Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
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Displaying 73 - 84 of 98
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $20,000
Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000
Unsold
Olelot Efraim, homilies for festivals and ethics, by R. Efraim of Luntschitz (Łęczyca). Zhovkva, 1763. The word "Amsterdam" is emphasized on the title page.
Ownership inscription at the top of the title page: "G-d granted me, Yitzchak Meir" – Signature of R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, the first Rebbe of Ger, author of Chiddushei HaRim (1799-1866, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut II, pp. 413-423). A foremost scholar in Torah and Chassidism in his times and a leader of Polish Jewry. He was born following the blessing of the Maggid of Kozhnitz (who foretold that he would "illuminate the world with Torah"), and was nurtured and raised in his home, becoming his close disciple. At the age of 13, he moved to his father-in-law's house in Warsaw, where he learnt under R. Aryeh Leib Zuenz and gained fame throughout Poland as "the prodigy from Warsaw". After the passing of the Maggid of Kozhnitz, he became one of the primary disciples of R. Simcha Bunim of Pshische. With the latter's passing, a number of Chassidim wished to appoint him successor, but R. Yitzchak Meir gave deference to R. Menachem Mendel of Kotzk, influencing most of the Chassidim to follow the Rebbe of Kotzk. He became the most outstanding personage in the Kotzker court, eventually becoming the Rebbe's brother-in-law. In 1859, R. Yitzchak Meir was appointed the Kotzker Rebbe's successor and moved to nearby Gur (Góra Kalwaria), establishing the Ger Chassidic court 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 named Chiddushei HaRim (acronym of R. Yitzchak Meir), a title he became known by. His books were highly lauded and expose his sharpness and exceptional Torah proficiency. He has maintained friendship ties with all the leading Torah scholars of his times, including those who opposed Chassidism. Among them were R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Yitzchak of Warka, R. Akiva Eiger, R. Yaakov of Lissa (Leszno) 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 HaKohen of Aleksander succeeded him for a short while, and with his passing 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.
[23], 3-40, [34] leaves. Mispagination. 34 cm. Fair condition. Wear and worming to the text and margins, professionally restored with paper. New, ornamented and elegant leather binding, placed in a matching leather-covered slipcase.
Ownership inscription at the top of the title page: "G-d granted me, Yitzchak Meir" – Signature of R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, the first Rebbe of Ger, author of Chiddushei HaRim (1799-1866, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut II, pp. 413-423). A foremost scholar in Torah and Chassidism in his times and a leader of Polish Jewry. He was born following the blessing of the Maggid of Kozhnitz (who foretold that he would "illuminate the world with Torah"), and was nurtured and raised in his home, becoming his close disciple. At the age of 13, he moved to his father-in-law's house in Warsaw, where he learnt under R. Aryeh Leib Zuenz and gained fame throughout Poland as "the prodigy from Warsaw". After the passing of the Maggid of Kozhnitz, he became one of the primary disciples of R. Simcha Bunim of Pshische. With the latter's passing, a number of Chassidim wished to appoint him successor, but R. Yitzchak Meir gave deference to R. Menachem Mendel of Kotzk, influencing most of the Chassidim to follow the Rebbe of Kotzk. He became the most outstanding personage in the Kotzker court, eventually becoming the Rebbe's brother-in-law. In 1859, R. Yitzchak Meir was appointed the Kotzker Rebbe's successor and moved to nearby Gur (Góra Kalwaria), establishing the Ger Chassidic court 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 named Chiddushei HaRim (acronym of R. Yitzchak Meir), a title he became known by. His books were highly lauded and expose his sharpness and exceptional Torah proficiency. He has maintained friendship ties with all the leading Torah scholars of his times, including those who opposed Chassidism. Among them were R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Yitzchak of Warka, R. Akiva Eiger, R. Yaakov of Lissa (Leszno) 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 HaKohen of Aleksander succeeded him for a short while, and with his passing 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.
[23], 3-40, [34] leaves. Mispagination. 34 cm. Fair condition. Wear and worming to the text and margins, professionally restored with paper. New, ornamented and elegant leather binding, placed in a matching leather-covered slipcase.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $5,250
Including buyer's premium
Double leaf (3 written pages), consisting of a copying of a responsum letter from R. Yisrael Yehoshua Trunk of Kutno, the Yeshuot Malko, and a complete page (21 lines) handwritten by Rebbe Yaakov Aryeh Gutterman, containing his response to R. Yisrael Yehoshua's letter. [Radzymin, 1856].
Both letters deal with laws of divorce documents. The letters are unsigned. The first letter, from the Gaon of Kutno, is addressed to R. Yaakov Aryeh, dated 9 Adar I, 1856: "To my dear friend, great rabbi, the prominent R. Yaakov Aryeh", and begins with a response to a previous letter by R. Yaakov Aryeh (this responsum was printed in full in his book Yavin Daat, Pietrokov, Selected Responsa section 1). The third page: the responsum of the holy Gaon of Radzymin, in his own (distinctive) handwriting, beginning with: "and what His Torah Eminence wrote…".
Our assumption is that these are copyings that the Gaon of Radzymin saved for his personal use. On the first page, a copyist recorded the main points of the letter by R. Yisrael Yehoshua, and on the second page, the Rebbe of Radzymin himself copied his response to the letter, without the introductory sentence and signature.
Rebbe Yaakov Aryeh Gutterman of Radzymin (1792-1874, Encyclopedia of Chassidut II, pp. 254-256), was one of the elder rebbes and progenitors of Chassidism in Poland, renowned as an exceptional miracle-worker. In his youth, he became a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin, who seated him amongst his leading disciples, attesting that he possessed a very lofty soul. He was a beloved disciple of the Maggid of Kozhnitz, but particularly frequented the Peshischa court of the Yid HaKadosh and of R. Bunim of Peshischa, and was considered one of their foremost disciples together with the Seraf of Kotsk, R. Yitzchak of Warka and the Chidushei HaRim. After the passing of R. Yitzchak of Warka, he was appointed rebbe to thousands of Chassidim and became reputed as a holy man and wonder-worker. Under his leadership, Radzymin became one of the Chassidic centers in Poland, and thousands flocked to him to receive his blessings and salvations, and all Rebbes of Peshischa were known to send him Chassidim who required a salvation.
His handwriting is a recognized Segula for protection. The Imrei Emet, Rebbe of Gur, reputedly accorded his son, the Lev Simcha (a son-in-law of the Radzymin dynasty), a manuscript of the Rebbe of Radzymin as a Segula for protection. In his hasty flight from Poland in 1940, the Lev Simcha lost the manuscript and was greatly distressed over it. However, when he later obtained a different manuscript of the Rebbe of Radzymin, he was overjoyed. At that occasion, the Lev Simcha stated that it was extremely rare for his father the Imrei Emet to term an item a Segula and a protection, demonstrating the importance of such a manuscript in his eyes.
[1] double leaf. 20.5 cm. 3 written pages. Including 21 autograph lines of the Rebbe. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear.
Provenance: Collection of Rebbe Yechiel Meir Morgenstern of Kotsk-Łomazy (1894-1974), son of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Łomazy (who lived for a while in Praga, near Warsaw). The fourth page contains stamps of R. "Yechiel Meir son of the holy rabbi Rebbe of Praga" and a handwritten inscription: "Letter number 62".
Both letters deal with laws of divorce documents. The letters are unsigned. The first letter, from the Gaon of Kutno, is addressed to R. Yaakov Aryeh, dated 9 Adar I, 1856: "To my dear friend, great rabbi, the prominent R. Yaakov Aryeh", and begins with a response to a previous letter by R. Yaakov Aryeh (this responsum was printed in full in his book Yavin Daat, Pietrokov, Selected Responsa section 1). The third page: the responsum of the holy Gaon of Radzymin, in his own (distinctive) handwriting, beginning with: "and what His Torah Eminence wrote…".
Our assumption is that these are copyings that the Gaon of Radzymin saved for his personal use. On the first page, a copyist recorded the main points of the letter by R. Yisrael Yehoshua, and on the second page, the Rebbe of Radzymin himself copied his response to the letter, without the introductory sentence and signature.
Rebbe Yaakov Aryeh Gutterman of Radzymin (1792-1874, Encyclopedia of Chassidut II, pp. 254-256), was one of the elder rebbes and progenitors of Chassidism in Poland, renowned as an exceptional miracle-worker. In his youth, he became a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin, who seated him amongst his leading disciples, attesting that he possessed a very lofty soul. He was a beloved disciple of the Maggid of Kozhnitz, but particularly frequented the Peshischa court of the Yid HaKadosh and of R. Bunim of Peshischa, and was considered one of their foremost disciples together with the Seraf of Kotsk, R. Yitzchak of Warka and the Chidushei HaRim. After the passing of R. Yitzchak of Warka, he was appointed rebbe to thousands of Chassidim and became reputed as a holy man and wonder-worker. Under his leadership, Radzymin became one of the Chassidic centers in Poland, and thousands flocked to him to receive his blessings and salvations, and all Rebbes of Peshischa were known to send him Chassidim who required a salvation.
His handwriting is a recognized Segula for protection. The Imrei Emet, Rebbe of Gur, reputedly accorded his son, the Lev Simcha (a son-in-law of the Radzymin dynasty), a manuscript of the Rebbe of Radzymin as a Segula for protection. In his hasty flight from Poland in 1940, the Lev Simcha lost the manuscript and was greatly distressed over it. However, when he later obtained a different manuscript of the Rebbe of Radzymin, he was overjoyed. At that occasion, the Lev Simcha stated that it was extremely rare for his father the Imrei Emet to term an item a Segula and a protection, demonstrating the importance of such a manuscript in his eyes.
[1] double leaf. 20.5 cm. 3 written pages. Including 21 autograph lines of the Rebbe. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear.
Provenance: Collection of Rebbe Yechiel Meir Morgenstern of Kotsk-Łomazy (1894-1974), son of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Łomazy (who lived for a while in Praga, near Warsaw). The fourth page contains stamps of R. "Yechiel Meir son of the holy rabbi Rebbe of Praga" and a handwritten inscription: "Letter number 62".
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $4,000 - $6,000
Sold for: $16,250
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe Menashe Rubin of Ropshitz (Ropczyce). Invitation to the wedding of his daughter Reitza with the groom R. Eliezer Lipa. Ropshitz, [Elul 1857].
Letter written by a scribe, concluding with one line handwritten and signed by Rebbe Menashe of Ropshitz: "So are the words of he who loves him, his relative and friend who seeks the welfare of his Torah wholeheartedly, Menashe Ropshitz".
The letter was sent to the Gorlice community, addressed to the philanthropist R. Betzalel Weinberger. The verso of the leaf contains the address, and an additional letter (in Yiddish) handwritten and signed by R. Shmuel Weinberger, writing to his mother and requesting she send a certain item with the messenger bearing this letter.
Rebbe Menashe Rubin of Ropshitz (1795-1860), author of Lechem Shemeina, was the son and successor of Rebbe Asher Yeshaya Rubin of Ropshitz (1775-1845, author of Or Yesha, son-in-law and successor of Rebbe Naftali of Ropshitz) and a disciple of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Rimanov (Rymanów). His disciples include several elders of the generation who still merited learning under his grandfather R. Naftali of Ropshitz. He was renowned for his love for his fellow Jew and his desire to shower them with an abundance of livelihood and blessing. In the foreword to his book Lechem Shemeina (Lviv, 1876), printed after his demise, the publisher R. Eliezer Eisen, Posek in Istrik (Ustrzyki Dolne) wrote: "and I called it (the book) so since I remember that in his lifetime, he always wished to draw upon the Jewish people an abundance of blessing and success". He had six daughters who produced dynasties of rebbes, chassidim and great people. His sons-in-law include: his successor Rebbe Yitzchak Mariles of Ropshitz, Rebbe Chananya Yom Tov Lipa Teitelbaum of Sighet (Sighetu Marmației) the Kedushat Yom Tov (a son-in-law in his first marriage), Rebbe Yissachar Berish Eichenstein of Veretzky (Nyzhni Vorota), author of Malbush LeShabbat VeYom Tov.
The recipient of the letter, the philanthropist R. Betzalel Weinberger of Gorlice, father-in-law of R. Avraham Chaim Horowitz Rabbi of Plontch (Połaniec) (who was the father-in-law of Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum, Rabbi of Satmar [Satu Mare], in his first marriage).
[1] folded leaf, 17.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks, creases and stains. Writing on verso showing through.
Letter written by a scribe, concluding with one line handwritten and signed by Rebbe Menashe of Ropshitz: "So are the words of he who loves him, his relative and friend who seeks the welfare of his Torah wholeheartedly, Menashe Ropshitz".
The letter was sent to the Gorlice community, addressed to the philanthropist R. Betzalel Weinberger. The verso of the leaf contains the address, and an additional letter (in Yiddish) handwritten and signed by R. Shmuel Weinberger, writing to his mother and requesting she send a certain item with the messenger bearing this letter.
Rebbe Menashe Rubin of Ropshitz (1795-1860), author of Lechem Shemeina, was the son and successor of Rebbe Asher Yeshaya Rubin of Ropshitz (1775-1845, author of Or Yesha, son-in-law and successor of Rebbe Naftali of Ropshitz) and a disciple of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Rimanov (Rymanów). His disciples include several elders of the generation who still merited learning under his grandfather R. Naftali of Ropshitz. He was renowned for his love for his fellow Jew and his desire to shower them with an abundance of livelihood and blessing. In the foreword to his book Lechem Shemeina (Lviv, 1876), printed after his demise, the publisher R. Eliezer Eisen, Posek in Istrik (Ustrzyki Dolne) wrote: "and I called it (the book) so since I remember that in his lifetime, he always wished to draw upon the Jewish people an abundance of blessing and success". He had six daughters who produced dynasties of rebbes, chassidim and great people. His sons-in-law include: his successor Rebbe Yitzchak Mariles of Ropshitz, Rebbe Chananya Yom Tov Lipa Teitelbaum of Sighet (Sighetu Marmației) the Kedushat Yom Tov (a son-in-law in his first marriage), Rebbe Yissachar Berish Eichenstein of Veretzky (Nyzhni Vorota), author of Malbush LeShabbat VeYom Tov.
The recipient of the letter, the philanthropist R. Betzalel Weinberger of Gorlice, father-in-law of R. Avraham Chaim Horowitz Rabbi of Plontch (Połaniec) (who was the father-in-law of Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum, Rabbi of Satmar [Satu Mare], in his first marriage).
[1] folded leaf, 17.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks, creases and stains. Writing on verso showing through.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $15,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $40,000
Sold for: $27,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter of congratulations (unsigned), handwritten by Rebbe Chaim Halberstam, Rabbi of Sanz (Nowy Sącz), author of Divrei Chaim. [Sanz, ca. 1844].
Addressed to R. Yechezkel Panet, author of Mareh Yechezkel, congratulating him for the appointment of his son, R. Menachem Mendel of Desh (Dej) as rabbi and posek (of Urişor, Dej region):
"His letter reached me and I rejoiced upon hearing of the appointment of his astute son Menachem Mendel as rabbi and posek, may he be successful, edify upright disciples, lead his flock with compassion to fine springs and pastures, guiding them in the correct path, may his prestige be raised and may he grow onwards and upwards".
Inaccurate copies of this letter were published in Heichal HaBesht, 8, Tishrei 2004, pp. 100-101 (see there regarding the historic background of this letter); and in Ateret Chaim – Yalkut Igrot Kodesh, II, Brooklyn 1980, p. 106, letter 99.
Rebbe Chaim Halberstam, Rabbi of Sanz and author of Divrei Chaim (1797-1876) was the founder of the Sanz Chassidic dynasty. He was the son-in-law of R. Baruch Frankel-Teomim, author of Baruch Taam, and a disciple of Rebbe Naftali Tzvi of Ropshitz (Ropczyce) and Rebbe Tzvi Hirsch of Zidichov (Zhydachiv). He was renowned not only as one of the great Chassidic masters of his times, but also as a noted Halachic authority. His court attracted thousands of followers, among them many of the generation's rebbes. He established contact with many of the leading rabbis of his time and was an influential leader of Galician and Eastern European Jewry. His descendants followed in his footsteps, combining Chassidic leadership with Halachic erudition and serving both as Chassidic rebbes and as rabbis of cities in Galicia, Hungary and Romania. His eldest son was R. Yechezkel Halberstam, Rabbi and Rebbe of Shineva (Sieniawa). The Sanz dynasty is continued today through the Chassidic courts of Bobov, Sanz-Klausenberg, Stropkov, Czchow, Zhmigrod, Gorlice, and others.
R. Menachem Mendel Panet, Rabbi of Dej (1818-1885) was the son of Rebbe Yechezkel author of Mareh Yechezkel (1783-1845, a disciple of R. Mendel of Rymanów, served as Rabbi of Carlsburg [Alba Iulia] and of Siebenburgen [Transylvania]). In 1837, he studied in the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer and was the only young man in the Pressburg Yeshiva who donned a Chassidic silk robe on Shabbat. His teacher, the Chatam Sofer, was very fond of him and used to stroll while conversing with him every Shabbat eve (he would dub him "the golden one"). While studying in the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer, he merited a revelation of Eliyahu HaNavi who greeted him in the Beit Midrash, in the disguise of a poor person. R. Menachem Mendel was appointed by his father in ca. 1842-1844 as rabbi of the northern counties of Transylvania, yet since the government did not allow Jews to settle in the county capital Dej at that time, he meanwhile served as rabbi of Urişor (which is approx. 3 km away from Dej), and only in 1858 did he move over to serve as rabbi of Dej. From ca. 1855, he served as Chief Rabbi of Transylvania. He authored Maaglei Tzedek on the Torah and the series of responsa books Avnei Tzedek, Shaarei Tzedek and Mishpat Tzedek.
[1] leaf. approx. 13X5.5 cm. 5 lines handwritten by the Divrei Chaim. Good condition. Stains and folding marks.
Addressed to R. Yechezkel Panet, author of Mareh Yechezkel, congratulating him for the appointment of his son, R. Menachem Mendel of Desh (Dej) as rabbi and posek (of Urişor, Dej region):
"His letter reached me and I rejoiced upon hearing of the appointment of his astute son Menachem Mendel as rabbi and posek, may he be successful, edify upright disciples, lead his flock with compassion to fine springs and pastures, guiding them in the correct path, may his prestige be raised and may he grow onwards and upwards".
Inaccurate copies of this letter were published in Heichal HaBesht, 8, Tishrei 2004, pp. 100-101 (see there regarding the historic background of this letter); and in Ateret Chaim – Yalkut Igrot Kodesh, II, Brooklyn 1980, p. 106, letter 99.
Rebbe Chaim Halberstam, Rabbi of Sanz and author of Divrei Chaim (1797-1876) was the founder of the Sanz Chassidic dynasty. He was the son-in-law of R. Baruch Frankel-Teomim, author of Baruch Taam, and a disciple of Rebbe Naftali Tzvi of Ropshitz (Ropczyce) and Rebbe Tzvi Hirsch of Zidichov (Zhydachiv). He was renowned not only as one of the great Chassidic masters of his times, but also as a noted Halachic authority. His court attracted thousands of followers, among them many of the generation's rebbes. He established contact with many of the leading rabbis of his time and was an influential leader of Galician and Eastern European Jewry. His descendants followed in his footsteps, combining Chassidic leadership with Halachic erudition and serving both as Chassidic rebbes and as rabbis of cities in Galicia, Hungary and Romania. His eldest son was R. Yechezkel Halberstam, Rabbi and Rebbe of Shineva (Sieniawa). The Sanz dynasty is continued today through the Chassidic courts of Bobov, Sanz-Klausenberg, Stropkov, Czchow, Zhmigrod, Gorlice, and others.
R. Menachem Mendel Panet, Rabbi of Dej (1818-1885) was the son of Rebbe Yechezkel author of Mareh Yechezkel (1783-1845, a disciple of R. Mendel of Rymanów, served as Rabbi of Carlsburg [Alba Iulia] and of Siebenburgen [Transylvania]). In 1837, he studied in the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer and was the only young man in the Pressburg Yeshiva who donned a Chassidic silk robe on Shabbat. His teacher, the Chatam Sofer, was very fond of him and used to stroll while conversing with him every Shabbat eve (he would dub him "the golden one"). While studying in the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer, he merited a revelation of Eliyahu HaNavi who greeted him in the Beit Midrash, in the disguise of a poor person. R. Menachem Mendel was appointed by his father in ca. 1842-1844 as rabbi of the northern counties of Transylvania, yet since the government did not allow Jews to settle in the county capital Dej at that time, he meanwhile served as rabbi of Urişor (which is approx. 3 km away from Dej), and only in 1858 did he move over to serve as rabbi of Dej. From ca. 1855, he served as Chief Rabbi of Transylvania. He authored Maaglei Tzedek on the Torah and the series of responsa books Avnei Tzedek, Shaarei Tzedek and Mishpat Tzedek.
[1] leaf. approx. 13X5.5 cm. 5 lines handwritten by the Divrei Chaim. Good condition. Stains and folding marks.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $12,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $25,000
Sold for: $35,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Rabbi of Shinova (Sieniawa). Sieniawa (Poland), Chanukah 1886.
Blessings of recovery for the residents of Téglás, who sent their names to be mentioned in prayer by the Rebbe (presumably following an epidemic):
"An abundance of goodness and imminent salvation to my friends the rabbis… residents of the Téglás village. I received your letter with the Pidyon Nefesh (redemption money) for the members of your community mentioned by name. May G-d have compassion on you, the healthy should not fall ill and the ill should recover speedily, and no misfortune should be heard in your boundaries nor in any Jewish town, only life, health and all the best…".
Written on his behalf by his scribe and attendant, the letter concludes with a line in the handwriting of the Rebbe: "So are the words of one who awaits good tidings amongst the entire Jewish people, Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam".
The first Shinova Rebbe, R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Rabbi of Sieniawa (1815-1899), was the author of Divrei Yechezkel and eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. An outstanding Torah scholar, he was proficient in all realms of Torah, exoteric and esoteric, Halachic and Chassidic teachings. He was venerated in his role as rabbi and rebbe already during his father's lifetime. Progenitor of important Chassidic dynasties, with many of his sons and grandsons serving as rabbis and rebbes in various cities already in his lifetime. Holy and pure from his youth, he attended leading rebbes of his times and was considered their prominent disciple. He was famed for the miracles he performed, and reputedly instructed his disciples to save his letters, which would afford them protection and salvation.
[1] leaf. 22.5 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folding marks. Adhesive tape stains. Professionally mounted on thin paper for preservation. Stamp of the Rebbe: "Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Sieniawa".
Blessings of recovery for the residents of Téglás, who sent their names to be mentioned in prayer by the Rebbe (presumably following an epidemic):
"An abundance of goodness and imminent salvation to my friends the rabbis… residents of the Téglás village. I received your letter with the Pidyon Nefesh (redemption money) for the members of your community mentioned by name. May G-d have compassion on you, the healthy should not fall ill and the ill should recover speedily, and no misfortune should be heard in your boundaries nor in any Jewish town, only life, health and all the best…".
Written on his behalf by his scribe and attendant, the letter concludes with a line in the handwriting of the Rebbe: "So are the words of one who awaits good tidings amongst the entire Jewish people, Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam".
The first Shinova Rebbe, R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Rabbi of Sieniawa (1815-1899), was the author of Divrei Yechezkel and eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. An outstanding Torah scholar, he was proficient in all realms of Torah, exoteric and esoteric, Halachic and Chassidic teachings. He was venerated in his role as rabbi and rebbe already during his father's lifetime. Progenitor of important Chassidic dynasties, with many of his sons and grandsons serving as rabbis and rebbes in various cities already in his lifetime. Holy and pure from his youth, he attended leading rebbes of his times and was considered their prominent disciple. He was famed for the miracles he performed, and reputedly instructed his disciples to save his letters, which would afford them protection and salvation.
[1] leaf. 22.5 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folding marks. Adhesive tape stains. Professionally mounted on thin paper for preservation. Stamp of the Rebbe: "Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Sieniawa".
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $7,000 - $9,000
Sold for: $9,375
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe Shalom Eliezer Halberstam. [Tarnów, 1897]. Written by a scribe and signed by R. "Shalom Eliezer Halberstam son of the rabbi of Sanz". Stamps in Hebrew and Latin characters from the period of his residence in Tarnów: "Rabiner S.L. Halberstam, Tarnow, Galizien".
Addressed to a Jewish philanthropist in Hungary, the Rebbe writes: "…When I was in Hungary I heard of his honor… I am the son of the righteous and holy Rabbi of Sanz, and brother of the righteous and holy Rabbi of Shinova, and since I am very impoverished and the needs are great before the festivals, I am hereby pleading his honor... to afford me his generous donation, and in that merit may G-d bless his wealth and pour upon him an abundance of blessing and success, life and peace forever, and I too will pray for his wellbeing always …".
Rebbe Shalom Eliezer Halberstam (1862-1944) was one of the younger sons of the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz, a leading righteous man and wonder-worker in the pre-Holocaust generation. Already as a youngster, prominent rebbes spoke of his holiness and lofty soul. For instance, during his stay in Sanz, the Tiferet Shlomo, Rebbe of Radomsk, reputedly pointed to R. Shalom Eliezer and said that at the coming of the Messiah he will be among the Jewish leaders. At the time of his father's death, he was only 14 years old, and was raised by his elder brother, the Rebbe of Shinova. He married his niece, daughter of his sister and brother-in-law Rebbe Mordechai Dov Twersky, Rabbi of Hornostaipil. In 1886, R. Shalom Eliezer settled in the city of Tarnów (Galicia), and cloistered himself in the kloiz of the Sanz Chassidim studying Torah day and night. In 1899, he established his court in Ratzfert (Ujfeherto, Hungary), remaining there for over 40 years. His reputation as a wonder-worker drew Jews from all over Hungary to his court in Ratzfert, who were subsequently helped by his blessings (see Rabbeinu HaKadosh MiRatzfert, Bnei Brak 2007, for numerous testimonies and accounts of miracles and salvations he effected). During the Holocaust he refused to abandon his community, and perished with them in Auschwitz in Sivan 1944.
Postcard. 14X9 cm. Good condition.
Addressed to a Jewish philanthropist in Hungary, the Rebbe writes: "…When I was in Hungary I heard of his honor… I am the son of the righteous and holy Rabbi of Sanz, and brother of the righteous and holy Rabbi of Shinova, and since I am very impoverished and the needs are great before the festivals, I am hereby pleading his honor... to afford me his generous donation, and in that merit may G-d bless his wealth and pour upon him an abundance of blessing and success, life and peace forever, and I too will pray for his wellbeing always …".
Rebbe Shalom Eliezer Halberstam (1862-1944) was one of the younger sons of the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz, a leading righteous man and wonder-worker in the pre-Holocaust generation. Already as a youngster, prominent rebbes spoke of his holiness and lofty soul. For instance, during his stay in Sanz, the Tiferet Shlomo, Rebbe of Radomsk, reputedly pointed to R. Shalom Eliezer and said that at the coming of the Messiah he will be among the Jewish leaders. At the time of his father's death, he was only 14 years old, and was raised by his elder brother, the Rebbe of Shinova. He married his niece, daughter of his sister and brother-in-law Rebbe Mordechai Dov Twersky, Rabbi of Hornostaipil. In 1886, R. Shalom Eliezer settled in the city of Tarnów (Galicia), and cloistered himself in the kloiz of the Sanz Chassidim studying Torah day and night. In 1899, he established his court in Ratzfert (Ujfeherto, Hungary), remaining there for over 40 years. His reputation as a wonder-worker drew Jews from all over Hungary to his court in Ratzfert, who were subsequently helped by his blessings (see Rabbeinu HaKadosh MiRatzfert, Bnei Brak 2007, for numerous testimonies and accounts of miracles and salvations he effected). During the Holocaust he refused to abandon his community, and perished with them in Auschwitz in Sivan 1944.
Postcard. 14X9 cm. Good condition.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $3,000
Estimate: $6,000 - $9,000
Sold for: $6,875
Including buyer's premium
Letter of good year and complete recovery wishes, with two lines handwritten and signed by Rebbe Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam. Kraków, Tishrei 1931.
Written on an official postcard from the Rebbe's court in Kraków, addressed to "the great rabbi… the chassid… Shlomo Gottlieb" in Tel-Aviv. The Rebbe informs him of receipt of the dollar he sent as Pidyon Nefesh and extends his warm blessings: "…and I pray… that G-d should send him His help, a complete and speedy recovery together with all infirm Jews, may the coming year be renewed upon him for good and for blessing together with all Jews, and may we hear and be informed of good tidings". Written by a scribe, with the addition of two lines handwritten and signed by the Rebbe: "The words of his friend who seeks his wellbeing with love, and blesses him with Gmar Chatima Tova, Yitzchak Yeshaya son of the pious rabbi of Sanz".
Rebbe Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam of Tshechov (1864-1943, perished in the Holocaust, Encyclopedia of Chassidism II, pp. 412-413) was the youngest son of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam, the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Son-in-law of R. Yechiel Heshel of Krilovitz (Murovani Kurylivtsi), and in his second marriage, of R. Yaakov Tzvi of Parysów. His father, R. Chaim of Sanz, stated that he possesses a holy soul. He absorbed Chassidism from his older brothers: R. Yechezkel Shraga of Shinova (Sieniawa), R. Baruch of Gorlitz (Gorlice) and R. David of Chrzanów; after his marriage he settled in Belz and learned Torah from the grandfather of his wife, Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz. At the age of nineteen, he was appointed rabbi of Tshechov and was since referred to as R. Yeshayale Tshechover. From Tshechov he moved to Satmar and later established his court in Kraków. He earnt the reputation of a righteous and pious miracle worker and thousands of followers flocked to his court. Upon German invasion of Kraków, he was sent to the ghetto. After escaping to Lviv, he wandered from place to place before settling in Bochnia. The Germans searched for him, eventually locating the bunker he was hiding in and murdering all its inhabitants. According to another version, he was murdered together with R. Meir of Vielipoli (Wielopole Skrzyńskie) in the town square, both wrapped in their prayer shawls.
Official postcard with letterhead: "Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam, Kraków"; the Rebbe's name and address are printed in Polish on the verso. 14.5X9.5 cm. Postage stamps and postmarks. Very good condition.
Enclosed: Photograph of the Rebbe strolling in a holiday resort, together with his attendants. Marienbad (Mariánské Lázně), [ca. 1930s].
14X9 cm. Good-fair condition. Damage to the corners of the photograph.
Written on an official postcard from the Rebbe's court in Kraków, addressed to "the great rabbi… the chassid… Shlomo Gottlieb" in Tel-Aviv. The Rebbe informs him of receipt of the dollar he sent as Pidyon Nefesh and extends his warm blessings: "…and I pray… that G-d should send him His help, a complete and speedy recovery together with all infirm Jews, may the coming year be renewed upon him for good and for blessing together with all Jews, and may we hear and be informed of good tidings". Written by a scribe, with the addition of two lines handwritten and signed by the Rebbe: "The words of his friend who seeks his wellbeing with love, and blesses him with Gmar Chatima Tova, Yitzchak Yeshaya son of the pious rabbi of Sanz".
Rebbe Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam of Tshechov (1864-1943, perished in the Holocaust, Encyclopedia of Chassidism II, pp. 412-413) was the youngest son of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam, the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Son-in-law of R. Yechiel Heshel of Krilovitz (Murovani Kurylivtsi), and in his second marriage, of R. Yaakov Tzvi of Parysów. His father, R. Chaim of Sanz, stated that he possesses a holy soul. He absorbed Chassidism from his older brothers: R. Yechezkel Shraga of Shinova (Sieniawa), R. Baruch of Gorlitz (Gorlice) and R. David of Chrzanów; after his marriage he settled in Belz and learned Torah from the grandfather of his wife, Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz. At the age of nineteen, he was appointed rabbi of Tshechov and was since referred to as R. Yeshayale Tshechover. From Tshechov he moved to Satmar and later established his court in Kraków. He earnt the reputation of a righteous and pious miracle worker and thousands of followers flocked to his court. Upon German invasion of Kraków, he was sent to the ghetto. After escaping to Lviv, he wandered from place to place before settling in Bochnia. The Germans searched for him, eventually locating the bunker he was hiding in and murdering all its inhabitants. According to another version, he was murdered together with R. Meir of Vielipoli (Wielopole Skrzyńskie) in the town square, both wrapped in their prayer shawls.
Official postcard with letterhead: "Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam, Kraków"; the Rebbe's name and address are printed in Polish on the verso. 14.5X9.5 cm. Postage stamps and postmarks. Very good condition.
Enclosed: Photograph of the Rebbe strolling in a holiday resort, together with his attendants. Marienbad (Mariánské Lázně), [ca. 1930s].
14X9 cm. Good-fair condition. Damage to the corners of the photograph.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $15,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000
Sold for: $22,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe Shlomo Halberstam. Bobov (Bobowa), Tishrei 1904.
Addressed to the philanthropist R. Yeshaya Moshe Gross, with heartfelt blessings from the Rebbe: "…I hereby bless him that G-d should raise his prestige in wealth and honor, and help him see extensive blessing in his business and in all his endeavors… And may they reap only satisfaction from all their descendants, and may he and his entire family continue being completely healthy, and may only good be heard in all his matters in his home".
The letter concludes with blessings for the new year: "Who seeks his wellbeing wholeheartedly, and blesses him with a positive sealing for a good year, blessed with all good, Shlomo Halberstam".
R. Shlomo Halberstam, first Rebbe of Bobov (1847-1905) was the grandson of the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz and of Rebbe Eliezer Horowitz of Dzikov-Ropshitz. He was orphaned in his childhood of his father, R. Meir Natan Halberstam, and was raised and educated by his two illustrious grandfathers. After his marriage with the daughter of Rebbe Yehoshua of Kaminka, he was appointed rabbi of Bukowsko at the young age of 17, and later of Ushpitzin (Oświęcim). In 1875, he was one of the grandchildren selected by R. Chaim of Sanz to publish his book Responsa Divrei Chaim. In 1878, he went to serve as rabbi of Vishnitsa, and in 1892, of Bobov, which he became renowned for. He served as Rebbe to thousands of Chassidim, particularly working on drawing youths to Chassidism, developing Bobov into a large center of thousands of young Chassidim, who transformed Galician Jewry by disseminating Torah and Chassidism. He founded a large yeshiva in Bobov, with dozens of secondary branches in surrounding cities. R. Shlomo was a leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia and joined the Machzikei HaDat organization (in contrast to the other rebbes of the Sanz dynasty who did not endorse this organization). His son was Rebbe Ben Tzion Halberstam, the Kedushat Tzion, father of Rebbe Shlomo Halberstam (the II), Rebbe of Bobov-USA – who established the large center of Bobov Chassidism in the United States.
His grandfather the Divrei Chaim cherished and revered him greatly, and in a halachic letter of 1871, he addresses him in terms of great honor (Responsa Divrei Chaim, Yoreh De'ah, section 32). In that responsum, his grandfather requests: "Please pray for me since I am very weak, may G-d help him with a long life… seeking the wellbeing of your Torah and awaiting to see you in peace".
[1] leaf. 21.5 cm. Thin, acidic paper. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Dark folding marks and creases. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Addressed to the philanthropist R. Yeshaya Moshe Gross, with heartfelt blessings from the Rebbe: "…I hereby bless him that G-d should raise his prestige in wealth and honor, and help him see extensive blessing in his business and in all his endeavors… And may they reap only satisfaction from all their descendants, and may he and his entire family continue being completely healthy, and may only good be heard in all his matters in his home".
The letter concludes with blessings for the new year: "Who seeks his wellbeing wholeheartedly, and blesses him with a positive sealing for a good year, blessed with all good, Shlomo Halberstam".
R. Shlomo Halberstam, first Rebbe of Bobov (1847-1905) was the grandson of the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz and of Rebbe Eliezer Horowitz of Dzikov-Ropshitz. He was orphaned in his childhood of his father, R. Meir Natan Halberstam, and was raised and educated by his two illustrious grandfathers. After his marriage with the daughter of Rebbe Yehoshua of Kaminka, he was appointed rabbi of Bukowsko at the young age of 17, and later of Ushpitzin (Oświęcim). In 1875, he was one of the grandchildren selected by R. Chaim of Sanz to publish his book Responsa Divrei Chaim. In 1878, he went to serve as rabbi of Vishnitsa, and in 1892, of Bobov, which he became renowned for. He served as Rebbe to thousands of Chassidim, particularly working on drawing youths to Chassidism, developing Bobov into a large center of thousands of young Chassidim, who transformed Galician Jewry by disseminating Torah and Chassidism. He founded a large yeshiva in Bobov, with dozens of secondary branches in surrounding cities. R. Shlomo was a leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia and joined the Machzikei HaDat organization (in contrast to the other rebbes of the Sanz dynasty who did not endorse this organization). His son was Rebbe Ben Tzion Halberstam, the Kedushat Tzion, father of Rebbe Shlomo Halberstam (the II), Rebbe of Bobov-USA – who established the large center of Bobov Chassidism in the United States.
His grandfather the Divrei Chaim cherished and revered him greatly, and in a halachic letter of 1871, he addresses him in terms of great honor (Responsa Divrei Chaim, Yoreh De'ah, section 32). In that responsum, his grandfather requests: "Please pray for me since I am very weak, may G-d help him with a long life… seeking the wellbeing of your Torah and awaiting to see you in peace".
[1] leaf. 21.5 cm. Thin, acidic paper. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Dark folding marks and creases. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000
Sold for: $30,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter containing three lines handwritten and signed by Rebbe "Yissachar Dov of Belz". Belz, [no date indicated].
Letter confirming receipt of funds "for the Beit HaMidrash purposes", the first lines were handwritten by one of the Rebbe's attendants, and the three concluding lines are in the Rebbe's own handwriting, extending his blessings: "the words of his friend who awaits G-d's speedy raising of his prestige in all areas, and blesses him with all good. Yissachar Dov of Belz".
Rebbe Yissachar Dov Rokeach – HaMaharid (1854-1926) was a foremost Chassidic leader of his times and leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia. The third Rebbe in the Belz dynasty, he was a son of Rebbe Yehoshua Rokeach of Belz and son-in-law of R. Zushe Twersky (son of Rebbe Aharon of Chernobyl). He settled in Chernobyl after his marriage and studied Torah. Known as an outstanding Torah scholar, he was held in high esteem by the leading Halachic authorities of his times (see for instance in Responsa Beit Yitzchak by R. Yitzchak Schmelkes of Lviv). In 1878, he returned to Belz from Chernobyl to assist his father and was appointed as the latter's successor in 1898, with thousands of Belzer chassidim accepting his authority.
During the course of his leadership, which spanned over thirty years, tens of thousands of followers joined his court. Belz Chassidism extended to Czechoslovakia, Hungary and Transylvania, apart from the many thousands of Chassidim who flocked to him from all over Galicia and Poland. Belz Chassidism was unique for its community of hundreds of "sitters" - Torah scholars who sat unceasingly in the Belz study hall, studying Torah and Chassidism. His influence on Jewish life in Poland was extensive, and he headed the Orthodox Jewry public institutes including the Machzikei HaDat organization. He battled fiercely against all Enlightenment and Zionist movements, even opposing Agudat Yisrael. He banned any change in community procedures or in the study orders of the Boys' schools and study halls.
In 1914, with the outbreak of WWI, he escaped to Ratzfert (Újfehértó), Hungary, later settling in Munkacs (Munkachevo). In 1921, he returned to Galicia, first settling in Oleszyce near Jarosław, since Belz had been severely affected by the war, only returning to Belz in 1925, after his home and the Beit Midrash had been refurbished. This letter was written in Belz, but does not mention any date (it was possibly written between 1894-1914, or in 1925-1926, after he returned to his Beit Midrash in Belz).
[1] leaf. approx. 15 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Large marginal tears, not affecting text. Professionally restored, mounted on paper for preservation.
Letters bearing the handwritten signature of Rebbes of Belz are scarce.
Letter confirming receipt of funds "for the Beit HaMidrash purposes", the first lines were handwritten by one of the Rebbe's attendants, and the three concluding lines are in the Rebbe's own handwriting, extending his blessings: "the words of his friend who awaits G-d's speedy raising of his prestige in all areas, and blesses him with all good. Yissachar Dov of Belz".
Rebbe Yissachar Dov Rokeach – HaMaharid (1854-1926) was a foremost Chassidic leader of his times and leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia. The third Rebbe in the Belz dynasty, he was a son of Rebbe Yehoshua Rokeach of Belz and son-in-law of R. Zushe Twersky (son of Rebbe Aharon of Chernobyl). He settled in Chernobyl after his marriage and studied Torah. Known as an outstanding Torah scholar, he was held in high esteem by the leading Halachic authorities of his times (see for instance in Responsa Beit Yitzchak by R. Yitzchak Schmelkes of Lviv). In 1878, he returned to Belz from Chernobyl to assist his father and was appointed as the latter's successor in 1898, with thousands of Belzer chassidim accepting his authority.
During the course of his leadership, which spanned over thirty years, tens of thousands of followers joined his court. Belz Chassidism extended to Czechoslovakia, Hungary and Transylvania, apart from the many thousands of Chassidim who flocked to him from all over Galicia and Poland. Belz Chassidism was unique for its community of hundreds of "sitters" - Torah scholars who sat unceasingly in the Belz study hall, studying Torah and Chassidism. His influence on Jewish life in Poland was extensive, and he headed the Orthodox Jewry public institutes including the Machzikei HaDat organization. He battled fiercely against all Enlightenment and Zionist movements, even opposing Agudat Yisrael. He banned any change in community procedures or in the study orders of the Boys' schools and study halls.
In 1914, with the outbreak of WWI, he escaped to Ratzfert (Újfehértó), Hungary, later settling in Munkacs (Munkachevo). In 1921, he returned to Galicia, first settling in Oleszyce near Jarosław, since Belz had been severely affected by the war, only returning to Belz in 1925, after his home and the Beit Midrash had been refurbished. This letter was written in Belz, but does not mention any date (it was possibly written between 1894-1914, or in 1925-1926, after he returned to his Beit Midrash in Belz).
[1] leaf. approx. 15 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Large marginal tears, not affecting text. Professionally restored, mounted on paper for preservation.
Letters bearing the handwritten signature of Rebbes of Belz are scarce.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $6,000
Sold for: $5,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter (approx. 7 lines), handwritten and signed by Rebbe Chaim Elazar Spira Rabbi of Munkacs (Munkachevo), author of Minchat Elazar. Munkacs, Elul 1931.
Written on the Rebbe's printed visiting card – "Lasar Spira – bez. Oberrabbiner – Mukacevo", and addressed to R. Eliezer Bollag, requesting his assistance for an ill person, a descendant of Torah scholars and pious men, who needs to stay in the Jewish sanatorium close to him. The Rebbe bids him to use his influence to have him admitted in the hospital - "please do for him this great kindness".
The letter begins with blessings for a good year: "A good inscribing and sealing, peace and all good things until the coming of the true redeemer speedily".
R. Chaim Elazar Spira (1872-1937, Otzar HaRabbanim 6243) was a leading Torah scholar in Halacha and Chassidism in his generation, and a foremost kabbalist. He was the son of R. Tzvi Hirsh Rabbi of Munkacs, the Darchei Teshuva and grandson of R. Shlomo Spira Rabbi of Munkacs, author of Shem Shlomo, a scion of the illustrious lineage of R. Tzvi Elimelech of Dynów, the Bnei Yissaschar. He stood at the helm of campaigns safeguarding authentic Judaism, and his teachings on Halacha and Kabbalah were disseminated all over the Jewish world. His works include: Responsa Minchat Elazar, Shaar Yissachar, Nimukei Orach Chaim, Divrei Torah 9 Parts, and more. [See: Darkei Chaim VeShalom].
Business card. 11X6.5 cm. Very good condition.
Written on the Rebbe's printed visiting card – "Lasar Spira – bez. Oberrabbiner – Mukacevo", and addressed to R. Eliezer Bollag, requesting his assistance for an ill person, a descendant of Torah scholars and pious men, who needs to stay in the Jewish sanatorium close to him. The Rebbe bids him to use his influence to have him admitted in the hospital - "please do for him this great kindness".
The letter begins with blessings for a good year: "A good inscribing and sealing, peace and all good things until the coming of the true redeemer speedily".
R. Chaim Elazar Spira (1872-1937, Otzar HaRabbanim 6243) was a leading Torah scholar in Halacha and Chassidism in his generation, and a foremost kabbalist. He was the son of R. Tzvi Hirsh Rabbi of Munkacs, the Darchei Teshuva and grandson of R. Shlomo Spira Rabbi of Munkacs, author of Shem Shlomo, a scion of the illustrious lineage of R. Tzvi Elimelech of Dynów, the Bnei Yissaschar. He stood at the helm of campaigns safeguarding authentic Judaism, and his teachings on Halacha and Kabbalah were disseminated all over the Jewish world. His works include: Responsa Minchat Elazar, Shaar Yissachar, Nimukei Orach Chaim, Divrei Torah 9 Parts, and more. [See: Darkei Chaim VeShalom].
Business card. 11X6.5 cm. Very good condition.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $12,000
Estimate: $15,000 - $18,000
Unsold
Interesting letter from Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, with his full signature: "Tzvi Hirsh son of R. A. Rabbi of Liska". Liska (Olaszliszka), Iyar 1872.
Addressed to his relative R. Avraham HaLevi Kelner, posek in Nagykövesd (Veľký Kamenec). The Rebbe apologizes for his refusal to get involved in appointing a rabbi as dayan and posek, and in appointing a Shochet and Bodek in one of the villages: "Behold, when he was by me last week, I did not fulfill his wish in the matter at hand and I did not explain to him my motive for this… behold, I have always totally refrained from dealing with these three issues, i.e. Shochet and Bodek, dayanim and poskim, since these are lofty matters, therefore I have removed this yoke from my shoulders and left these weighty decisions to those who are greater than myself…".
R. Tzvi Hirsh Friedman – the Rabbi of Liska (1798-1874) was a leading Hungarian rebbe, of the first generation of Chassidism in Hungary. He was a disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was reputed for the salvations he effected, and people flocked to him from throughout the country seeking his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VeHaTov, and more. His prominent disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who signed all his signatures as: "who was the close attendant of the pious Rabbi of Liska".
[1] leaf. 28 cm. Written by a scribe with the handwritten signature of the Rebbe. Fair condition. Tears and stains. Slight damage to the text. Marginal paper repairs. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Addressed to his relative R. Avraham HaLevi Kelner, posek in Nagykövesd (Veľký Kamenec). The Rebbe apologizes for his refusal to get involved in appointing a rabbi as dayan and posek, and in appointing a Shochet and Bodek in one of the villages: "Behold, when he was by me last week, I did not fulfill his wish in the matter at hand and I did not explain to him my motive for this… behold, I have always totally refrained from dealing with these three issues, i.e. Shochet and Bodek, dayanim and poskim, since these are lofty matters, therefore I have removed this yoke from my shoulders and left these weighty decisions to those who are greater than myself…".
R. Tzvi Hirsh Friedman – the Rabbi of Liska (1798-1874) was a leading Hungarian rebbe, of the first generation of Chassidism in Hungary. He was a disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was reputed for the salvations he effected, and people flocked to him from throughout the country seeking his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VeHaTov, and more. His prominent disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who signed all his signatures as: "who was the close attendant of the pious Rabbi of Liska".
[1] leaf. 28 cm. Written by a scribe with the handwritten signature of the Rebbe. Fair condition. Tears and stains. Slight damage to the text. Marginal paper repairs. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Category
Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $5,000
Estimate: $8,000 - $12,000
Sold for: $11,875
Including buyer's premium
Sefer Yuchasin, history of Torah transmission and its sages, from the time of Moshe Rabbeinu until the time of the author, by R. Avraham Zacuto. Parts I and II. Zhovkva, [1799].
The leaf preceding the title page contains the handwritten signature of R. "Yeshaya Steiner". The verso of the title page bears his personal stamp (slightly smudged): "Yeshaya Steiner (in Hebrew) - Isaje Steiner Bodrog-Kerestur". Other signatures and ownership inscriptions: "Yitzchak Yaakov --- Rabbi of ----"; "Avraham Berger"; and more signatures.
R. Yeshaya Steiner of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr; 1852-1922) was the disciple and successor of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska (Olaszliszka), author of Ach Pri Tevua. He was orphaned from his father at the age of three and was raised in the home of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska from the age of twelve. Drawn to Chassidism, he frequented the courts of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz and Rebbe Mordechai of Nadvorna. However, his primary rebbe and mentor remained Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, and he eventually became his close attendant (even when R. Yeshaya already served as rebbe, with throngs flocking to his court from all over Hungary, he would still sign with his stamp and on his letters: "…who attended the pious Rebbe of Liska"). Rebbe Yeshaya was revered by the leading rebbes of his day, including Rebbe Chaim of Sanz and Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (who stated that the "key to sustenance" is in the hands of R. Yeshaya of Kerestir). He performed thousands of charitable deeds, personally engaging himself in hospitality, and was considered one of the pillars of kindness and prayer in his times. He was renowned as a holy man, and thousands of Jews (as well as non-Jews) from all over Hungary would travel to his court to seek his advice. He was also renowned as a wonder-worker and for providing amulets. Until this day, his portrait is hung in homes as a segula against mice. The story behind this custom is related in his biography, Mei Be'er Yeshayahu.
[4], 105, [1] leaves; [1], 2-64 leaves. 18.5 cm. Varying condition, good to fair. Wear and stains. Marginal open tears to the title page of Part I and first four leaves. Marginal singeing to leaf 93. Early binding with leather spine, worn.
The leaf preceding the title page contains the handwritten signature of R. "Yeshaya Steiner". The verso of the title page bears his personal stamp (slightly smudged): "Yeshaya Steiner (in Hebrew) - Isaje Steiner Bodrog-Kerestur". Other signatures and ownership inscriptions: "Yitzchak Yaakov --- Rabbi of ----"; "Avraham Berger"; and more signatures.
R. Yeshaya Steiner of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr; 1852-1922) was the disciple and successor of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska (Olaszliszka), author of Ach Pri Tevua. He was orphaned from his father at the age of three and was raised in the home of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska from the age of twelve. Drawn to Chassidism, he frequented the courts of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz and Rebbe Mordechai of Nadvorna. However, his primary rebbe and mentor remained Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, and he eventually became his close attendant (even when R. Yeshaya already served as rebbe, with throngs flocking to his court from all over Hungary, he would still sign with his stamp and on his letters: "…who attended the pious Rebbe of Liska"). Rebbe Yeshaya was revered by the leading rebbes of his day, including Rebbe Chaim of Sanz and Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (who stated that the "key to sustenance" is in the hands of R. Yeshaya of Kerestir). He performed thousands of charitable deeds, personally engaging himself in hospitality, and was considered one of the pillars of kindness and prayer in his times. He was renowned as a holy man, and thousands of Jews (as well as non-Jews) from all over Hungary would travel to his court to seek his advice. He was also renowned as a wonder-worker and for providing amulets. Until this day, his portrait is hung in homes as a segula against mice. The story behind this custom is related in his biography, Mei Be'er Yeshayahu.
[4], 105, [1] leaves; [1], 2-64 leaves. 18.5 cm. Varying condition, good to fair. Wear and stains. Marginal open tears to the title page of Part I and first four leaves. Marginal singeing to leaf 93. Early binding with leather spine, worn.
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Chassidic Luminaries – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
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