Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
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Displaying 109 - 120 of 200
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $250,000
Estimate: $300,000 - $350,000
Unsold
Large handwritten volume, ledger of the regulations of the Talmud Torah Society, containing hundreds of names of community members. Ujhel (Sátoraljaújhely), 1822-1874.
The regulations are followed by an endorsement handwritten and signed by the rabbi of the city, R. Moshe Teitelbaum, author of Yismach Moshe. The list of names of the society members includes R. Yirmiyahu Löw, Rabbi of Ujhel, his son R. Elazar Löw, and the grandsons of the Yismach Moshe, R. Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum (later Rabbi of Sighet, author of Yitav Lev) and R. Yechezkel Halberstam (later Rabbi of Shinova, author of Divrei Yechezkel).
The Talmud Torah Society was an organization for promoting Torah study in the city, contributing to the tuition of children from destitute homes, providing them with a Torah education. Each of the society members had to sponsor Torah study, thus becoming a member of the association. Like other such societies in Jewish communities, this society was also a social group. The members would gather to study together, and participate in each other's joyous events as well as times of mourning. They would assemble to study Torah throughout the night preceding a Brit Mila, and after the passing of a member, they would study and pray for the elevation of his soul. 48 clauses of regulations relating to monetary and spiritual matters appear on the first five pages of the ledger, obligating the volunteers to support Torah study in the city. The ledger begins with the words: "Today, we have come together, all the undersigned, to strengthen the Talmud Torah Society of our city… and have decided to institute permanent regulations which are listed here…". The 48 regulations follow this introduction.
On p. [3a], at the conclusion of the regulations, are three lines handwritten by R. Moshe Teitelbaum, Rabbi of Ujhel, who writes: "Due to lack of time, I could not study these regulations, however, I rely on the five elected men who have undoubtedly used their judgement properly, and I agree to all these things which were spoken with truth and justice, so says Moshe Teitelbaum of Premishla, here in Ujhel and its region". This endorsement is followed by the signatures of dozens of members of the Talmud Torah Society.
The following rabbis are amongst the signatories on the regulations: R. Aharon Guenzler and his son R. Moshe Yehuda Leib Guenzler (father of R. Shmuel Guenzler Rabbi of Visheva, and father-in-law of R. Avraham Yehuda Schwartz Rabbi of Mád and author of Kol Aryeh); R. Itzek Friedlieber of Sereď (disciple of the Chatam Sofer, HaChatam Sofer V'Talmidav, pp. 245-246); R. Tzvi Hirsh Adler of Abony (disciple of the Chatam Sofer, HaChatam Sofer V'Talmidav, p. 412); R. Yeshaya HaLevi (of Liska, presumably a dayan in Ujhel in 1847-1848); and others.
The pages of the regulations and signatures are followed by about one hundred pages of names of members. Each page bears the names of one or two members in large calligraphic scribal script. The dates of the death of society members appear on some pages, with information pertaining to them and their estates. A copy of the testament of one of the members is presented on p. 10a. The last dozens of pages contain protocols with additional regulations, the names of new members who joined the society throughout the years and the dates of their enrollment.
P. 1a is dedicated to the first and foremost member, the rabbi of the city: "R. Moshe Teitelbaum Rabbi of Ujhel – 1822". Inscribed under his name: "Died at a ripe old age and heavily mourned, 28th Tammuz 1841".
The next two leaves (on a different, greenish paper, bound inside the ledger many years after its first entries) contain the name of R. Yirmiyahu Löw – the renowned author of the Divrei Yirmiyahu books who officiated as rabbi of the city from 1852: "R. Yirmiyahu Löw Rabbi of Ujhel – 1852". Another inscription was added under his name: "R. Yirmiyahu Löw died in 1874 on the first day of Chol HaMoed Pesach. His son and successor, R. Elazar Löw Rabbi of Ujhel, 1874".
The name of the member R. Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum, grandson of the Yismach Moshe, appears on p. 53a. At that time, he was 23 years old (later, Rebbe and Rabbi of Sighet, author of Yitav Lev): "The astute rabbi, R. Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum – 1831". Another documentation of the date the Yitav Lev joined the society appears in the protocols at the end of the volume (p. [149b]): "Thursday of Mishpatim 1831. The young man R. Yekutiel Yehuda grandson of the rabbi, the great luminary, was accepted for…" (listing his weekly contribution).
The last page of the additions at the end of the ledger, features the name of R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, and son-in-law of the son-in-law of the Yismach Moshe (later, Rebbe and Rabbi of Shinova, author of Divrei Yechezkel): "Today, the young man R. Yechezkel Halberstam was accepted into the society, with the agreement of the undersigned…" (specifying his weekly contribution).
On p. [2b], Clause 36, an interesting regulation appears: "If a son is born to a member of the society, the administrators will send ten of his neighbors who are society members to the home of the baby's father on the eve before the circumcision, before nightfall, to pray the evening prayers on time, and they will remain to study Mishnayot until after midnight without pausing. And they will not sit down for a proper meal, thoughthat is customary in our region. Because no source cites such a meal as a seudat mitzvah and night was given for [Torah] study, and it causes many to waste their time on frivolous conversation. However, the custom of serving fruit, various pastries and black coffee to keep them awake is a pleasing and acceptable practice…".
This ledger contains a veritable treasure trove of data about the city of Ujhel and its community leaders during the first half of the 19th century.
R. Moshe Teitelbaum, Rabbi of Ujhel (1759-1841), was an illustrious Chassidic leader in Hungary and Galicia. An outstanding Torah scholar and G-dly Kabbalist, sharp and proficient in all facets of Torah, revealed as well as hidden. During his lifetime, he became famous as an awesome holy divine figure, with Divine Inspiration, who worked wonders. He first served in the Shinova (Sieniawa) rabbinate from 1785-1808, and in 1808, was appointed rabbi of Ujhel and its region. During the first half of his life, R. Moshe was an opponent of Chassidism, and in his youth, he travelled to Vilna to study Torah from the Vilna Gaon (R. B. Landau, HaGaon HeChassid MiVilna, p. 291, in the name of R. Zalman Weber. The Klausenburg Rebbe cites an interesting testimony from that visit, which his great-grandfather the Yismach Moshe related about the conduct of the Vilna Gaon with his disciples – Responsa Divrei Yatziv, Part IV, Yoreh De'ah, section 131). Over the years, R. Moshe gravitated towards Chassidism, influenced by his son-in-law R. Aryeh Leib Lifshitz of Vishnitsa, author of the Responsa Aryeh D'Bei Ila'i, who convinced his father-in-law to travel to the Chozeh of Lublin. There, R. Moshe saw obvious revelations of Divine Inspiration, and became the Chozeh's close disciple, adhering to Chassidism and disseminating its doctrines throughout the region. This transformation took place while he was still officiating as rabbi of Shinova. He also travelled to the Ohev Yisrael of Apta. From 1815, R. Moshe began distributing amulets to those requiring salvation and "the pen cannot properly describe the wonders performed by those amulets". Reputedly, he deliberated whether to continue writing amulets until he heard a pronouncement from Heaven: "Do not fear for I am with you" (Tehilla L'Moshe). Until this day, most of the texts of amulets and "protections" in Ashkenazi countries are attributed to the Yismach Moshe, including the printed text of the "Protection for the infant and the mother" and "Protection from epidemic". Also the text of the renowned Kerestir amulets, inscribed by Chassidic rebbes for safeguarding home and property, originates from him.
His published writings include the well-known books of homilies - Yismach Moshe on the Torah, Megillot and on Talmudic Aggadot, Tefilla L'Moshe on Tehillim, Responsa Heshiv Moshe and other books. His book Maayan Tahor, with the laws of Nidda in Yiddish for Jewish women, was appended to many siddurim.
R. Yosef Shaul Nathansohn, Rabbi of Lemberg, in his approbation to Responsa Heshiv Moshe, writes that in his youth the author "knew by heart about 800 leaves of the Talmud, all arranged... He was a disciple of the holy Torah scholar, author of Drishat Ari… and received Torah and practical Kabbalah from this righteous man, and I have heard awesome things about him while he was in Ujhel…". Although he and the Chatam Sofer disagreed on several issues, they were close friends and greatly esteemed one another. The Chatam Sofer would use effusive expressions of love and reverence in his correspondence to R. Moshe. Once, the Chatam Sofer's son, the Ktav Sofer, contracted a serious illness and the Chatam Sofer appeared to the Yismach Moshe during his prayers on Yom Kippur requesting he pray for his son's salvation. The next day, R. Moshe indeed received a letter from the Chatam Sofer with his request to pray for his son (Tehilla L'Moshe).
According to the testimony of his grandson, the Yitav Lev, Rebbe of Sighet (cited in several places in his books), his grandfather R. Moshe Teitelbaum merited celestial revelations and visions. Once, upon concluding the Amidah prayer, he requested of G-d to merit to see a revelation of what the Rama of Fano wrote in his book Asara Maamarot, that after the destruction of Beit HaMikdash, Eliyahu Hanavi brings the daily Tamid sacrifice. "As soon as he prayed for this, G-d fulfilled his request and he saw with his own eyes Eliyahu clad in priestly garments, standing and sacrificing the Korban Tamid, and this was publicly known" (Yitav Lev). This same grandson also recounts that once he "sat with him (his grandfather) several hours after midnight and he told him a number of awe-inspiring things… Believe me that the angels gather to hear my words… I also hear the announcements made in Heaven…". In many places in his books, the Yismach Moshe cites lofty Torah novellae which were revealed to him in his dreams, sometimes even mentioning the date, such as "On the second day of Rosh Chodesh Adar 1796, I fell asleep on the couch and it was revealed to me…"; "According to a revelation in my dreams regarding the Gan Eden of the Tana'im…". Also, many souls of venerable tzaddikim from the Upper World would appear to him in his room, especially during the Simchat Torah dancing (Tehilla L'Moshe).
[5], 1, [2], 2-23, 25-27, 30-77, [72] leaves. Including 106 written pages (the two leaves bound after leaf 1 are not part of the original ledger). 38 cm. Good condition. Stains and wear. New leather binding.
Literature: R. M.A.Z. Kunstlicher, Alei Zikaron, 28, Kislev 2016, pp. 2-17 – "Regulations of the Talmud Torah Society of the Ujhel community – 1822 – With the Endorsement of the Yismach Moshe"; see further: Alei Zikaron, 29, pp. 92-93; HaChatam Sofer V'Talmidav, pp. 245-246, 412.
The regulations are followed by an endorsement handwritten and signed by the rabbi of the city, R. Moshe Teitelbaum, author of Yismach Moshe. The list of names of the society members includes R. Yirmiyahu Löw, Rabbi of Ujhel, his son R. Elazar Löw, and the grandsons of the Yismach Moshe, R. Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum (later Rabbi of Sighet, author of Yitav Lev) and R. Yechezkel Halberstam (later Rabbi of Shinova, author of Divrei Yechezkel).
The Talmud Torah Society was an organization for promoting Torah study in the city, contributing to the tuition of children from destitute homes, providing them with a Torah education. Each of the society members had to sponsor Torah study, thus becoming a member of the association. Like other such societies in Jewish communities, this society was also a social group. The members would gather to study together, and participate in each other's joyous events as well as times of mourning. They would assemble to study Torah throughout the night preceding a Brit Mila, and after the passing of a member, they would study and pray for the elevation of his soul. 48 clauses of regulations relating to monetary and spiritual matters appear on the first five pages of the ledger, obligating the volunteers to support Torah study in the city. The ledger begins with the words: "Today, we have come together, all the undersigned, to strengthen the Talmud Torah Society of our city… and have decided to institute permanent regulations which are listed here…". The 48 regulations follow this introduction.
On p. [3a], at the conclusion of the regulations, are three lines handwritten by R. Moshe Teitelbaum, Rabbi of Ujhel, who writes: "Due to lack of time, I could not study these regulations, however, I rely on the five elected men who have undoubtedly used their judgement properly, and I agree to all these things which were spoken with truth and justice, so says Moshe Teitelbaum of Premishla, here in Ujhel and its region". This endorsement is followed by the signatures of dozens of members of the Talmud Torah Society.
The following rabbis are amongst the signatories on the regulations: R. Aharon Guenzler and his son R. Moshe Yehuda Leib Guenzler (father of R. Shmuel Guenzler Rabbi of Visheva, and father-in-law of R. Avraham Yehuda Schwartz Rabbi of Mád and author of Kol Aryeh); R. Itzek Friedlieber of Sereď (disciple of the Chatam Sofer, HaChatam Sofer V'Talmidav, pp. 245-246); R. Tzvi Hirsh Adler of Abony (disciple of the Chatam Sofer, HaChatam Sofer V'Talmidav, p. 412); R. Yeshaya HaLevi (of Liska, presumably a dayan in Ujhel in 1847-1848); and others.
The pages of the regulations and signatures are followed by about one hundred pages of names of members. Each page bears the names of one or two members in large calligraphic scribal script. The dates of the death of society members appear on some pages, with information pertaining to them and their estates. A copy of the testament of one of the members is presented on p. 10a. The last dozens of pages contain protocols with additional regulations, the names of new members who joined the society throughout the years and the dates of their enrollment.
P. 1a is dedicated to the first and foremost member, the rabbi of the city: "R. Moshe Teitelbaum Rabbi of Ujhel – 1822". Inscribed under his name: "Died at a ripe old age and heavily mourned, 28th Tammuz 1841".
The next two leaves (on a different, greenish paper, bound inside the ledger many years after its first entries) contain the name of R. Yirmiyahu Löw – the renowned author of the Divrei Yirmiyahu books who officiated as rabbi of the city from 1852: "R. Yirmiyahu Löw Rabbi of Ujhel – 1852". Another inscription was added under his name: "R. Yirmiyahu Löw died in 1874 on the first day of Chol HaMoed Pesach. His son and successor, R. Elazar Löw Rabbi of Ujhel, 1874".
The name of the member R. Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum, grandson of the Yismach Moshe, appears on p. 53a. At that time, he was 23 years old (later, Rebbe and Rabbi of Sighet, author of Yitav Lev): "The astute rabbi, R. Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum – 1831". Another documentation of the date the Yitav Lev joined the society appears in the protocols at the end of the volume (p. [149b]): "Thursday of Mishpatim 1831. The young man R. Yekutiel Yehuda grandson of the rabbi, the great luminary, was accepted for…" (listing his weekly contribution).
The last page of the additions at the end of the ledger, features the name of R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, and son-in-law of the son-in-law of the Yismach Moshe (later, Rebbe and Rabbi of Shinova, author of Divrei Yechezkel): "Today, the young man R. Yechezkel Halberstam was accepted into the society, with the agreement of the undersigned…" (specifying his weekly contribution).
On p. [2b], Clause 36, an interesting regulation appears: "If a son is born to a member of the society, the administrators will send ten of his neighbors who are society members to the home of the baby's father on the eve before the circumcision, before nightfall, to pray the evening prayers on time, and they will remain to study Mishnayot until after midnight without pausing. And they will not sit down for a proper meal, thoughthat is customary in our region. Because no source cites such a meal as a seudat mitzvah and night was given for [Torah] study, and it causes many to waste their time on frivolous conversation. However, the custom of serving fruit, various pastries and black coffee to keep them awake is a pleasing and acceptable practice…".
This ledger contains a veritable treasure trove of data about the city of Ujhel and its community leaders during the first half of the 19th century.
R. Moshe Teitelbaum, Rabbi of Ujhel (1759-1841), was an illustrious Chassidic leader in Hungary and Galicia. An outstanding Torah scholar and G-dly Kabbalist, sharp and proficient in all facets of Torah, revealed as well as hidden. During his lifetime, he became famous as an awesome holy divine figure, with Divine Inspiration, who worked wonders. He first served in the Shinova (Sieniawa) rabbinate from 1785-1808, and in 1808, was appointed rabbi of Ujhel and its region. During the first half of his life, R. Moshe was an opponent of Chassidism, and in his youth, he travelled to Vilna to study Torah from the Vilna Gaon (R. B. Landau, HaGaon HeChassid MiVilna, p. 291, in the name of R. Zalman Weber. The Klausenburg Rebbe cites an interesting testimony from that visit, which his great-grandfather the Yismach Moshe related about the conduct of the Vilna Gaon with his disciples – Responsa Divrei Yatziv, Part IV, Yoreh De'ah, section 131). Over the years, R. Moshe gravitated towards Chassidism, influenced by his son-in-law R. Aryeh Leib Lifshitz of Vishnitsa, author of the Responsa Aryeh D'Bei Ila'i, who convinced his father-in-law to travel to the Chozeh of Lublin. There, R. Moshe saw obvious revelations of Divine Inspiration, and became the Chozeh's close disciple, adhering to Chassidism and disseminating its doctrines throughout the region. This transformation took place while he was still officiating as rabbi of Shinova. He also travelled to the Ohev Yisrael of Apta. From 1815, R. Moshe began distributing amulets to those requiring salvation and "the pen cannot properly describe the wonders performed by those amulets". Reputedly, he deliberated whether to continue writing amulets until he heard a pronouncement from Heaven: "Do not fear for I am with you" (Tehilla L'Moshe). Until this day, most of the texts of amulets and "protections" in Ashkenazi countries are attributed to the Yismach Moshe, including the printed text of the "Protection for the infant and the mother" and "Protection from epidemic". Also the text of the renowned Kerestir amulets, inscribed by Chassidic rebbes for safeguarding home and property, originates from him.
His published writings include the well-known books of homilies - Yismach Moshe on the Torah, Megillot and on Talmudic Aggadot, Tefilla L'Moshe on Tehillim, Responsa Heshiv Moshe and other books. His book Maayan Tahor, with the laws of Nidda in Yiddish for Jewish women, was appended to many siddurim.
R. Yosef Shaul Nathansohn, Rabbi of Lemberg, in his approbation to Responsa Heshiv Moshe, writes that in his youth the author "knew by heart about 800 leaves of the Talmud, all arranged... He was a disciple of the holy Torah scholar, author of Drishat Ari… and received Torah and practical Kabbalah from this righteous man, and I have heard awesome things about him while he was in Ujhel…". Although he and the Chatam Sofer disagreed on several issues, they were close friends and greatly esteemed one another. The Chatam Sofer would use effusive expressions of love and reverence in his correspondence to R. Moshe. Once, the Chatam Sofer's son, the Ktav Sofer, contracted a serious illness and the Chatam Sofer appeared to the Yismach Moshe during his prayers on Yom Kippur requesting he pray for his son's salvation. The next day, R. Moshe indeed received a letter from the Chatam Sofer with his request to pray for his son (Tehilla L'Moshe).
According to the testimony of his grandson, the Yitav Lev, Rebbe of Sighet (cited in several places in his books), his grandfather R. Moshe Teitelbaum merited celestial revelations and visions. Once, upon concluding the Amidah prayer, he requested of G-d to merit to see a revelation of what the Rama of Fano wrote in his book Asara Maamarot, that after the destruction of Beit HaMikdash, Eliyahu Hanavi brings the daily Tamid sacrifice. "As soon as he prayed for this, G-d fulfilled his request and he saw with his own eyes Eliyahu clad in priestly garments, standing and sacrificing the Korban Tamid, and this was publicly known" (Yitav Lev). This same grandson also recounts that once he "sat with him (his grandfather) several hours after midnight and he told him a number of awe-inspiring things… Believe me that the angels gather to hear my words… I also hear the announcements made in Heaven…". In many places in his books, the Yismach Moshe cites lofty Torah novellae which were revealed to him in his dreams, sometimes even mentioning the date, such as "On the second day of Rosh Chodesh Adar 1796, I fell asleep on the couch and it was revealed to me…"; "According to a revelation in my dreams regarding the Gan Eden of the Tana'im…". Also, many souls of venerable tzaddikim from the Upper World would appear to him in his room, especially during the Simchat Torah dancing (Tehilla L'Moshe).
[5], 1, [2], 2-23, 25-27, 30-77, [72] leaves. Including 106 written pages (the two leaves bound after leaf 1 are not part of the original ledger). 38 cm. Good condition. Stains and wear. New leather binding.
Literature: R. M.A.Z. Kunstlicher, Alei Zikaron, 28, Kislev 2016, pp. 2-17 – "Regulations of the Talmud Torah Society of the Ujhel community – 1822 – With the Endorsement of the Yismach Moshe"; see further: Alei Zikaron, 29, pp. 92-93; HaChatam Sofer V'Talmidav, pp. 245-246, 412.
Category
Satmar and Sighet Chassidism – Manuscripts and Letters, Signatures and Important Ownerships
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $6,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $7,500
Including buyer's premium
Handwritten halachic ruling, signed by the dayanim R. "Moshe David Ashkenazi here in Safed" and R. "Tzvi Aryeh son of R. Tuvia". [Safed], 1848.
The subject of the ruling is a litigation between neighbors regarding the borders of a courtyard in Safed, and building a staircase to a house in that courtyard.
R. Moshe David Ashkenazi, Rabbi of Tolcsva and Safed (1774-1856, Ishim BiTeshuvot HaChatam Sofer, p. 300), author of Toldot Adam and Be'er Sheva, was the father-in-law of the Yitav Lev of Sighet and father of R. Yoel Ashkenazi Rabbi of Zlotchov. The Rebbes of Satmar and Klausenburg were his descendants. At a young age he was appointed Rabbi of Tolcsva, a position he held for forty years. He moved to Safed in 1844 and was one of the founders of the Chassidic community in post-earthquake Safed. A short while after his immigration to Eretz Israel, he printed his book "Toldot Adam" in the printing press of R. Yisrael Bak in Jerusalem. He authored the book in his thirties and R. Yaakov of Lissa, author of the Chavat Daat, wrote in his approbation to the book: "The famous Torah scholar R. Moshe David… does not need me and my likes, but I honor his wish and cannot refuse a person greater than I". His home and Beit Midrash in Safed were restored by his grandson, the Rebbe of Klausenberg, and at present they house the Sanz institutions in Safed.
The second signatory: R. Tzvi Aryeh Ludmir (1799-1855), was rabbi of his hometown Ludmir (Volodymyr-Volynskyi). In 1834, he immigrated to Eretz Israel, settling in Safed as a hidden righteous man, concealing his learnedness and earning his living as a water-carrier. R. Avraham Dov of Ovruch and R. Shmuel Heller recognized his greatness in Torah and appointed him dayan in the Safed Beit Din. He was miraculously saved from the 1837 earthquake and invested much effort in rebuilding the city.
[1] leaf. 20X13.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Tears and wear, repaired and mounted on paper for preservation.
The subject of the ruling is a litigation between neighbors regarding the borders of a courtyard in Safed, and building a staircase to a house in that courtyard.
R. Moshe David Ashkenazi, Rabbi of Tolcsva and Safed (1774-1856, Ishim BiTeshuvot HaChatam Sofer, p. 300), author of Toldot Adam and Be'er Sheva, was the father-in-law of the Yitav Lev of Sighet and father of R. Yoel Ashkenazi Rabbi of Zlotchov. The Rebbes of Satmar and Klausenburg were his descendants. At a young age he was appointed Rabbi of Tolcsva, a position he held for forty years. He moved to Safed in 1844 and was one of the founders of the Chassidic community in post-earthquake Safed. A short while after his immigration to Eretz Israel, he printed his book "Toldot Adam" in the printing press of R. Yisrael Bak in Jerusalem. He authored the book in his thirties and R. Yaakov of Lissa, author of the Chavat Daat, wrote in his approbation to the book: "The famous Torah scholar R. Moshe David… does not need me and my likes, but I honor his wish and cannot refuse a person greater than I". His home and Beit Midrash in Safed were restored by his grandson, the Rebbe of Klausenberg, and at present they house the Sanz institutions in Safed.
The second signatory: R. Tzvi Aryeh Ludmir (1799-1855), was rabbi of his hometown Ludmir (Volodymyr-Volynskyi). In 1834, he immigrated to Eretz Israel, settling in Safed as a hidden righteous man, concealing his learnedness and earning his living as a water-carrier. R. Avraham Dov of Ovruch and R. Shmuel Heller recognized his greatness in Torah and appointed him dayan in the Safed Beit Din. He was miraculously saved from the 1837 earthquake and invested much effort in rebuilding the city.
[1] leaf. 20X13.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Tears and wear, repaired and mounted on paper for preservation.
Category
Satmar and Sighet Chassidism – Manuscripts and Letters, Signatures and Important Ownerships
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $100,000
Estimate: $120,000 - $150,000
Sold for: $175,000
Including buyer's premium
Keter HaRabbanut – certificate of the appointment of Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar, author of Divrei Yoel, as Rabbi of Satmar, signed by rabbis and notables of the community and its institutions. Satmar, second day of Chol HaMoed Sukkot 1928.
Large certificate in decorative calligraphic writing on high-quality parchment-like paper - flanked by dozens of signatures and stamps. The signatures are headed by the signature of R. Chaim Freund, head of community (famous personage and community leader, descendant of R. Moshe Aryeh Freund who was community head in Sighet during the lifetime of the Yitav Lev and the Kedushat Yom Tov). His signature is followed by dozens of signatures and stamps of the gaba'im of the city Batei Midrash and of rabbis and community dignitaries.
The top of the pages is adorned with enlarged and decorated words. The flowery text of the certificate is arranged according to the initials of the name and surname of the Rebbe. It contains the terms of the rabbinical position, its obligations and privileges, the monthly salary and payment for special occasions such as arranging kiddushin, sermons for Shabbat HaGadol and Shabbat Shuva, etc.
A historical document! The election of R. Yoel Teitelbaum to the Satmar rabbinate was a watershed in the impact of Charedi and Chassidic communities on Jewish public life in Maramureş and in the Transylvanian region. The rabbinate of the large city of Satmar was a significant position of power and Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum took advantage of his authority to establish a powerhouse of Torah and Chassidism, a yeshiva gedola with hundreds of students and a dynamic Chassidic community.
R. Yoel Teitelbaum (1877-1979), descendant of Sighet rabbis and rebbes, a holy man, venerable Torah scholar and fiery Chassid, posek and zealot. His election to the Satmar rabbinate was accompanied by a trenchant polemic which raged in certain circles who opposed the ultra-Orthodox dominance on the city's rabbinate and leadership. Similar polemics were rampant in other large Transylvanian communities as well, such as Klausenburg (Cluj-Napoca) and Berehove, between the Sefarad communities (Chassidim who pray Nusach Sefarad) and the more modern Orthodox circles (Mizrachi and Zionist Movements, even Agudat Yisrael and Machzikei Hadat, who were rejected by the Satmar Chassidim). The authority of the Charedi and Chassidic sectors in the Satmar community triumphed, primarily in the merit of the greatness and clever leadership of the Rabbi of the city, R. Yoel Teitelbaum.
[1] leaf. 39.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Tears in a few places, professionally repaired.
Large certificate in decorative calligraphic writing on high-quality parchment-like paper - flanked by dozens of signatures and stamps. The signatures are headed by the signature of R. Chaim Freund, head of community (famous personage and community leader, descendant of R. Moshe Aryeh Freund who was community head in Sighet during the lifetime of the Yitav Lev and the Kedushat Yom Tov). His signature is followed by dozens of signatures and stamps of the gaba'im of the city Batei Midrash and of rabbis and community dignitaries.
The top of the pages is adorned with enlarged and decorated words. The flowery text of the certificate is arranged according to the initials of the name and surname of the Rebbe. It contains the terms of the rabbinical position, its obligations and privileges, the monthly salary and payment for special occasions such as arranging kiddushin, sermons for Shabbat HaGadol and Shabbat Shuva, etc.
A historical document! The election of R. Yoel Teitelbaum to the Satmar rabbinate was a watershed in the impact of Charedi and Chassidic communities on Jewish public life in Maramureş and in the Transylvanian region. The rabbinate of the large city of Satmar was a significant position of power and Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum took advantage of his authority to establish a powerhouse of Torah and Chassidism, a yeshiva gedola with hundreds of students and a dynamic Chassidic community.
R. Yoel Teitelbaum (1877-1979), descendant of Sighet rabbis and rebbes, a holy man, venerable Torah scholar and fiery Chassid, posek and zealot. His election to the Satmar rabbinate was accompanied by a trenchant polemic which raged in certain circles who opposed the ultra-Orthodox dominance on the city's rabbinate and leadership. Similar polemics were rampant in other large Transylvanian communities as well, such as Klausenburg (Cluj-Napoca) and Berehove, between the Sefarad communities (Chassidim who pray Nusach Sefarad) and the more modern Orthodox circles (Mizrachi and Zionist Movements, even Agudat Yisrael and Machzikei Hadat, who were rejected by the Satmar Chassidim). The authority of the Charedi and Chassidic sectors in the Satmar community triumphed, primarily in the merit of the greatness and clever leadership of the Rabbi of the city, R. Yoel Teitelbaum.
[1] leaf. 39.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Tears in a few places, professionally repaired.
Category
Satmar and Sighet Chassidism – Manuscripts and Letters, Signatures and Important Ownerships
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $15,000 - $20,000
Sold for: $16,250
Including buyer's premium
Lengthy letter (2 pages, over 42 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Yoel Teitelbaum (later Rebbe of Satmar). Carei (Nagykároly), [between 1932-1934].
Halachic responsum regarding a butcher who sold non-kosher meat, and severe warning not to buy meat from a butcher shop which is not under rabbinic supervision. The responsum was addressed to R. Yechezkel Shraga Citron Rabbi of Encs. This responsum was published in Responsa Divrei Yoel, Part II, Omissions of Yoreh De'ah, section 164. (The letter was written between 1932-1934, since R. Yechezkel Shraga Citron was appointed rabbi of Encs in 1932, and R. Yoel Teitelbaum left Carei for Satmar in 1934).
Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar (1887-1979) was the youngest son of Rebbe Chananya Yom Tov Lipa, the Kedushat Yom Tov (1836-1904), and grandson of Rebbe Yekutiel Yehuda, the Yitav Lev (1808-1883), who served as rabbis of Sighet (Sighetu Marmației) and were leaders of Chassidic Jewry in the Maramureș region.
He was renowned from his youth as a leading Torah scholar of his generation, for his perspicacity and intellectual capacities, as well as for his holiness and outstanding purity. At a young age, he was appointed rabbi of Irshava. In 1925, he was appointed rabbi of Carei (in place of R. Shaul Broch who went to serve as rabbi of Kashoi), and in 1934, of Satmar (Satu Mare). In all the places he served as rabbi, he also maintained a large yeshiva and Chassidic court. He stood at the helm of the faithful, uncompromising Orthodox Jewry in the Maramureș region. After his escape from the Holocaust, he reached America and established the Satmar Chassidic community – the largest Chassidic community in the world. He was one of the founding pillars of Chassidic Jewry after the Holocaust, the president of the Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem, and a leader of Orthodox Jewry in the United States and throughout the world. His writings resulted in the publishing of dozens of books: VaYoel Moshe, Responsa Divrei Yoel, Divrei Yoel on the Torah and more.
[1] double leaf, official stationery. 2 written pages, over 42 autograph lines and his signature. Approx. 23.5 cm. High-quality paper. Good condition. Folding marks. Minor damage to lower margin.
Halachic responsum regarding a butcher who sold non-kosher meat, and severe warning not to buy meat from a butcher shop which is not under rabbinic supervision. The responsum was addressed to R. Yechezkel Shraga Citron Rabbi of Encs. This responsum was published in Responsa Divrei Yoel, Part II, Omissions of Yoreh De'ah, section 164. (The letter was written between 1932-1934, since R. Yechezkel Shraga Citron was appointed rabbi of Encs in 1932, and R. Yoel Teitelbaum left Carei for Satmar in 1934).
Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar (1887-1979) was the youngest son of Rebbe Chananya Yom Tov Lipa, the Kedushat Yom Tov (1836-1904), and grandson of Rebbe Yekutiel Yehuda, the Yitav Lev (1808-1883), who served as rabbis of Sighet (Sighetu Marmației) and were leaders of Chassidic Jewry in the Maramureș region.
He was renowned from his youth as a leading Torah scholar of his generation, for his perspicacity and intellectual capacities, as well as for his holiness and outstanding purity. At a young age, he was appointed rabbi of Irshava. In 1925, he was appointed rabbi of Carei (in place of R. Shaul Broch who went to serve as rabbi of Kashoi), and in 1934, of Satmar (Satu Mare). In all the places he served as rabbi, he also maintained a large yeshiva and Chassidic court. He stood at the helm of the faithful, uncompromising Orthodox Jewry in the Maramureș region. After his escape from the Holocaust, he reached America and established the Satmar Chassidic community – the largest Chassidic community in the world. He was one of the founding pillars of Chassidic Jewry after the Holocaust, the president of the Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem, and a leader of Orthodox Jewry in the United States and throughout the world. His writings resulted in the publishing of dozens of books: VaYoel Moshe, Responsa Divrei Yoel, Divrei Yoel on the Torah and more.
[1] double leaf, official stationery. 2 written pages, over 42 autograph lines and his signature. Approx. 23.5 cm. High-quality paper. Good condition. Folding marks. Minor damage to lower margin.
Category
Satmar and Sighet Chassidism – Manuscripts and Letters, Signatures and Important Ownerships
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $8,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $40,000
Sold for: $15,000
Including buyer's premium
Zohar on the Torah – Bereshit, Shemot, Vayikra, Bamidbar and Devarim. Zhitomir: R. Chanina Lipa and R. Yehoshua Heshel Shapira, grandsons of the Slavita rabbi, 1863. Complete three-volume set.
These volumes of the Zohar belonged to the holy Rebbe of Satmar, author of Divrei Yoel. Each title page bears the stamp: "Yoel Teitelbaum Rabbi of Satmar and its region, in the holy city of Jerusalem". One of the volumes bears the same stamp on the last leaf as well. The Satmar Rebbe lived in Eretz Israel for a short while after leaving post-Holocaust Europe and these stamps are from that time.
Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum (1887-1979) was an illustrious Torah scholar, president of the Eda HaCharedit and leader of Charedi American Jewry as well as a mainstay of the post-Holocaust Chassidic world.
Born in Sighet, son of the author of Kedushat Yom Tov and grandson of the author of Yitav Lev, who served as rabbis of Sighet and as Chassidic leaders in the Maramureş region. Renowned from his youth for his sharp mind and genius, for his holiness and his purity. After he wed the daughter of Rebbe A. C. Horwitz, Rabbi of Połaniec, he settled in Satmar and taught Torah and Chassidism to a select group of disciples and chassidim. He served as rabbi of Irshava, Carei (from 1925) and Satmar (from 1934), and in each of these communities also headed a large yeshiva and a large Chassidic community. He stood at the helm of the faithful, uncompromising Orthodox Jewry in the Maramureş region. Rescued from the Holocaust in Dr. Kastner's famous "rescue train", he arrived via Bergen-Belsen and Eretz Israel to the US and founded the largest Chassidic community in the world, the Satmar Chassidic community, which until today is the most dominant community of Orthodox Jews in the US. He also headed the Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem. He stood at the front of the opposition to Zionism and to the establishment of the State of Israel, heading the struggle for preservation of the holiness of the Jewish People and their Torah way of life. Together with his zealousness for the honor of the Torah and the future of faithful Jewry, he was known for his exceptional acts of chessed. His door was constantly open to those in need and he was always available to help any Jew. An outstanding Torah scholar, he wrote many halachic responsa and his works have been published in dozens of books: VaYoel Moshe, Responsa Divrei Yoel, Divrei Yoel on the Torah, and others.
Three volumes: [4], 251, 16 [i.e. 17]; [1], 1, 3-280 (mispagination, without lack); 309, 11 leaves. 20 cm. Good condition. Stains, dampstains. Infrequent worming. Slight damage to two title pages and to several other leaves, repaired with paper. Ownership inscriptions. Fine new leather bindings.
These volumes of the Zohar belonged to the holy Rebbe of Satmar, author of Divrei Yoel. Each title page bears the stamp: "Yoel Teitelbaum Rabbi of Satmar and its region, in the holy city of Jerusalem". One of the volumes bears the same stamp on the last leaf as well. The Satmar Rebbe lived in Eretz Israel for a short while after leaving post-Holocaust Europe and these stamps are from that time.
Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum (1887-1979) was an illustrious Torah scholar, president of the Eda HaCharedit and leader of Charedi American Jewry as well as a mainstay of the post-Holocaust Chassidic world.
Born in Sighet, son of the author of Kedushat Yom Tov and grandson of the author of Yitav Lev, who served as rabbis of Sighet and as Chassidic leaders in the Maramureş region. Renowned from his youth for his sharp mind and genius, for his holiness and his purity. After he wed the daughter of Rebbe A. C. Horwitz, Rabbi of Połaniec, he settled in Satmar and taught Torah and Chassidism to a select group of disciples and chassidim. He served as rabbi of Irshava, Carei (from 1925) and Satmar (from 1934), and in each of these communities also headed a large yeshiva and a large Chassidic community. He stood at the helm of the faithful, uncompromising Orthodox Jewry in the Maramureş region. Rescued from the Holocaust in Dr. Kastner's famous "rescue train", he arrived via Bergen-Belsen and Eretz Israel to the US and founded the largest Chassidic community in the world, the Satmar Chassidic community, which until today is the most dominant community of Orthodox Jews in the US. He also headed the Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem. He stood at the front of the opposition to Zionism and to the establishment of the State of Israel, heading the struggle for preservation of the holiness of the Jewish People and their Torah way of life. Together with his zealousness for the honor of the Torah and the future of faithful Jewry, he was known for his exceptional acts of chessed. His door was constantly open to those in need and he was always available to help any Jew. An outstanding Torah scholar, he wrote many halachic responsa and his works have been published in dozens of books: VaYoel Moshe, Responsa Divrei Yoel, Divrei Yoel on the Torah, and others.
Three volumes: [4], 251, 16 [i.e. 17]; [1], 1, 3-280 (mispagination, without lack); 309, 11 leaves. 20 cm. Good condition. Stains, dampstains. Infrequent worming. Slight damage to two title pages and to several other leaves, repaired with paper. Ownership inscriptions. Fine new leather bindings.
Category
Satmar and Sighet Chassidism – Manuscripts and Letters, Signatures and Important Ownerships
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $40,000
Estimate: $60,000 - $80,000
Sold for: $62,500
Including buyer's premium
Toldot Yaakov Yosef, commentary on the Torah according to Chassidic teachings, by R. Yaakov Yosef HaKohen of Polonne. Korets: Tzvi Hirsh son of Aryeh Leib [Margolies] and son-in-law Shmuel son of Yissachar Ber Segal, [1780].
Fine copy in good condition.
Toldot Yaakov Yosef, the first Chassidic book to be printed, was authored by the Kabbalist R. Yaakov Yosef HaKohen of Polonne (d. Tishrei 1781 - Chassidic lore records his birth as 1660, ascribing him a life of close to 110 years), a leading and close disciple of the Baal Shem Tov and the first to disseminate Chassidism. This book is the most important and authentic source of the Baal Shem Tov's teachings, containing over 280 references to teachings the author personally heard from the Baal Shem Tov, emphasized throughout the book and beginning with the words "I heard from my master".
This book was especially cherished by Chassidic leaders, who ascribed it great holiness. The Maggid of Mezeritch (Mezhirichi) commended the author as having merited revelation of Eliyahu and reached lofty heights. R. Pinchas of Korets attested that a book of such stature has never yet existed, and its teachings originate from Heaven. He would customarily say that all new books do not totally conform with the truth, except for the books of the rabbi of Polonne which are "teachings from Paradise", and that with each quotation "heard from my master" one can resurrect the dead[!]. The Saba of Shpoli (Shpola) would recommend putting this book under the head of an ill person as a Segula (LaYesharim Tehilla).
When R. Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk immigrated to Eretz Israel, he met R. Pinchas of Korets who queried "Why did the Rabbi from Polonne print one thousand books at the price of one gold coin per book; had he printed a single book, I would have paid for it a thousand gold coins…".
During the course of the battle against Chassidism, this first edition was publicly burnt in Brody and other places, which accounts for the extreme scarcity of this edition (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 277).
Complete copy. [1], 202 leaves. Leaves 23-24, 81, 111-112 appear twice. 32 cm. Good condition. Stains, dampstains. Worming to title page and last seven leaves, slightly affecting text. Minor worming in several other places, with minimal damage to text. Marginal paper repairs to a few leaves. Ownership inscription. New, elaborate leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 605.
Fine copy in good condition.
Toldot Yaakov Yosef, the first Chassidic book to be printed, was authored by the Kabbalist R. Yaakov Yosef HaKohen of Polonne (d. Tishrei 1781 - Chassidic lore records his birth as 1660, ascribing him a life of close to 110 years), a leading and close disciple of the Baal Shem Tov and the first to disseminate Chassidism. This book is the most important and authentic source of the Baal Shem Tov's teachings, containing over 280 references to teachings the author personally heard from the Baal Shem Tov, emphasized throughout the book and beginning with the words "I heard from my master".
This book was especially cherished by Chassidic leaders, who ascribed it great holiness. The Maggid of Mezeritch (Mezhirichi) commended the author as having merited revelation of Eliyahu and reached lofty heights. R. Pinchas of Korets attested that a book of such stature has never yet existed, and its teachings originate from Heaven. He would customarily say that all new books do not totally conform with the truth, except for the books of the rabbi of Polonne which are "teachings from Paradise", and that with each quotation "heard from my master" one can resurrect the dead[!]. The Saba of Shpoli (Shpola) would recommend putting this book under the head of an ill person as a Segula (LaYesharim Tehilla).
When R. Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk immigrated to Eretz Israel, he met R. Pinchas of Korets who queried "Why did the Rabbi from Polonne print one thousand books at the price of one gold coin per book; had he printed a single book, I would have paid for it a thousand gold coins…".
During the course of the battle against Chassidism, this first edition was publicly burnt in Brody and other places, which accounts for the extreme scarcity of this edition (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 277).
Complete copy. [1], 202 leaves. Leaves 23-24, 81, 111-112 appear twice. 32 cm. Good condition. Stains, dampstains. Worming to title page and last seven leaves, slightly affecting text. Minor worming in several other places, with minimal damage to text. Marginal paper repairs to a few leaves. Ownership inscription. New, elaborate leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 605.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000
Sold for: $16,250
Including buyer's premium
Maggid Devarav LeYaakov, Likutei Amarim, by the Maggid R. Dov Ber of Mezeritch (Mezhirichi). Korets: R. Tzvi Hirsh son of Aryeh Leib [Margolies] and son-in-law R. Shmuel son of Yissachar Ber Segal, [1781].
The title page reads: "The book Maggid Devarav LeYaakov (the last letters of the name of the book are emphasized on the title page, alluding to the name of the author, R. Dov), selected discourses… pure sayings… hearken to the words of the king… every month and every week… from the great and holy Torah scholar…. R. Dov Ber, who was a preacher in Mezeritch and other communities…".
This is the first book of the teachings of the Maggid, R. Dov Ber of Mezeritch, to be published, and the third Chassidic book to be printed, approximately a year following the printing of Toldot Yaakov Yosef and Ben Porat Yosef, in the same printing press.
The book was brought to print by R. Shlomo of Lutsk (author of Divrat Shlomo), close disciple and relative of the Maggid of Mezeritch. R. Shlomo wrote two comprehensive prefaces to the book, which are renowned in the Chassidic world. The first portrays the elevated stature of his teachers, the Baal Shem Tov and the Maggid of Mezeritch, the Divine Inspiration which rested upon them and the lofty levels they reached. He characterizes the teachings of the Maggid as replete with allusions to writings of the Arizal and the Zohar, and describes the power his words had to enthuse his many listeners in their service of G-d.
The preface continues with an account of the Maggid's testimony on all the Kabbalistic teachings and lofty secrets his teacher the Baal Shem Tov taught him, including the language of birds, Holy Names and teachings of the book Raziel. The author relates that the Maggid showed him in that book some names of angels, testifying that the Baal Shem Tov knew how to use those names to determine, in the month of Nisan each year, which celestial administrators where appointed to govern the world, in order to know how to deal with them.
Later in the preface, the publisher relates his hesitance to print the book, and his exchange with his teacher on the matter. When his teacher inquired why he doesn't write down what he hears, he replied that he had seen some who record the Rebbe's teachings, but fall very short of his intent, as they write according to their understanding. The Rebbe told him to nevertheless record the teachings, assuring him whatever results will be satisfactory.
These prefaces were reprinted in his book Divrat Shlomo (Zhovkva, 1848). In an approbation the Chozeh of Lublin accorded his book, he relates to these prefaces and writes: "His character has already become renowned through the preface he composed for the book Likutei Amarim by our great master and teacher R. Dov Ber".
The preface also contains facts regarding the compilation of the book. It reports that the book was composed by several writers, the main part being copied from the writings of R. Zev Wolf of Horodna (Grodno). However, the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch was bearer of a tradition that the essay beginning with the words Olat Tamid (printed on p. 29a) was written by the Baal HaTanya when he was by the Maggid.
The researcher Netanel Lederberg maintains that at least parts of the book were written by the Maggid himself. In contrast, the researcher Dr. Rivka Schatz-Uffenheimer asserts that the primary writer is the Maggid's disciple, R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (Berdychiv) (see: Lederberg, HaShaar LeAyin, pp. 309-311).
Over the years, a minor polemic regarding the attitude towards the book evolved between the Chatam Sofer and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, concerning what is printed in this book about the Sefard and Arizal prayer-rite (p. 25b). The Chatam Sofer wrote to the Divrei Chaim in one of his responsa (Orach Chaim, section 16), that the book Likutei Amarim is not found in his community, but the passage he quoted from it is like "the teachings of the sealed book". To which the Divrei Chaim responded at length (Responsa Divrei Chaim, II, Orach Chaim, section 8), writing that "the Chatam Sofer's displeasure at Likutei Amarim is unfounded, perhaps because its author is a Chassidic leader, his words did not enter his ears…", and that the Likutei Amarim didn't write this on his own accord, rather based on teachings of early scholars proficient in both revealed and hidden realms of the Torah.
[4], 60 leaves. Leaves [2-3] of the preface were exchanged in binding. 18.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Worming to several leaves, slightly affecting text, repaired. Tears and damage to the title page and several subsequent leaves, slightly affecting text. Marginal open tears to last three leaves, not affecting text, professionally restored. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 324.
The title page reads: "The book Maggid Devarav LeYaakov (the last letters of the name of the book are emphasized on the title page, alluding to the name of the author, R. Dov), selected discourses… pure sayings… hearken to the words of the king… every month and every week… from the great and holy Torah scholar…. R. Dov Ber, who was a preacher in Mezeritch and other communities…".
This is the first book of the teachings of the Maggid, R. Dov Ber of Mezeritch, to be published, and the third Chassidic book to be printed, approximately a year following the printing of Toldot Yaakov Yosef and Ben Porat Yosef, in the same printing press.
The book was brought to print by R. Shlomo of Lutsk (author of Divrat Shlomo), close disciple and relative of the Maggid of Mezeritch. R. Shlomo wrote two comprehensive prefaces to the book, which are renowned in the Chassidic world. The first portrays the elevated stature of his teachers, the Baal Shem Tov and the Maggid of Mezeritch, the Divine Inspiration which rested upon them and the lofty levels they reached. He characterizes the teachings of the Maggid as replete with allusions to writings of the Arizal and the Zohar, and describes the power his words had to enthuse his many listeners in their service of G-d.
The preface continues with an account of the Maggid's testimony on all the Kabbalistic teachings and lofty secrets his teacher the Baal Shem Tov taught him, including the language of birds, Holy Names and teachings of the book Raziel. The author relates that the Maggid showed him in that book some names of angels, testifying that the Baal Shem Tov knew how to use those names to determine, in the month of Nisan each year, which celestial administrators where appointed to govern the world, in order to know how to deal with them.
Later in the preface, the publisher relates his hesitance to print the book, and his exchange with his teacher on the matter. When his teacher inquired why he doesn't write down what he hears, he replied that he had seen some who record the Rebbe's teachings, but fall very short of his intent, as they write according to their understanding. The Rebbe told him to nevertheless record the teachings, assuring him whatever results will be satisfactory.
These prefaces were reprinted in his book Divrat Shlomo (Zhovkva, 1848). In an approbation the Chozeh of Lublin accorded his book, he relates to these prefaces and writes: "His character has already become renowned through the preface he composed for the book Likutei Amarim by our great master and teacher R. Dov Ber".
The preface also contains facts regarding the compilation of the book. It reports that the book was composed by several writers, the main part being copied from the writings of R. Zev Wolf of Horodna (Grodno). However, the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch was bearer of a tradition that the essay beginning with the words Olat Tamid (printed on p. 29a) was written by the Baal HaTanya when he was by the Maggid.
The researcher Netanel Lederberg maintains that at least parts of the book were written by the Maggid himself. In contrast, the researcher Dr. Rivka Schatz-Uffenheimer asserts that the primary writer is the Maggid's disciple, R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (Berdychiv) (see: Lederberg, HaShaar LeAyin, pp. 309-311).
Over the years, a minor polemic regarding the attitude towards the book evolved between the Chatam Sofer and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, concerning what is printed in this book about the Sefard and Arizal prayer-rite (p. 25b). The Chatam Sofer wrote to the Divrei Chaim in one of his responsa (Orach Chaim, section 16), that the book Likutei Amarim is not found in his community, but the passage he quoted from it is like "the teachings of the sealed book". To which the Divrei Chaim responded at length (Responsa Divrei Chaim, II, Orach Chaim, section 8), writing that "the Chatam Sofer's displeasure at Likutei Amarim is unfounded, perhaps because its author is a Chassidic leader, his words did not enter his ears…", and that the Likutei Amarim didn't write this on his own accord, rather based on teachings of early scholars proficient in both revealed and hidden realms of the Torah.
[4], 60 leaves. Leaves [2-3] of the preface were exchanged in binding. 18.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Worming to several leaves, slightly affecting text, repaired. Tears and damage to the title page and several subsequent leaves, slightly affecting text. Marginal open tears to last three leaves, not affecting text, professionally restored. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 324.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $5,000
Estimate: $10,000 - $20,000
Unsold
Keter Shem Tov, "All the holy teachings of Rabbi Yisrael the Ba'al Shem Tov" – a compendium of the teachings of the Ba'al Shem Tov, edited by R. Aharon HaCohen of Zelechow and Apta. Zhovkva, [1794]. First edition. Printed by Yehuda Leib Meir Heffer and by Mordechai Rabin Stein.
The first part of the book Keter Shem Tov – a renowned compendium of the teachings of the Ba'al Shem Tov, citing his teachings compiled from the books of his disciples, R. Ya'akov Yosef of Polonne and of the Magid of Mezeritch. This book is one of the early printed compilations of the teachings of the Ba'al Shem Tov and was published in two parts in Zhovkva, 1794-1795.
Approbations by R. Menachem Mendel of Liska and by R. Shlomo of Karlin and by R. Avraham Moshe of Przeworsk appear at the beginning of the book. These are followed by "The testament of the Ba'al Shem Tov". A letter sent by the Ba'al Shem Tov to Eretz Israel, to his brother-in-law, R. Gershon of Kuty is printed on the next leaf.
The author, R. Aharon HaCohen of Zelechow and Apta (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 1, p. 157), wrote a number of popular Chassidic books. Among them: Or Ganuz LaTzaddikim, Tefilla Yeshara – Keter Nehora and others. Disciple of R. Azriel Meisels of Ryczywół. Succeeding R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv as Rabbi of Zelechow, he later officiated as Rabbi of Biłgoraj. In 1803, he served as Rabbi of Apta alongside R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, author of Ohev Yisrael.
Several variants were published from this edition, with minor typographic variations and differences in the text of the title pages [see the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, record no. 139450].
The title page and several leaves bear the signatures of Rabbi Shmuel Heller, Rabbi of Safed, signed "Shmuel Heller" [1786-1884, a Torah scholar, proficient in various wisdoms including medicine, he was raised in the home of the Chozeh of Lublin and following his advice, immigrated to Eretz Israel. Officiated as Rabbi of Safed for 60 years], and signatures of Rabbi Moshe Deutsch, son-in-law of R. Shmuel Heller's son, signed "Moshe Deutsch".
[30] leaves. 19.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains, dampstains and wear. Tears to title page, slightly affecting text (the leaf was professionally repaired). Worming to title page and to several other leaves, repaired. Open tear to top corner of leaf 21, not affecting text, repaired. Small open tears to the margins of three leaves preceding the last leaf, repaired. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 249.
The first part of the book Keter Shem Tov – a renowned compendium of the teachings of the Ba'al Shem Tov, citing his teachings compiled from the books of his disciples, R. Ya'akov Yosef of Polonne and of the Magid of Mezeritch. This book is one of the early printed compilations of the teachings of the Ba'al Shem Tov and was published in two parts in Zhovkva, 1794-1795.
Approbations by R. Menachem Mendel of Liska and by R. Shlomo of Karlin and by R. Avraham Moshe of Przeworsk appear at the beginning of the book. These are followed by "The testament of the Ba'al Shem Tov". A letter sent by the Ba'al Shem Tov to Eretz Israel, to his brother-in-law, R. Gershon of Kuty is printed on the next leaf.
The author, R. Aharon HaCohen of Zelechow and Apta (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, Vol. 1, p. 157), wrote a number of popular Chassidic books. Among them: Or Ganuz LaTzaddikim, Tefilla Yeshara – Keter Nehora and others. Disciple of R. Azriel Meisels of Ryczywół. Succeeding R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv as Rabbi of Zelechow, he later officiated as Rabbi of Biłgoraj. In 1803, he served as Rabbi of Apta alongside R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, author of Ohev Yisrael.
Several variants were published from this edition, with minor typographic variations and differences in the text of the title pages [see the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, record no. 139450].
The title page and several leaves bear the signatures of Rabbi Shmuel Heller, Rabbi of Safed, signed "Shmuel Heller" [1786-1884, a Torah scholar, proficient in various wisdoms including medicine, he was raised in the home of the Chozeh of Lublin and following his advice, immigrated to Eretz Israel. Officiated as Rabbi of Safed for 60 years], and signatures of Rabbi Moshe Deutsch, son-in-law of R. Shmuel Heller's son, signed "Moshe Deutsch".
[30] leaves. 19.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains, dampstains and wear. Tears to title page, slightly affecting text (the leaf was professionally repaired). Worming to title page and to several other leaves, repaired. Open tear to top corner of leaf 21, not affecting text, repaired. Small open tears to the margins of three leaves preceding the last leaf, repaired. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 249.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $15,000
Estimate: $25,000 - $40,000
Sold for: $30,000
Including buyer's premium
Noam Elimelech, Chassidic essays on the Torah, by R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, with Likutei Shoshana and Igeret HaKodesh. Slavita: [R. Moshe Shapira, 1794]. Third edition.
The publisher, R. Yisrael Avraham, Rabbi of Cherny-Ostrov, was the son of R. Zusha of Anipoli and nephew of the author R. Elimelech of Lizhensk (Leżajsk). On the verso of the title page, three important approbations from Chassidic leaders appear: Approbation by R. Yaakov Shimshon of Shepetivka (who mentions in his approbation the printer R. Moshe Shapira); approbation of R. Zusha of Anipoli, father of the publisher and brother of the author (this approbation was first published in this edition, while in the first edition of Noam Elimelech printed in Lemberg, R. Zusha's approbation does not appear), and an approbation by R. Aryeh Leib, Rabbi of Volochysk.
Following the approbations, the foreword by the author's son Rebbe Elazar Weisblum is printed, including noteworthy prayers that the blessings his father regularly accorded the Jewish people should be fulfilled.
This foreword was omitted from some of the subsequent editions. In Ohel Shlomo, biography of Rebbe Shlomo of Radomsk (part II, Petrikev [Piotrków Trybunalski], 1935, p. 31), he cites that this introduction was particularly cherished by the Rebbe of Radomsk, the Tiferet Shlomo, "almost like the entire Noam Elimelech". The Rebbe also requested of printers to print the book according to the Slavita edition which includes this foreword.
The Noam Elimelech was one of the first Chassidic books, and is considered until this day to be one of the fundamental works on Chassidism. The teachings were recorded by his son, R. Elazar, who showed them to his father and received his permission to print them. The book contains the essential part of the doctrine of R. Elimelech of Lizhensk on Chassidism, purity of thought and attachment to G-d. R. Elimelech had five disciples, who disseminated Chassidism to the Jewish people: the Chozeh of Lublin, the Maggid of Kozhnitz, R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta, R. Isak of Kaliv and R. Mendel of Rymanów.
Since its publishing, the book was deemed sacred to all, to the extent his disciple R. Mendel of Rymanów stated that only on Friday after immersing in honor of Shabbat is one able to grasp a little of the pure and lofty thoughts it contains. The Maggid of Kozhnitz would not welcome the Shabbat before he had studied his teacher's book (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, 1, p. 236). He would say that R. Elimelech would appear – after his passing – to his disciple R. Naftali of Ropshitz, to teach him Noam Elimelech (Igra Debei Hilulei, Ashdod 1999, p. 250). The Divrei Chaim of Sanz once remarked that he could compose a commentary on the Noam Elimelech just like the Beit Yosef did on the Tur, since it contained such profundity (Igra Debei Hilulei, Ashdod 1999, p. 235). Rebbe Eliezer of Dzikov once saw in a dream a house full of books, he was told that one book was the Noam Elimelech, and all the other books the house was filled with were commentaries to the Noam Elimelech (Ohel Elimelech, p. 80, section 193). R. Izak of Kaliv, after writing several hundreds of papers of commentary to the Noam Elimelech, heard a Divine Voice asking how he had the audacity to write a commentary to the Noam Elimelech, of which even angels and other celestial beings struggle to understand even one word or letter (Ohel Elimelech, p. 80, section 194).
This book was reprinted in numerous editions (until 1982, it had been printed in over 50 editions, and since then in dozens more). Many keep the book as a Segula, and some special miniature format editions were published to use it as an amulet for protection and success. Many put it at the head of an ill person as a Segula and protection, for a speedy recovery and to be saved from any misfortune. This book is known to be a Segula for women experiencing difficult labor (several Jewish hospitals throughout the world have a Noam Elimelech placed in a velvet pouch in the delivery rooms as Segula for easy births). This Segula is already mentioned in Shulchan Melachim by R. Moshe Tzvi Landau of Kleinwardein, who writes in the laws pertaining to women giving birth: "And the custom of placing a holy book wrapped in a cloth under the head of a women in labor has already become widespread – and the custom is to place the book Noam Elimelech and Or HaChochma (pp. 38b-39a, Beregsaz [Berehove] 1931 edition).
The publisher of this edition, R. Yisrael Avraham Rabbi of Cherny-Ostrov (ca. 1772-1814), was pronounced by his father, R. Zusha of Anipoli, to have the soul of Chizkiyahu, king of Yehuda. A son-in-law and successor of R. Zev Wolf of Cherny-Ostrov, a foremost disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch and leader of the Chassidic community in Tiberias. When his father-in-law immigrated to Eretz Israel, in 1798, he was appointed his successor. After his passing at the age of 42, his widow the Rebbetzin continued leading the Chassidim, managing the Tish like a Rebbe (their mechutan R. Mordechai of Chernobyl attended her Seuda Shlishis when he spent Shabbat in their town). She was killed in the earthquake which hit Tiberias in 1837, and was buried there close to her father R. Zev Wolf of Cherny. Their orphaned daughter was raised by R. Mordechai of Chernobyl and married the son of R. David of Tolna, bearing descendants who were the Rebbes of the Tolna dynasty. R. Yisrael Avraham also left behind four sons, one of whom was a son in-law of R. Moshe Shapira, Rabbi of Slavita.
An ownership inscription on the upper margin of the title page: "I am Yosef son of Yoel HaKohen… Shlag, I acquired with my wealth…" and an additional deleted and faded signature. Early stamps on the title page (censorship?).
82, 84-150 leaves. 20 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Dampstains. Worming in several places. Minor damage. Marginal tears to the title page, slightly affecting the title border and the text on the verso (repaired with paper, with minor reconstruction of the damaged print). Minor marginal tears to other leaves. Deletions and inscriptions in several places. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 376.
The publisher, R. Yisrael Avraham, Rabbi of Cherny-Ostrov, was the son of R. Zusha of Anipoli and nephew of the author R. Elimelech of Lizhensk (Leżajsk). On the verso of the title page, three important approbations from Chassidic leaders appear: Approbation by R. Yaakov Shimshon of Shepetivka (who mentions in his approbation the printer R. Moshe Shapira); approbation of R. Zusha of Anipoli, father of the publisher and brother of the author (this approbation was first published in this edition, while in the first edition of Noam Elimelech printed in Lemberg, R. Zusha's approbation does not appear), and an approbation by R. Aryeh Leib, Rabbi of Volochysk.
Following the approbations, the foreword by the author's son Rebbe Elazar Weisblum is printed, including noteworthy prayers that the blessings his father regularly accorded the Jewish people should be fulfilled.
This foreword was omitted from some of the subsequent editions. In Ohel Shlomo, biography of Rebbe Shlomo of Radomsk (part II, Petrikev [Piotrków Trybunalski], 1935, p. 31), he cites that this introduction was particularly cherished by the Rebbe of Radomsk, the Tiferet Shlomo, "almost like the entire Noam Elimelech". The Rebbe also requested of printers to print the book according to the Slavita edition which includes this foreword.
The Noam Elimelech was one of the first Chassidic books, and is considered until this day to be one of the fundamental works on Chassidism. The teachings were recorded by his son, R. Elazar, who showed them to his father and received his permission to print them. The book contains the essential part of the doctrine of R. Elimelech of Lizhensk on Chassidism, purity of thought and attachment to G-d. R. Elimelech had five disciples, who disseminated Chassidism to the Jewish people: the Chozeh of Lublin, the Maggid of Kozhnitz, R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta, R. Isak of Kaliv and R. Mendel of Rymanów.
Since its publishing, the book was deemed sacred to all, to the extent his disciple R. Mendel of Rymanów stated that only on Friday after immersing in honor of Shabbat is one able to grasp a little of the pure and lofty thoughts it contains. The Maggid of Kozhnitz would not welcome the Shabbat before he had studied his teacher's book (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, 1, p. 236). He would say that R. Elimelech would appear – after his passing – to his disciple R. Naftali of Ropshitz, to teach him Noam Elimelech (Igra Debei Hilulei, Ashdod 1999, p. 250). The Divrei Chaim of Sanz once remarked that he could compose a commentary on the Noam Elimelech just like the Beit Yosef did on the Tur, since it contained such profundity (Igra Debei Hilulei, Ashdod 1999, p. 235). Rebbe Eliezer of Dzikov once saw in a dream a house full of books, he was told that one book was the Noam Elimelech, and all the other books the house was filled with were commentaries to the Noam Elimelech (Ohel Elimelech, p. 80, section 193). R. Izak of Kaliv, after writing several hundreds of papers of commentary to the Noam Elimelech, heard a Divine Voice asking how he had the audacity to write a commentary to the Noam Elimelech, of which even angels and other celestial beings struggle to understand even one word or letter (Ohel Elimelech, p. 80, section 194).
This book was reprinted in numerous editions (until 1982, it had been printed in over 50 editions, and since then in dozens more). Many keep the book as a Segula, and some special miniature format editions were published to use it as an amulet for protection and success. Many put it at the head of an ill person as a Segula and protection, for a speedy recovery and to be saved from any misfortune. This book is known to be a Segula for women experiencing difficult labor (several Jewish hospitals throughout the world have a Noam Elimelech placed in a velvet pouch in the delivery rooms as Segula for easy births). This Segula is already mentioned in Shulchan Melachim by R. Moshe Tzvi Landau of Kleinwardein, who writes in the laws pertaining to women giving birth: "And the custom of placing a holy book wrapped in a cloth under the head of a women in labor has already become widespread – and the custom is to place the book Noam Elimelech and Or HaChochma (pp. 38b-39a, Beregsaz [Berehove] 1931 edition).
The publisher of this edition, R. Yisrael Avraham Rabbi of Cherny-Ostrov (ca. 1772-1814), was pronounced by his father, R. Zusha of Anipoli, to have the soul of Chizkiyahu, king of Yehuda. A son-in-law and successor of R. Zev Wolf of Cherny-Ostrov, a foremost disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch and leader of the Chassidic community in Tiberias. When his father-in-law immigrated to Eretz Israel, in 1798, he was appointed his successor. After his passing at the age of 42, his widow the Rebbetzin continued leading the Chassidim, managing the Tish like a Rebbe (their mechutan R. Mordechai of Chernobyl attended her Seuda Shlishis when he spent Shabbat in their town). She was killed in the earthquake which hit Tiberias in 1837, and was buried there close to her father R. Zev Wolf of Cherny. Their orphaned daughter was raised by R. Mordechai of Chernobyl and married the son of R. David of Tolna, bearing descendants who were the Rebbes of the Tolna dynasty. R. Yisrael Avraham also left behind four sons, one of whom was a son in-law of R. Moshe Shapira, Rabbi of Slavita.
An ownership inscription on the upper margin of the title page: "I am Yosef son of Yoel HaKohen… Shlag, I acquired with my wealth…" and an additional deleted and faded signature. Early stamps on the title page (censorship?).
82, 84-150 leaves. 20 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Dampstains. Worming in several places. Minor damage. Marginal tears to the title page, slightly affecting the title border and the text on the verso (repaired with paper, with minor reconstruction of the damaged print). Minor marginal tears to other leaves. Deletions and inscriptions in several places. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 376.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $20,000
Estimate: $30,000 - $40,000
Sold for: $62,500
Including buyer's premium
Meor Einayim, Chassidic essays on the Torah, by Rebbe Menachem Nachum [Twersky] of Chernobyl. Slavita: [R. Moshe Shapira, 1798]. First edition.
Bound with: Yismach Lev (Part II of Meor Einayim), commentary on Aggadot and Midrashim (following the order of the Talmudic tractates), by Rebbe Menachem Nachum [Twersky] of Chernobyl. Slavita: [R. Moshe Shapira, 1798]. First edition.
Particularly fine copy, in good condition. High-quality paper, complete leaves with wide margins and original leather binding.
Meor Einayim is a fundamental work of the Chassidic movement, and one of the first Chassidic compositions presenting the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov and the Maggid of Mezeritch (Mezhirichi). The author, the maggid R. Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl (1730-1798, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut III, pp. 168-175), was one of the founders of Chassidism and the progenitor of the Chernobyl dynasty. He studied directly from the Baal Shem Tov and was a close disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch. He served as maggid in Noryns'k, Pohrebyshche and Chernobyl. He acceded to his disciples' entreaties to print his teachings and delegated the task to his disciple R. Eliyahu son of R. Zev Wolf Katz, instructing him to publish his writings in the "fine and exceptional printing press established in Slavita…" (the printing press of R. Moshe Shapira, then in its early years).
The book was allegedly eighteen times longer, but when arranging it for printing, R. Nachum of Chernobyl commanded his disciples to burn many leaves, leaving only the teachings which were divinely inspired. His writings were divided by his disciples into two parts, one part on the Torah, including selections, published under the title Meor Einayim, and a second part pertaining to Talmudic aggadot, named Yismach Lev. The two parts were printed concurrently in Slavita, the same year. In later editions, the two parts were combined and published together. R. Nachum of Chernobyl passed away during the course of the book's preparation for print.
Chassidic leaders ascribed great importance and holiness to the book, studying it every day and preserving it as a protection. The Chozeh of Lublin and R. Yitzchak of Skvyra (grandson of the author) reputedly said that the book has the power to light up the person's soul, similarly to the Zohar, and R. Yitzchak Eizik of Komarno asserted that Meor Einayim should never depart from before one's eyes, as all the teachings it contains are lofty and holy.
The book contains ownership inscriptions: "This book belongs to the scholarly… R. Moshe son of Yisrael… so says Aharon Yeshayahu", "R. Shneur". Stamp: "Moshe son of the philanthropist ---". Handwritten censor inscriptions on the last page.
Two complete books, bound together. [2], 160; [1], 33, [1] leaves. 20.5 cm. Particularly fine copy. High-quality, blueish paper. Wide margins (the title page of Yismach Lev has slightly narrower margins). Good condition. Stains. Most leaves complete. Tears with minor loss to the margins of two leaves, not affecting text. Inscriptions on the first title page. Worming to several leaves, mostly repaired, not affecting text. Original leather binding, damaged.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 308; no. 237.
Bound with: Yismach Lev (Part II of Meor Einayim), commentary on Aggadot and Midrashim (following the order of the Talmudic tractates), by Rebbe Menachem Nachum [Twersky] of Chernobyl. Slavita: [R. Moshe Shapira, 1798]. First edition.
Particularly fine copy, in good condition. High-quality paper, complete leaves with wide margins and original leather binding.
Meor Einayim is a fundamental work of the Chassidic movement, and one of the first Chassidic compositions presenting the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov and the Maggid of Mezeritch (Mezhirichi). The author, the maggid R. Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl (1730-1798, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut III, pp. 168-175), was one of the founders of Chassidism and the progenitor of the Chernobyl dynasty. He studied directly from the Baal Shem Tov and was a close disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch. He served as maggid in Noryns'k, Pohrebyshche and Chernobyl. He acceded to his disciples' entreaties to print his teachings and delegated the task to his disciple R. Eliyahu son of R. Zev Wolf Katz, instructing him to publish his writings in the "fine and exceptional printing press established in Slavita…" (the printing press of R. Moshe Shapira, then in its early years).
The book was allegedly eighteen times longer, but when arranging it for printing, R. Nachum of Chernobyl commanded his disciples to burn many leaves, leaving only the teachings which were divinely inspired. His writings were divided by his disciples into two parts, one part on the Torah, including selections, published under the title Meor Einayim, and a second part pertaining to Talmudic aggadot, named Yismach Lev. The two parts were printed concurrently in Slavita, the same year. In later editions, the two parts were combined and published together. R. Nachum of Chernobyl passed away during the course of the book's preparation for print.
Chassidic leaders ascribed great importance and holiness to the book, studying it every day and preserving it as a protection. The Chozeh of Lublin and R. Yitzchak of Skvyra (grandson of the author) reputedly said that the book has the power to light up the person's soul, similarly to the Zohar, and R. Yitzchak Eizik of Komarno asserted that Meor Einayim should never depart from before one's eyes, as all the teachings it contains are lofty and holy.
The book contains ownership inscriptions: "This book belongs to the scholarly… R. Moshe son of Yisrael… so says Aharon Yeshayahu", "R. Shneur". Stamp: "Moshe son of the philanthropist ---". Handwritten censor inscriptions on the last page.
Two complete books, bound together. [2], 160; [1], 33, [1] leaves. 20.5 cm. Particularly fine copy. High-quality, blueish paper. Wide margins (the title page of Yismach Lev has slightly narrower margins). Good condition. Stains. Most leaves complete. Tears with minor loss to the margins of two leaves, not affecting text. Inscriptions on the first title page. Worming to several leaves, mostly repaired, not affecting text. Original leather binding, damaged.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 308; no. 237.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $50,000
Estimate: $60,000 - $80,000
Sold for: $81,250
Including buyer's premium
Kedushat Levi, Chassidic essays. Slavita, 1798. First edition, published by the author.
Essays relating to Chanukah and Purim (the chapters are entitled Kedushot), commentaries on Aggadot concerning the Elders of Athens, and other selections (Talmudic novellae by the author's father and son).
R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (Berdychiv) (1740-1810, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut III, pp. 17-23) was one of the most glorious figures of the Chassidic movement, famously referred to as "the Advocate of the Jewish people". According to Chassidic lore, when he was born, the Baal Shem Tov offered his disciples to drink LeChaim, declaring that a great soul had just descended to this world, whose task would be to act as defender of the Jewish people. He was born to R. Meir Rabbi of Hussaków, a descendant of the Maharsha and scion of an early dynasty of 36 rabbis. In his youth, he studied with the Pri Megadim in Lubartów, where he also met Rebbe Shmelke of Nikolsburg (Mikulov), who influenced him to join the Chassidic movement and frequent the court of the great Maggid of Mezeritch (Mezhirichi). From a young age, he served as rabbi of various communities (Ryczywół, Żelechów, Pinsk) and was pursued in some places by Mitnagdim for his association with the Chassidic movement. In 1785, he was appointed rabbi of Berdychiv, where he established an important Chassidic center and edified many disciples, becoming famous as one of the greatest Chassidic leaders of his times and serving there until his passing.
Apart from his piety and greatness in Torah, he was known as the epitome of love for his fellow Jew and advocate of all Jews, including sinners and offenders. Dozens of stories circulate of his defense of every Jew, in any situation. These stories became inalienable assets of Chassidic lore and earned him the appellation "Advocate of the Jewish people". The righteous men of his generation greatly revered and acclaimed him. R. Shmelke of Nikolsburg dubbed him "my disciple in exoteric wisdom, master and teacher in esoteric fields", and portrayed even his mundane conversation as replete with Kabbalistic meanings and yichudim. The Chozeh of Lublin would dedicate one hour a day to expressing gratitude to G-d for sending down to the world a soul like R. Levi Yitzchak, and with his passing, R. Nachman of Breslov declared that the light of the world was extinguished and darkness reigned. He composed famous poems and prayers, including "G-t fun Avraham" recited by many at the close of Shabbat. This book is the first edition of Kedushat Levi, published by R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev himself. The book is named after the Kedushot essays pertaining to Chanukah and Purim, which comprise the main part of the book. The book was reprinted in the same format in the author's lifetime in Zhovkva, 1806. Approximately a year after his passing, his sons and grandsons published a further edition of the book, with the addition of novellae on the Parashiot of the Torah, based on writings the author left behind (Berdychiv, 1810). The book has since been reprinted many times in its expanded format. A third part of the book appeared in a later period, on Pirkei Avot, based on writings found in the estate of the Maggid of Koznitz (Kozienice).
This book was reputedly written by R. Levi Yitzchak himself, unlike other early Chassidic works which were recorded by the disciples of the authors. The Minchat Elazar of Munkacs (Munkachevo) would exert himself and read this book protractedly, maintaining that Kedushat Levi contained almost all the writings of the Arizal allusively, each word being built on foundations of Kabbalah and requiring deliberate, in-depth study to understand all the profound teachings concealed in it. (According to Breslov tradition, some of the Kedushot on Chanukah and Purim in this work were written by R. Natan of Nemirov, the famous disciple of R. Nachman of Breslov, while he was studying under R. Levi Yitzchak).
Great Torah scholars attested that Kedushat Levi bears the remarkable power of endowing its reader with enthusiasm and devotion in love and fear of G-d, also maintaining that just keeping the book in the house has the capacity to mitigate decrees and protect from destructive forces, as Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel – the Apter Rav wrote (in his approbation to the Berdychiv, 1815 edition), as well as R. Aharon of Zhitomir in his approbation to that same edition, and the rabbis of Munkacs (in their approbation to the Munkacs 1939 edition).
A handwritten ownership inscription appears on the title page.
Complete copy. 30, 22 leaves. 20.5 cm. Wide margins. High-quality, blueish paper. Good condition. Stains. Light marginal wear. Complete leaves. Minor worming. Tear to the inner margins of the title page, not affecting title border, repaired. New, elaborate leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 507.
Essays relating to Chanukah and Purim (the chapters are entitled Kedushot), commentaries on Aggadot concerning the Elders of Athens, and other selections (Talmudic novellae by the author's father and son).
R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (Berdychiv) (1740-1810, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut III, pp. 17-23) was one of the most glorious figures of the Chassidic movement, famously referred to as "the Advocate of the Jewish people". According to Chassidic lore, when he was born, the Baal Shem Tov offered his disciples to drink LeChaim, declaring that a great soul had just descended to this world, whose task would be to act as defender of the Jewish people. He was born to R. Meir Rabbi of Hussaków, a descendant of the Maharsha and scion of an early dynasty of 36 rabbis. In his youth, he studied with the Pri Megadim in Lubartów, where he also met Rebbe Shmelke of Nikolsburg (Mikulov), who influenced him to join the Chassidic movement and frequent the court of the great Maggid of Mezeritch (Mezhirichi). From a young age, he served as rabbi of various communities (Ryczywół, Żelechów, Pinsk) and was pursued in some places by Mitnagdim for his association with the Chassidic movement. In 1785, he was appointed rabbi of Berdychiv, where he established an important Chassidic center and edified many disciples, becoming famous as one of the greatest Chassidic leaders of his times and serving there until his passing.
Apart from his piety and greatness in Torah, he was known as the epitome of love for his fellow Jew and advocate of all Jews, including sinners and offenders. Dozens of stories circulate of his defense of every Jew, in any situation. These stories became inalienable assets of Chassidic lore and earned him the appellation "Advocate of the Jewish people". The righteous men of his generation greatly revered and acclaimed him. R. Shmelke of Nikolsburg dubbed him "my disciple in exoteric wisdom, master and teacher in esoteric fields", and portrayed even his mundane conversation as replete with Kabbalistic meanings and yichudim. The Chozeh of Lublin would dedicate one hour a day to expressing gratitude to G-d for sending down to the world a soul like R. Levi Yitzchak, and with his passing, R. Nachman of Breslov declared that the light of the world was extinguished and darkness reigned. He composed famous poems and prayers, including "G-t fun Avraham" recited by many at the close of Shabbat. This book is the first edition of Kedushat Levi, published by R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev himself. The book is named after the Kedushot essays pertaining to Chanukah and Purim, which comprise the main part of the book. The book was reprinted in the same format in the author's lifetime in Zhovkva, 1806. Approximately a year after his passing, his sons and grandsons published a further edition of the book, with the addition of novellae on the Parashiot of the Torah, based on writings the author left behind (Berdychiv, 1810). The book has since been reprinted many times in its expanded format. A third part of the book appeared in a later period, on Pirkei Avot, based on writings found in the estate of the Maggid of Koznitz (Kozienice).
This book was reputedly written by R. Levi Yitzchak himself, unlike other early Chassidic works which were recorded by the disciples of the authors. The Minchat Elazar of Munkacs (Munkachevo) would exert himself and read this book protractedly, maintaining that Kedushat Levi contained almost all the writings of the Arizal allusively, each word being built on foundations of Kabbalah and requiring deliberate, in-depth study to understand all the profound teachings concealed in it. (According to Breslov tradition, some of the Kedushot on Chanukah and Purim in this work were written by R. Natan of Nemirov, the famous disciple of R. Nachman of Breslov, while he was studying under R. Levi Yitzchak).
Great Torah scholars attested that Kedushat Levi bears the remarkable power of endowing its reader with enthusiasm and devotion in love and fear of G-d, also maintaining that just keeping the book in the house has the capacity to mitigate decrees and protect from destructive forces, as Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel – the Apter Rav wrote (in his approbation to the Berdychiv, 1815 edition), as well as R. Aharon of Zhitomir in his approbation to that same edition, and the rabbis of Munkacs (in their approbation to the Munkacs 1939 edition).
A handwritten ownership inscription appears on the title page.
Complete copy. 30, 22 leaves. 20.5 cm. Wide margins. High-quality, blueish paper. Good condition. Stains. Light marginal wear. Complete leaves. Minor worming. Tear to the inner margins of the title page, not affecting title border, repaired. New, elaborate leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 507.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $25,000
Sold for: $17,500
Including buyer's premium
Degel Machane Efraim, Chassidic exegesis according to the order of the verses in the Torah, by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Efraim Ashkenazi of Sudilkov, grandson of Rabbi Yisrael the Ba'al Shem Tov. Korets, 1810, first edition.
Approbations by Chassidic leaders: Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv, the Maggid Rabbi Yisrael of Koznitz, Rabbi Ya'akov Yitzchak HaLevi Horwitz "HaChozeh" of Lublin, Rabbi Avraham Yehoshua Heshel Rabbi of Apta and others. At the end of the book are "likutim" (compilations) of the Ba'al Shem Tov as well as "the dreams found in the writings of the Holy Rabbi" (one leaf).
An early Chassidic book. This book is one of the first authorized sources of the Torah teachings of the Ba'al Shem Tov which were heard directly from him by the holy author, Rabbi Moshe Chaim Efraim of Sudilkov (1748-1800), the grandson of the Ba'al Shem Tov, son of his pious daughter Edel. Chassidic leaders greatly praised the holiness of the book and its ability to inspire its reader with fear of Heaven, and as Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv wrote in his approbation to the book: "I promise that this work will stir the hearts of our brothers the People of Israel to serve G-d".
[2], 114 leaves. 19.5 cm. Greenish paper. Good-fair condition, stains, worming, wear to margins and restored tears [slightly affecting the text on several leaves]. Professional restoration to all leaves, censor stamp on title page. Inscriptions and signatures, [blurred] gloss on last leaf. New, handsome leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 128.
Approbations by Chassidic leaders: Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv, the Maggid Rabbi Yisrael of Koznitz, Rabbi Ya'akov Yitzchak HaLevi Horwitz "HaChozeh" of Lublin, Rabbi Avraham Yehoshua Heshel Rabbi of Apta and others. At the end of the book are "likutim" (compilations) of the Ba'al Shem Tov as well as "the dreams found in the writings of the Holy Rabbi" (one leaf).
An early Chassidic book. This book is one of the first authorized sources of the Torah teachings of the Ba'al Shem Tov which were heard directly from him by the holy author, Rabbi Moshe Chaim Efraim of Sudilkov (1748-1800), the grandson of the Ba'al Shem Tov, son of his pious daughter Edel. Chassidic leaders greatly praised the holiness of the book and its ability to inspire its reader with fear of Heaven, and as Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv wrote in his approbation to the book: "I promise that this work will stir the hearts of our brothers the People of Israel to serve G-d".
[2], 114 leaves. 19.5 cm. Greenish paper. Good-fair condition, stains, worming, wear to margins and restored tears [slightly affecting the text on several leaves]. Professional restoration to all leaves, censor stamp on title page. Inscriptions and signatures, [blurred] gloss on last leaf. New, handsome leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 128.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue