Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
- (-) Remove copies, filter copies,
- copi (20) Apply copi filter
- chassidut (14) Apply chassidut filter
- dedic (14) Apply dedic filter
- import (14) Apply import filter
- signatur (14) Apply signatur filter
- book (6) Apply book filter
- prayer (6) Apply prayer filter
- siddurim (6) Apply siddurim filter
- tzaddikim (6) Apply tzaddikim filter
Displaying 13 - 20 of 20
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $11,250
Including buyer's premium
Divrei Chaim, two parts, on the laws of Gittin and Mikvaot, by "one of the disciples" [Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz]. Zhovkva, 1864. First edition.
In the introduction, the author writes "I did not write my name for the known reason". This is the first book of the Divrei Chaim to be printed (Responsa Divrei Chaim was published 11 years later, in 1875). In the second edition of the book (Mukachevo, 1892), R. Baruch of Gorlice (son of the Divrei Chaim) reveals his father as the author, and explains that "the manuscript of this composition… was given to me… by my father as a gift… and I printed it in Zhovkva in 1864… I am now emboldened to explicitly state the name… of the author, because in any case the identity of the author has become known, particularly [because] it is clear from the introduction to Divrei Chaim on the Torah that this work was also written by my father. I have therefore written this on the title page… Baruch Halberstam, Rabbi of Gorlice".
A (slightly trimmed) dedication by R. David Weber, a disciple of the Divrei Chaim who received the book as a gift from the author, appears at the top of the title page. He writes: " This book… the holy Rebbe of Sanz, from his holy hand directly into my hand for the speech [---] 12th Cheshvan 1867. David We[ber]". Another inscription, by R. David Weber's son, reads: " And my father gave me this as a Bar Mitzvah gift, his son Lipa Zalman Weber".
R. David Weber of Ada-Jerusalem (ca. 1851-1930) was the son of the Rabbi of Ada, R. Mordechai Eliezer Weber, and the son-in-law of R. Aharon Zelig Lifshitz Head of the Vishnitsa Beit Din (d. 1878, the son of the Rebbe of Vishnitsa, the Aryeh D'Vei Ila'i). In 1875, he immigrated to Jerusalem together with his father and became one of the heads of Kollel Shomrei HaChomot. His father, R. Mordechai Eliezer, was one of the leading disciples of the Divrei Chaim, and he too was a regular visitor to the holy court of Sanz.
His son, R. Yom Tov Lipa Yekutiel Zalman Weber (1876-1944), was a prominent Chassidic Torah scholar in Jerusalem. Son-in-law of R. Yitzchak Ashkenazi of Alesk-Stanislav. During WWI, he traveled abroad and served as Rebbe of Vishnitsa in Frankfurt. He returned to Jerusalem in the early 1930s and served as dean of the Ktav Sofer Yeshiva. When Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar visited Jerusalem in 1932, he paid a visit to his relative R. Lipa Zalman (who was a descendant of the Aryeh D'Vei Ila'i, the illustrious son-in-law of R. Moshe Teitelbaum, the Yismach Moshe). Rebbe Aharon of Belz as well, upon his arrival to Eretz Israel in 1944, greatly desired to visit R. Lipa Zalman; alas, R. Lipa Zalman passed away that same week (see: Alei Zikaron, 26, pp. 69-71).
This copy also bears the stamp of the Rebbe of Vielipoli-Jerusalem-Philadelphia, R. Moshe'li son of R. David Aryeh Lifshitz (1898-1975), "grandson of R. Nottele of Vielipoli – grandson of R. Chaim Uri of Raysha (Rzeszów) – grandson of R. Moshe Teitelbaum of Ujhely", and the stamp of his son R. Chaim Uri Lifshitz (1913-2002); both were descendants of the Rebbe of Vishnitsa, the Aryeh D'Vei Ila'i.
[3], 34, [1], 33-44, 1-27 leaves; [1], 23, [1] leaves. 33.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and wear. Damage, with loss of text, to last leaf (old paper repairs). New leather binding.
In the introduction, the author writes "I did not write my name for the known reason". This is the first book of the Divrei Chaim to be printed (Responsa Divrei Chaim was published 11 years later, in 1875). In the second edition of the book (Mukachevo, 1892), R. Baruch of Gorlice (son of the Divrei Chaim) reveals his father as the author, and explains that "the manuscript of this composition… was given to me… by my father as a gift… and I printed it in Zhovkva in 1864… I am now emboldened to explicitly state the name… of the author, because in any case the identity of the author has become known, particularly [because] it is clear from the introduction to Divrei Chaim on the Torah that this work was also written by my father. I have therefore written this on the title page… Baruch Halberstam, Rabbi of Gorlice".
A (slightly trimmed) dedication by R. David Weber, a disciple of the Divrei Chaim who received the book as a gift from the author, appears at the top of the title page. He writes: " This book… the holy Rebbe of Sanz, from his holy hand directly into my hand for the speech [---] 12th Cheshvan 1867. David We[ber]". Another inscription, by R. David Weber's son, reads: " And my father gave me this as a Bar Mitzvah gift, his son Lipa Zalman Weber".
R. David Weber of Ada-Jerusalem (ca. 1851-1930) was the son of the Rabbi of Ada, R. Mordechai Eliezer Weber, and the son-in-law of R. Aharon Zelig Lifshitz Head of the Vishnitsa Beit Din (d. 1878, the son of the Rebbe of Vishnitsa, the Aryeh D'Vei Ila'i). In 1875, he immigrated to Jerusalem together with his father and became one of the heads of Kollel Shomrei HaChomot. His father, R. Mordechai Eliezer, was one of the leading disciples of the Divrei Chaim, and he too was a regular visitor to the holy court of Sanz.
His son, R. Yom Tov Lipa Yekutiel Zalman Weber (1876-1944), was a prominent Chassidic Torah scholar in Jerusalem. Son-in-law of R. Yitzchak Ashkenazi of Alesk-Stanislav. During WWI, he traveled abroad and served as Rebbe of Vishnitsa in Frankfurt. He returned to Jerusalem in the early 1930s and served as dean of the Ktav Sofer Yeshiva. When Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar visited Jerusalem in 1932, he paid a visit to his relative R. Lipa Zalman (who was a descendant of the Aryeh D'Vei Ila'i, the illustrious son-in-law of R. Moshe Teitelbaum, the Yismach Moshe). Rebbe Aharon of Belz as well, upon his arrival to Eretz Israel in 1944, greatly desired to visit R. Lipa Zalman; alas, R. Lipa Zalman passed away that same week (see: Alei Zikaron, 26, pp. 69-71).
This copy also bears the stamp of the Rebbe of Vielipoli-Jerusalem-Philadelphia, R. Moshe'li son of R. David Aryeh Lifshitz (1898-1975), "grandson of R. Nottele of Vielipoli – grandson of R. Chaim Uri of Raysha (Rzeszów) – grandson of R. Moshe Teitelbaum of Ujhely", and the stamp of his son R. Chaim Uri Lifshitz (1913-2002); both were descendants of the Rebbe of Vishnitsa, the Aryeh D'Vei Ila'i.
[3], 34, [1], 33-44, 1-27 leaves; [1], 23, [1] leaves. 33.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and wear. Damage, with loss of text, to last leaf (old paper repairs). New leather binding.
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $11,250
Including buyer's premium
Tur Even HaEzer, with Bayit Chadash (Bach), by R. Yoel Sirkis. Frankfurt am Main, Johann Kelner, 1712.
Copy of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska.
Various inscriptions and signatures on title page and endpapers. On top of the title page – signature of " Tzvi Hirsh Rabbi of Liska". On the back endpaper, signatures of "Mordechai Rabbi of Torchin" and long inscriptions in the handwriting of his son, R. Tzvi, who attests that the book belonged to "… Rebbe Tzvi… Rabbi of Liska".
Other signatures and ownership inscriptions from various times: "Getz Hofbender"; "Belongs to R. Shmuel Fulda"; "This book belongs to R. Chaim Spigel Katz"; "Menachem Mendel" (at the heading of leaf 8). Short handwritten glosses. On the front endpaper, a long note in an early handwriting [18th century] listing errors found in a new Torah scroll.
Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh Friedman, rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe, from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary. A disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, Rebbe Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and people flocked to him from all over the country to receive his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VehaTov, and other works. His illustrious disciple was the famous tzaddik R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who used to sign: "Who was the close attendant of the pious rabbi of Liska".
[1], 139 leaves. 32.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Large dampstains. Worming. Tears. New binding.
Copy of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska.
Various inscriptions and signatures on title page and endpapers. On top of the title page – signature of " Tzvi Hirsh Rabbi of Liska". On the back endpaper, signatures of "Mordechai Rabbi of Torchin" and long inscriptions in the handwriting of his son, R. Tzvi, who attests that the book belonged to "… Rebbe Tzvi… Rabbi of Liska".
Other signatures and ownership inscriptions from various times: "Getz Hofbender"; "Belongs to R. Shmuel Fulda"; "This book belongs to R. Chaim Spigel Katz"; "Menachem Mendel" (at the heading of leaf 8). Short handwritten glosses. On the front endpaper, a long note in an early handwriting [18th century] listing errors found in a new Torah scroll.
Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh Friedman, rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe, from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary. A disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, Rebbe Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and people flocked to him from all over the country to receive his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VehaTov, and other works. His illustrious disciple was the famous tzaddik R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who used to sign: "Who was the close attendant of the pious rabbi of Liska".
[1], 139 leaves. 32.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Large dampstains. Worming. Tears. New binding.
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $5,000
Including buyer's premium
Sefer HaTemunah, attributed to R. Nechunya ben HaKaneh and to R. Yishmael Kohen Gadol, "with a commentary by a great kabbalist". Lviv, 1892. Interesting letter of approbation by Rebbe Yechezkel Halberstam of Shinova, about the author. Additional letters of approbation by leading rabbis and rebbes of that generation.
The copy of Rebbe Yeshaya’le of Kerestir, with an ownership inscription at the top of the title page: " Belongs to R. Yeshaya Steiner Kerestir".
R. Yeshaya Steiner of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr; 1852-1922) was a disciple of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska (Olaszliszka), author of Ach Pri Tevua and reverently followed in his footsteps. He was orphaned from his father at the age of three and was raised in the home of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska from the age of twelve. Drawn to Chassidut, he frequented the courts of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz and Rebbe Mordechai of Nadvorna. However, his primary rebbe and mentor remained Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, and he eventually became his close attendant (even when R. Yeshaya already served as rebbe, with throngs flocking to his court from all over Hungary, he would still sign with his stamp and on his letters: "…who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska"). Rebbe Yeshaya was revered by the leading rebbes of his day, including Rebbe Chaim of Sanz and Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (who stated that the "key to sustenance" is in the hands of R. Yeshaya of Kerestir). He performed thousands of charitable deeds, personally engaging in hospitality, and was considered one of the pillars of kindness and prayer in his times. He was renowned as a holy man, and thousands of Jews (as well as non-Jews) from all over Hungary would travel to his court to seek his advice. He was also renowned as a wonder-worker and for providing amulets. Until this day, his portrait is hung in homes as a segulah against mice. The story behind this custom is related in his biography, Mei Be'er Yeshayahu.
Stamps of Rebbe Moshe Frisherman of Tomashov (Tomaszów)-Lublin and several glosses in his handwriting(?). Rebbe Moshe'le Frisherman of Tomashov (ca. 1910-1974, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, p. 301; Encyclopedia L'Chachmei Galicia, IV, p. 250) was one of the most venerated rebbes in the United States. He was the son-in-law and successor to Rebbe Baruch Rubin of Gherla, as well as a disciple of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz and Rebbe Aryeh Leibush of Cheshanov (Cieszanów). After losing his wife and children in the Holocaust, he arrived in the United States and served as Tomashover Rebbe in New York.
[2], 75 leaves. 22 cm. Dry, brittle paper. Fair condition. Tears to title page and to other leaves, with almost no damage to text. Various stamps. New leather binding.
Lacking leaves 76-82 containing a list of subscribers, which are not found in all copies (e.g. the copy in Otzar HaChochma does not contain the list of subscribers, while the copy in HebrewBooks.com does).
The copy of Rebbe Yeshaya’le of Kerestir, with an ownership inscription at the top of the title page: " Belongs to R. Yeshaya Steiner Kerestir".
R. Yeshaya Steiner of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr; 1852-1922) was a disciple of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska (Olaszliszka), author of Ach Pri Tevua and reverently followed in his footsteps. He was orphaned from his father at the age of three and was raised in the home of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska from the age of twelve. Drawn to Chassidut, he frequented the courts of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz and Rebbe Mordechai of Nadvorna. However, his primary rebbe and mentor remained Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, and he eventually became his close attendant (even when R. Yeshaya already served as rebbe, with throngs flocking to his court from all over Hungary, he would still sign with his stamp and on his letters: "…who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska"). Rebbe Yeshaya was revered by the leading rebbes of his day, including Rebbe Chaim of Sanz and Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (who stated that the "key to sustenance" is in the hands of R. Yeshaya of Kerestir). He performed thousands of charitable deeds, personally engaging in hospitality, and was considered one of the pillars of kindness and prayer in his times. He was renowned as a holy man, and thousands of Jews (as well as non-Jews) from all over Hungary would travel to his court to seek his advice. He was also renowned as a wonder-worker and for providing amulets. Until this day, his portrait is hung in homes as a segulah against mice. The story behind this custom is related in his biography, Mei Be'er Yeshayahu.
Stamps of Rebbe Moshe Frisherman of Tomashov (Tomaszów)-Lublin and several glosses in his handwriting(?). Rebbe Moshe'le Frisherman of Tomashov (ca. 1910-1974, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, p. 301; Encyclopedia L'Chachmei Galicia, IV, p. 250) was one of the most venerated rebbes in the United States. He was the son-in-law and successor to Rebbe Baruch Rubin of Gherla, as well as a disciple of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz and Rebbe Aryeh Leibush of Cheshanov (Cieszanów). After losing his wife and children in the Holocaust, he arrived in the United States and served as Tomashover Rebbe in New York.
[2], 75 leaves. 22 cm. Dry, brittle paper. Fair condition. Tears to title page and to other leaves, with almost no damage to text. Various stamps. New leather binding.
Lacking leaves 76-82 containing a list of subscribers, which are not found in all copies (e.g. the copy in Otzar HaChochma does not contain the list of subscribers, while the copy in HebrewBooks.com does).
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $5,000
Including buyer's premium
Commentary on the Torah, by "the foremost physician" R. Ovadia Sforno. Venice: Giovanni Griffio, 1567. Bound with: Commentary on Shir HaShirim and Kohelet, by R. Ovadia Sforno. Venice: Giovanni Griffio, 1567.
Copy of the tzaddik of Shtefanesht, Rebbe Avraham Matityahu Friedman. His stamps appear three times on the first title page: two inked – one in orange and the other in purple, and one embossed stamp (without ink).
A name to include in prayer (kvitel) is inscribed on p. 9a: "Zeide Menachem Manis David son of Feige Chana Alter". Apparently, one of the Rebbes Chassidim (perhaps, the one who gave this book to the rebbe) inscribed his name so the rebbe should pray for him.
Ownership inscriptions in Italian script at the top of the first title page: "Yuda son of Eliezer", "Binyamin Pisaro".
The Rebbe of Shtefanesht, Rebbe Avraham Matityahu Friedman (1848-1933, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 131-132), famous tzaddik and wonder-worker. Son of Rebbe Nachum of Shtefanesht – son of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin. At the age of 21, he succeeded his father. Under Rebbe Avraham Matityahu's leadership, Shtefanesht grew to be an important Chassidic center. He served as Rebbe for 70 years. His was re-interred in Israel in the Nachalat Yitzchak cemetery which is known until today as a site for deliverance, visited by many who pray at his gravesite.
92; 16 leaves. 19.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, dampstains. Tears to leaf 8, affecting text. Several leaves contain censored words or sentences, covered by pasted pieces of paper. Many ink stains and glued pieces of paper to leaves 56-57, affecting text. Color endpapers. Stamps. Inscriptions. Early, elegant leather binding, gilt-tooled. Damage to binding.
Copy of the tzaddik of Shtefanesht, Rebbe Avraham Matityahu Friedman. His stamps appear three times on the first title page: two inked – one in orange and the other in purple, and one embossed stamp (without ink).
A name to include in prayer (kvitel) is inscribed on p. 9a: "Zeide Menachem Manis David son of Feige Chana Alter". Apparently, one of the Rebbes Chassidim (perhaps, the one who gave this book to the rebbe) inscribed his name so the rebbe should pray for him.
Ownership inscriptions in Italian script at the top of the first title page: "Yuda son of Eliezer", "Binyamin Pisaro".
The Rebbe of Shtefanesht, Rebbe Avraham Matityahu Friedman (1848-1933, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 131-132), famous tzaddik and wonder-worker. Son of Rebbe Nachum of Shtefanesht – son of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin. At the age of 21, he succeeded his father. Under Rebbe Avraham Matityahu's leadership, Shtefanesht grew to be an important Chassidic center. He served as Rebbe for 70 years. His was re-interred in Israel in the Nachalat Yitzchak cemetery which is known until today as a site for deliverance, visited by many who pray at his gravesite.
92; 16 leaves. 19.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, dampstains. Tears to leaf 8, affecting text. Several leaves contain censored words or sentences, covered by pasted pieces of paper. Many ink stains and glued pieces of paper to leaves 56-57, affecting text. Color endpapers. Stamps. Inscriptions. Early, elegant leather binding, gilt-tooled. Damage to binding.
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $7,500
Including buyer's premium
Tiv Gittin, novellae on Tractate Gittin, by R. Tzvi Hirsh Heller, Rabbi of Alt-Ofen. Zhovkva, 1844. First edition.
Copy of the Tiferet Shlomo of Radomsk and of his sons R. Tzvi Meir and R. Avraham, author of Chesed L'Avraham, and his descendants.
Stamps of R. " Shlomo HaKohen Rabbi of Radomsk – S. Rabinowicz Rabin Mias. Radomsk" (Hebrew and Polish) on the title page and other leaves. The title page bears several other signatures: of his son, R. " Tzvi Meir HaKohen Rabinowitz" (in pencil, slightly faded); of his son, Rebbe "Avraham Yissachar HaKohen"; and of his grandson, R. "Shlomo HaKohen Rabinowitz of Ol[kusz]" (son of R. Avraham Yissachar).
Many Torah inscriptions, ownership inscriptions and signatures appear on the back flyleaf: "… This book belongs to... R. Avraham Yissachar HaKohen Rabinowitz of Radomsk… Written by Shlomo Zalman… son of the Rabbi of Yanov [Janów]… [1879]"; a Torah thought in the name of R. Shmelke of Nikolsburg, signed: "Eliezer Tzvi of Przedbórz"; signature of "Yechiel son of R. Yaakov Aharon Grossman of Radomsk"; and more.
The first Radomsker Rebbe – R. Shlomo HaKohen Rabinowitz, author of Tiferet Shlomo (1803-1866), was one of the greatest Polish rebbes in his generation and an outstanding and holy Torah scholar. His father was a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and of the Yehudi HaKadosh, and in his childhood, R. Shlomo had the merit of accompanying him on his visits to their courts. Later, R. Shlomo became a close disciple of the disciples of the Chozeh and the Yehudi HaKadosh, R. Meir of Apta author of Or LaShamayim, R. Ber of Radoshitz (Radoszyce) and R. Bunim of Peshischa (Przysucha). In 1834, he was appointed rabbi of Radomsko and hundreds of Chassidim thronged to hear his Torah discourses. At first, he tried to deter them, however, with passing time, he acquiesced to their wishes and led one of the most prominent Chassidic courts in his days. Before R. Moshe of Lelov left for Eretz Israel, he instructed his Chassidim in Poland to follow the Radomsker Rebbe, who emphasized the love of the Jewish People and was known for his wisdom and activities in assisting both the public and individuals. Teacher of the "Chassid of Hamburg", R. Aharon Marcus (author of the book HaChassidut), who emigrated from Germany to Poland to cling to the Radomsker Rebbe and Chassidut (R. Aharon Marcus describes the Rebbe in his book: "People were drawn to this remarkable tzaddik in spite of his outward strict and unwavering character… One can imagine that this must have been the appearance of the Kohen Gadol…"). His son, Rebbe Tzvi Meir HaKohen Rabinowitz (1841-1902), tzaddik, kabbalist and an outstanding Torah scholar, succeeded his father as rabbi of Radomsko.
His youngest son, Rebbe Avraham Yissachar HaKohen Rabinowitz of Radomsk (1843-1892, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 113-114), the second rebbe of the Radomsk dynasty, was known for his piety and Torah eminence. He succeeded his father as rebbe of thousands of Chassidim and led one of the most famous Chassidic courts in Poland. He authored Chesed L'Avraham on the Torah and festivals. His son was R. Shlomo HaKohen Rabinowitz of Olkusz, son-in-law of R. Chaim Meir Epstein of Neustadt.
[1], 54, 53-54, 57-78 leaves. Approx. 37 cm. Good-fair condition. Many stains. Heavy wear and a few tears. Damage to margins of title page, affecting border (repaired with paper). New leather binding.
See: Stefansky Classics, p. 37.
Copy of the Tiferet Shlomo of Radomsk and of his sons R. Tzvi Meir and R. Avraham, author of Chesed L'Avraham, and his descendants.
Stamps of R. " Shlomo HaKohen Rabbi of Radomsk – S. Rabinowicz Rabin Mias. Radomsk" (Hebrew and Polish) on the title page and other leaves. The title page bears several other signatures: of his son, R. " Tzvi Meir HaKohen Rabinowitz" (in pencil, slightly faded); of his son, Rebbe "Avraham Yissachar HaKohen"; and of his grandson, R. "Shlomo HaKohen Rabinowitz of Ol[kusz]" (son of R. Avraham Yissachar).
Many Torah inscriptions, ownership inscriptions and signatures appear on the back flyleaf: "… This book belongs to... R. Avraham Yissachar HaKohen Rabinowitz of Radomsk… Written by Shlomo Zalman… son of the Rabbi of Yanov [Janów]… [1879]"; a Torah thought in the name of R. Shmelke of Nikolsburg, signed: "Eliezer Tzvi of Przedbórz"; signature of "Yechiel son of R. Yaakov Aharon Grossman of Radomsk"; and more.
The first Radomsker Rebbe – R. Shlomo HaKohen Rabinowitz, author of Tiferet Shlomo (1803-1866), was one of the greatest Polish rebbes in his generation and an outstanding and holy Torah scholar. His father was a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and of the Yehudi HaKadosh, and in his childhood, R. Shlomo had the merit of accompanying him on his visits to their courts. Later, R. Shlomo became a close disciple of the disciples of the Chozeh and the Yehudi HaKadosh, R. Meir of Apta author of Or LaShamayim, R. Ber of Radoshitz (Radoszyce) and R. Bunim of Peshischa (Przysucha). In 1834, he was appointed rabbi of Radomsko and hundreds of Chassidim thronged to hear his Torah discourses. At first, he tried to deter them, however, with passing time, he acquiesced to their wishes and led one of the most prominent Chassidic courts in his days. Before R. Moshe of Lelov left for Eretz Israel, he instructed his Chassidim in Poland to follow the Radomsker Rebbe, who emphasized the love of the Jewish People and was known for his wisdom and activities in assisting both the public and individuals. Teacher of the "Chassid of Hamburg", R. Aharon Marcus (author of the book HaChassidut), who emigrated from Germany to Poland to cling to the Radomsker Rebbe and Chassidut (R. Aharon Marcus describes the Rebbe in his book: "People were drawn to this remarkable tzaddik in spite of his outward strict and unwavering character… One can imagine that this must have been the appearance of the Kohen Gadol…"). His son, Rebbe Tzvi Meir HaKohen Rabinowitz (1841-1902), tzaddik, kabbalist and an outstanding Torah scholar, succeeded his father as rabbi of Radomsko.
His youngest son, Rebbe Avraham Yissachar HaKohen Rabinowitz of Radomsk (1843-1892, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 113-114), the second rebbe of the Radomsk dynasty, was known for his piety and Torah eminence. He succeeded his father as rebbe of thousands of Chassidim and led one of the most famous Chassidic courts in Poland. He authored Chesed L'Avraham on the Torah and festivals. His son was R. Shlomo HaKohen Rabinowitz of Olkusz, son-in-law of R. Chaim Meir Epstein of Neustadt.
[1], 54, 53-54, 57-78 leaves. Approx. 37 cm. Good-fair condition. Many stains. Heavy wear and a few tears. Damage to margins of title page, affecting border (repaired with paper). New leather binding.
See: Stefansky Classics, p. 37.
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Unsold
Zohar Chadash, by the Tana R. Shimon bar Yochai. Zhovkva, [1804]. Edition with new glosses "to emend mistakes found in the previous printing in Amsterdam", by R. Yaakov son of R. Naftali Hertz of Brody.
Copy owned by the first Sochatchover Rebbe, author of Avnei Nezer, which was bequeathed to his heirs, eventually reaching the hands of his grandson, author of Chasdei David of Sochatchov.
The title page bears a stamp of R. Avraham Borenstein rabbi of Sochatchov (in Hebrew and Polish, slightly blurred). The front flyleaf bears a stamp of his grandson, R. "David son of the rebbe of Sochatchov Borenstein – here Visegrád".
Rabbi Avraham Borenstein (1839-1910), the first Sochatchover Rebbe, was one of the greatest Torah scholars and tzaddikim in his generation. Son-in-law of Rebbe Menachem Mendel "The Seraph" of Kotzk. During his tenure as rebbe leading thousands of Chassidim, he also served as yeshiva dean teaching his special method of Torah study (he writes in the introduction to his book that he received this study method from his father-in-law, Rebbe Mendel of Kotzk). Many Polish Torah scholars were his close disciples (the Chelkat Yo'av; R. Aryeh Zvi Frumer, the Gaon of Koziegłowy; R. Avraham Weinberg, author of Reshit Bikurim, and others). His books Responsa Avnei Nezer and Eglei Tal on the laws of Shabbat are basic texts of Torah study and halacha.
R. David Borenstein was born in Nasielsk in 1876, son of the Shem MiShmuel who was the son of the Avnei Nezer of Sochatchov. At the age of 20, he was appointed rabbi of Visegrád, where he managed a large yeshiva. After WWI, he moved to serve as rabbi of Tomashov and Zgierz. After the passing of his father in 1926, he was appointed rebbe, becoming one of the most prominent rebbes in Poland. He died in the Warsaw ghetto, in Kislev 1942. His children and grandchildren perished in the Holocaust. His many books and most of his writings on halachic and aggadic Talmudic topics (titled Chasdei David) were lost. A few leaves with commentaries on the Passover Haggadah survived and were printed under the title Chasdei David (printed at the end of the Shem MiShmuel Haggadah, Jerusalem 1947, published by his brother Rebbe Chanoch of Sochatchov).
[1], 2-142, [2] leaves. 23 cm. Soft, worn paper. Good-fair condition. Stains, a few tears and heavy wear. Repaired marginal damage to first two leaves. Library stamps. New leather binding.
Copy owned by the first Sochatchover Rebbe, author of Avnei Nezer, which was bequeathed to his heirs, eventually reaching the hands of his grandson, author of Chasdei David of Sochatchov.
The title page bears a stamp of R. Avraham Borenstein rabbi of Sochatchov (in Hebrew and Polish, slightly blurred). The front flyleaf bears a stamp of his grandson, R. "David son of the rebbe of Sochatchov Borenstein – here Visegrád".
Rabbi Avraham Borenstein (1839-1910), the first Sochatchover Rebbe, was one of the greatest Torah scholars and tzaddikim in his generation. Son-in-law of Rebbe Menachem Mendel "The Seraph" of Kotzk. During his tenure as rebbe leading thousands of Chassidim, he also served as yeshiva dean teaching his special method of Torah study (he writes in the introduction to his book that he received this study method from his father-in-law, Rebbe Mendel of Kotzk). Many Polish Torah scholars were his close disciples (the Chelkat Yo'av; R. Aryeh Zvi Frumer, the Gaon of Koziegłowy; R. Avraham Weinberg, author of Reshit Bikurim, and others). His books Responsa Avnei Nezer and Eglei Tal on the laws of Shabbat are basic texts of Torah study and halacha.
R. David Borenstein was born in Nasielsk in 1876, son of the Shem MiShmuel who was the son of the Avnei Nezer of Sochatchov. At the age of 20, he was appointed rabbi of Visegrád, where he managed a large yeshiva. After WWI, he moved to serve as rabbi of Tomashov and Zgierz. After the passing of his father in 1926, he was appointed rebbe, becoming one of the most prominent rebbes in Poland. He died in the Warsaw ghetto, in Kislev 1942. His children and grandchildren perished in the Holocaust. His many books and most of his writings on halachic and aggadic Talmudic topics (titled Chasdei David) were lost. A few leaves with commentaries on the Passover Haggadah survived and were printed under the title Chasdei David (printed at the end of the Shem MiShmuel Haggadah, Jerusalem 1947, published by his brother Rebbe Chanoch of Sochatchov).
[1], 2-142, [2] leaves. 23 cm. Soft, worn paper. Good-fair condition. Stains, a few tears and heavy wear. Repaired marginal damage to first two leaves. Library stamps. New leather binding.
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $9,375
Including buyer's premium
Meor Einayim, Chassidic essays on the Torah and commentary on aggadot and midrash (arranged according to the order of the Talmudic tractates), by Rebbe Menachem Nachum (Twersky) of Chernobyl. Hrubieshov (Hrubieszów), [1818]. Approbation by R. Yosef Katzenelbogen, rabbi of Hrubieshov and Ustyluh, on the last page.
This copy bears signatures of Rebbe Yosef Ungar of Dombrova and Rebbe Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk. Stamps of R. Elimelech Shapira and his sons.
Ownership inscription on the right side of the title page, handwritten and signed by Rebbe Yosef of Dombrova, husband of the granddaughter of the Maggid of Kozhnitz: " Monday of BeHaalotcha, 16th Sivan 1830, I have purchased this book… Yosef son of R. Mordechai David of Dombrova, son-in-law of the M[aggid] of Kozhnitz…".
Two signatures of the Rebbe of Grodzisk on the left side of the title page: " Elimelech, Rabbi of Grodzisk"; " Elimelech Shapira…". Many stamps of the Rebbe inside the book: " Elimelech Shapira Rabbi of Grodzisk". Blurred stamps of his sons, R. Kalonymus Kalman (author of Chovat HaTalmidim) and R. Yeshaya Shapira, on verso of the title page. Early ownership inscription on the leaf preceding the title page: "This book belongs to my master… the great luminary", and inscriptions in Latin characters.
R. Yosef Ungar, rabbi of Kozhnitz and rebbe in Dombrova (1800-1866), prominent G-dly Torah scholar and kabbalist, was the son of Rebbe Mordechai David of Dombrova (1770-1843, leading disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin), and son-in-law of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beria of Kozhnitz. In his youth, he was a close disciple of both the Chozeh of Lublin and the Maggid of Kozhnitz; the latter chose him to marry his granddaughter. In 1814, his father-in-law was appointed rebbe in Kozhnitz (succeeding his father, the Maggid of Kozhnitz, who passed away in Tishrei 1814), and R. Yosef was then appointed as rabbi of Kozhnitz, a position he held until 1846. (At that time, in 1815, his father R. Mordechai David was appointed rebbe in Dombrova, after the passing of the Chozeh of Lublin on 9th Av 1815). After his father's passing, he succeeded him as rebbe in Dombrova.
R. Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk (1824-1892), son of Rebbe Chaim Meir Yechiel – the "Saraf of Mogelnitza", and grandson of the Maggid of Kozhnitz and R. Elimelech of Lizhensk. A prominent rebbe and tzaddik in Poland, he profoundly influenced the entire country. His teacher, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, commanded him to serve as rebbe and receive kvitlach (he later sent a lengthy letter to the Divrei Chaim of Sanz regarding the venerable holiness of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin and his righteous sons). Many Polish rebbes were his disciples, the most renowned of them being R. Yechiel Meir HaLevi, Rebbe of Ostrovtse (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski). He authored Imrei Elimelech and Divrei Elimelech.
In his senior years, when already a grandfather of many (many of his grandsons served as rebbes, including R. Yisrael of Grodzisk and R. Yisrael Perlow, the "Yenuka" of Karlin), he married his second wife, the daughter of the Rebbe of Khentshin (Chęciny). She bore him two sons – R. Kalonymus Kalman (Rebbe of Piaseczno, author of Chovat HaTalmidim, 1889-1943, perished in the Holocaust) and R. Yeshayahu Shapira (HaAdmor HaChalutz, 1891-1945). After his passing, his wife, Rebbetzin Chana Bracha, served as rebbe, receiving kvitlach and even donning tzitzit (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, p. 627). She lived a long life and died in Cheshvan 1939.
126 leaves. 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Dampstains, primarily to last leaves. Worming to many leaves (the leaves were professionally restored with paper). Stamps. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 311.
This copy bears signatures of Rebbe Yosef Ungar of Dombrova and Rebbe Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk. Stamps of R. Elimelech Shapira and his sons.
Ownership inscription on the right side of the title page, handwritten and signed by Rebbe Yosef of Dombrova, husband of the granddaughter of the Maggid of Kozhnitz: " Monday of BeHaalotcha, 16th Sivan 1830, I have purchased this book… Yosef son of R. Mordechai David of Dombrova, son-in-law of the M[aggid] of Kozhnitz…".
Two signatures of the Rebbe of Grodzisk on the left side of the title page: " Elimelech, Rabbi of Grodzisk"; " Elimelech Shapira…". Many stamps of the Rebbe inside the book: " Elimelech Shapira Rabbi of Grodzisk". Blurred stamps of his sons, R. Kalonymus Kalman (author of Chovat HaTalmidim) and R. Yeshaya Shapira, on verso of the title page. Early ownership inscription on the leaf preceding the title page: "This book belongs to my master… the great luminary", and inscriptions in Latin characters.
R. Yosef Ungar, rabbi of Kozhnitz and rebbe in Dombrova (1800-1866), prominent G-dly Torah scholar and kabbalist, was the son of Rebbe Mordechai David of Dombrova (1770-1843, leading disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin), and son-in-law of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beria of Kozhnitz. In his youth, he was a close disciple of both the Chozeh of Lublin and the Maggid of Kozhnitz; the latter chose him to marry his granddaughter. In 1814, his father-in-law was appointed rebbe in Kozhnitz (succeeding his father, the Maggid of Kozhnitz, who passed away in Tishrei 1814), and R. Yosef was then appointed as rabbi of Kozhnitz, a position he held until 1846. (At that time, in 1815, his father R. Mordechai David was appointed rebbe in Dombrova, after the passing of the Chozeh of Lublin on 9th Av 1815). After his father's passing, he succeeded him as rebbe in Dombrova.
R. Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk (1824-1892), son of Rebbe Chaim Meir Yechiel – the "Saraf of Mogelnitza", and grandson of the Maggid of Kozhnitz and R. Elimelech of Lizhensk. A prominent rebbe and tzaddik in Poland, he profoundly influenced the entire country. His teacher, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, commanded him to serve as rebbe and receive kvitlach (he later sent a lengthy letter to the Divrei Chaim of Sanz regarding the venerable holiness of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin and his righteous sons). Many Polish rebbes were his disciples, the most renowned of them being R. Yechiel Meir HaLevi, Rebbe of Ostrovtse (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski). He authored Imrei Elimelech and Divrei Elimelech.
In his senior years, when already a grandfather of many (many of his grandsons served as rebbes, including R. Yisrael of Grodzisk and R. Yisrael Perlow, the "Yenuka" of Karlin), he married his second wife, the daughter of the Rebbe of Khentshin (Chęciny). She bore him two sons – R. Kalonymus Kalman (Rebbe of Piaseczno, author of Chovat HaTalmidim, 1889-1943, perished in the Holocaust) and R. Yeshayahu Shapira (HaAdmor HaChalutz, 1891-1945). After his passing, his wife, Rebbetzin Chana Bracha, served as rebbe, receiving kvitlach and even donning tzitzit (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, p. 627). She lived a long life and died in Cheshvan 1939.
126 leaves. 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Dampstains, primarily to last leaves. Worming to many leaves (the leaves were professionally restored with paper). Stamps. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 311.
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $1,625
Including buyer's premium
Midrash Shmuel on Pirkei Avot, by Rabbi Shmuel di Ozida. "As printed in Amsterdam" [Russia-Poland, ca. 1820].
Copy of Rebbe Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk, and of his sons Rebbe Kalonymus Shapira of Piaseczno, author of Chovat HaTalmidim, and R. Yeshayahu Shapira, "HaAdmor HaChalutz".
The signature of R. Elimelech appears at the top of the title page: " Elimelech Rabbi of Grodzhisk". The title page and other leaves in the book bear many stamps of R. Elimelech: " Elimelech Shapira Rabbi of Grodzhisk", and of his sons: " Kalonymus Kalman son of R. E. Shapira – Grodzhisk", " Yeshaya son of R. E. Shapira – Grodzhisk".
R. Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk (1824-1892), son of Rebbe Chaim Meir Yechiel – the "Saraf of Mogelnitza", and grandson of the Maggid of Kozhnitz and R. Elimelech of Lizhensk. A prominent rebbe and tzaddik in Poland, he profoundly influenced the entire country. His teacher, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, commanded him to serve as rebbe and receive kvitlach (he later sent a lengthy letter to the Divrei Chaim of Sanz regarding the venerable holiness of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin and his righteous sons). Many Polish rebbes were his disciples, the most renowned of them being R. Yechiel Meir HaLevi, Rebbe of Ostrovtse (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski). He authored Imrei Elimelech and Divrei Elimelech.
In his senior years, when already a grandfather of many (many of his grandsons served as rebbes, including R. Yisrael of Grodzisk and R. Yisrael Perlow, the "Yenuka" of Karlin), he married his second wife, the daughter of the Rebbe of Khentshin (Chęciny). She bore him two sons – R. Kalonymus Kalman and R. Yeshayahu (see their biographies below). After his passing, his wife, Rebbetzin Chana Bracha, served as rebbe, receiving kvitlach and even donning tzitzit (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, p. 627). She lived a long life and died in Cheshvan 1939.
Their son, Rebbe Kalonymus Kalmish Shapira of Piaseczno (1889-1943), was a holy tzaddik as well as a profound and original Torah scholar. Son-in-law of Rebbe Yerachmiel Moshe Hopstein of Kozhnitz. He was a prominent Chassidic thinker during WWII and the preceding era. In 1909, he began serving as rebbe in Piaseczno, a town near Warsaw, and in 1913 he was appointed rabbi of the town. In 1923, he opened his Daat Moshe Yeshiva in Warsaw, personally devoting himself to each and every disciple. An exemplary educator, he gave his soul to teaching his disciples and educating the young generation. His original books earned him worldwide renown: Chovat HaTalmidim for young men (Warsaw 1932, the only book published in his lifetime), Hachsharat HaAvrechim, Mevo She'arim, Derech HaMelech, Bnei Machshava Tova, and his diary Tzav V'Ziruz. His books are a unique blend of Chabad doctrine with Karlin and Kozhnitz thought – original profundity with passionate yearning. His most poignant work is the historical Esh Kodesh, a powerful book compiling the sermons he delivered and wrote during the Holocaust, from 1940 to 1942, while confined in the Warsaw ghetto. This book offers a moving portrayal of the depth of emotional torment experienced by believing Jews such as himself, in times of Divine concealment such as the Holocaust. In 1943, he placed his manuscripts in a milk flask and buried them in the ghetto. They were miraculously found during construction work in the ghetto area several years after the war. Following the Warsaw Ghetto uprising, the Rebbe, together with the remaining Jews, was deported to the Trawniki concentration camp near Lublin, where he was murdered on 5th Cheshvan 1943.
Their youngest son, Rebbe Yeshayahu Shapira (1891-1945), immigrated to Eretz Israel in 1920 and was very active and influential within the Po'el Mizrachi settlement movement. With his warm Chassidic fervor, he encouraged his fellow members to become G-d fearing Jews, and became known as "HaAdmor HaChalutz". In 1943, he realized his lifelong dream – to farm his own plot of land in Kfar Pines. Unfortunately, he passed away shortly afterward at the home of his brother-in-law Rebbe Chanoch Bornstein of Sochatchev upon hearing the terrible tidings from Europe.
[2], 3-84; 36 leaves. 23.5 cm. Soft paper. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Much damage and worming, affecting text (the entire book was professionally restored with paper). Stamps. New leather binding.
Copy of Rebbe Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk, and of his sons Rebbe Kalonymus Shapira of Piaseczno, author of Chovat HaTalmidim, and R. Yeshayahu Shapira, "HaAdmor HaChalutz".
The signature of R. Elimelech appears at the top of the title page: " Elimelech Rabbi of Grodzhisk". The title page and other leaves in the book bear many stamps of R. Elimelech: " Elimelech Shapira Rabbi of Grodzhisk", and of his sons: " Kalonymus Kalman son of R. E. Shapira – Grodzhisk", " Yeshaya son of R. E. Shapira – Grodzhisk".
R. Elimelech Shapira of Grodzisk (1824-1892), son of Rebbe Chaim Meir Yechiel – the "Saraf of Mogelnitza", and grandson of the Maggid of Kozhnitz and R. Elimelech of Lizhensk. A prominent rebbe and tzaddik in Poland, he profoundly influenced the entire country. His teacher, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, commanded him to serve as rebbe and receive kvitlach (he later sent a lengthy letter to the Divrei Chaim of Sanz regarding the venerable holiness of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin and his righteous sons). Many Polish rebbes were his disciples, the most renowned of them being R. Yechiel Meir HaLevi, Rebbe of Ostrovtse (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski). He authored Imrei Elimelech and Divrei Elimelech.
In his senior years, when already a grandfather of many (many of his grandsons served as rebbes, including R. Yisrael of Grodzisk and R. Yisrael Perlow, the "Yenuka" of Karlin), he married his second wife, the daughter of the Rebbe of Khentshin (Chęciny). She bore him two sons – R. Kalonymus Kalman and R. Yeshayahu (see their biographies below). After his passing, his wife, Rebbetzin Chana Bracha, served as rebbe, receiving kvitlach and even donning tzitzit (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, p. 627). She lived a long life and died in Cheshvan 1939.
Their son, Rebbe Kalonymus Kalmish Shapira of Piaseczno (1889-1943), was a holy tzaddik as well as a profound and original Torah scholar. Son-in-law of Rebbe Yerachmiel Moshe Hopstein of Kozhnitz. He was a prominent Chassidic thinker during WWII and the preceding era. In 1909, he began serving as rebbe in Piaseczno, a town near Warsaw, and in 1913 he was appointed rabbi of the town. In 1923, he opened his Daat Moshe Yeshiva in Warsaw, personally devoting himself to each and every disciple. An exemplary educator, he gave his soul to teaching his disciples and educating the young generation. His original books earned him worldwide renown: Chovat HaTalmidim for young men (Warsaw 1932, the only book published in his lifetime), Hachsharat HaAvrechim, Mevo She'arim, Derech HaMelech, Bnei Machshava Tova, and his diary Tzav V'Ziruz. His books are a unique blend of Chabad doctrine with Karlin and Kozhnitz thought – original profundity with passionate yearning. His most poignant work is the historical Esh Kodesh, a powerful book compiling the sermons he delivered and wrote during the Holocaust, from 1940 to 1942, while confined in the Warsaw ghetto. This book offers a moving portrayal of the depth of emotional torment experienced by believing Jews such as himself, in times of Divine concealment such as the Holocaust. In 1943, he placed his manuscripts in a milk flask and buried them in the ghetto. They were miraculously found during construction work in the ghetto area several years after the war. Following the Warsaw Ghetto uprising, the Rebbe, together with the remaining Jews, was deported to the Trawniki concentration camp near Lublin, where he was murdered on 5th Cheshvan 1943.
Their youngest son, Rebbe Yeshayahu Shapira (1891-1945), immigrated to Eretz Israel in 1920 and was very active and influential within the Po'el Mizrachi settlement movement. With his warm Chassidic fervor, he encouraged his fellow members to become G-d fearing Jews, and became known as "HaAdmor HaChalutz". In 1943, he realized his lifelong dream – to farm his own plot of land in Kfar Pines. Unfortunately, he passed away shortly afterward at the home of his brother-in-law Rebbe Chanoch Bornstein of Sochatchev upon hearing the terrible tidings from Europe.
[2], 3-84; 36 leaves. 23.5 cm. Soft paper. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Much damage and worming, affecting text (the entire book was professionally restored with paper). Stamps. New leather binding.
Category
Chassidut – Important Copies, Signatures and Dedications
Catalogue