Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
Displaying 37 - 48 of 165
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $5,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. "Menachem Mendel Panet". Dej, Erev Yom Kippur 1879.
Letter containing blessings and good wishes sent to his nephew R. Yechezkel Panet: "Gmar Chatima Tova… G-d should bless you with much success, all your endeavors should succeed and profit, and you should see gratification from your children to raise them to everything good, Torah, fear of Heaven and good deeds".
R. Menachem Mendel Panet, Rabbi of Dej (1818-1885), son of the Rebbe, author of Mar'e Yechezkel (disciple of R. Mendel of Rymanów, served as Rabbi of Carlsberg and of Transylvania). In 1837, he studied at the Pressburg Yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer, and he was the only student there who donned a Chassidic silk garment on Shabbat. His teacher, the Chatam Sofer, was very fond of him and used to walk in conversation with him every Friday [he used to call him the "golden one"]. During the time that he studied at the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer, he merited a revelation of Eliyahu HaNavi, who greeted him in the Beit Midrash disguised as a pauper. From 1842 he served as Rabbi of Urisor, from 1858 as Rabbi of Dej, and around 1855 was appointed Chief Rabbi of Transylvania. He wrote Maaglei Tzedek on the Torah and the Avnei Tzedek, Shaarei Tzedek and Mishpat Tzedek series of responsa.
Leaf, approximately 20 cm. Approximately 16 autograph lines. Fair condition. Wear, tears and damages to margins, not affecting text.
Letter containing blessings and good wishes sent to his nephew R. Yechezkel Panet: "Gmar Chatima Tova… G-d should bless you with much success, all your endeavors should succeed and profit, and you should see gratification from your children to raise them to everything good, Torah, fear of Heaven and good deeds".
R. Menachem Mendel Panet, Rabbi of Dej (1818-1885), son of the Rebbe, author of Mar'e Yechezkel (disciple of R. Mendel of Rymanów, served as Rabbi of Carlsberg and of Transylvania). In 1837, he studied at the Pressburg Yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer, and he was the only student there who donned a Chassidic silk garment on Shabbat. His teacher, the Chatam Sofer, was very fond of him and used to walk in conversation with him every Friday [he used to call him the "golden one"]. During the time that he studied at the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer, he merited a revelation of Eliyahu HaNavi, who greeted him in the Beit Midrash disguised as a pauper. From 1842 he served as Rabbi of Urisor, from 1858 as Rabbi of Dej, and around 1855 was appointed Chief Rabbi of Transylvania. He wrote Maaglei Tzedek on the Torah and the Avnei Tzedek, Shaarei Tzedek and Mishpat Tzedek series of responsa.
Leaf, approximately 20 cm. Approximately 16 autograph lines. Fair condition. Wear, tears and damages to margins, not affecting text.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $20,000
Unsold
Letter of recommendation by the Rebbe of Sieniawa "Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam". Sieniawa, 1897.
Recommendation to assist a family from the city of Stropkov which "left its country and birthplace in favor of living in the Holy Land, and I hereby want to introduce him to our people that he is worthy of endearment and respect wherever he goes, because he is a learned and G-d fearing man". At the beginning of the letter, the Rebbe notes the common relatives he has with the recipient of the letter.
The first Sieniawa Rebbe, R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Rabbi of Sieniawa (1815-1899), author of Divrei Yechezkel, eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Torah prodigy, proficient in revealed and hidden Torah, and in Halachic and Chassidic knowledge. He was already venerated in his role as rabbi and rebbe during his father's lifetime. Progenitor of important Chassidic dynasties, during the course of his life many of his sons and grandsons served in the rabbinate and became rebbes in various cities. Holy and pure from youth, he served leading rebbes of his times and was considered their primary disciple. He was famed for the miracles he performed, and instructed his students to save his letters, which would provide them with protection and salvation.
Official stationery, "Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam - Sieniawa", approximately 22 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folding creases and wear. Mounted on fabric for preservation.
Recommendation to assist a family from the city of Stropkov which "left its country and birthplace in favor of living in the Holy Land, and I hereby want to introduce him to our people that he is worthy of endearment and respect wherever he goes, because he is a learned and G-d fearing man". At the beginning of the letter, the Rebbe notes the common relatives he has with the recipient of the letter.
The first Sieniawa Rebbe, R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Rabbi of Sieniawa (1815-1899), author of Divrei Yechezkel, eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Torah prodigy, proficient in revealed and hidden Torah, and in Halachic and Chassidic knowledge. He was already venerated in his role as rabbi and rebbe during his father's lifetime. Progenitor of important Chassidic dynasties, during the course of his life many of his sons and grandsons served in the rabbinate and became rebbes in various cities. Holy and pure from youth, he served leading rebbes of his times and was considered their primary disciple. He was famed for the miracles he performed, and instructed his students to save his letters, which would provide them with protection and salvation.
Official stationery, "Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam - Sieniawa", approximately 22 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folding creases and wear. Mounted on fabric for preservation.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $12,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. "David son of the Rebbe of Kotzk". Kotzk, [Tevet] 1871.
Interesting letter regarding family matters sent to his daughter Devorah Gittel. The main body of the letter is in Yiddish, with the addition of a Hebrew letter written underneath, with words of chastisement and guidance to his son-in-law [R. Yitzchak Simcha Ostreich]: "And I greet my outstanding son-in-law Itchi, I am surprised that you have not written me a letter the entire winter concerning the state of health of your wife, my modest daughter, because I have discerned from her letter that she is not well. Therefore, please take care of her every need, and see that she derives comfort and joy in her home because this is the main thing…".
R. David Morgenstern - the second Kotzker Rebbe (1809-1873) was the eldest son of R. Mendeli, "the Seraph" of Kotzk, and his successor as rebbe. Disciple of R. Bunim of Przysucha, he was known for his genius and profound holiness. After the death of his father in 1859, most of the Chassidim followed the Chiddushei HaRim of Ger, however, a good part of the sharp Kotzkers were drawn to his close colleague R. David, who followed the teachings of the Seraph of Kotzk. His sayings were keen and concise, pierced the depth of one's soul and demanded perfection, with comprehension and deep awareness.
Leaf, 21 cm. Fair condition. Creases and tears, stains and wear. Mounted on a simple notebook leaf for preservation.
Interesting letter regarding family matters sent to his daughter Devorah Gittel. The main body of the letter is in Yiddish, with the addition of a Hebrew letter written underneath, with words of chastisement and guidance to his son-in-law [R. Yitzchak Simcha Ostreich]: "And I greet my outstanding son-in-law Itchi, I am surprised that you have not written me a letter the entire winter concerning the state of health of your wife, my modest daughter, because I have discerned from her letter that she is not well. Therefore, please take care of her every need, and see that she derives comfort and joy in her home because this is the main thing…".
R. David Morgenstern - the second Kotzker Rebbe (1809-1873) was the eldest son of R. Mendeli, "the Seraph" of Kotzk, and his successor as rebbe. Disciple of R. Bunim of Przysucha, he was known for his genius and profound holiness. After the death of his father in 1859, most of the Chassidim followed the Chiddushei HaRim of Ger, however, a good part of the sharp Kotzkers were drawn to his close colleague R. David, who followed the teachings of the Seraph of Kotzk. His sayings were keen and concise, pierced the depth of one's soul and demanded perfection, with comprehension and deep awareness.
Leaf, 21 cm. Fair condition. Creases and tears, stains and wear. Mounted on a simple notebook leaf for preservation.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $55,000
Unsold
Autograph letter (13 lines) signed by the author of Chiddushei HaRim R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, the first Gerrer Rebbe. [Warsaw?, Av 1857].
Interesting family letter sent to his nephew [brother's son-in-law], the wealthy Chassid R. Yehuda Yudel Kaminer of Chęciny [author of Degel Yehuda, later father-in-law of the second Gerrer Rebbe, author of Sfat Emet]. Detailed letter of regards with mention of many names of family members and good wishes: "G-d should grant you success and blessing in all endeavors". The letter contains advice on the matter of shidduchim for R. Yudel's son: "The shidduch you wrote me with… from here. I have inquired and his daughter is 17 or 18 years old or more. G-d should provide a suitable match for your son and you should not be hasty…" [an interesting testimony to the age of shidduchim in those years, that a young woman 17 years old is found lacking to a certain degree, to the point that "You should not be hasty"…].
R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, author of Chiddushei HaRim (1799-1866), Encyclopedia L'Chassidut Vol. 2, pp. 413-423) founder of the Ger Chassidism, a major Torah scholar and Chassid in his times and prominent leader of Polish Jewry. Born following the blessing of the Magid of Kozienice (who foretold that "he will illuminate the world with Torah"), was raised in the Magid's home and became his close disciple. At the age of 13, he moved to his father-in-law's home in Warsaw and studied by the Maharal Tzinz, eventually celebrated throughout Poland as the Illui (prodigy) of Warsaw. After the death of the Magid of Kozienice, he became one of the primary disciples of R. Simcha Bunim of Pashischa and upon the death of R. Simcha Bunim, a number of Chassidim wanted to appoint him successor, but Rabbi Yitzchak Meir gave deference to R. Menachem Mendel of Kotzk and influenced the Chassidim to follow the Kotzker Rebbe. He became the most outstanding figure among the Kotzkers and eventually married the Rebbe's sister-in-law. In 1859, Rabbi Yitzchak Meir was appointed the Kotzker Rebbe's successor, moved to the near city of Gur (Góra Kalwaria), building the court of Gerrer Chassidism in the city and serving in its rabbinate. During his seven-year tenure, his court blossomed and thousands became his followers. Besides his exceptional piety, he was venerated as an outstanding Torah scholar and wrote many responsa on halacha and aggada called Chidushei HaRim [=Rabbi Yitzchak Meir]. His books were highly lauded and reveal his sharpness and exceptional Torah proficiency. Companion of all the tsaddikim and leaders of his times, including Mitnagdim. Among them were R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Yitzchak of Warka, R. Akiva Eiger, R. Ya'akov of Lissa (Leszno), author of the Netivot, Rabbi Eizel Charif, R. Shlomo Kluger and others. He led Polish Jewry and firmly stood his ground on many public issues. He publicly supported the Polish revolution in 1830, and after it failed, was forced to flee to Lviv (which was at the time under Austrian rule). He was also known for his valiant struggle against the "Dress Decree" in 1846-1851. Following his orders to resist the decree, he was imprisoned but wide public protest forced the government to release him and cancel the decree. After his death, R. Chanoch Henach HaCohen from Aleksander succeeded him for a short while and after the demise of R. Chanoch Henach four years later, a grandson of the Chiddushei Harim, R. Yehuda Aryeh Leib Alter, author of Sfat Emet was appointed the second rebbe of the Ger dynasty.
The recipient, R. Yehuda Yudel Kaminer of Chęciny (1827-1891), was the nephew of R. Baruch Frankel, author of Baruch Ta'am and son-in-law of the notable R. Moshe Chaim Rottenburg (elder brother of the author of Chiddushei HaRim). In his youth in Warsaw, he became close to the Chiddushei Harim who made his shidduch with his niece and loved him like a son. A Kotzker Chassid and central pillar of the Polish Chassidic world, he was an exceptional Torah scholar and famed for his wealth. After the untimely death of his father-in-law, R. Yudel managed his business, yet did not cease his Torah study and applied himself to learning 9-10 hours daily with his relative R. Pintshe of Pilica, and teaching Torah, besides the many hours he would study on his own. His Torah proficiency was acknowledged by the scholars of his times. R. Chaim of Sanz, author of Divrei Chaim referred to him as "the sharp-minded rabbi" and his uncle author of Chiddushei HaRim in the title of this letter refers to him as "My beloved friend… the outstanding clever and erudite rabbi, the famed notable R. Yudel". His Torah novellae on halacha and Aggadah were printed in the book Degel Yehuda (Piotrków, 1938). A biography of the author was added to the new edition of Degel Yehuda (Jerusalem, 1966), which relates that R. Kaminer received many letters from his uncle the Chiddushei Harim and from his son-in-law, author of Sfat Emet, but all were burnt during the Holocaust. This letter remained hidden and survived and was not printed among the rest of the letters of the "Chiddushei Harim" at the end of Sefer HaZechut, the Pe'er Institute edition (Bnei Brak, 1987).
Leaf, 21 cm. 13 autograph lines of the Rebbe. Good condition. Small tears to margins. Address on verso: to "Judel Kaminer in Checinach". With name of sender "I. Alter". Postmarks and wax seal.
Interesting family letter sent to his nephew [brother's son-in-law], the wealthy Chassid R. Yehuda Yudel Kaminer of Chęciny [author of Degel Yehuda, later father-in-law of the second Gerrer Rebbe, author of Sfat Emet]. Detailed letter of regards with mention of many names of family members and good wishes: "G-d should grant you success and blessing in all endeavors". The letter contains advice on the matter of shidduchim for R. Yudel's son: "The shidduch you wrote me with… from here. I have inquired and his daughter is 17 or 18 years old or more. G-d should provide a suitable match for your son and you should not be hasty…" [an interesting testimony to the age of shidduchim in those years, that a young woman 17 years old is found lacking to a certain degree, to the point that "You should not be hasty"…].
R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, author of Chiddushei HaRim (1799-1866), Encyclopedia L'Chassidut Vol. 2, pp. 413-423) founder of the Ger Chassidism, a major Torah scholar and Chassid in his times and prominent leader of Polish Jewry. Born following the blessing of the Magid of Kozienice (who foretold that "he will illuminate the world with Torah"), was raised in the Magid's home and became his close disciple. At the age of 13, he moved to his father-in-law's home in Warsaw and studied by the Maharal Tzinz, eventually celebrated throughout Poland as the Illui (prodigy) of Warsaw. After the death of the Magid of Kozienice, he became one of the primary disciples of R. Simcha Bunim of Pashischa and upon the death of R. Simcha Bunim, a number of Chassidim wanted to appoint him successor, but Rabbi Yitzchak Meir gave deference to R. Menachem Mendel of Kotzk and influenced the Chassidim to follow the Kotzker Rebbe. He became the most outstanding figure among the Kotzkers and eventually married the Rebbe's sister-in-law. In 1859, Rabbi Yitzchak Meir was appointed the Kotzker Rebbe's successor, moved to the near city of Gur (Góra Kalwaria), building the court of Gerrer Chassidism in the city and serving in its rabbinate. During his seven-year tenure, his court blossomed and thousands became his followers. Besides his exceptional piety, he was venerated as an outstanding Torah scholar and wrote many responsa on halacha and aggada called Chidushei HaRim [=Rabbi Yitzchak Meir]. His books were highly lauded and reveal his sharpness and exceptional Torah proficiency. Companion of all the tsaddikim and leaders of his times, including Mitnagdim. Among them were R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Yitzchak of Warka, R. Akiva Eiger, R. Ya'akov of Lissa (Leszno), author of the Netivot, Rabbi Eizel Charif, R. Shlomo Kluger and others. He led Polish Jewry and firmly stood his ground on many public issues. He publicly supported the Polish revolution in 1830, and after it failed, was forced to flee to Lviv (which was at the time under Austrian rule). He was also known for his valiant struggle against the "Dress Decree" in 1846-1851. Following his orders to resist the decree, he was imprisoned but wide public protest forced the government to release him and cancel the decree. After his death, R. Chanoch Henach HaCohen from Aleksander succeeded him for a short while and after the demise of R. Chanoch Henach four years later, a grandson of the Chiddushei Harim, R. Yehuda Aryeh Leib Alter, author of Sfat Emet was appointed the second rebbe of the Ger dynasty.
The recipient, R. Yehuda Yudel Kaminer of Chęciny (1827-1891), was the nephew of R. Baruch Frankel, author of Baruch Ta'am and son-in-law of the notable R. Moshe Chaim Rottenburg (elder brother of the author of Chiddushei HaRim). In his youth in Warsaw, he became close to the Chiddushei Harim who made his shidduch with his niece and loved him like a son. A Kotzker Chassid and central pillar of the Polish Chassidic world, he was an exceptional Torah scholar and famed for his wealth. After the untimely death of his father-in-law, R. Yudel managed his business, yet did not cease his Torah study and applied himself to learning 9-10 hours daily with his relative R. Pintshe of Pilica, and teaching Torah, besides the many hours he would study on his own. His Torah proficiency was acknowledged by the scholars of his times. R. Chaim of Sanz, author of Divrei Chaim referred to him as "the sharp-minded rabbi" and his uncle author of Chiddushei HaRim in the title of this letter refers to him as "My beloved friend… the outstanding clever and erudite rabbi, the famed notable R. Yudel". His Torah novellae on halacha and Aggadah were printed in the book Degel Yehuda (Piotrków, 1938). A biography of the author was added to the new edition of Degel Yehuda (Jerusalem, 1966), which relates that R. Kaminer received many letters from his uncle the Chiddushei Harim and from his son-in-law, author of Sfat Emet, but all were burnt during the Holocaust. This letter remained hidden and survived and was not printed among the rest of the letters of the "Chiddushei Harim" at the end of Sefer HaZechut, the Pe'er Institute edition (Bnei Brak, 1987).
Leaf, 21 cm. 13 autograph lines of the Rebbe. Good condition. Small tears to margins. Address on verso: to "Judel Kaminer in Checinach". With name of sender "I. Alter". Postmarks and wax seal.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $12,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by Rebbe Yehuda Aryeh Leib Alter of Ger, author of Sfat Emet. Approximately six autograph lines, with his signature "Aryeh Leib" [undated].
Request to assist his brother in a business matter: "My friend R. Menli, I request that… you assist my brother… who needs it for a business transaction with R. Leibush, because in my opinion your signature will assure its success… Therefore, I request that you hurry to perform this, since he wants to depart. Your friend Aryeh Leib" (the letter is damaged and lacking words).
R. Yehuda Aryeh Leib Alter of Ger (1847-1905, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 2, pp. 8-16), author of Sfat Emet, the second Gerrer Rebbe. An outstanding Chassidic rebbe and Jewish leader in his days, his leadership promoted Ger Chassidism to become the largest and most influential Chassidic dynasty in Poland.
Born to R. Avraham Mordechai Alter - son of R. Yitzchak Meir, author of Chiddushei HaRim, founder of the Ger Chassidism. The 13 sons of the Chiddushei HaRim died in his lifetime. All died in their childhood, with the exception of R. Avraham Mordechai who lived longer but died as a young man a short while after the birth of his only son, R. Yehuda Leib (Leib'le). The orphan, whose mother had died earlier, moved to the home of his illustrious grandfather, author of Chiddushei HaRim, who raised him as a son. Even at that tender age, he amazed all who saw him with his diligence and depth. His grandfather took much pride in him, and used to show him saying, "See how my grandson studies Torah lishma". Each time he traveled to Kotzk, the Chiddushei HaRim would take his young grandson with him, "so he should see a true Jew". The Kotzker Rebbe loved the clever young man who amazed him greatly. His visits to Kotzk left a deep impression on R. Yehuda Leib for his entire life.
In 1862, at the age of 15, he wed the daughter of R. Yehuda Kaminer of Chęciny, author of Degel Yehuda, and since his name was the same as his father-in-law's, his grandfather the Chiddushei HaRim instructed him to add the name Aryeh to his name. Thereafter, he always signed "Aryeh Leib". After his marriage, he continued living near his grandfather in the town of Ger, studying Torah and serving G-d with outstanding devotion. In 1866, when he was 19 years old, the Chiddushei HaRim died, leaving orders to appoint his grandson as his successor in the Ger rabbinate. In spite of his young age, the Chassidim wished to appoint him rebbe but he adamantly refused and turned away the many people who knocked at his door. Instead, he joined the Ger Chassidim who accepted the leadership of R. Chanoch Henich HaCohen of Aleksander (disciple of the Kotzker Rebbe) and every year R. Aryeh Leib would travel to see him. The Aleksander Rebbe who was very old at the time, greatly honored the young man and waited for his visits and seated him at the head of the table. In 1870, four years after his grandfather's death, the Aleksander Rebbe died and again the Chassidim sought to appoint him as their rebbe. After repeated urging, he agreed to accept the position but he refused to sit at the head of the table and from that time, Gerrer Rebbes sit in the middle of the table and not at its head.
The 23-year-old rebbe soon became a central figure in the lives of Polish Jewry. In spite of his refusal to serve as rebbe, after accepting the position he fulfilled his duties with full responsibility and invested his genius and deep wisdom in elevating his thousands of Chassidim, advising and assisting them in spiritual and material matters. His fame spread throughout Poland and the surrounding areas and tens of thousands of people thronged to seek his counsel and blessings and to bask in his presence. In a short while, under his leadership, the Ger Chassidic dynasty peaked to become the largest most central Chassidic dynasty in Poland. About 100,000 people from all over Russia and Poland flocked to him every year. In 1899, a special railway was launched between Ger and Warsaw to serve the thousands of Chassidim who swarmed to Ger. This railway was dubbed "the Rebbe's line" and he participated in funding the laying of the tracks. His influence on his Chassidim was so strong that they would consult him on every spiritual and material matter, large or small.
His leadership was not limited to his own Chassidim, he was one of the leaders of all Charedi Jewry in Eastern Europe and was active in the public arena for the benefit of Russian and Polish Jews. During one meeting of Polish rebbes in which they discussed decrees against Charedim, he was called "King of Israel" and was honored with Birkat HaMazon even though he was one of the youngest participants.
In 1904, the Russo-Japanese War broke out and thousands of his young Chassidim were forcibly recruited to the Russian Tsar's army. This impacted the rebbe greatly and due to his immense worry and pain, he would sleep on the floor crying bitterly for the fate of his Chassidim. He was so intensely pained that he contracted a rare illness and died in the month of Shvat, 1905. 20,000 people attended his funeral. He was succeeded by his son R. Avraham Mordechai Alter, author of Imrei Emet of Ger.
His teachings were printed in the Sfat Emet series on the Torah, the Talmud and on other topics. The Sfat Emet on the Torah is renowned for its depth and originality, and has become a basic book among Chassidic commentaries on the Torah. Possibly, it is the most popular Chassidic book accepted in all Jewish circles, even those which are not affiliated with Chassidism, such as the Lithuanian yeshiva circles and other communities. His Talmudic novellae are famous as well for their unique and profound content, and are studied in all Batei Midrash. The name Sfat Emet was chosen from a verse he cited from Mishlei in the last article he wrote a few weeks before his death, and this remained the name of his books for posterity.
Leaf, 9.5X14.5 cm. Approximately five and one-half autograph lines (in purple ink). Fair condition. Open tears affecting text. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Request to assist his brother in a business matter: "My friend R. Menli, I request that… you assist my brother… who needs it for a business transaction with R. Leibush, because in my opinion your signature will assure its success… Therefore, I request that you hurry to perform this, since he wants to depart. Your friend Aryeh Leib" (the letter is damaged and lacking words).
R. Yehuda Aryeh Leib Alter of Ger (1847-1905, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 2, pp. 8-16), author of Sfat Emet, the second Gerrer Rebbe. An outstanding Chassidic rebbe and Jewish leader in his days, his leadership promoted Ger Chassidism to become the largest and most influential Chassidic dynasty in Poland.
Born to R. Avraham Mordechai Alter - son of R. Yitzchak Meir, author of Chiddushei HaRim, founder of the Ger Chassidism. The 13 sons of the Chiddushei HaRim died in his lifetime. All died in their childhood, with the exception of R. Avraham Mordechai who lived longer but died as a young man a short while after the birth of his only son, R. Yehuda Leib (Leib'le). The orphan, whose mother had died earlier, moved to the home of his illustrious grandfather, author of Chiddushei HaRim, who raised him as a son. Even at that tender age, he amazed all who saw him with his diligence and depth. His grandfather took much pride in him, and used to show him saying, "See how my grandson studies Torah lishma". Each time he traveled to Kotzk, the Chiddushei HaRim would take his young grandson with him, "so he should see a true Jew". The Kotzker Rebbe loved the clever young man who amazed him greatly. His visits to Kotzk left a deep impression on R. Yehuda Leib for his entire life.
In 1862, at the age of 15, he wed the daughter of R. Yehuda Kaminer of Chęciny, author of Degel Yehuda, and since his name was the same as his father-in-law's, his grandfather the Chiddushei HaRim instructed him to add the name Aryeh to his name. Thereafter, he always signed "Aryeh Leib". After his marriage, he continued living near his grandfather in the town of Ger, studying Torah and serving G-d with outstanding devotion. In 1866, when he was 19 years old, the Chiddushei HaRim died, leaving orders to appoint his grandson as his successor in the Ger rabbinate. In spite of his young age, the Chassidim wished to appoint him rebbe but he adamantly refused and turned away the many people who knocked at his door. Instead, he joined the Ger Chassidim who accepted the leadership of R. Chanoch Henich HaCohen of Aleksander (disciple of the Kotzker Rebbe) and every year R. Aryeh Leib would travel to see him. The Aleksander Rebbe who was very old at the time, greatly honored the young man and waited for his visits and seated him at the head of the table. In 1870, four years after his grandfather's death, the Aleksander Rebbe died and again the Chassidim sought to appoint him as their rebbe. After repeated urging, he agreed to accept the position but he refused to sit at the head of the table and from that time, Gerrer Rebbes sit in the middle of the table and not at its head.
The 23-year-old rebbe soon became a central figure in the lives of Polish Jewry. In spite of his refusal to serve as rebbe, after accepting the position he fulfilled his duties with full responsibility and invested his genius and deep wisdom in elevating his thousands of Chassidim, advising and assisting them in spiritual and material matters. His fame spread throughout Poland and the surrounding areas and tens of thousands of people thronged to seek his counsel and blessings and to bask in his presence. In a short while, under his leadership, the Ger Chassidic dynasty peaked to become the largest most central Chassidic dynasty in Poland. About 100,000 people from all over Russia and Poland flocked to him every year. In 1899, a special railway was launched between Ger and Warsaw to serve the thousands of Chassidim who swarmed to Ger. This railway was dubbed "the Rebbe's line" and he participated in funding the laying of the tracks. His influence on his Chassidim was so strong that they would consult him on every spiritual and material matter, large or small.
His leadership was not limited to his own Chassidim, he was one of the leaders of all Charedi Jewry in Eastern Europe and was active in the public arena for the benefit of Russian and Polish Jews. During one meeting of Polish rebbes in which they discussed decrees against Charedim, he was called "King of Israel" and was honored with Birkat HaMazon even though he was one of the youngest participants.
In 1904, the Russo-Japanese War broke out and thousands of his young Chassidim were forcibly recruited to the Russian Tsar's army. This impacted the rebbe greatly and due to his immense worry and pain, he would sleep on the floor crying bitterly for the fate of his Chassidim. He was so intensely pained that he contracted a rare illness and died in the month of Shvat, 1905. 20,000 people attended his funeral. He was succeeded by his son R. Avraham Mordechai Alter, author of Imrei Emet of Ger.
His teachings were printed in the Sfat Emet series on the Torah, the Talmud and on other topics. The Sfat Emet on the Torah is renowned for its depth and originality, and has become a basic book among Chassidic commentaries on the Torah. Possibly, it is the most popular Chassidic book accepted in all Jewish circles, even those which are not affiliated with Chassidism, such as the Lithuanian yeshiva circles and other communities. His Talmudic novellae are famous as well for their unique and profound content, and are studied in all Batei Midrash. The name Sfat Emet was chosen from a verse he cited from Mishlei in the last article he wrote a few weeks before his death, and this remained the name of his books for posterity.
Leaf, 9.5X14.5 cm. Approximately five and one-half autograph lines (in purple ink). Fair condition. Open tears affecting text. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $2,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by the Gerrer Rebbe, R. Avraham Mordechai Alter, to R. Kalonymus Kalman Shapira of Piaseczno. [Ger, 1930s?].
Letter to "…R. Kalonymus" - apparently, R. Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, the holy Rebbe of Piaseczno - with blessings upon the marriage of his son [R. Elimelech Benzion], and blessings for the success of the match.
R. Avraham Mordechai Alter (1866-1948), the third Gerrer Rebbe, son of the Sfat Emet, was a holy Torah prodigy. Founder of Agudat Yisrael and prominent leader of Charedi Jewry before the Holocaust, he was Rebbe of tens of thousands of Ger Chassidim in Poland. The majority of his Chassidim as well as dozens of his descendants perished in the Holocaust, however the Rebbe miraculously survived and immigrated to Jerusalem, where he rebuilt the Ger dynasty and yeshivot. His sons who survived the Holocaust are the Rebbes the Beit Yisrael, Lev Simcha and Pnei Menachem. He was called the Imrei Emet after his book.
The recipient, R. Kalonymus Kalman Shapira (1889-1944 perished in the Holocaust, Otzar HaRabbanim 17650), was a Torah prodigy and an exceptional tsaddik, well-versed in revealed and hidden Torah, disseminator of Torah and Chassidism. In 1913, he was appointed Rabbi of Piaseczno, and in 1923, established the Daat Moshe Yeshiva in Warsaw, simultaneously heading the yeshiva and serving as Rebbe in Piaseczno. He was famed as a Chassidic philosopher as well as an outstanding educator, and the celebrated books Chovat HaTalmidim and Chovat HaAvreichim are among his works. He was interred in the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust, and was a shining example of spiritual staunchness in the ghetto. He continued delivering his discourses and also put them down in writing. A short while before he was murdered, he buried his sermons in the ghetto ground (in the Oneg Shabbat Archive of Emanuel Ringelblum). The sermons were found after the Holocaust and were printed in the book Esh Kodesh. His son and daughter-in-law, for whose wedding the Gerrer Rebbe wrote the blessings in this letter, died in the German bombing of Warsaw at the beginning of the war.
21 cm. Good-fair condition. Folding creases, tears, filing holes.
Letter to "…R. Kalonymus" - apparently, R. Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, the holy Rebbe of Piaseczno - with blessings upon the marriage of his son [R. Elimelech Benzion], and blessings for the success of the match.
R. Avraham Mordechai Alter (1866-1948), the third Gerrer Rebbe, son of the Sfat Emet, was a holy Torah prodigy. Founder of Agudat Yisrael and prominent leader of Charedi Jewry before the Holocaust, he was Rebbe of tens of thousands of Ger Chassidim in Poland. The majority of his Chassidim as well as dozens of his descendants perished in the Holocaust, however the Rebbe miraculously survived and immigrated to Jerusalem, where he rebuilt the Ger dynasty and yeshivot. His sons who survived the Holocaust are the Rebbes the Beit Yisrael, Lev Simcha and Pnei Menachem. He was called the Imrei Emet after his book.
The recipient, R. Kalonymus Kalman Shapira (1889-1944 perished in the Holocaust, Otzar HaRabbanim 17650), was a Torah prodigy and an exceptional tsaddik, well-versed in revealed and hidden Torah, disseminator of Torah and Chassidism. In 1913, he was appointed Rabbi of Piaseczno, and in 1923, established the Daat Moshe Yeshiva in Warsaw, simultaneously heading the yeshiva and serving as Rebbe in Piaseczno. He was famed as a Chassidic philosopher as well as an outstanding educator, and the celebrated books Chovat HaTalmidim and Chovat HaAvreichim are among his works. He was interred in the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust, and was a shining example of spiritual staunchness in the ghetto. He continued delivering his discourses and also put them down in writing. A short while before he was murdered, he buried his sermons in the ghetto ground (in the Oneg Shabbat Archive of Emanuel Ringelblum). The sermons were found after the Holocaust and were printed in the book Esh Kodesh. His son and daughter-in-law, for whose wedding the Gerrer Rebbe wrote the blessings in this letter, died in the German bombing of Warsaw at the beginning of the war.
21 cm. Good-fair condition. Folding creases, tears, filing holes.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $6,000
Unsold
Letter with an enthusiastic Chassidic essay on matters related to receiving the Torah, handwritten and signed by R. Avraham Weinberg, author of Yesod HaAvodah. [Slonim, 1868].
Letter send in honor of the Shavuot Festival to R. Eliezer HaCohen "Jalowker" [from Jałówka, Grodno Guberniya]. On the second page is another letter in the name of the rebbe, handwritten and signed by his "mashbak" (assistant) R. "Sender, the Rebbe's assistant". On the verso are an address and post stamps from May 1868.
In his autograph letter, the Rebbe writes a Chassidic essay on receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai and in our times: "…there nurtured in them (the Jewish nation in the wilderness) an inherent desire to come close to the source of life and to devotedly accept the Torah, through their repentance and spiritual awakening, for they traveled from Refidim in repentance and arrived at Mount Sinai in repentance… With this desire, they merited standing at Mount Sinai and receiving the living Torah. Together with our Jewish brethren, we should all merit receiving the holy Torah, we and our children… Your friend, Avraham".
Receiving the Torah on Shavuot is one of the key topics in the philosophy of Slonim Chassidism. In the letter by R. Sender the mashbak, the surging fervor in preparation for Shavuot can be discerned. He writes: "G-d should assist us in receiving the Torah with much strength and joy…". R. Sender also writes of the siyum (culminating the study) of the entire Talmud which was to take place in the Rebbe's court in the days leading up to Shavuot.
The first Slonim Rebbe, Rabbi Avraham Weinberg (1804-1884), was the author of Yesod HaAvodah, Chesed L'Avraham and Be'er Avraham. Prominent disciple of Rebbe Moshe of Kobryn. After the death of their Rebbe in 1858, most of the Lechovitz-Kobryn Chassidim followed the leading disciple R. Avraham Weinberg (a minority followed the Lechovitz, Kobryn and Koidanov Rebbes), who established his Beit Midrash in the city of Slonim and led his Chassidim for more than 25 years.
The recipient of the letter is the chassid R. Eliezer HaCohen from Jałówka (1822-1915), disciple of the Kobryn and Slonim Rebbes; known for his prayers.
Letter composed of two written pages. Approximately 16 cm. 8 autograph lines by the Rebbe and another 22 lines in the handwriting of R. Sender. Good-fair condition. Wear and stains. Open tears to the blank back leaf.
Letter send in honor of the Shavuot Festival to R. Eliezer HaCohen "Jalowker" [from Jałówka, Grodno Guberniya]. On the second page is another letter in the name of the rebbe, handwritten and signed by his "mashbak" (assistant) R. "Sender, the Rebbe's assistant". On the verso are an address and post stamps from May 1868.
In his autograph letter, the Rebbe writes a Chassidic essay on receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai and in our times: "…there nurtured in them (the Jewish nation in the wilderness) an inherent desire to come close to the source of life and to devotedly accept the Torah, through their repentance and spiritual awakening, for they traveled from Refidim in repentance and arrived at Mount Sinai in repentance… With this desire, they merited standing at Mount Sinai and receiving the living Torah. Together with our Jewish brethren, we should all merit receiving the holy Torah, we and our children… Your friend, Avraham".
Receiving the Torah on Shavuot is one of the key topics in the philosophy of Slonim Chassidism. In the letter by R. Sender the mashbak, the surging fervor in preparation for Shavuot can be discerned. He writes: "G-d should assist us in receiving the Torah with much strength and joy…". R. Sender also writes of the siyum (culminating the study) of the entire Talmud which was to take place in the Rebbe's court in the days leading up to Shavuot.
The first Slonim Rebbe, Rabbi Avraham Weinberg (1804-1884), was the author of Yesod HaAvodah, Chesed L'Avraham and Be'er Avraham. Prominent disciple of Rebbe Moshe of Kobryn. After the death of their Rebbe in 1858, most of the Lechovitz-Kobryn Chassidim followed the leading disciple R. Avraham Weinberg (a minority followed the Lechovitz, Kobryn and Koidanov Rebbes), who established his Beit Midrash in the city of Slonim and led his Chassidim for more than 25 years.
The recipient of the letter is the chassid R. Eliezer HaCohen from Jałówka (1822-1915), disciple of the Kobryn and Slonim Rebbes; known for his prayers.
Letter composed of two written pages. Approximately 16 cm. 8 autograph lines by the Rebbe and another 22 lines in the handwriting of R. Sender. Good-fair condition. Wear and stains. Open tears to the blank back leaf.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $3,500
Sold for: $4,375
Including buyer's premium
Autograph long (3-page) letter with the full signature of Rebbe "Shmuel son of R. M.A. Weinberg", sent to his brother R. Noach Weinberg and to his relative R. Aharon. Slonim, 1882.
Letter of advice and blessings, containing words of encouragement and inspiration to his relative R. Aharon, who evidently had traveled with R. Noach to seek medical care. Several times in the letter, he mentions his grandfather the Rebbe, author of Yesod HaAvodah, and urges his friend to make appropriate efforts for his cure and to sustain himself with faith and joy: "…G-d should listen to your entreaties and send a speedy recovery and you should be healthy… Just strengthen your faith in the good G-d and in the merit of my father the Rebbe and his prayers which do not go unanswered you will surely receive all good…". Further in the letter, he turns to his brother to take care of their ill friend with compassion and love and to make him happy, and he gives him advice and practical instructions on medical matters as "I have understood from the words of the Rebbe". After his signature, he sends regards from their grandfather the Rebbe, author of Yesod HaAvodah: "Our grandfather… sends his regards and always mentions you favorably, and all our community… send their loving regards…". On the verso are two additions, one with the tidings that a number of leading Chassidim reached Eretz Israel and celebrated the Festival of Shavuot in Jerusalem, "and we await each day for their arrival in Tiberias", and the other addition is regards sent to R. Noach from Tiberias from his sons Yitzchak Matityahu and Shmuel. One addition is signed with the acronym HKS [HaKatan Shmuel].
The second Slonim Rebbe, R. Shmuel Weinberg author of Divrei Shmuel (1850-1916), was the grandson of the first Rebbe of Slonim, R. Avraham Weinberg, author of Yesod HaAvodah. In 1884 at the age of 34, R. Shmuel was appointed Rebbe succeeding his grandfather. He headed the Reisen Kollel in Eretz Israel, and sent many funds to support the yishuv in Tiberias, which was mainly settled by Slonim Chassidim. In 1916, his eldest son, R. Yissachar Leib Weinberg (1873-1928, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 2, pp. 466-467) succeeded his father as Rebbe of Slonim, together with his younger brother R. Avraham Weinberg (1884-1933, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 1, pp. 21-22), author of Beit Avraham, who served as Rebbe in Baranovichi.
[3] pages, 21 cm. Fair condition. Wear and tears with minor restorations, not affecting text.
Letter of advice and blessings, containing words of encouragement and inspiration to his relative R. Aharon, who evidently had traveled with R. Noach to seek medical care. Several times in the letter, he mentions his grandfather the Rebbe, author of Yesod HaAvodah, and urges his friend to make appropriate efforts for his cure and to sustain himself with faith and joy: "…G-d should listen to your entreaties and send a speedy recovery and you should be healthy… Just strengthen your faith in the good G-d and in the merit of my father the Rebbe and his prayers which do not go unanswered you will surely receive all good…". Further in the letter, he turns to his brother to take care of their ill friend with compassion and love and to make him happy, and he gives him advice and practical instructions on medical matters as "I have understood from the words of the Rebbe". After his signature, he sends regards from their grandfather the Rebbe, author of Yesod HaAvodah: "Our grandfather… sends his regards and always mentions you favorably, and all our community… send their loving regards…". On the verso are two additions, one with the tidings that a number of leading Chassidim reached Eretz Israel and celebrated the Festival of Shavuot in Jerusalem, "and we await each day for their arrival in Tiberias", and the other addition is regards sent to R. Noach from Tiberias from his sons Yitzchak Matityahu and Shmuel. One addition is signed with the acronym HKS [HaKatan Shmuel].
The second Slonim Rebbe, R. Shmuel Weinberg author of Divrei Shmuel (1850-1916), was the grandson of the first Rebbe of Slonim, R. Avraham Weinberg, author of Yesod HaAvodah. In 1884 at the age of 34, R. Shmuel was appointed Rebbe succeeding his grandfather. He headed the Reisen Kollel in Eretz Israel, and sent many funds to support the yishuv in Tiberias, which was mainly settled by Slonim Chassidim. In 1916, his eldest son, R. Yissachar Leib Weinberg (1873-1928, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 2, pp. 466-467) succeeded his father as Rebbe of Slonim, together with his younger brother R. Avraham Weinberg (1884-1933, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 1, pp. 21-22), author of Beit Avraham, who served as Rebbe in Baranovichi.
[3] pages, 21 cm. Fair condition. Wear and tears with minor restorations, not affecting text.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $1,000
Sold for: $3,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Avraham Weinberg, the third Slonim Rebbe, with his full signature "Avraham son of the Rebbe of Slonim". [Białystok, ca. 1920s].
Sent to Slonim Chassidim in the holy city of Tiberias. In this letter, flowing with friendship and love, the Rebbe tells his Chassidim of his wedding preparations upon the marriage of his daughter Yuta with the groom Moshe Yaakov HaCohen [Rappaport, who was the Rebbe's nephew], in the upcoming month of Adar. The Rebbe requests that his Chassidim in Eretz Israel pray for him and for the groom and bride and for the entire Jewish People.
R. Avraham Weinberg (the second) of Baranovichi, author of Beit Avraham (1884-1933), was a prominent Chassidic leader in Poland, son of the author of Divrei Shmuel. From 1916, he joined his eldest brother R. Yissachar Leib in leading the Slonim Chassidim, however most of the Chassidim leaned towards his court. He settled in Baranovichi where he established the Torat Chesed Yeshiva. He maintained close contact with his Chassidim in Eretz Israel, and visited there twice. His books, Beit Avraham, are well-known for their great depth in Chassidic philosophy.
His son-in-law R. Moshe Yaakov HaCohen Rappaport of Białystok was the son of R. Avraham Abish Rappaport Rabbi of Kielce, and grandson of the Rebbe, author of Divrei Shmuel. He perished with his entire family in the Holocaust.
Leaf, 20 cm. 2 written pages, approximately 37 handwritten lines. Good-fair condition. Wear and stains.
Sent to Slonim Chassidim in the holy city of Tiberias. In this letter, flowing with friendship and love, the Rebbe tells his Chassidim of his wedding preparations upon the marriage of his daughter Yuta with the groom Moshe Yaakov HaCohen [Rappaport, who was the Rebbe's nephew], in the upcoming month of Adar. The Rebbe requests that his Chassidim in Eretz Israel pray for him and for the groom and bride and for the entire Jewish People.
R. Avraham Weinberg (the second) of Baranovichi, author of Beit Avraham (1884-1933), was a prominent Chassidic leader in Poland, son of the author of Divrei Shmuel. From 1916, he joined his eldest brother R. Yissachar Leib in leading the Slonim Chassidim, however most of the Chassidim leaned towards his court. He settled in Baranovichi where he established the Torat Chesed Yeshiva. He maintained close contact with his Chassidim in Eretz Israel, and visited there twice. His books, Beit Avraham, are well-known for their great depth in Chassidic philosophy.
His son-in-law R. Moshe Yaakov HaCohen Rappaport of Białystok was the son of R. Avraham Abish Rappaport Rabbi of Kielce, and grandson of the Rebbe, author of Divrei Shmuel. He perished with his entire family in the Holocaust.
Leaf, 20 cm. 2 written pages, approximately 37 handwritten lines. Good-fair condition. Wear and stains.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $1,200
Sold for: $2,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter by the "Yanuka" (child) Rebbe of Karlin-Stolin R. Yisrael Perlow. Scribe's writing, with the signature of "Yisrael son of R. Asher". [Stolin, ca. 1910s].
Confirming receiving a "kvitel" with funds, and blessings: "I give you my blessing that G-d should send you and your family a speedy recovery and bless you with a son who should live a long good life, and you should merit raising your children with gratification, and be blessed with a good livelihood and success and with a gmar chatima tova".
The "Yanuka" Rebbe of Karlin-Stolin, Rabbi Israel Perlow (1869-1922), was orphaned from his father R. Asher of Stolin in his early childhood, and appointed Rebbe at the age of four and a half(!). Son-in-law of R. David Twersky of Zlatopol. R. Perlow died at the age of 53 and was buried in Frankfurt, and is known among Karlin Chassidim as "The Frankfurter". He had six sons and four daughters - R. Moshe the Stoliner Rebbe, R. Avraham Elimelech the Karliner Rebbe, R. Yochanan the Lutzker Rebbe, R. Yaakov the Detroit Rebbe, R. Aharon of Warsaw and R. Asher of Stolin. Most of his descendants perished in the Holocaust. The only son who survived was his youngest son, R. Yochanan of Lutzk and later of Detroit (1900-1956), grandfather of the present Rebbe of Karlin-Stolin and of his brother, the Lutzk Rebbe.
Leaf, approximately 17 cm. Good condition.
Confirming receiving a "kvitel" with funds, and blessings: "I give you my blessing that G-d should send you and your family a speedy recovery and bless you with a son who should live a long good life, and you should merit raising your children with gratification, and be blessed with a good livelihood and success and with a gmar chatima tova".
The "Yanuka" Rebbe of Karlin-Stolin, Rabbi Israel Perlow (1869-1922), was orphaned from his father R. Asher of Stolin in his early childhood, and appointed Rebbe at the age of four and a half(!). Son-in-law of R. David Twersky of Zlatopol. R. Perlow died at the age of 53 and was buried in Frankfurt, and is known among Karlin Chassidim as "The Frankfurter". He had six sons and four daughters - R. Moshe the Stoliner Rebbe, R. Avraham Elimelech the Karliner Rebbe, R. Yochanan the Lutzker Rebbe, R. Yaakov the Detroit Rebbe, R. Aharon of Warsaw and R. Asher of Stolin. Most of his descendants perished in the Holocaust. The only son who survived was his youngest son, R. Yochanan of Lutzk and later of Detroit (1900-1956), grandfather of the present Rebbe of Karlin-Stolin and of his brother, the Lutzk Rebbe.
Leaf, approximately 17 cm. Good condition.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $5,000
Sold for: $10,000
Including buyer's premium
Original letters received by R. Avraham Zvi Margalit, from Rabbis in Poland and Jerusalem, pasted inside a notebook - Letters of approbation for his book Chemdat Yerushalayim and letters of recommendation. Poland, 1904. Jerusalem, [ca. 1908-1928].
* Autograph letter of recommendation (11 lines) signed by R. "Meir Yechiel HaLevi". Ostrowiec [Poland].
* Letters by Polish rabbis: R. Moshe Nachum Yerushalimsky Rabbi of Kielce; R. Chaim Fine R. of Radzyn; R. Simcha Ya'ir [Rosenfeld] Rabbi of Piotrków; R. Moshe Pinchas [Trunk] Rabbi of Kutno; R. Chaim Yitzchak HaCohen Rabbi of Stopnica; R. Petachya Horenblas, rabbi in Warsaw.
* Letter by Jerusalem rabbis, 1908-1909: by R. Chaim Berlin; R. Yisrael Ya'akov Ya'avetz Rabbi of Kremenchuk; R. Shaul Chaim HaLevi Horwitz Rabbi of Dubrowna, author of Klilat Shaul; letter of the Chassidic Beit Din with signatures: R. Lipman David Shuvaks, R. Yosef Yehuda HaLevi and R. Avraham son of R. David HaCohen; letter of the Beit Din signed by R. Moshe Nachum Wallenstein and by R. Zvi Pesach Frank.
* Rabbinic writ for R. Avraham Zvi Margalit upon his appointment as Rabbi of the Nachalat Ya'akov and Beit Yisrael neighborhoods and their surroundings, with 48 signatures, headed by the signature of R. Yisrael Blumenkrantz Rabbi of Krasnystaw. Jerusalem, the 15th of Adar 1909 [according to the book Chachmei Polin p. 432, R. Avraham Zvi refused the appointment of dayan in Jerusalem and continued his diligent study, never ceasing to study in the Beit Midrash in the Old City every midnight].
* Letter of recommendation from 1928 with encouragement to print the books of the author [posthumously], by R. Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld and R. Avraham Yitzchak HaCohen Kook (long letter, 2 large leaves).
Recipient: R. Avraham Zvi Margalit (1861-1913), disciple of R. Tzadok HaCohen of Lublin and Radzymin Chassid. Served in the rabbinate of several towns near Lublin. In 1908, he ascended to Jerusalem. A prominent Torah scholar and kabbalist. Every Simchat Torah he would make a siyum on the entire Babylonian and Yerushalmi Talmud and on the four parts of the Tur and the four parts of the Shulchan Aruch as well as the entire Yad HaChazaka of the Rambam. Moreover, he studied at length the Zohar and the books of the Ari and other kabbalistic and Chassidic books. Authored the books Keren Ora (printed in Jerusalem 1964) and Chemdat Yerushalayim on the Talmud Yerushalmi Tractate Berachot and Seder Zera'im, which have not yet been printed (besides novella on Tractates Berachot and Pe'ah which were recently printed in various places).
R. Meir Yechiel HaLevi Halstock Rabbi of Ostrowiec (1853-1928), prominent tsaddik and rabbi in Poland. Due to his asceticism and daily fasts, he became known as the "Rebbe who fasted 40 years". An outstanding Torah genius and holy person, he abstained from any material pleasure for years and for more than 40 years, he was accustomed to fasting throughout the week and would only eat a small meal at night. He would fix routines for refraining from all mundane speech. During the week, he never removed his clothing and would also avoid listening to music. Served as Rabbi of Skierniewice from 1880 and in 1889 was appointed Rabbi of Ostrowiec. His fame drew thousands of Chassidim to Ostrowiec who came to learn from his holy conduct and to study Torah and Chassidism and simple people also swarmed to his door with requests for blessing and deliverance. He was known for his genius and proficiency of all facets of Torah study as well as for his brilliant mathematical calculations in explaining Torah matters (compilations of these novellae were printed by his disciples in the Or Torah books). His son R. Yechezkel Halstock founded the Beit Meir chain of yeshivas in his memory, educating many students following the special methods of the Ostrovtza Rebbes.
15 letters, size and condition vary, fair to good. 13 letters are pasted unto the bound notebook, 21 cm.
* Autograph letter of recommendation (11 lines) signed by R. "Meir Yechiel HaLevi". Ostrowiec [Poland].
* Letters by Polish rabbis: R. Moshe Nachum Yerushalimsky Rabbi of Kielce; R. Chaim Fine R. of Radzyn; R. Simcha Ya'ir [Rosenfeld] Rabbi of Piotrków; R. Moshe Pinchas [Trunk] Rabbi of Kutno; R. Chaim Yitzchak HaCohen Rabbi of Stopnica; R. Petachya Horenblas, rabbi in Warsaw.
* Letter by Jerusalem rabbis, 1908-1909: by R. Chaim Berlin; R. Yisrael Ya'akov Ya'avetz Rabbi of Kremenchuk; R. Shaul Chaim HaLevi Horwitz Rabbi of Dubrowna, author of Klilat Shaul; letter of the Chassidic Beit Din with signatures: R. Lipman David Shuvaks, R. Yosef Yehuda HaLevi and R. Avraham son of R. David HaCohen; letter of the Beit Din signed by R. Moshe Nachum Wallenstein and by R. Zvi Pesach Frank.
* Rabbinic writ for R. Avraham Zvi Margalit upon his appointment as Rabbi of the Nachalat Ya'akov and Beit Yisrael neighborhoods and their surroundings, with 48 signatures, headed by the signature of R. Yisrael Blumenkrantz Rabbi of Krasnystaw. Jerusalem, the 15th of Adar 1909 [according to the book Chachmei Polin p. 432, R. Avraham Zvi refused the appointment of dayan in Jerusalem and continued his diligent study, never ceasing to study in the Beit Midrash in the Old City every midnight].
* Letter of recommendation from 1928 with encouragement to print the books of the author [posthumously], by R. Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld and R. Avraham Yitzchak HaCohen Kook (long letter, 2 large leaves).
Recipient: R. Avraham Zvi Margalit (1861-1913), disciple of R. Tzadok HaCohen of Lublin and Radzymin Chassid. Served in the rabbinate of several towns near Lublin. In 1908, he ascended to Jerusalem. A prominent Torah scholar and kabbalist. Every Simchat Torah he would make a siyum on the entire Babylonian and Yerushalmi Talmud and on the four parts of the Tur and the four parts of the Shulchan Aruch as well as the entire Yad HaChazaka of the Rambam. Moreover, he studied at length the Zohar and the books of the Ari and other kabbalistic and Chassidic books. Authored the books Keren Ora (printed in Jerusalem 1964) and Chemdat Yerushalayim on the Talmud Yerushalmi Tractate Berachot and Seder Zera'im, which have not yet been printed (besides novella on Tractates Berachot and Pe'ah which were recently printed in various places).
R. Meir Yechiel HaLevi Halstock Rabbi of Ostrowiec (1853-1928), prominent tsaddik and rabbi in Poland. Due to his asceticism and daily fasts, he became known as the "Rebbe who fasted 40 years". An outstanding Torah genius and holy person, he abstained from any material pleasure for years and for more than 40 years, he was accustomed to fasting throughout the week and would only eat a small meal at night. He would fix routines for refraining from all mundane speech. During the week, he never removed his clothing and would also avoid listening to music. Served as Rabbi of Skierniewice from 1880 and in 1889 was appointed Rabbi of Ostrowiec. His fame drew thousands of Chassidim to Ostrowiec who came to learn from his holy conduct and to study Torah and Chassidism and simple people also swarmed to his door with requests for blessing and deliverance. He was known for his genius and proficiency of all facets of Torah study as well as for his brilliant mathematical calculations in explaining Torah matters (compilations of these novellae were printed by his disciples in the Or Torah books). His son R. Yechezkel Halstock founded the Beit Meir chain of yeshivas in his memory, educating many students following the special methods of the Ostrovtza Rebbes.
15 letters, size and condition vary, fair to good. 13 letters are pasted unto the bound notebook, 21 cm.
Catalogue
Auction 58 - Rare and Important Items
October 31, 2017
Opening: $25,000
Sold for: $35,000
Including buyer's premium
Congratulatory letter in honor of a wedding, with one and a half lines handwritten and signed by Rebbe Aharon of Belz. [Belz, ca. 1935].
The letter was sent to Vienna to the Belzer Rebbe's relatives, Rebbe Yitzchak Meir of Kopishnitz (Kopychyntsi) and his son, Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Kopychyntsi. Most of the letter was written by a scribe, with the following added by Rebbe Aharon of Belz (in his handwriting, in different ink): "I am writing to out of love for my relatives and to express my congratulations and blessings on the upcoming wedding. The small Aharon of Belz".
The body of the letter contains many blessings: "I am sending my blessings to my relatives, the great R. Yitzchak Meir and his son, the beloved R. Avraham Yehoshua Heschel… I received your letter regarding the upcoming wedding of your daughter and granddaughter, and I wish to congratulate them. May their happiness on their wedding day be complete, and may they raise genarations of worthy, righteous offspring. May they be blessed with a long and happy life filled with all that is good, and may we hear such happy tidings from all of the Jewish people…".
Rebbe Aharon Rokeach of Belz (1880-1957), son of Rebbe Yissaschar Dov and grandson of Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz, was renowned as a holy man and miracle worker, who was called "Aharon, G-d's holy one". He was among the leaders of European Jewry before the Holocaust, as well as a rebuilder of Torah and Chassidut after the war. His ascetic lifestyle and obvious holiness caused thousands of followers to flock to his court for blessings and advice.
Rebbe Aharon was crowned as leader of the Belz Chassidut in 1927, and became one of the foremost leaders of Eastern European Jewry. As such, he was especially targeted by the Nazis during the Holocaust. His followers smuggled him from ghetto to ghetto, until he managed to escape to Budapest, Hungary, from where he made his way to Eretz Israel on a difficult journey that spanned Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey and Syria. His wife, children, grandchildren and entire extended family were killed by the Nazis, and he arrived in Eretz Israel accompanied only by his brother, R. Mordechai of Bilgoraj, who also lost his entire family (R. Mordechai's son, R. Yissaschar Dov, born of his second marriage in Eretz Israel, is the current Belzer Rebbe). Rebbe Aharon settled in Tel Aviv, where he began to rebuild the shattered remnants of his chassidut.
The recipient of the letter was Rebbe Yitzchak Meir of Kopychyntsi (1861-1935), a scion of the rebbes of Apta and Ruzhyn. He was the son of Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Medzhybizh and the son-in-law of Rebbe Mordechai Shraga Friedman of Husiatyn. In 1894 he became rebbe in Kopychyntsi, near Husiatyn, and quickly became renowned for his holiness as well as his deep wisdom and understanding. During WWI, he joined his friend Rebbe Yisrael Hager in Vizhnitz, and later settled in Vienna, although he frequently visited his chassidim in Galicia and Bukovina. His sons-in-law were Rebbe Avraham Yaakov of Sadigur-Tel Aviv, Rebbe Eliezer Hager of Vizhnitz, and Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Tarnopol.
Rebbe Yitzchak Meir's son, Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel (1888-1967) was one of the great Chassidic leaders in the United States. He succeeded his father as rebbe of Kopychyntsi in 1936, but managed to escape to the United States in 1939, where he established his Chassidic court. He served as a member of the American Moetzet Gedolei Hatorah, and was known for his kindness, generosity and caring, both for other Torah leaders and for simple Jews. He is buried in Tiberias, near the gravesite of his uncle, R. Yisrael of Husiatyn.
Single leaf, approximately 22 cm. Overall good condition. Fold lines and creases. Wear and tears to the top of the page.
Letters signed by Rebbe Aharon of Belz are extremely rare. This letter, which contains an additional line in the Rebbe's handwriting, is especially unique.
The letter was sent to Vienna to the Belzer Rebbe's relatives, Rebbe Yitzchak Meir of Kopishnitz (Kopychyntsi) and his son, Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Kopychyntsi. Most of the letter was written by a scribe, with the following added by Rebbe Aharon of Belz (in his handwriting, in different ink): "I am writing to out of love for my relatives and to express my congratulations and blessings on the upcoming wedding. The small Aharon of Belz".
The body of the letter contains many blessings: "I am sending my blessings to my relatives, the great R. Yitzchak Meir and his son, the beloved R. Avraham Yehoshua Heschel… I received your letter regarding the upcoming wedding of your daughter and granddaughter, and I wish to congratulate them. May their happiness on their wedding day be complete, and may they raise genarations of worthy, righteous offspring. May they be blessed with a long and happy life filled with all that is good, and may we hear such happy tidings from all of the Jewish people…".
Rebbe Aharon Rokeach of Belz (1880-1957), son of Rebbe Yissaschar Dov and grandson of Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz, was renowned as a holy man and miracle worker, who was called "Aharon, G-d's holy one". He was among the leaders of European Jewry before the Holocaust, as well as a rebuilder of Torah and Chassidut after the war. His ascetic lifestyle and obvious holiness caused thousands of followers to flock to his court for blessings and advice.
Rebbe Aharon was crowned as leader of the Belz Chassidut in 1927, and became one of the foremost leaders of Eastern European Jewry. As such, he was especially targeted by the Nazis during the Holocaust. His followers smuggled him from ghetto to ghetto, until he managed to escape to Budapest, Hungary, from where he made his way to Eretz Israel on a difficult journey that spanned Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey and Syria. His wife, children, grandchildren and entire extended family were killed by the Nazis, and he arrived in Eretz Israel accompanied only by his brother, R. Mordechai of Bilgoraj, who also lost his entire family (R. Mordechai's son, R. Yissaschar Dov, born of his second marriage in Eretz Israel, is the current Belzer Rebbe). Rebbe Aharon settled in Tel Aviv, where he began to rebuild the shattered remnants of his chassidut.
The recipient of the letter was Rebbe Yitzchak Meir of Kopychyntsi (1861-1935), a scion of the rebbes of Apta and Ruzhyn. He was the son of Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Medzhybizh and the son-in-law of Rebbe Mordechai Shraga Friedman of Husiatyn. In 1894 he became rebbe in Kopychyntsi, near Husiatyn, and quickly became renowned for his holiness as well as his deep wisdom and understanding. During WWI, he joined his friend Rebbe Yisrael Hager in Vizhnitz, and later settled in Vienna, although he frequently visited his chassidim in Galicia and Bukovina. His sons-in-law were Rebbe Avraham Yaakov of Sadigur-Tel Aviv, Rebbe Eliezer Hager of Vizhnitz, and Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Tarnopol.
Rebbe Yitzchak Meir's son, Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel (1888-1967) was one of the great Chassidic leaders in the United States. He succeeded his father as rebbe of Kopychyntsi in 1936, but managed to escape to the United States in 1939, where he established his Chassidic court. He served as a member of the American Moetzet Gedolei Hatorah, and was known for his kindness, generosity and caring, both for other Torah leaders and for simple Jews. He is buried in Tiberias, near the gravesite of his uncle, R. Yisrael of Husiatyn.
Single leaf, approximately 22 cm. Overall good condition. Fold lines and creases. Wear and tears to the top of the page.
Letters signed by Rebbe Aharon of Belz are extremely rare. This letter, which contains an additional line in the Rebbe's handwriting, is especially unique.
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