Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
Displaying 37 - 43 of 43
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $8,750
Including buyer's premium
Likutei Halachot, explanations and novellae following the order of the four sections of Shulchan Aruch, based on the teachings of R. Nachman of Breslov, by R. Natan of Breslov (Moharnat), primary disciple of R. Nachman. [Iași]-Zhovkva-Lviv: [1843]-1861. All seven parts in seven volumes. First editions.
Likutei Halachot is one of the most important compositions of Breslov teachings, wherein R. Natan of Breslov gives Chassidic and kabbalistic explanations, together with practical guidelines of conduct in G-d's service, arranged in the order of the laws in Shulchan Aruch – following the unique method of his teacher, R. Nachman of Breslov. Moharnat testified that while compiling and writing these books he felt a "Divine shine". The son of R. Nachman Chazan of Tulchyn (who arranged the books for print) attested that his father also felt a Divine shine during the course of his work, compelling him at times to lay aside his quill and stop writing – see below.
Likutei Halachot was printed over the course of some twenty years. Only the first volume was printed in the lifetime of the author, R. Natan of Breslov, in the city of Iași, while the rest of the volumes were printed posthumously in Zhovkva and Lemberg (Lviv). Likutei Halachot was reprinted in many editions, from the years immediately following the first edition until today.
R. Natan's writings were arranged for print by his close disciple, R. Nachman Chazan of Tulchyn (1813-1884), who with great devotion copied the writings of his teacher R. Natan, prepared them for print, and published them. R. Nachman's son R. Avraham of Tulchyn, author of Biur HaLikutim, describes his father's single-minded devotion to the task of preparing the books for print, and attests that his father merited feeling a Divine shine during the course of his work: "The books Likutei Halachot… he reconciled himself to extreme deprivation for the course of many years and toiled greatly to copy all the six volumes so that they would be ready for print… He received no reimbursement or payment from Moharnat, not even the smallest amount… I heard him say that upon concluding the writing of the Likutei Halachot books, Moharnat once asked him if he felt Divine shine… To which he answered: Yes! And it was understood from his words that several times, due to the excitement and Divine shine which shone upon him, he was compelled to lay aside his quill and completely cease writing". R. Avraham further describes the difficulties his father encountered while publishing the first volume: "He then applied himself to print at least the first volume, Orach Chaim Part I, and for this task R. Natan gave him a bit, to cover the travel expenses to Iași in Wallachia. And his wife… travelled to Breslov to inform R. Natan that if he does not provide her with at least minimal sustenance, she and her children will die of starvation… My father himself, endeavored to reduce expenses throughout the journey, and at the beginning even travelled on foot some of the way, since the printing costs alone were beyond R. Natan's means, due to his extreme poverty and his concealment" (Kochvei Or, Jerusalem, 2009, pp. 282-283).
R. Natan Sternhartz of Nemirov (Nemyriv) – Moharnat of Breslov (1780-1844), was the primary disciple of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov and disseminator of his teachings, in time succeeding him as leader of the Breslov Chassidim. During his teacher's lifetime, he was the personification of a disciple, and just like R. Chaim Vital disseminated and revealed the teachings of the Arizal, R. Natan revealed and disseminated the teachings of R. Nachman throughout the world. He arranged and published his teacher's works (including: Likutei Moharan, Sefer HaMidot, Sipurei Maasiot, and others). Reputedly, R. Nachman declared that if not for R. Natan, not even one leaf of his writings would have survived. R. Natan's own compositions expound upon and explain the teachings of R. Nachman. His magnum opus is this book – Likutei Halachot. R. Natan was renowned from his youth as an exceptional Torah scholar, who devotedly and ardently served his Creator. His prayers and holiness were legendary. His biography is recorded in detail in Chayei Moharnat and in BaEsh UvaMayim – Toldot Moharnat, Jerusalem, 1996.
Seven volumes. Vol. I (Orach Chaim, Part I): [2], 117, [1] leaves. Vol. II (Orach Chaim, Part II): [1], 66; 108, [2] leaves. Including title page (most extant copies of this part lack title page). 108 leaves originally appearing at beginning of book, erroneously bound here after second sequence. Final [2] leaves – omissions from Likutei Halachot Orach Chaim and errata for part III of Orach Chaim (these leaves were not listed in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book). Vol. III (Orach Chaim, part III): 54; 18; 5, [7], 14-47, 44-49, [2], 56-81, 71-74; 7-16 leaves. Significant misfoliation. Lacking title page, leaf 55 of first sequence, and approx. 6 leaves between final sequence and previous one. Vol. IV (Yoreh De'ah): [2], 256 leaves. Lacking 11 final leaves (257-267) of indexes. Printing error in leaves 3-4 (pages printed in wrong order). Vol. V (Even HaEzer): [2], 38; 10; 18 leaves. 18 leaves of indexes for Choshen Mishpat part II and Even HaEzer bound here instead of at end of Choshen Mishpat part II. Vol. VI (Choshen Mishpat, part I): [2], 79; 119 leaves. Vol. VII (Choshen Mishpat, part II): [2], 3, 5-23; [39]; [35] leaves.
Size varies, 20.5-25.5 cm. Condition varies, good-fair to fair. Stains. Dampstains. Tears in various places, repaired in part (some leaves professionally restored). Tears to some leaves with loss and damage to text (including damage to text and borders of some title pages). Leaves trimmed, with damage to text in several places. Worming, affecting text in some volumes (vol. III with significant worming to some leaves). Stamps and handwritten inscriptions in several volumes. Six of seven volumes with new, non-uniform leather bindings.
Regarding the place and year of printing of the first part, see: Alim LiTerufah (letters of Moharnat), Berdychiv 1896, letters 373-417; Sichot VeSipurim (Chazan), Jerusalem [1913], section 47; Neve Tzaddikim, Bnei Brak 1969, pp. 88, 98-112. See also: Yosef Weiss, HaSefer HaNisraf by R. Nachman of Breslov, Kiryat Sefer, 45, p. 270, note 77; Y. Yudlov, First Edition of Likutei Halachot on Orach Chaim, Kiryat Sefer, 62, pp. 933-935.
According to Yudlov, ibid., Part II of Orach Chaim was printed ca. 1847, and the title page was added (to some copies) later.
For further bibliographic details related to the different parts of this edition, see: G. Scholem, Eleh Shemot, Jerusalem 1928, pp. 9-11, no. 21-27.
Likutei Halachot is one of the most important compositions of Breslov teachings, wherein R. Natan of Breslov gives Chassidic and kabbalistic explanations, together with practical guidelines of conduct in G-d's service, arranged in the order of the laws in Shulchan Aruch – following the unique method of his teacher, R. Nachman of Breslov. Moharnat testified that while compiling and writing these books he felt a "Divine shine". The son of R. Nachman Chazan of Tulchyn (who arranged the books for print) attested that his father also felt a Divine shine during the course of his work, compelling him at times to lay aside his quill and stop writing – see below.
Likutei Halachot was printed over the course of some twenty years. Only the first volume was printed in the lifetime of the author, R. Natan of Breslov, in the city of Iași, while the rest of the volumes were printed posthumously in Zhovkva and Lemberg (Lviv). Likutei Halachot was reprinted in many editions, from the years immediately following the first edition until today.
R. Natan's writings were arranged for print by his close disciple, R. Nachman Chazan of Tulchyn (1813-1884), who with great devotion copied the writings of his teacher R. Natan, prepared them for print, and published them. R. Nachman's son R. Avraham of Tulchyn, author of Biur HaLikutim, describes his father's single-minded devotion to the task of preparing the books for print, and attests that his father merited feeling a Divine shine during the course of his work: "The books Likutei Halachot… he reconciled himself to extreme deprivation for the course of many years and toiled greatly to copy all the six volumes so that they would be ready for print… He received no reimbursement or payment from Moharnat, not even the smallest amount… I heard him say that upon concluding the writing of the Likutei Halachot books, Moharnat once asked him if he felt Divine shine… To which he answered: Yes! And it was understood from his words that several times, due to the excitement and Divine shine which shone upon him, he was compelled to lay aside his quill and completely cease writing". R. Avraham further describes the difficulties his father encountered while publishing the first volume: "He then applied himself to print at least the first volume, Orach Chaim Part I, and for this task R. Natan gave him a bit, to cover the travel expenses to Iași in Wallachia. And his wife… travelled to Breslov to inform R. Natan that if he does not provide her with at least minimal sustenance, she and her children will die of starvation… My father himself, endeavored to reduce expenses throughout the journey, and at the beginning even travelled on foot some of the way, since the printing costs alone were beyond R. Natan's means, due to his extreme poverty and his concealment" (Kochvei Or, Jerusalem, 2009, pp. 282-283).
R. Natan Sternhartz of Nemirov (Nemyriv) – Moharnat of Breslov (1780-1844), was the primary disciple of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov and disseminator of his teachings, in time succeeding him as leader of the Breslov Chassidim. During his teacher's lifetime, he was the personification of a disciple, and just like R. Chaim Vital disseminated and revealed the teachings of the Arizal, R. Natan revealed and disseminated the teachings of R. Nachman throughout the world. He arranged and published his teacher's works (including: Likutei Moharan, Sefer HaMidot, Sipurei Maasiot, and others). Reputedly, R. Nachman declared that if not for R. Natan, not even one leaf of his writings would have survived. R. Natan's own compositions expound upon and explain the teachings of R. Nachman. His magnum opus is this book – Likutei Halachot. R. Natan was renowned from his youth as an exceptional Torah scholar, who devotedly and ardently served his Creator. His prayers and holiness were legendary. His biography is recorded in detail in Chayei Moharnat and in BaEsh UvaMayim – Toldot Moharnat, Jerusalem, 1996.
Seven volumes. Vol. I (Orach Chaim, Part I): [2], 117, [1] leaves. Vol. II (Orach Chaim, Part II): [1], 66; 108, [2] leaves. Including title page (most extant copies of this part lack title page). 108 leaves originally appearing at beginning of book, erroneously bound here after second sequence. Final [2] leaves – omissions from Likutei Halachot Orach Chaim and errata for part III of Orach Chaim (these leaves were not listed in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book). Vol. III (Orach Chaim, part III): 54; 18; 5, [7], 14-47, 44-49, [2], 56-81, 71-74; 7-16 leaves. Significant misfoliation. Lacking title page, leaf 55 of first sequence, and approx. 6 leaves between final sequence and previous one. Vol. IV (Yoreh De'ah): [2], 256 leaves. Lacking 11 final leaves (257-267) of indexes. Printing error in leaves 3-4 (pages printed in wrong order). Vol. V (Even HaEzer): [2], 38; 10; 18 leaves. 18 leaves of indexes for Choshen Mishpat part II and Even HaEzer bound here instead of at end of Choshen Mishpat part II. Vol. VI (Choshen Mishpat, part I): [2], 79; 119 leaves. Vol. VII (Choshen Mishpat, part II): [2], 3, 5-23; [39]; [35] leaves.
Size varies, 20.5-25.5 cm. Condition varies, good-fair to fair. Stains. Dampstains. Tears in various places, repaired in part (some leaves professionally restored). Tears to some leaves with loss and damage to text (including damage to text and borders of some title pages). Leaves trimmed, with damage to text in several places. Worming, affecting text in some volumes (vol. III with significant worming to some leaves). Stamps and handwritten inscriptions in several volumes. Six of seven volumes with new, non-uniform leather bindings.
Regarding the place and year of printing of the first part, see: Alim LiTerufah (letters of Moharnat), Berdychiv 1896, letters 373-417; Sichot VeSipurim (Chazan), Jerusalem [1913], section 47; Neve Tzaddikim, Bnei Brak 1969, pp. 88, 98-112. See also: Yosef Weiss, HaSefer HaNisraf by R. Nachman of Breslov, Kiryat Sefer, 45, p. 270, note 77; Y. Yudlov, First Edition of Likutei Halachot on Orach Chaim, Kiryat Sefer, 62, pp. 933-935.
According to Yudlov, ibid., Part II of Orach Chaim was printed ca. 1847, and the title page was added (to some copies) later.
For further bibliographic details related to the different parts of this edition, see: G. Scholem, Eleh Shemot, Jerusalem 1928, pp. 9-11, no. 21-27.
Category
Chassidut – Manuscripts, Signatures and Books
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $3,500
Including buyer's premium
Zera Kodesh, Chassidic homiletics. Part I on the Torah and Part II on the Festivals, by Rebbe Naftali Tzvi Horowitz of Ropshitz (Ropczyce). Lemberg (Lviv), 1868. First edition. Two parts in one volume. Lacking title page of part II.
Interesting approbation at the beginning of part I, by a close disciple of the author – Rebbe Chaim of Sanz. He writes that in the past he did not agree to print the holy teachings of R. Naftali of Ropshitz, "because I knew that the holy author himself did not approve of printing his Torah novellae. However, on second thought, I decided that it was good that the printers published these writings. It is known that R. Chaim Vital also refrained from publishing his novellae and the teachings he received from his teacher, the Ari, and did not allow his disciples to write them; nevertheless, the righteous of the generation made efforts to copy, write and publish them, and the world shone…". On the verso of the approbation leaf is a notice by the person who brought the book to press: "I have called the book Or HaNer, however the holy rebbe of Sanz called it Zera Kodesh… and I have nullified my will before his holy will".
Two parts in one volume. [2], 124; 120 leaves. Lacking title page of part two. 22 cm. Paper partially browned. Good-fair condition. Many stains. Worming, affecting text, repaired with paper (some leaves professionally restored). Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 208.
Interesting approbation at the beginning of part I, by a close disciple of the author – Rebbe Chaim of Sanz. He writes that in the past he did not agree to print the holy teachings of R. Naftali of Ropshitz, "because I knew that the holy author himself did not approve of printing his Torah novellae. However, on second thought, I decided that it was good that the printers published these writings. It is known that R. Chaim Vital also refrained from publishing his novellae and the teachings he received from his teacher, the Ari, and did not allow his disciples to write them; nevertheless, the righteous of the generation made efforts to copy, write and publish them, and the world shone…". On the verso of the approbation leaf is a notice by the person who brought the book to press: "I have called the book Or HaNer, however the holy rebbe of Sanz called it Zera Kodesh… and I have nullified my will before his holy will".
Two parts in one volume. [2], 124; 120 leaves. Lacking title page of part two. 22 cm. Paper partially browned. Good-fair condition. Many stains. Worming, affecting text, repaired with paper (some leaves professionally restored). Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 208.
Category
Chassidut – Manuscripts, Signatures and Books
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $4,000
Sold for: $5,000
Including buyer's premium
Complete set (five parts in two volumes) of Yismach Moshe on the Torah – Chassidic and Kabbalistic homiletics, following the order of the weekly Torah portions, by R. Moshe Teitelbaum, rabbi of Ujhel (Sátoraljaújhely). Parts I-V, on the Books of Bereshit, Shemot, Vayikra, Bamidbar and Devarim. Lviv, 1848-1861. First edition of all five parts, with a separate title page for each part.
The Yismach Moshe series was prepared for print by the author's grandson and close disciple, Rebbe Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum, rabbi of Sighet, author of Yitav Lev, and his glosses and additions, introduced with the words "so said the editor", are included in several places.
A brief foreword by the Yitav Lev was printed at the beginning of the Bereshit volume. Approbations by the Divrei Chaim and the Yitav Lev were printed at the beginning of the Bamidbar and Devarim volumes.
The author, R. Moshe Teitelbaum, rabbi of Ujhel (1759-1841), was the progenitor of the Sighet and Satmar dynasties, as well as other prominent Chassidic dynasties. Renowned already in his youth as an outstanding Torah scholar, he had the merit of studying in the Beit Midrash of the Vilna Gaon, and holding Torah discussions with him (see: HaGaon HaKadosh Baal Yismach Moshe, by R. Yosef Moshe Sofer, Brooklyn, 1984, pp. 25-26). He served as rabbi of Shinova (Sieniawa) and Ujhel. He embraced Chassidut in his later years, and became a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and the Ohev Yisrael of Apta. In 1808, he was appointed rabbi of Ujhel and began disseminating Chassidut in Hungary. He was renowned in his times as rebbe and wonder-worker and frequently gave out amulets. His books include: Responsa Heshiv Moshe on halachah, Yismach Moshe on the Torah and Tefilla LeMoshe on Tehillim.
Signatures and ownership inscriptions on the endpaper and title page of the Bereshit part, including: "Asher Anshel Waxman"; "Yehuda Leib Kahana Rappaport". Signatures and ownership inscriptions on the title page of the Shemot part, including: "Eliezer Binyamin Deutsch".
Two volumes. Vol. I (Bereshit): [1], 117 leaves. Vol. II (Shemot-Devarim): 90; 42; [1], 49; 72, [1] leaves. Approx. 23 cm. Overall good to good-fair condition. Stains, including dark dampstains to several leaves. Minor worming to several leaves in both volumes. Tears and damage to final leaf of vol. I, affecting text. A few pages trimmed close to headings. Many handwritten inscriptions on title page of Shemot. Bamidbar-Devarim in vol. II: wear and creases, tears to several leaves, slightly affecting text, wear and many tears to title page of Bamidbar, repaired with tape and paper. New leather bindings.
Stefansky Chassidut, nos. 239, 240.
The Yismach Moshe series was prepared for print by the author's grandson and close disciple, Rebbe Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum, rabbi of Sighet, author of Yitav Lev, and his glosses and additions, introduced with the words "so said the editor", are included in several places.
A brief foreword by the Yitav Lev was printed at the beginning of the Bereshit volume. Approbations by the Divrei Chaim and the Yitav Lev were printed at the beginning of the Bamidbar and Devarim volumes.
The author, R. Moshe Teitelbaum, rabbi of Ujhel (1759-1841), was the progenitor of the Sighet and Satmar dynasties, as well as other prominent Chassidic dynasties. Renowned already in his youth as an outstanding Torah scholar, he had the merit of studying in the Beit Midrash of the Vilna Gaon, and holding Torah discussions with him (see: HaGaon HaKadosh Baal Yismach Moshe, by R. Yosef Moshe Sofer, Brooklyn, 1984, pp. 25-26). He served as rabbi of Shinova (Sieniawa) and Ujhel. He embraced Chassidut in his later years, and became a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and the Ohev Yisrael of Apta. In 1808, he was appointed rabbi of Ujhel and began disseminating Chassidut in Hungary. He was renowned in his times as rebbe and wonder-worker and frequently gave out amulets. His books include: Responsa Heshiv Moshe on halachah, Yismach Moshe on the Torah and Tefilla LeMoshe on Tehillim.
Signatures and ownership inscriptions on the endpaper and title page of the Bereshit part, including: "Asher Anshel Waxman"; "Yehuda Leib Kahana Rappaport". Signatures and ownership inscriptions on the title page of the Shemot part, including: "Eliezer Binyamin Deutsch".
Two volumes. Vol. I (Bereshit): [1], 117 leaves. Vol. II (Shemot-Devarim): 90; 42; [1], 49; 72, [1] leaves. Approx. 23 cm. Overall good to good-fair condition. Stains, including dark dampstains to several leaves. Minor worming to several leaves in both volumes. Tears and damage to final leaf of vol. I, affecting text. A few pages trimmed close to headings. Many handwritten inscriptions on title page of Shemot. Bamidbar-Devarim in vol. II: wear and creases, tears to several leaves, slightly affecting text, wear and many tears to title page of Bamidbar, repaired with tape and paper. New leather bindings.
Stefansky Chassidut, nos. 239, 240.
Category
Chassidut – Manuscripts, Signatures and Books
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $2,750
Including buyer's premium
Collection of first editions of all the parts of the Divrei Chaim series (responsa, halachah and novellae, homiletics and Chassidut), by Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz:
• Divrei Chaim, two parts, on the laws of Gittin (divorce documents) and Mikvaot (ritual baths). Zhovkva, 1864. First edition.
This is the first work of the Divrei Chaim to be published (Responsa Divrei Chaim was published 11 years later, in 1875). In his preface, the author writes "I did not write my name for the obvious reason", yet from the second edition (Munkacs 1892) onwards, the name of the author was printed on the title page. In the foreword to the second edition, the son of the author, Rebbe Baruch of Gorlitz, related that his father declared on his deathbed that he praises and thanks G-d that he merited to reach correct conclusions in the laws of Gittin and Mikvaot in this work. He assured that anyone who rules based on this book, would surely rule correctly.
Reputedly, when the book arrived from the printing press, the author "rejoiced greatly", and exclaimed that when Mashiach would come, he would go to meet him holding this book, together with all other authors (see Zochrenu LeChaim, Munkacs 1938, p. 331).
Stamp of R. "Shmuel Abba Snieg, rabbi of Munich" (a leader of Lithuanian Jewry, served as chief rabbi of Munich for twenty years and chairman of the Vaad Agudath HaRabbanim in the US Zone of Germany, d. 1970).
Handwritten gloss on p. 12b of the final sequence.
[3], 34, [1], 33-44; 1-27; [1], 23, [1] leaves. Approx. 34 cm. Good condition. Stains (including many stains to first and final leaves), tears and wear. Stamps. New leather binding.
• Responsa Divrei Chaim, responsa on the four parts of Shulchan Aruch. Lviv, 1875. First edition. Two parts in one volume.
A large part of the responsa printed in Responsa Divrei Chaim pertain to questions of agunot. Reputedly, when the Divrei Chaim "needed to sign a responsum regarding an agunah… he practiced much asceticism and immersions before he affixed his signature to the permit" (see Pitcha Zuta, Eruvin, 1907, foreword). This was his practice when writing responsa to questions he received, and also in his final years, when he began arranging his responsa for print.
Reputedly, when he worked on arranging and preparing his responsa for print, the Divrei Chaim would dictate the final version to his scribe, R. Abish Meyer, after midnight. After dictating several sections, the Divrei Chaim would go to immerse in the mikveh, then continue dictating the next few sections, and immerse again, "and thus he would immerse five times a night, while the scribe would write half a responsum, or one complete, brief responsum… in order to produce Torah novellae in holiness and purity" (see Mekor Chaim, Biłgoraj 1912, section 13).
Signature and ownership inscription on the title page: "Binyamin Menachem Altman"; "I purchased it on Chol HaMoed Sukkot 1911 from the estate of R. P. Horowitz, Bistritz, Yehoshua HaKohen – for my son the young Torah scholar R. Yechezkel Shraga HaKohen". Signature at the top of p. 1a: "Avraham Shimon Mandel". Stamp on preceding leaf: "Yehuda Mandel". Other stamps.
Two parts in one volume. [2], 134; [4], 120 leaves. Approx. 36 cm. Good condition. Stains. Worming to some leaves, primarily to margins. Marginal tears to several leaves, repaired with paper. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New leather binding.
• Divrei Chaim – Part I, on the Torah, Munkacs (Mukachevo), 1877; Part II, on the festivals and Tractate Bava Metzia. Munkacs, 1877. First edition, published by "the sons of the author". Two volumes.
Divrei Chaim on the Torah and festivals was published after the passing of the author. In the foreword to the composition on the Torah, the sons describe their holy father and the day of his death: "…his great holiness and piety… was well-known. He dedicated his entire life to Torah study, devoted service and great fear of Heaven from his youth… Our own eyes saw on the day of his death… that he sanctified himself like the heavenly Seraphim with yichudim and great fervor which did not cease for one moment until his soul clung to the Heavenly Light…". At the end of the introduction they write about their father's will to publish these books: "…We, the sons of our holy father the author, have expended effort in printing this composition in compliance with his command before his death to print and publish it speedily. The merit of our father should protect us and the entire Jewish People, and strengthen Torah and fear of Heaven, and we and all our Jewish brethren should be graced with an abundance of blessing and success".
In the foreword to part II, the author's sons relate that their father, the Divrei Chaim studied tractate Bava Metzia "with great concentration with a group of eminent Torah scholars for over 20 years and that he composed wonderful novellae…". They also write that their father's novellae follow both revealed and esoteric approaches.
Stamp in the first volume: "Aharon R.". On the back endpaper of vol. II, ownership inscription of R. Alter Steinmetz: "This Divrei Chaim was gifted to me by my father, Alter son of R. Shlomo Steinmetz".
Vol. I: [2], 84 leaves, [5] leaves. Vol. II: [2], 72; 48 leaves. Approx. 22-23 cm. Overall good-fair condition. Stains. Tears to several leaves. Vol. I – dry and brittle paper. Marginal open tears to title page. Vol. II – worming affecting text, inscriptions and stamps. Open tear to final leaf, affecting text. New bindings.
• Divrei Chaim, two parts, on the laws of Gittin (divorce documents) and Mikvaot (ritual baths). Zhovkva, 1864. First edition.
This is the first work of the Divrei Chaim to be published (Responsa Divrei Chaim was published 11 years later, in 1875). In his preface, the author writes "I did not write my name for the obvious reason", yet from the second edition (Munkacs 1892) onwards, the name of the author was printed on the title page. In the foreword to the second edition, the son of the author, Rebbe Baruch of Gorlitz, related that his father declared on his deathbed that he praises and thanks G-d that he merited to reach correct conclusions in the laws of Gittin and Mikvaot in this work. He assured that anyone who rules based on this book, would surely rule correctly.
Reputedly, when the book arrived from the printing press, the author "rejoiced greatly", and exclaimed that when Mashiach would come, he would go to meet him holding this book, together with all other authors (see Zochrenu LeChaim, Munkacs 1938, p. 331).
Stamp of R. "Shmuel Abba Snieg, rabbi of Munich" (a leader of Lithuanian Jewry, served as chief rabbi of Munich for twenty years and chairman of the Vaad Agudath HaRabbanim in the US Zone of Germany, d. 1970).
Handwritten gloss on p. 12b of the final sequence.
[3], 34, [1], 33-44; 1-27; [1], 23, [1] leaves. Approx. 34 cm. Good condition. Stains (including many stains to first and final leaves), tears and wear. Stamps. New leather binding.
• Responsa Divrei Chaim, responsa on the four parts of Shulchan Aruch. Lviv, 1875. First edition. Two parts in one volume.
A large part of the responsa printed in Responsa Divrei Chaim pertain to questions of agunot. Reputedly, when the Divrei Chaim "needed to sign a responsum regarding an agunah… he practiced much asceticism and immersions before he affixed his signature to the permit" (see Pitcha Zuta, Eruvin, 1907, foreword). This was his practice when writing responsa to questions he received, and also in his final years, when he began arranging his responsa for print.
Reputedly, when he worked on arranging and preparing his responsa for print, the Divrei Chaim would dictate the final version to his scribe, R. Abish Meyer, after midnight. After dictating several sections, the Divrei Chaim would go to immerse in the mikveh, then continue dictating the next few sections, and immerse again, "and thus he would immerse five times a night, while the scribe would write half a responsum, or one complete, brief responsum… in order to produce Torah novellae in holiness and purity" (see Mekor Chaim, Biłgoraj 1912, section 13).
Signature and ownership inscription on the title page: "Binyamin Menachem Altman"; "I purchased it on Chol HaMoed Sukkot 1911 from the estate of R. P. Horowitz, Bistritz, Yehoshua HaKohen – for my son the young Torah scholar R. Yechezkel Shraga HaKohen". Signature at the top of p. 1a: "Avraham Shimon Mandel". Stamp on preceding leaf: "Yehuda Mandel". Other stamps.
Two parts in one volume. [2], 134; [4], 120 leaves. Approx. 36 cm. Good condition. Stains. Worming to some leaves, primarily to margins. Marginal tears to several leaves, repaired with paper. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New leather binding.
• Divrei Chaim – Part I, on the Torah, Munkacs (Mukachevo), 1877; Part II, on the festivals and Tractate Bava Metzia. Munkacs, 1877. First edition, published by "the sons of the author". Two volumes.
Divrei Chaim on the Torah and festivals was published after the passing of the author. In the foreword to the composition on the Torah, the sons describe their holy father and the day of his death: "…his great holiness and piety… was well-known. He dedicated his entire life to Torah study, devoted service and great fear of Heaven from his youth… Our own eyes saw on the day of his death… that he sanctified himself like the heavenly Seraphim with yichudim and great fervor which did not cease for one moment until his soul clung to the Heavenly Light…". At the end of the introduction they write about their father's will to publish these books: "…We, the sons of our holy father the author, have expended effort in printing this composition in compliance with his command before his death to print and publish it speedily. The merit of our father should protect us and the entire Jewish People, and strengthen Torah and fear of Heaven, and we and all our Jewish brethren should be graced with an abundance of blessing and success".
In the foreword to part II, the author's sons relate that their father, the Divrei Chaim studied tractate Bava Metzia "with great concentration with a group of eminent Torah scholars for over 20 years and that he composed wonderful novellae…". They also write that their father's novellae follow both revealed and esoteric approaches.
Stamp in the first volume: "Aharon R.". On the back endpaper of vol. II, ownership inscription of R. Alter Steinmetz: "This Divrei Chaim was gifted to me by my father, Alter son of R. Shlomo Steinmetz".
Vol. I: [2], 84 leaves, [5] leaves. Vol. II: [2], 72; 48 leaves. Approx. 22-23 cm. Overall good-fair condition. Stains. Tears to several leaves. Vol. I – dry and brittle paper. Marginal open tears to title page. Vol. II – worming affecting text, inscriptions and stamps. Open tear to final leaf, affecting text. New bindings.
Category
Chassidut – Manuscripts, Signatures and Books
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Unsold
Sidrei Taharot on Tractate Kelim, by Rebbe Gershon Chanoch Henich Leiner, rabbi of Radzin (Radzyń Podlaski). Józefów, 1873. First edition.
Sidrei Taharot is an original, comprehensive and brilliant work on Tractate Kelim. Since there is neither Babylonian nor Jerusalem Talmud on Tractate Kelim, the author compiled a kind of "Gemara". The center of the page is occupied by the text of the Mishnah, followed by all the teachings of the Babylonian Talmud, Jerusalem Talmud and Midrashim pertaining to that Mishnah. The text of the Mishnah and Talmud is flanked by two commentaries from the author and compiler – one lengthy and one brief. The lengthy commentary is a discussion of the opinions of the Rishonim and Acharonim on the topic, and the brief commentary is a concise explanation of the words. The work is structured in a similar style to that of the Talmud – each Mishnah is followed by the word "Gemara", and the text even parallels the typography of the Talmudic tractates (the body of the text, in square typeface, occupies the center of the page, and is flanked by a brief commentary similar to Rashi on one side, and a lengthier commentary replicating Tosafot, on the other – both in Rashi script. Ein Mishpat and Masoret HaShas are printed in the margins). A great controversy arose at the time surrounding this work. Some of the rabbis of Vilna published a statement opposing the work, as a matter of principle, concerned that a composition so closely resembling the Gemara might eventually be mistaken as an integral part of the Talmud. On the other hand, the work earned the approbations of many of the leading Torah scholars of the generation. Due to the opposition it engendered, the heading "Sefer Sidrei Taharot" was added at the top of each page of Part II, with a notice at the foot of each page that the work is "compiled from the teachings of the Tana'im and Amora'im" (see in more detail in Kedem Auction 70, sidebar near item 165).
A folded plate at the end of the book features a map of Eretz Israel, showing the borders of the land. Stamp of the author on the plate: "Gershon Chanoch Henich Leiner, son of the holy rabbi of Izhbitza".
Many ownership inscriptions on the title page and back endpaper of "the Chassid R. Yitzchak son of R. Toviah Naftali Hertz Glickman", attesting that he was a Chassid of the author Rebbe Gershon Chanoch Henich, and listing the lineage of R. Yitzchak Glickman up to R. Yonah Nachum Katz brother of the Shach, and his father-in-law R. Shmuel Kaidanover author of Birkat HaZevach.
[10], 540, 543-544 pages + [1] folded plate (map). 37 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor wear and small marginal tears to first and final leaves. Marginal creases to some leaves. Map in overall good condition. Stains, primarily to upper part of map. Small tears to some folds and small tear to edge of map, without loss, repaired. Handwritten inscriptions. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 434.
Sidrei Taharot is an original, comprehensive and brilliant work on Tractate Kelim. Since there is neither Babylonian nor Jerusalem Talmud on Tractate Kelim, the author compiled a kind of "Gemara". The center of the page is occupied by the text of the Mishnah, followed by all the teachings of the Babylonian Talmud, Jerusalem Talmud and Midrashim pertaining to that Mishnah. The text of the Mishnah and Talmud is flanked by two commentaries from the author and compiler – one lengthy and one brief. The lengthy commentary is a discussion of the opinions of the Rishonim and Acharonim on the topic, and the brief commentary is a concise explanation of the words. The work is structured in a similar style to that of the Talmud – each Mishnah is followed by the word "Gemara", and the text even parallels the typography of the Talmudic tractates (the body of the text, in square typeface, occupies the center of the page, and is flanked by a brief commentary similar to Rashi on one side, and a lengthier commentary replicating Tosafot, on the other – both in Rashi script. Ein Mishpat and Masoret HaShas are printed in the margins). A great controversy arose at the time surrounding this work. Some of the rabbis of Vilna published a statement opposing the work, as a matter of principle, concerned that a composition so closely resembling the Gemara might eventually be mistaken as an integral part of the Talmud. On the other hand, the work earned the approbations of many of the leading Torah scholars of the generation. Due to the opposition it engendered, the heading "Sefer Sidrei Taharot" was added at the top of each page of Part II, with a notice at the foot of each page that the work is "compiled from the teachings of the Tana'im and Amora'im" (see in more detail in Kedem Auction 70, sidebar near item 165).
A folded plate at the end of the book features a map of Eretz Israel, showing the borders of the land. Stamp of the author on the plate: "Gershon Chanoch Henich Leiner, son of the holy rabbi of Izhbitza".
Many ownership inscriptions on the title page and back endpaper of "the Chassid R. Yitzchak son of R. Toviah Naftali Hertz Glickman", attesting that he was a Chassid of the author Rebbe Gershon Chanoch Henich, and listing the lineage of R. Yitzchak Glickman up to R. Yonah Nachum Katz brother of the Shach, and his father-in-law R. Shmuel Kaidanover author of Birkat HaZevach.
[10], 540, 543-544 pages + [1] folded plate (map). 37 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor wear and small marginal tears to first and final leaves. Marginal creases to some leaves. Map in overall good condition. Stains, primarily to upper part of map. Small tears to some folds and small tear to edge of map, without loss, repaired. Handwritten inscriptions. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 434.
Category
Chassidut – Manuscripts, Signatures and Books
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $1,200
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $5,750
Including buyer's premium
Magen Avraham, parts I-II, Chassidic essays on the Torah portions and the festivals, by the maggid of Turisk, Rebbe Avraham Twersky son of R. Mordechai of Chernobyl. Lublin, [1887]. First edition, printed in the lifetime of the author.
Two title pages. Book title and place of printing in red ink. lithographed signature of the author on leaf [3].
This book is renowned as a segulah book, as the author states in his preface: "This book Magen Avraham… will be a protection to whoever studies it… I hereby bless whoever takes this book, that many kindnesses will reach him, and the G-d of Avraham will come to your assistance to fulfill all your wishes, sons and grandsons planted around your tables…". He further writes: "With the help of G-d… my words made a great impact on the hearts of those who truly listened, and brought many to repentance…".
The Sfat Emet reputedly stated that it is incumbent upon every young Torah scholar to pawn his Rabbenu Tam Tefillin in order to purchase the book Magen Avraham by the maggid of Turisk (foreword to the Jerusalem 2006 edition; see also: Milin Kadishin, Jerusalem 2008, p. 487).
[3], 3-47, 36; 114 leaves. 25.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Minor wear to some leaves. Worming, primarily to first and final leaves, affecting text. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. Old binding, with wear and worming.
Part II of this book ends with leaf 113. There are copies ending on leaf 114, with differences in contents and typography at the end (see Kedem auction 49, item 53).
Two title pages. Book title and place of printing in red ink. lithographed signature of the author on leaf [3].
This book is renowned as a segulah book, as the author states in his preface: "This book Magen Avraham… will be a protection to whoever studies it… I hereby bless whoever takes this book, that many kindnesses will reach him, and the G-d of Avraham will come to your assistance to fulfill all your wishes, sons and grandsons planted around your tables…". He further writes: "With the help of G-d… my words made a great impact on the hearts of those who truly listened, and brought many to repentance…".
The Sfat Emet reputedly stated that it is incumbent upon every young Torah scholar to pawn his Rabbenu Tam Tefillin in order to purchase the book Magen Avraham by the maggid of Turisk (foreword to the Jerusalem 2006 edition; see also: Milin Kadishin, Jerusalem 2008, p. 487).
[3], 3-47, 36; 114 leaves. 25.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Minor wear to some leaves. Worming, primarily to first and final leaves, affecting text. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. Old binding, with wear and worming.
Part II of this book ends with leaf 113. There are copies ending on leaf 114, with differences in contents and typography at the end (see Kedem auction 49, item 53).
Category
Chassidut – Manuscripts, Signatures and Books
Catalogue
Auction 78 - Rare and Important Items
May 25, 2021
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $10,000
Sold for: $7,500
Including buyer's premium
Zohar on the Torah – Bereshit, Shemot, Vayikra, Bamidbar and Devarim. Slavita: R. Shmuel Avraham Shapira, son of the rabbi of Slavita, [1824].
Complete set in three volumes.
Approbation by Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta and other approbations at the beginning of vol. I.
Ownership inscriptions of the wealthy R. Shaul Papierna of Poritch and his family. On the endpaper of vol. I: "Shaul Papierna of Poritch". On the endpaper of vol. III: "The prominent R. Shaul son of R. Noach Papierna, Poritch". Other inscriptions in Russian. At the top of all three title pages, inscription forming the acrostic: "Shimon Papierna".
Three volumes. Vol. I: [4], 251; 17 leaves. Vol. II: [1], 17, 19-278 leaves. Vol. III: [1], 2-115, [1], 117-309 leaves. Approx. 21 cm. Bluish, high-quality paper. Overall good-fair condition. Many leaves in good condition. Stains, including dampstains to many leaves in vol. III. Worming to first and final leaves, affecting text. Handwritten inscriptions. Bookplates. Early leather bindings, worn, with tears and significant worming. Vol. II with cloth spine. Front board of vol. III partially detached; spine torn (mostly lacking).
Complete set in three volumes.
Approbation by Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta and other approbations at the beginning of vol. I.
Ownership inscriptions of the wealthy R. Shaul Papierna of Poritch and his family. On the endpaper of vol. I: "Shaul Papierna of Poritch". On the endpaper of vol. III: "The prominent R. Shaul son of R. Noach Papierna, Poritch". Other inscriptions in Russian. At the top of all three title pages, inscription forming the acrostic: "Shimon Papierna".
Three volumes. Vol. I: [4], 251; 17 leaves. Vol. II: [1], 17, 19-278 leaves. Vol. III: [1], 2-115, [1], 117-309 leaves. Approx. 21 cm. Bluish, high-quality paper. Overall good-fair condition. Many leaves in good condition. Stains, including dampstains to many leaves in vol. III. Worming to first and final leaves, affecting text. Handwritten inscriptions. Bookplates. Early leather bindings, worn, with tears and significant worming. Vol. II with cloth spine. Front board of vol. III partially detached; spine torn (mostly lacking).
Category
Chassidut – Manuscripts, Signatures and Books
Catalogue
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