harmed in the least. In commemoration of that miracle, sages from Tangier instituted the celebration of Purim Katan each year on the 21st of the month of Av. The story of this deliverance was written for commemoration and was read each year in public, like Megillat Esther, and this day of salvation was celebrated with song and praise.
"Sebastian's Purim" was instituted following the miracle of the deliverance of Morrocan Jews in 1578, at the time Sebastian the King of Portugal attempted to conquer Moroccan cities from the hands of King Moulay Abd Al-Malik. He was joined by King Moulay Muhammed, who formerly served as King of Morocco before his kingdom was seized by Abd Al-Malik. The King of Portugal send a mighty army of 17,000 soldiers in a fleet of 500 ships to Morocco. Using brilliant strategy, the Moroccan army beguiled the Portuguese army deep into their country. The latter marched for five days under the unrelenting boiling Moroccan sun carrying their heavy equipment and finally the battle was fought near the town of El Ksar el Kebir. Within four hours, the Portuguese army was defeated. 8000 soldiers lay dead in the battlefield and another 15,000 were taken into captivity. King Sebastian of Portugal as well as King Abd Al-Malik of Morocco were among the fallen. The third king, Moulay Mohammed drowned himself following the defeat, so all three kings died in one day. From that time, this battle was known as the Battle of the Three Kings. This war directly impacted the fate of Moroccan Jews. Reputedly, two anusim from the Portuguese army told the Jews of Morocco that the King of Portugal had intended to convert the Jews to Christianity after his occupation of Moroccan cities. In commemoration of this miracle of salvation, Moroccan Jews fixed a Purim Katan each year on the second day of Rosh Chodesh Elul, with songs and praise and abstaining from work. Moroccan Jews call this festival "Sebastian's Purim" or "Purim de los Cristianos" (Purim of the Christians). The tidings of the death of King Sebastian of Portugal spread to faraway Jewish communities and the Maharit who lived in Safed writes: "In the year of 1579, a meteor was seen for 40 days in the west… It was a sign of the death of the King of Portugal named Sebastian, while fighting in Africa…" (Teshuvot V'Piskei Maharit HeChadashim, Jerusalem 1978, p. 22). This Purim is celebrated by Moroccan Jews up until recent times, and was commemorated by reading a megillah in public, like the reading of Megillat Esther.
Only a few such megillot, written in the form of a scroll (and not in a pamphlet), are known to exist. We do not know of any other parchment copies in the form of a megillah (a scan of a similar megillah written on paper is held in NLI, from the collection of Bill Gross).
Height of parchment: 13.5 cm. wooden handle: 37 cm. Good condition. Stains. Holes in beginning of first sheet. Several breaks to wooden handle. Without lace for tying.
Ink on parchment, engraved wood.
Charming square script on two parchment sheets. 10 columns, with purple borderlines. Rolled on original wooden handle.
This scroll is composed of two megillot which were read on the two days of "Purim Katan" celebrated in Tangier and in Morocco. The first is the story of the "Purim de las Bombas" deliverance which is followed by the megillah of the salvation of "Sebastian's Purim".
"Purim de las Bombas" (Purim of the bombs) was instituted as a festival for posterity among Tangier Jews after the miracle of the salvation of the Jews of the city in 1849, after French ships bombed the city of Tangier from the sea and the Jewish neighborhood was not harmed in the least. In commemoration of that miracle, sages from Tangier instituted the celebration of Purim Katan each year on the 21st of the month of Av. The story of this deliverance was written for commemoration and was read each year in public, like Megillat Esther, and this day of salvation was celebrated with song and praise.
"Sebastian's Purim" was instituted following the miracle of the deliverance of Morrocan Jews in 1578, at the time Sebastian the King of Portugal attempted to conquer Moroccan cities from the hands of King Moulay Abd Al-Malik. He was joined by King Moulay Muhammed, who formerly served as King of Morocco before his kingdom was seized by Abd Al-Malik. The King of Portugal send a mighty army of 17,000 soldiers in a fleet of 500 ships to Morocco. Using brilliant strategy, the Moroccan army beguiled the Portuguese army deep into their country. The latter marched for five days under the unrelenting boiling Moroccan sun carrying their heavy equipment and finally the battle was fought near the town of El Ksar el Kebir. Within four hours, the Portuguese army was defeated. 8000 soldiers lay dead in the battlefield and another 15,000 were taken into captivity. King Sebastian of Portugal as well as King Abd Al-Malik of Morocco were among the fallen. The third king, Moulay Mohammed drowned himself following the defeat, so all three kings died in one day. From that time, this battle was known as the Battle of the Three Kings. This war directly impacted the fate of Moroccan Jews. Reputedly, two anusim from the Portuguese army told the Jews of Morocco that the King of Portugal had intended to convert the Jews to Christianity after his occupation of Moroccan cities. In commemoration of this miracle of salvation, Moroccan Jews fixed a Purim Katan each year on the second day of Rosh Chodesh Elul, with songs and praise and abstaining from work. Moroccan Jews call this festival "Sebastian's Purim" or "Purim de los Cristianos" (Purim of the Christians). The tidings of the death of King Sebastian of Portugal spread to faraway Jewish communities and the Maharit who lived in Safed writes: "In the year of 1579, a meteor was seen for 40 days in the west… It was a sign of the death of the King of Portugal named Sebastian, while fighting in Africa…" (Teshuvot V'Piskei Maharit HeChadashim, Jerusalem 1978, p. 22). This Purim is celebrated by Moroccan Jews up until recent times, and was commemorated by reading a megillah in public, like the reading of Megillat Esther.
Only a few such megillot, written in the form of a scroll (and not in a pamphlet), are known to exist. We do not know of any other parchment copies in the form of a megillah (a scan of a similar megillah written on paper is held in NLI, from the collection of Bill Gross).
Height of parchment: 13.5 cm. wooden handle: 37 cm. Good condition. Stains. Holes in beginning of first sheet. Several breaks to wooden handle. Without lace for tying.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $10,000
Sold for: $13,750
Including buyer's premium
Leaf (two written pages) in the handwriting of R. Pinchas HaLevi Horowitz, author of the Hafla'ah, novellae on Tractate Nidah.
The leaf contains novellae on Tractate Nidah, from page 5a to page 6b. These novellae have not been printed.
R. Pinchas HaLevi Ish Horowitz, author of the Hafla'ah (1731-1805), close disciple of R. Dov Ber the Magid of Mezeritch [studied under his tutelage together with his brother R. Shmelke of Nikolsburg]. For more than 30 years, he served as Rabbi of Frankfurt am Main, the hub of Torah study in Germany at that time. The Chatam Sofer was among his disciples. He authored important books, including HaMikneh on Tractate Kiddushin, Ketubah on Tractate Ketubot and Hafla'ah on several tractates and on the Shulchan Aruch, giving him his cognomen "Ba'al HaHafla'a".
[1] leaf (2 written pages), 19 cm. Fair condition. Stains and creases, wear and tears to margins.
Enclosed is an expert's report identifying the handwriting as that of the Ba'al Hafla'ah.
The leaf contains novellae on Tractate Nidah, from page 5a to page 6b. These novellae have not been printed.
R. Pinchas HaLevi Ish Horowitz, author of the Hafla'ah (1731-1805), close disciple of R. Dov Ber the Magid of Mezeritch [studied under his tutelage together with his brother R. Shmelke of Nikolsburg]. For more than 30 years, he served as Rabbi of Frankfurt am Main, the hub of Torah study in Germany at that time. The Chatam Sofer was among his disciples. He authored important books, including HaMikneh on Tractate Kiddushin, Ketubah on Tractate Ketubot and Hafla'ah on several tractates and on the Shulchan Aruch, giving him his cognomen "Ba'al HaHafla'a".
[1] leaf (2 written pages), 19 cm. Fair condition. Stains and creases, wear and tears to margins.
Enclosed is an expert's report identifying the handwriting as that of the Ba'al Hafla'ah.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $10,000
Unsold
Letter written by a scribe, with the full signature of R. Aharon of Chernobyl, "Aharon son of the famous R. Mordechai". 10th of Elul [ca. late 1860s].
Letter of family greetings sent to his son-in-law R. David Moshe of Chortkiv and to his daughter Rebbetzin Faiga, and to his grandchildren R. Menachem [Nachum] Mordechai and his wife Sheva, and "the dear groom Yisrael". The letter ends with blessings for the New Year.
R. Aharon Twersky of Chernobyl (1787-1871), foremost Chassidic leader in his times and prominent luminary of the Jewish world in the mid-19th century. He was the eldest son of R. Mordechai of Chernobyl and succeeded his ancestors as Rebbe in the city of Chernobyl. In his youth, he was educated by his grandfather Rebbe Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl, author of Meor Einayim. During his father's lifetime, R. Aharon already filled a central role in the Chassidic world, and his father wrote that in his great holiness, he safeguards his generation. After his father's death in 1838, his eight sons served as rebbes in various cities, however, his eldest son succeeded his father in Chernobyl, esteemed by all his brothers, who gave him deference in their private matters as well [as can be seen by the superlative titles he was given by his brother, R. Avraham the Maggid of Turiysk, who himself was rebbe to thousands of Chassidim]. R. Aharon recognized the authority allotted to him and addressed the public with resolute and decisive terms. For example, in one letter he writes: "I inform them that even if they live as long as Metushelach, they will not know and understand even one thousandth of the good I have done for them in those days, with G-d's help".
R. Aharon lived a long life and merited seeing many of his descendants serve as rebbes, since he was accustomed to appointing his grandsons as rebbes in his lifetime. The most outstanding rebbe among his descendants was the recipient of this letter, his son-in-law R. David Moshe of Chortkiv (1827-1903), who was greatly esteemed by his father-in-law, as he writes in this letter when blessing his son-in-law's Chassidim: "All who are attached with ties of love to the light of the holiness of my holy and pure son-in-law". His daughter, Rebbetzin Faiga, recipient of this letter, was the maternal granddaughter of R. Aharon of Tetiyev, a descendant of the Baal Shem Tov. His grandson R. Menachem Nachum Mordechai, mentioned in the letter, died at a young age in 1870, and his widow Rebbetzin Sheva remarried Rebbe Yisrael of Sadigura. His grandson Yisrael, mentioned in the letter, is Rebbe Yisrael of Chortkiv (1854-1933), an eminent rebbe and leader from the early 1900s until the 1930s.
Leaf, approximately 26 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and damages to margins (not affecting text), wear and stains.
Letter of family greetings sent to his son-in-law R. David Moshe of Chortkiv and to his daughter Rebbetzin Faiga, and to his grandchildren R. Menachem [Nachum] Mordechai and his wife Sheva, and "the dear groom Yisrael". The letter ends with blessings for the New Year.
R. Aharon Twersky of Chernobyl (1787-1871), foremost Chassidic leader in his times and prominent luminary of the Jewish world in the mid-19th century. He was the eldest son of R. Mordechai of Chernobyl and succeeded his ancestors as Rebbe in the city of Chernobyl. In his youth, he was educated by his grandfather Rebbe Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl, author of Meor Einayim. During his father's lifetime, R. Aharon already filled a central role in the Chassidic world, and his father wrote that in his great holiness, he safeguards his generation. After his father's death in 1838, his eight sons served as rebbes in various cities, however, his eldest son succeeded his father in Chernobyl, esteemed by all his brothers, who gave him deference in their private matters as well [as can be seen by the superlative titles he was given by his brother, R. Avraham the Maggid of Turiysk, who himself was rebbe to thousands of Chassidim]. R. Aharon recognized the authority allotted to him and addressed the public with resolute and decisive terms. For example, in one letter he writes: "I inform them that even if they live as long as Metushelach, they will not know and understand even one thousandth of the good I have done for them in those days, with G-d's help".
R. Aharon lived a long life and merited seeing many of his descendants serve as rebbes, since he was accustomed to appointing his grandsons as rebbes in his lifetime. The most outstanding rebbe among his descendants was the recipient of this letter, his son-in-law R. David Moshe of Chortkiv (1827-1903), who was greatly esteemed by his father-in-law, as he writes in this letter when blessing his son-in-law's Chassidim: "All who are attached with ties of love to the light of the holiness of my holy and pure son-in-law". His daughter, Rebbetzin Faiga, recipient of this letter, was the maternal granddaughter of R. Aharon of Tetiyev, a descendant of the Baal Shem Tov. His grandson R. Menachem Nachum Mordechai, mentioned in the letter, died at a young age in 1870, and his widow Rebbetzin Sheva remarried Rebbe Yisrael of Sadigura. His grandson Yisrael, mentioned in the letter, is Rebbe Yisrael of Chortkiv (1854-1933), an eminent rebbe and leader from the early 1900s until the 1930s.
Leaf, approximately 26 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and damages to margins (not affecting text), wear and stains.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $8,000
Unsold
Letter with the full signature of R. "Avraham Yaakov son of R. Yisrael" of Sadigura, sent to his son. Undated [probably written in the summer of 1864, to his son R. Shlomo'nyu, during the time he stayed in Vienna for medical care].
The upper half of the letter is lacking, only the last five lines remain - blessings and good wishes (written by a scribe), with the Rebbe's signature: "…and as from time to time, I bestow my blessing upon you that G-d should send you help and speedy salvation, and that I should merit seeing you soon in complete health… with a life of gratification, blessings and peace from the Master of Peace. Your father… Avraham Yaakov son of R. Yisrael".
R. Avraham Yaakov (the First) of Sadigura (1819-1883), a notable rebbe in his times and leader of Charedi Jewry. Son and successor of his holy father, R. Yisrael of Ruzhyn, in his Beit Midrash in Sadigura. Son-in-law of Rebbe Aharon of Karlin, author of Beit Aharon, and by second marriage son-in-law of his brother R. Menachem Nachum of Shtefaneshty. He was rebbe to thousands of Chassidim and many thronged to receive his blessings, counsel and guidance. A holy man, he concealed his great stature, and only by chance the many tikkunim he performed for souls of the dead at their behest from heaven were revealed. He was known for his royal conduct following the Ruzhyn Rebbes' demeanor of wealth and prosperity, but he himself was holy and abstained from food until his intestines completely shriveled. He stood at the helm of Charedi Jewry in his times, and joined the Belzer Rebbe in founding Machzikei HaDat in Galicia. He initiated the completion of the magnificent Tiferet Yisrael synagogue in Jerusalem. He suffered from the Russian government's pursuit of the House of Ruzhyn. Following his letter to Montefiore requesting him to help save Russian Jewry from the Tsar, the Russian authorities turned to the Austro-Hungarian Empire with a libel of counterfeit money, resulting in the imprisonment of R. Avraham Yaakov for two years (from 1856-1858).
His son, the recipient of this letter, is R. Shlomo'nyu, who was sickly and died in his father's lifetime. Glorious dynasties of rebbes branched from his other descendants, which led the Jewish world in various countries: his sons R. Yisrael of Sadigura and R. Yitzchak of Boyan, the dynasties of the Rebbes of Boyan, Sadigura, Bohush (Buhuși), Shtefenesht, Husiatyn, Drohobych, Koptchintz, etc.
Leaf, approximately 14.5X8 cm. Good-fair condition. Wear and tears. Lacking upper half of letter.
This letter was printed in the book Igrot HaRav HaKadosh M'Ruzhyn U'Vanav, Part 2, Igeret (letter) 114, p. 255.
The upper half of the letter is lacking, only the last five lines remain - blessings and good wishes (written by a scribe), with the Rebbe's signature: "…and as from time to time, I bestow my blessing upon you that G-d should send you help and speedy salvation, and that I should merit seeing you soon in complete health… with a life of gratification, blessings and peace from the Master of Peace. Your father… Avraham Yaakov son of R. Yisrael".
R. Avraham Yaakov (the First) of Sadigura (1819-1883), a notable rebbe in his times and leader of Charedi Jewry. Son and successor of his holy father, R. Yisrael of Ruzhyn, in his Beit Midrash in Sadigura. Son-in-law of Rebbe Aharon of Karlin, author of Beit Aharon, and by second marriage son-in-law of his brother R. Menachem Nachum of Shtefaneshty. He was rebbe to thousands of Chassidim and many thronged to receive his blessings, counsel and guidance. A holy man, he concealed his great stature, and only by chance the many tikkunim he performed for souls of the dead at their behest from heaven were revealed. He was known for his royal conduct following the Ruzhyn Rebbes' demeanor of wealth and prosperity, but he himself was holy and abstained from food until his intestines completely shriveled. He stood at the helm of Charedi Jewry in his times, and joined the Belzer Rebbe in founding Machzikei HaDat in Galicia. He initiated the completion of the magnificent Tiferet Yisrael synagogue in Jerusalem. He suffered from the Russian government's pursuit of the House of Ruzhyn. Following his letter to Montefiore requesting him to help save Russian Jewry from the Tsar, the Russian authorities turned to the Austro-Hungarian Empire with a libel of counterfeit money, resulting in the imprisonment of R. Avraham Yaakov for two years (from 1856-1858).
His son, the recipient of this letter, is R. Shlomo'nyu, who was sickly and died in his father's lifetime. Glorious dynasties of rebbes branched from his other descendants, which led the Jewish world in various countries: his sons R. Yisrael of Sadigura and R. Yitzchak of Boyan, the dynasties of the Rebbes of Boyan, Sadigura, Bohush (Buhuși), Shtefenesht, Husiatyn, Drohobych, Koptchintz, etc.
Leaf, approximately 14.5X8 cm. Good-fair condition. Wear and tears. Lacking upper half of letter.
This letter was printed in the book Igrot HaRav HaKadosh M'Ruzhyn U'Vanav, Part 2, Igeret (letter) 114, p. 255.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $18,000
Unsold
Autograph letter by R. Mordechai Rabbi of Korets and of Lutsk, signed "Mordechai". [Korets, ca. early 1800s].
Halachic question regarding the writing of names on Gittin (divorce bills), sent to R. Ephraim Zalman Margolioth of Brody, author of Beit Efraim [the response to this question was printed in the Beit Efraim responsa, Hilchot Gittin, Siman 109. Noted in the index, that the responsum was sent to Korets]. In this letter, R. Mordechai mentions the previous rabbi of the city, R. Yitzchak Isaac HaCohen, author of Brit Kehunat Olam who was Rabbi of Korets: "And upon my arrival here, I have found the custom of those who arranged gittin in the days of the famed Torah scholar R. Isaac HaCohen".
R. Mordechai [Margolioth] Rabbi of Korets (died after 1822, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 3, p. 218) was the son of R. Pinchas Rabbi of Kolky and relative of the recipient, R. Ephraim Zalman Margolioth. He served as Rabbi of Korets from ca. 1798. His approbations appear in many books printed in his lifetime from 1798-1822 and in all the approbations, he is highly lauded which indicated his high status in his era of great Torah luminaries. Most of his approbations were for kabbalist and Chassidic books such as: Or Torah by the Magid of Mezritch, Or HaMe'ir by R. Ze'ev of Zhitomir, Kedushat Levi by R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv, etc. From ca. 1816-1818, he also served as Rabbi of Lutsk while retaining his position in the Korets rabbinate. Recently, an "ohel" (tent) was constructed above his gravesite in Korets by the Ohalei Tsaddikim association (see enclosed material).
His only daughter wed R. Yosef of Lublin and of Torchin, son and successor of the Chozeh of Lublin (in his approbation to the book Or P'nei Moshe, R. Mordechai mentions his visit to the Chozeh of Lublin). His son-in-law Rebbe Yosef died at a young age in 1818,
leaving two girls. One married R. Menachem Nachum of Makariv-Chernobyl, and a long line of important Rebbes descended from her progeny.
Leaf, 22 cm. Greenish paper. 25 handwritten lines. Good condition. Minor damages to margins and slight creases. One of the words of the last line was originally written on a folding crease.
Enclosed is a report by an expert on rabbinical manuscripts, who writes about the rabbi who wrote the letter and about the item.
Halachic question regarding the writing of names on Gittin (divorce bills), sent to R. Ephraim Zalman Margolioth of Brody, author of Beit Efraim [the response to this question was printed in the Beit Efraim responsa, Hilchot Gittin, Siman 109. Noted in the index, that the responsum was sent to Korets]. In this letter, R. Mordechai mentions the previous rabbi of the city, R. Yitzchak Isaac HaCohen, author of Brit Kehunat Olam who was Rabbi of Korets: "And upon my arrival here, I have found the custom of those who arranged gittin in the days of the famed Torah scholar R. Isaac HaCohen".
R. Mordechai [Margolioth] Rabbi of Korets (died after 1822, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 3, p. 218) was the son of R. Pinchas Rabbi of Kolky and relative of the recipient, R. Ephraim Zalman Margolioth. He served as Rabbi of Korets from ca. 1798. His approbations appear in many books printed in his lifetime from 1798-1822 and in all the approbations, he is highly lauded which indicated his high status in his era of great Torah luminaries. Most of his approbations were for kabbalist and Chassidic books such as: Or Torah by the Magid of Mezritch, Or HaMe'ir by R. Ze'ev of Zhitomir, Kedushat Levi by R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv, etc. From ca. 1816-1818, he also served as Rabbi of Lutsk while retaining his position in the Korets rabbinate. Recently, an "ohel" (tent) was constructed above his gravesite in Korets by the Ohalei Tsaddikim association (see enclosed material).
His only daughter wed R. Yosef of Lublin and of Torchin, son and successor of the Chozeh of Lublin (in his approbation to the book Or P'nei Moshe, R. Mordechai mentions his visit to the Chozeh of Lublin). His son-in-law Rebbe Yosef died at a young age in 1818,
leaving two girls. One married R. Menachem Nachum of Makariv-Chernobyl, and a long line of important Rebbes descended from her progeny.
Leaf, 22 cm. Greenish paper. 25 handwritten lines. Good condition. Minor damages to margins and slight creases. One of the words of the last line was originally written on a folding crease.
Enclosed is a report by an expert on rabbinical manuscripts, who writes about the rabbi who wrote the letter and about the item.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $7,000
Unsold
Autograph letter signed by R. Yosef David HaCohen of Zawalow, a leading Chassidic figure in his days and successor of the Rabbi of Apta. Iaşi, 1826.
Letter and shtar signed "by… R. Ya'akov… of Medzhybizh", regarding money owned to him "according to the calculation of the money of the estate" of the late R. Chaim. "…For faithful proof, I have signed, Thursday Erev Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av 1826 here in Iaşi. Yosef David HaCohen".
R. Yosef David HaCohen (died in 1828), was one of the early leaders of the Chassidic Movement. Disciple of R. Meshulam Feivish of Zbaraż (who was also the teacher of the Arvei Nachal, the Ahavat Shalom and of R. Zvi of Nadvirna). He lived in Tysmenytsia (Galicia) and as attested by R. Yeshaya Schorr of Iaşi (author of K'lil Tiferet), already at that time he was acclaimed for his "great holiness and pure abstinence and for his devotion to Torah study and to prayer", drawing many Chassidim to study his teachings and conduct. He later moved to serve in the rabbinate of the town of Zawalow (near Podhajce). In 1814, he moved from Galicia to Romania to serve as Rabbi of Iaşi instead of the Rabbi of Apta who had moved from Iaşi to Medzhybizh. In Iaşi, he established his Beit Midrash (known for generations as the "Beit Midrash of the Zawalow Rabbi") which was a gathering place for his holy disciples to serve G-d following his guidelines. He dealt extensively with issues of faith and his book, printed 30 years posthumously, is titled Darkei Emunah.
Leaf, 19X24.5 cm. Good condition. Creases and wear to margins.
Letter and shtar signed "by… R. Ya'akov… of Medzhybizh", regarding money owned to him "according to the calculation of the money of the estate" of the late R. Chaim. "…For faithful proof, I have signed, Thursday Erev Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av 1826 here in Iaşi. Yosef David HaCohen".
R. Yosef David HaCohen (died in 1828), was one of the early leaders of the Chassidic Movement. Disciple of R. Meshulam Feivish of Zbaraż (who was also the teacher of the Arvei Nachal, the Ahavat Shalom and of R. Zvi of Nadvirna). He lived in Tysmenytsia (Galicia) and as attested by R. Yeshaya Schorr of Iaşi (author of K'lil Tiferet), already at that time he was acclaimed for his "great holiness and pure abstinence and for his devotion to Torah study and to prayer", drawing many Chassidim to study his teachings and conduct. He later moved to serve in the rabbinate of the town of Zawalow (near Podhajce). In 1814, he moved from Galicia to Romania to serve as Rabbi of Iaşi instead of the Rabbi of Apta who had moved from Iaşi to Medzhybizh. In Iaşi, he established his Beit Midrash (known for generations as the "Beit Midrash of the Zawalow Rabbi") which was a gathering place for his holy disciples to serve G-d following his guidelines. He dealt extensively with issues of faith and his book, printed 30 years posthumously, is titled Darkei Emunah.
Leaf, 19X24.5 cm. Good condition. Creases and wear to margins.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $28,000
Unsold
Leaf with novellae on Tractate Megillah, handwritten by R. Zvi Elimelech of Dynów, author of Bnei Yissaschar, [early 19th century].
Two handwritten pages, with the novellae for leaves 18-20 and part of the novellae for leaf 21 of Tractate Megillah. The novellae include a Chassidic explanation to an Aggadic passage. These novellae were printed by his grandson R. Meir Meshulam Shapira of Łańcut in the book Re'ach Duda'im (Mukachevo, 1879).
The holy Gaon Rabbi Tzvi Elimelech Langsam-Shapiro (1783-1841) was a prominent disciple of Rabbi Mendel of Rymanów and a disciple of the Seer of Lublin. He was also a disciple of the Apta Rebbe and of the Maggid of Koznitz. From a young age he served as rabbi in various Galician towns, however, he was particularly known for his tenure in the Dynów Rabbinate, where he was also proclaimed as Rebbe in 1815. He also served as rabbi of Mukachevo. Authored dozens of compositions in Halacha and Aggadah, Chassidism and Kabbalah. He is known after his holy book "Bnei Yissaschar" (his lineage was traced to the tribe of Yissachar by the Seer of Lublin). His descendants formed many dynasties of rabbis and rebbes, including Dynów, Munkacs (Mukachevo), Bukowsk and others.
Leaf, written on both sides. 22.5 cm. Good condition. Stains, creases and wear to margins.
Two handwritten pages, with the novellae for leaves 18-20 and part of the novellae for leaf 21 of Tractate Megillah. The novellae include a Chassidic explanation to an Aggadic passage. These novellae were printed by his grandson R. Meir Meshulam Shapira of Łańcut in the book Re'ach Duda'im (Mukachevo, 1879).
The holy Gaon Rabbi Tzvi Elimelech Langsam-Shapiro (1783-1841) was a prominent disciple of Rabbi Mendel of Rymanów and a disciple of the Seer of Lublin. He was also a disciple of the Apta Rebbe and of the Maggid of Koznitz. From a young age he served as rabbi in various Galician towns, however, he was particularly known for his tenure in the Dynów Rabbinate, where he was also proclaimed as Rebbe in 1815. He also served as rabbi of Mukachevo. Authored dozens of compositions in Halacha and Aggadah, Chassidism and Kabbalah. He is known after his holy book "Bnei Yissaschar" (his lineage was traced to the tribe of Yissachar by the Seer of Lublin). His descendants formed many dynasties of rabbis and rebbes, including Dynów, Munkacs (Mukachevo), Bukowsk and others.
Leaf, written on both sides. 22.5 cm. Good condition. Stains, creases and wear to margins.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $40,000
Sold for: $50,000
Including buyer's premium
Autograph letter of recommendation (5 lines) signed by R. "Yitzchak Isaac of Zhydachiv". Written at the bottom of a letter by his son, R. Eliyahu Eichenstein, who at the behest of his father, Rebbe Mohari of Zhydachiv, writes a recommendation and a plan for organizing a collection of charity for R. Zusha "Grandson of the holy Tsaddik… R. Elimelech of Lizhensk". [Zhydachiv, ca. 1860s-1870s].
Letter by the Rebbe Mohari continuing the letter of his son R. Eliyahu (with an organized plan for collecting funds for the needy, enumerating names of the Zhydachiv Chassidim who are charity collectors of various communities). He writes in his own handwriting: "My regards to our friends wherever they are, G-d should bless them with everlasting success, since it is known that we survive the Diaspora in the merit of the tsaddikim, therefore I request to give liberally with a generous heart to the Chassid R. Zisse, who possesses this letter… By the supplicant, Yitzchak Isaac of Zhydachiv".
His son, R. Eliyahu writes at the top of the leaf: "…Therefore, my honored father requests to do this for the sake of the honor of his holy ancestors, and he especially requests from our people united in love, i.e. R. Shimon and R. Zvi Ze'ev of the Shchyrets community, R. Mendel Bodek and R. Moshe Ze'ev of the Lviv community, the Rabbi and R. Elimelech of the Rudky community, R. Itzi Troya and R. Zusha son of R. Ze'ev of the Sambir community, R. Leibish and R. Shmuel Shaul of the Ir Yashan [Staryy Sambor] community, R. Zvi Chazan and R. Kalman Leib of the Lutowiska community, R. Moshe Chazan and R. Berish son of R. Y. of the Dobrómyl community, and my father requests that the collectors and patrons do their best and the merits of his holy ancestors will be with them in this world and in the next. Words of the writer at my father's behest - Eliyahu son of my father, Rebbe of Zhydachiv".
The Mohari, R. Yitzchak Isaac Eichenstein of Zhydachiv (1805-1873), author of Likutei Mohari was a leading rebbe and kabbalist in his days. Nephew and disciple of Rebbe Zvi Hirsh Eichenstein, the Ateret Zvi of Zhydachiv and of R. Moshe Eichenstein of Sambir. Conducted himself with holiness from childhood and from age 14, midnight never passed without finding him still immersed in Torah study. His eminent uncle, R. Zvi of Zhydachiv said that a holy soul such as his had not descended to this world for centuries before his times. In his youth, he traveled widely to meet the tsaddikim of his generation: R. Menachem Mendel of Rimanov (who said upon meeting R. Yitzchak Isaac that "he will become a light to the world"), R. Naftali of Ropshitz, R. Meir of Peremyshlyany, R. Shalom of Belz, etc. He even traveled far to see R. Yisrael of Ruzhyn and reached faraway Medzhybizh to meet the eldest Tsaddik of the previous generation, R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, the Rebbe of Apta. When the Mohari planned to serve as rabbi of a small town, his teachers R. Shalom of Belz and R. Meir of Peremyshlyany refused to grant him semicha since in their opinion he was destined to lead thousands of Chassidim. After the death of R. Yitzchak Zvi of Rozdil in 1848, the large congregation of Zhydachiv Chassidim relocated to the court of R. Yitzchak Isaac. Many prominent rebbes were among his disciples and Chassidim: the author of Yitav Lev, Rabbi of Sighet, R. Yehoshua of Belz, R. Zvi Hirsh of Liska, R. Yechezkel Shraga of Sieniawa, and others. Especially astounding is the deference he was given by his cousin Rebbe Yitzchak Isaac of Komarna, author of Hechal HaBeracha who already served as Rebbe several years earlier. R. Yosef Meir, the first Spinka Rebbe, author of Imrei Yosef, R. Eliezer Zvi of Komarna, author of Ben Beiti, R. Shalom Mordechai HaCohen Schwadron - the Maharsham Rabbi of Brzeziny and other leading rabbis were among his disciples.
Following the practice of his uncle R. Zvi Hirsh of Zhydachiv, the Mahari was accustomed to citing complete sections of the Zohar and kabbalah, speaking with such animation that the holiness was so tangible, it imparted the feeling that his audience could "grasp it in their grip". Although he had thousands of Chassidim, he knew each one by his name as well as the names of his children, and would pray on their behalf and bestow upon them salvation and mercy as well as actually taking care of their needs as is apparent in this letter.
His son R. Eliyahu Eichenstein, author of Zichron Eliyahu (1837-1878), faithful disciple and assistant of his holy father, he managed all the matters of the court of thousands of Chassidim in Zhydachiv. Upon his father's death, R. Eliyahu delivered a eulogy laden with Torah and kabbalistic proficiency and brilliance. Most of the Zhydachiv Chassidim accepted his authority as his father's successor. He contracted an illness at a young age and before his death at the age of 41, requested in his testament that his Chassidim cling to the leadership of his brother R. Yissachar Berish Eichenstein of Dolyna.
Leaf, 21 cm. Good-fair condition. Wear and small tears to folding creases. Some tears are reinforced with acidic adhesive tape on the back. Stains as result of the tape.
Letter by the Rebbe Mohari continuing the letter of his son R. Eliyahu (with an organized plan for collecting funds for the needy, enumerating names of the Zhydachiv Chassidim who are charity collectors of various communities). He writes in his own handwriting: "My regards to our friends wherever they are, G-d should bless them with everlasting success, since it is known that we survive the Diaspora in the merit of the tsaddikim, therefore I request to give liberally with a generous heart to the Chassid R. Zisse, who possesses this letter… By the supplicant, Yitzchak Isaac of Zhydachiv".
His son, R. Eliyahu writes at the top of the leaf: "…Therefore, my honored father requests to do this for the sake of the honor of his holy ancestors, and he especially requests from our people united in love, i.e. R. Shimon and R. Zvi Ze'ev of the Shchyrets community, R. Mendel Bodek and R. Moshe Ze'ev of the Lviv community, the Rabbi and R. Elimelech of the Rudky community, R. Itzi Troya and R. Zusha son of R. Ze'ev of the Sambir community, R. Leibish and R. Shmuel Shaul of the Ir Yashan [Staryy Sambor] community, R. Zvi Chazan and R. Kalman Leib of the Lutowiska community, R. Moshe Chazan and R. Berish son of R. Y. of the Dobrómyl community, and my father requests that the collectors and patrons do their best and the merits of his holy ancestors will be with them in this world and in the next. Words of the writer at my father's behest - Eliyahu son of my father, Rebbe of Zhydachiv".
The Mohari, R. Yitzchak Isaac Eichenstein of Zhydachiv (1805-1873), author of Likutei Mohari was a leading rebbe and kabbalist in his days. Nephew and disciple of Rebbe Zvi Hirsh Eichenstein, the Ateret Zvi of Zhydachiv and of R. Moshe Eichenstein of Sambir. Conducted himself with holiness from childhood and from age 14, midnight never passed without finding him still immersed in Torah study. His eminent uncle, R. Zvi of Zhydachiv said that a holy soul such as his had not descended to this world for centuries before his times. In his youth, he traveled widely to meet the tsaddikim of his generation: R. Menachem Mendel of Rimanov (who said upon meeting R. Yitzchak Isaac that "he will become a light to the world"), R. Naftali of Ropshitz, R. Meir of Peremyshlyany, R. Shalom of Belz, etc. He even traveled far to see R. Yisrael of Ruzhyn and reached faraway Medzhybizh to meet the eldest Tsaddik of the previous generation, R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, the Rebbe of Apta. When the Mohari planned to serve as rabbi of a small town, his teachers R. Shalom of Belz and R. Meir of Peremyshlyany refused to grant him semicha since in their opinion he was destined to lead thousands of Chassidim. After the death of R. Yitzchak Zvi of Rozdil in 1848, the large congregation of Zhydachiv Chassidim relocated to the court of R. Yitzchak Isaac. Many prominent rebbes were among his disciples and Chassidim: the author of Yitav Lev, Rabbi of Sighet, R. Yehoshua of Belz, R. Zvi Hirsh of Liska, R. Yechezkel Shraga of Sieniawa, and others. Especially astounding is the deference he was given by his cousin Rebbe Yitzchak Isaac of Komarna, author of Hechal HaBeracha who already served as Rebbe several years earlier. R. Yosef Meir, the first Spinka Rebbe, author of Imrei Yosef, R. Eliezer Zvi of Komarna, author of Ben Beiti, R. Shalom Mordechai HaCohen Schwadron - the Maharsham Rabbi of Brzeziny and other leading rabbis were among his disciples.
Following the practice of his uncle R. Zvi Hirsh of Zhydachiv, the Mahari was accustomed to citing complete sections of the Zohar and kabbalah, speaking with such animation that the holiness was so tangible, it imparted the feeling that his audience could "grasp it in their grip". Although he had thousands of Chassidim, he knew each one by his name as well as the names of his children, and would pray on their behalf and bestow upon them salvation and mercy as well as actually taking care of their needs as is apparent in this letter.
His son R. Eliyahu Eichenstein, author of Zichron Eliyahu (1837-1878), faithful disciple and assistant of his holy father, he managed all the matters of the court of thousands of Chassidim in Zhydachiv. Upon his father's death, R. Eliyahu delivered a eulogy laden with Torah and kabbalistic proficiency and brilliance. Most of the Zhydachiv Chassidim accepted his authority as his father's successor. He contracted an illness at a young age and before his death at the age of 41, requested in his testament that his Chassidim cling to the leadership of his brother R. Yissachar Berish Eichenstein of Dolyna.
Leaf, 21 cm. Good-fair condition. Wear and small tears to folding creases. Some tears are reinforced with acidic adhesive tape on the back. Stains as result of the tape.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $5,000
Sold for: $10,000
Including buyer's premium
A leaf handwritten by R. Yitzchak Yehuda Yechiel of Komarno - section of his book Hechal HaBeracha.
Complete leaf of the composition Hechal HaBeracha on Bamidbar. The leaf contains the end of Parshat Bamidbar and the beginning of Parshat Nasa (Bamidbar 4, 15-Bamidbar 5, 7) in the autographic writing of the author.
R. Yitzchak Eizik Yehuda Yechiel (Safrin) Rabbi of Komarno (1806-1874), holy sage, nephew and prominent disciple of R. Zvi of Zhydachiv. Beloved by Chassidic leaders such as the Chozeh [Seer] of Lublin (who was also his shadchan), the Apta Rebbe, R. Moshe Zvi of Savran, his uncle R. Moshe of Sambir, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin and more. Authored numerous Chassidic and Kabbalistic books as well as the Hechal HaBeracha commentary on the Five Books of the Torah, based on the teachings of the Ari and the Ba'al Shem Tov. The Heichal HaBeracha Chumashim are basic books of Chassidic philosophy. They were acclaimed by numerous Rebbes (Beit Zhydachiv, the Divrei Chaim and his descendants, the Rashab of Lubavitch and others) who highly valued the holiness of the kabbalistic wisdom apparent in his commentaries.
In a letter directed to residents of Hungary regarding the distribution of the Chumashim containing his commentary, R. Safrin gives his special blessing and mentions the segula of his holy books: "… I guarantee that any person who possesses this Chumash will be spared from any harm and misfortune and illness and his home will be filled with G-d's blessing for success and wealth and longevity for him and his children… children, life and sustenance, benevolence and mercy… and long life". This leaf was given as a segula for protection and success by R. Yissachar Dov Safrin, a descendent of the author.
Leaf, 20 cm. Close writing, two columns per page. Approximately 160 autograph lines of the Rebbe, author of Hechal Beracha. Few stains. Folding marks. Tears to margins.
Complete leaf of the composition Hechal HaBeracha on Bamidbar. The leaf contains the end of Parshat Bamidbar and the beginning of Parshat Nasa (Bamidbar 4, 15-Bamidbar 5, 7) in the autographic writing of the author.
R. Yitzchak Eizik Yehuda Yechiel (Safrin) Rabbi of Komarno (1806-1874), holy sage, nephew and prominent disciple of R. Zvi of Zhydachiv. Beloved by Chassidic leaders such as the Chozeh [Seer] of Lublin (who was also his shadchan), the Apta Rebbe, R. Moshe Zvi of Savran, his uncle R. Moshe of Sambir, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin and more. Authored numerous Chassidic and Kabbalistic books as well as the Hechal HaBeracha commentary on the Five Books of the Torah, based on the teachings of the Ari and the Ba'al Shem Tov. The Heichal HaBeracha Chumashim are basic books of Chassidic philosophy. They were acclaimed by numerous Rebbes (Beit Zhydachiv, the Divrei Chaim and his descendants, the Rashab of Lubavitch and others) who highly valued the holiness of the kabbalistic wisdom apparent in his commentaries.
In a letter directed to residents of Hungary regarding the distribution of the Chumashim containing his commentary, R. Safrin gives his special blessing and mentions the segula of his holy books: "… I guarantee that any person who possesses this Chumash will be spared from any harm and misfortune and illness and his home will be filled with G-d's blessing for success and wealth and longevity for him and his children… children, life and sustenance, benevolence and mercy… and long life". This leaf was given as a segula for protection and success by R. Yissachar Dov Safrin, a descendent of the author.
Leaf, 20 cm. Close writing, two columns per page. Approximately 160 autograph lines of the Rebbe, author of Hechal Beracha. Few stains. Folding marks. Tears to margins.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $1,000
Sold for: $3,250
Including buyer's premium
Section of a leaf handwritten by R. Eliezer Zvi Safrin of Komarno - hitherto unprinted remnant of his composition Zekan Beito on Pirkei Avot (Chapter 5), author's autograph. [19th century].
R. Eliezer Zvi Safin of Komarno - author of Ben Beiti (1830-1898), son of the first Komarno Rebbe Yitzchak Eizik Yehuda Yechiel Safrin, author of Hechal HaBeracha. Holy person, prominent kabbalist of the Zhydachiv and Komrano lineage of rebbes. In 1874, he was appointed Rebbe adhering to his father's testament [some say that his father R. Yitzchak Eizik himself appointed him and dressed him in his own attire, before his death]. He is famed for his many Chassidic and kabbalistic compositions: Ben Beiti on the Torah and on Tehillim, Damesek Eliezer, commentary on the Zohar, etc. Only part of his book Zekan Beito on Pirkei Avot was printed - Chapters 1-2. This is a remnant of his composition on Chapter 5. His writings were considered by the Komrano Rebbes as a powerful segula of protection. This remnant was given as a segula for protection by R. Yissachar Dov Safrin, a descendant of the author.
Section of large leaf, 10X16 cm. Fair condition, tears and creases.
R. Eliezer Zvi Safin of Komarno - author of Ben Beiti (1830-1898), son of the first Komarno Rebbe Yitzchak Eizik Yehuda Yechiel Safrin, author of Hechal HaBeracha. Holy person, prominent kabbalist of the Zhydachiv and Komrano lineage of rebbes. In 1874, he was appointed Rebbe adhering to his father's testament [some say that his father R. Yitzchak Eizik himself appointed him and dressed him in his own attire, before his death]. He is famed for his many Chassidic and kabbalistic compositions: Ben Beiti on the Torah and on Tehillim, Damesek Eliezer, commentary on the Zohar, etc. Only part of his book Zekan Beito on Pirkei Avot was printed - Chapters 1-2. This is a remnant of his composition on Chapter 5. His writings were considered by the Komrano Rebbes as a powerful segula of protection. This remnant was given as a segula for protection by R. Yissachar Dov Safrin, a descendant of the author.
Section of large leaf, 10X16 cm. Fair condition, tears and creases.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $10,000
Unsold
Handwritten leaf (two written pages), sermon for Rosh Hashanah, in the handwriting of R. Zvi Hirsch Rabbi of Liska.
The first page is titled: "That which I spoke on Rosh Hashanah 1865". A complete sermon with the beginning of another section. This sermon was printed in his book "Ach Pri Tevu'ah" (Part 2, Mukachevo 1876, p. 80b), without the title.
R. Zvi Hirsch Friedman, Rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary, was a disciple of the author of Yismach Moshe and of Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhyn, Rebbe Meir of Peremyshlyany and of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Renowned as wonder-worker, people flocked to him from all over the country seeking his blessings. Authored Ach Pri Tevu'ah, HaYashar V'Hatov, etc. His celebrated disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, whose stamps always read: "In the past, Meshamesh Bakodesh of the Rabbi Tsaddik of Liska".
Leaf, written on both sides. 25.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains, creases and wear.
The first page is titled: "That which I spoke on Rosh Hashanah 1865". A complete sermon with the beginning of another section. This sermon was printed in his book "Ach Pri Tevu'ah" (Part 2, Mukachevo 1876, p. 80b), without the title.
R. Zvi Hirsch Friedman, Rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary, was a disciple of the author of Yismach Moshe and of Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhyn, Rebbe Meir of Peremyshlyany and of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Renowned as wonder-worker, people flocked to him from all over the country seeking his blessings. Authored Ach Pri Tevu'ah, HaYashar V'Hatov, etc. His celebrated disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, whose stamps always read: "In the past, Meshamesh Bakodesh of the Rabbi Tsaddik of Liska".
Leaf, written on both sides. 25.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains, creases and wear.
Catalogue