Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
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Displaying 61 - 72 of 104
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $2,250
Including buyer's premium
Arvei Nachal, on the Torah portions, by R. David Shlomo Eybeschutz, rabbi of Soroca. [Sudylkiv: Pinchas Eliezer Bilitch? 1825-1826].
The author, R. David Shlomo Eybeschutz (1755-1813, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 501-503), was a prominent Chassidic leader and posek, and served as rabbi of Soroca. In 1809, he immigrated to Eretz Israel and settled in Safed, where he was ultimately buried. His relative R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv praises him in his approbation to Levushei Serad as "astute and well-versed in Torah as the sages of old, and all his deeds are performed for the sake of Heaven". R. Eybeschutz authored many compositions, including the famous halachic work Levushei Serad. His book Arvei Nachal became a classic Chassidic text, reprinted in over 20 editions.
Ownership inscriptions on leaf [2] and leaf 3 of second sequence of first volume: "This book belongs to R. Shmuel Yehuda Leib Goldberg of Vlodavka", "This book belongs to the wise, renowned Chassid… R. Shmuel Yehuda son of the late Efraim Schiff".
Two volumes. Vol. I: [2], 98; 41 leaves. Vol. II: [1], 43-168 leaves. 23 cm. Overall fair-good condition. Stains, including dampstains. Mold stains to several leaves of vol. I. Tears, including open tears, affecting text (repaired in part with paper). Open tears to title page of vol. I, affecting text and ornaments on both sides of leaf, repaired with paper and photocopy replacement. Worming (including significant worming), affecting text, repaired in part with paper (handwritten replacement of missing text on title page of vol. II). Leaves trimmed close to headings, with damage to headings in several places. Stamps. New leather bindings.
Two parallel editions of the book are known, with several typographic differences between them. Lieberman asserts that one of them is the first edition, and the second, "an intermediate edition" (see: Ch. Lieberman, Ohel Rachel, I, New York 1980, pp. 372-373; listed as such in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book). According to the differences listed by Lieberman, both of the present volumes are from the first edition.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 470 (lists both editions as variants of the first edition).
The author, R. David Shlomo Eybeschutz (1755-1813, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 501-503), was a prominent Chassidic leader and posek, and served as rabbi of Soroca. In 1809, he immigrated to Eretz Israel and settled in Safed, where he was ultimately buried. His relative R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv praises him in his approbation to Levushei Serad as "astute and well-versed in Torah as the sages of old, and all his deeds are performed for the sake of Heaven". R. Eybeschutz authored many compositions, including the famous halachic work Levushei Serad. His book Arvei Nachal became a classic Chassidic text, reprinted in over 20 editions.
Ownership inscriptions on leaf [2] and leaf 3 of second sequence of first volume: "This book belongs to R. Shmuel Yehuda Leib Goldberg of Vlodavka", "This book belongs to the wise, renowned Chassid… R. Shmuel Yehuda son of the late Efraim Schiff".
Two volumes. Vol. I: [2], 98; 41 leaves. Vol. II: [1], 43-168 leaves. 23 cm. Overall fair-good condition. Stains, including dampstains. Mold stains to several leaves of vol. I. Tears, including open tears, affecting text (repaired in part with paper). Open tears to title page of vol. I, affecting text and ornaments on both sides of leaf, repaired with paper and photocopy replacement. Worming (including significant worming), affecting text, repaired in part with paper (handwritten replacement of missing text on title page of vol. II). Leaves trimmed close to headings, with damage to headings in several places. Stamps. New leather bindings.
Two parallel editions of the book are known, with several typographic differences between them. Lieberman asserts that one of them is the first edition, and the second, "an intermediate edition" (see: Ch. Lieberman, Ohel Rachel, I, New York 1980, pp. 372-373; listed as such in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book). According to the differences listed by Lieberman, both of the present volumes are from the first edition.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 470 (lists both editions as variants of the first edition).
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $2,000
Including buyer's premium
Ahavat Shalom, Chassidic discourses on the Torah portions, by Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager of Kosov – founder of the Vizhnitz and Kosov Chassidic dynasties. Lviv, [1833]. First edition.
The author, Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager (1768-1826; Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 98), was the son of R. Yaakov Koppel Chassid, who led the prayers in the Beit Midrash of the Baal Shem Tov and was a member of his inner circle of disciples. He was the disciple of the early Chassidic masters R. Elimelech of Lizhensk and R. Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvorna. In 1802, after the passing of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvorna, he began leading his own court.
In the foreword, the author's son-in-law, R. Gershon of Rozdol, writes that much of his father-in-law's teachings are focused on three matters: the holiness of Shabbat, giving charity and Tikkun HaBrit. The book was compiled by R. Menachem Mendel's disciple – R. Chaim Natan Nata of Lantshin, who writes in his preface: "I heard these teachings from him on Friday nights and during the Shabbat morning meal, as well as when he would take leave of his visitors while discussing halachah, and brief thoughts conveyed during Seudah Shelishit... and I elaborated on them in my own words...when I was unsure of the proper intent... I intentionally used language which is open to interpretation, and each reader can use his own judgement...".
[4], 131 leaves. 22 cm. Overall fair-poor condition. Stains, including large dampstains. Many mold stains to first half of book. Worming (significant worming to several leaves), affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Marginal tears and open tears to title page and several other leaves, slightly affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Large open tear to final leaf, with significant damage to text, repaired with paper (with photocopy replacement of missing text). Some leaves may have been supplied from a different copy. Stamps on title page and other leaves. New leather binding.
False imprint: Lemberg, 1802. See: Avraham Yaari, The Printing Press of Rebbetzin Yehudit Rosanes in Lviv, Kiryat Sefer, 17, 1940, p. 107.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 18.
The author, Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager (1768-1826; Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 98), was the son of R. Yaakov Koppel Chassid, who led the prayers in the Beit Midrash of the Baal Shem Tov and was a member of his inner circle of disciples. He was the disciple of the early Chassidic masters R. Elimelech of Lizhensk and R. Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvorna. In 1802, after the passing of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvorna, he began leading his own court.
In the foreword, the author's son-in-law, R. Gershon of Rozdol, writes that much of his father-in-law's teachings are focused on three matters: the holiness of Shabbat, giving charity and Tikkun HaBrit. The book was compiled by R. Menachem Mendel's disciple – R. Chaim Natan Nata of Lantshin, who writes in his preface: "I heard these teachings from him on Friday nights and during the Shabbat morning meal, as well as when he would take leave of his visitors while discussing halachah, and brief thoughts conveyed during Seudah Shelishit... and I elaborated on them in my own words...when I was unsure of the proper intent... I intentionally used language which is open to interpretation, and each reader can use his own judgement...".
[4], 131 leaves. 22 cm. Overall fair-poor condition. Stains, including large dampstains. Many mold stains to first half of book. Worming (significant worming to several leaves), affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Marginal tears and open tears to title page and several other leaves, slightly affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Large open tear to final leaf, with significant damage to text, repaired with paper (with photocopy replacement of missing text). Some leaves may have been supplied from a different copy. Stamps on title page and other leaves. New leather binding.
False imprint: Lemberg, 1802. See: Avraham Yaari, The Printing Press of Rebbetzin Yehudit Rosanes in Lviv, Kiryat Sefer, 17, 1940, p. 107.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 18.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Unsold
Amarot Tehorot on Tehillim, by R. Eliezer HaLevi Horowitz, rabbi of Tarnogród. Warsaw, 1838. The first Chassidic commentary printed on Tehillim.
R. Eliezer Ish Horowitz Rabbi of Tarnogród (d. 1806; Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 257-259), a holy and eminent Torah scholar. Descendant of the Shelah, disciple of R. Elimelech of Lizhensk and the Maggid of Zlotchov, and disciple-colleague of the Chozeh of Lublin and the Maggid of Kozhnitz. The Chozeh of Lublin acclaimed him: "...all his ways were for the sake of Heaven... and he was very exceptional and unparalleled, both in halachah and aggadah...". Author of Noam Megadim UKavod HaTorah. He died and was buried in Kozhnitz (Kozienice), after visiting the city and stating: "This city is fit for burial".
[2], 67; 59 leaves. 22 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Marginal tears to title page and large open tear to lower part of page, affecting text (with damage to several lines of text on verso), repaired with paper, with handwritten and photocopy replacements. Minor marginal tears to a few other leaves. Worming, slightly affecting text in several places. Title page and several other leaves detached. Handwritten inscriptions. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 597.
R. Eliezer Ish Horowitz Rabbi of Tarnogród (d. 1806; Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 257-259), a holy and eminent Torah scholar. Descendant of the Shelah, disciple of R. Elimelech of Lizhensk and the Maggid of Zlotchov, and disciple-colleague of the Chozeh of Lublin and the Maggid of Kozhnitz. The Chozeh of Lublin acclaimed him: "...all his ways were for the sake of Heaven... and he was very exceptional and unparalleled, both in halachah and aggadah...". Author of Noam Megadim UKavod HaTorah. He died and was buried in Kozhnitz (Kozienice), after visiting the city and stating: "This city is fit for burial".
[2], 67; 59 leaves. 22 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Marginal tears to title page and large open tear to lower part of page, affecting text (with damage to several lines of text on verso), repaired with paper, with handwritten and photocopy replacements. Minor marginal tears to a few other leaves. Worming, slightly affecting text in several places. Title page and several other leaves detached. Handwritten inscriptions. New binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 597.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Avodat Yisrael, Chassidic and kabbalistic essays on the Torah portions, Haftarot and festivals; two letters; Chassidic commentary to Tractate Avot and novellae on Talmudic topics in Tractate Chullin, by R. Yisrael Hopstein – the Maggid of Kozhnitz. [Józefów, 1842]. First edition.
The author, R. Yisrael Hopstein, known as the Maggid of Kozhnitz, (1733/1737-1814) was a holy kabbalist and founder of Chassidut in Poland. He was renowned as an outstanding, profound and innovative Torah scholar. He was the close disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch, R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, and R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev. In 1765, he began serving as maggid in Kozhnitz. Thousands of Chassidim streamed to his door, and he became known as one of the leading rebbes in Poland. His renowned disciples include R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, the Chiddushei HaRim, who was raised in his home. The Maggid of Kozhnitz authored many books in all Torah fields, including halachah, novellae, homiletics and kabbalah, and was considered one of the leading kabbalists in his times. He was renowned for his tremendous knowledge of all kabbalistic works, including varying approaches. Reputedly, already in his youth, before he began frequenting the court of the Maggid of Mezeritch, he had studied some eight hundred kabbalistic works. Some of his kabbalistic compositions are explanations of early kabbalistic books, as well as the books of the Maharal of Prague.
Avodat Yisrael was published 27 years after the passing of its author, and it is the first of his books to be published (a few of his essays were printed in his lifetime). Avodat Yisrael is considered a classic Chassidic work, and it portrays the depth of the inner richness it contains. Rebbe Yechezkel Halberstam of Shinova stated: "All the books of the disciples of the Baal Shem Tov are holy, while the book Avodat Yisrael is holy of holies". The Torat Chaim, rebbe of Kosov declared that one must study this book in great depth, just like one studies the Zohar. Reputedly, R. Yitzchak Eizik of Zidichov held the books of the Maggid of Kozhnitz in very high esteem, and when he received the book Avodat Yisrael, "he experienced tremendous joy", and exclaimed to the person who brought it to him that had he known he was coming to bring him the book, he would have come to meet him to welcome the book "due to his cherishing the holiness of the book".
Handwritten inscriptions on the first title page, including: "Aharon Labin". Stamp "Yisrael Avraham… Lehman".
[4], 90; 32 leaves. 21.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Large open tear to final leaf (leaf 32), affecting text; leaf mounted on paper for reinforcement (final page – p. 32b, with errata and publisher's words, entirely covered with paper). Several other tears; open tears to lower margins of five leaves (not affecting text), repaired with paper. Paper repairs to inner margins of title page and leaf 31, affecting border and text. Worming, slightly affecting text in several places. Leaves trimmed close to headings in several places. Stamps, including some deleted stamps. New leather binding.
Without leaf [5] comprising three approbations, which was included in some copies only, since these approbations were brought to the printer only after the printing of the book was completed.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 452.
The author, R. Yisrael Hopstein, known as the Maggid of Kozhnitz, (1733/1737-1814) was a holy kabbalist and founder of Chassidut in Poland. He was renowned as an outstanding, profound and innovative Torah scholar. He was the close disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch, R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, and R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev. In 1765, he began serving as maggid in Kozhnitz. Thousands of Chassidim streamed to his door, and he became known as one of the leading rebbes in Poland. His renowned disciples include R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, the Chiddushei HaRim, who was raised in his home. The Maggid of Kozhnitz authored many books in all Torah fields, including halachah, novellae, homiletics and kabbalah, and was considered one of the leading kabbalists in his times. He was renowned for his tremendous knowledge of all kabbalistic works, including varying approaches. Reputedly, already in his youth, before he began frequenting the court of the Maggid of Mezeritch, he had studied some eight hundred kabbalistic works. Some of his kabbalistic compositions are explanations of early kabbalistic books, as well as the books of the Maharal of Prague.
Avodat Yisrael was published 27 years after the passing of its author, and it is the first of his books to be published (a few of his essays were printed in his lifetime). Avodat Yisrael is considered a classic Chassidic work, and it portrays the depth of the inner richness it contains. Rebbe Yechezkel Halberstam of Shinova stated: "All the books of the disciples of the Baal Shem Tov are holy, while the book Avodat Yisrael is holy of holies". The Torat Chaim, rebbe of Kosov declared that one must study this book in great depth, just like one studies the Zohar. Reputedly, R. Yitzchak Eizik of Zidichov held the books of the Maggid of Kozhnitz in very high esteem, and when he received the book Avodat Yisrael, "he experienced tremendous joy", and exclaimed to the person who brought it to him that had he known he was coming to bring him the book, he would have come to meet him to welcome the book "due to his cherishing the holiness of the book".
Handwritten inscriptions on the first title page, including: "Aharon Labin". Stamp "Yisrael Avraham… Lehman".
[4], 90; 32 leaves. 21.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Large open tear to final leaf (leaf 32), affecting text; leaf mounted on paper for reinforcement (final page – p. 32b, with errata and publisher's words, entirely covered with paper). Several other tears; open tears to lower margins of five leaves (not affecting text), repaired with paper. Paper repairs to inner margins of title page and leaf 31, affecting border and text. Worming, slightly affecting text in several places. Leaves trimmed close to headings in several places. Stamps, including some deleted stamps. New leather binding.
Without leaf [5] comprising three approbations, which was included in some copies only, since these approbations were brought to the printer only after the printing of the book was completed.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 452.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Or LaShamayim, Chassidic essays on the Torah portions, novellae on Talmudic topics and responsa, by Rebbe Meir HaLevi Rotenberg Rabbi of Stovnitz and Apta, disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin. [Lviv, 1850]. First edition. Approbation by the Divrei Chaim of Sanz at the end of the book.
The author's famous prayer is printed at the beginning of the book: "Ribbon HaOlamim Yodati Ki Hineni BeYodcha..." (Master of the Universe, I know that I am in your hands like clay in the hands of a potter...). Later editions of the book, starting from the 1914 edition, state that the Tiferet Shlomo of Radomsk would recite the prayer twice daily, and declared that reciting the prayer daily is an awesome segulah for livelihood and success.
The book was compiled and brought to print by the author's son-in-law, R. Menachem Mendel Rubin Rabbi of Głogów, who describes in his foreword how when the author spoke, it was as if the Divine presence was speaking from the author's mouth, and all his teachings were Heavenly revelations he received at that time.
[1], 74, 77-78, [1], 78-81, [1] leaves. Misfoliation. Approx. 21 cm. Printed (partially) on greenish paper. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Minor wear. Open tear to final leaf, affecting text, repaired with paper. Leaves trimmed, with damage to text on two final leaves (lacking 2-3 bottom lines of errata in these leaves). Signature on title page. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 31.
The author's famous prayer is printed at the beginning of the book: "Ribbon HaOlamim Yodati Ki Hineni BeYodcha..." (Master of the Universe, I know that I am in your hands like clay in the hands of a potter...). Later editions of the book, starting from the 1914 edition, state that the Tiferet Shlomo of Radomsk would recite the prayer twice daily, and declared that reciting the prayer daily is an awesome segulah for livelihood and success.
The book was compiled and brought to print by the author's son-in-law, R. Menachem Mendel Rubin Rabbi of Głogów, who describes in his foreword how when the author spoke, it was as if the Divine presence was speaking from the author's mouth, and all his teachings were Heavenly revelations he received at that time.
[1], 74, 77-78, [1], 78-81, [1] leaves. Misfoliation. Approx. 21 cm. Printed (partially) on greenish paper. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Minor wear. Open tear to final leaf, affecting text, repaired with paper. Leaves trimmed, with damage to text on two final leaves (lacking 2-3 bottom lines of errata in these leaves). Signature on title page. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 31.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Bnei Yissaschar, Chassidic and Kabbalistic essays on the festivals and months of the year, Part I – Shabbat and the months of Nissan-Elul, by Rebbe Tzvi Elimelech Shapiro Rabbi of Dinov. Zhovkva, 1850. First edition.
Part I only, on the months of Nissan-Elul, with Maamarei HaShabbatot. Part II, with essays on the months of Tishrei-Adar, was printed separately in Lviv that year, and is not included here (the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book presumes that part II was printed separately, since the typeface is different and there is a blank page at the end of part I).
Reputedly, the author would experience exceptional holiness and elevation during Chanukah. He once wished to question his prime teacher the Chozeh of Lublin as to the cause of this phenomenon, and even before he had a chance to ask, his teacher explained: You originate from the tribe of Yissachar, and in your earlier incarnation you were a member of the Beit Din of the Chashmonaim, which is why you experience extra holiness during Chanukah. He therefore named his book Bnei Yissaschar. It is recorded that the Divrei Chaim of Sanz once closeted himself in his room on Rosh Hashanah before the shofar blowing, studying the book Bnei Yissaschar for several hours with great intensity, as a preparation for the shofar blowing (foreword to Yod'ei Binah, by R. Elazar Tzvi Shapiro, son of the Bnei Yissachar; Beit Shlomo, New York 2005 edition, p. 15; Shai Agnon, Sefer Sofer VeSipur, p. 457).
Rebbe Tzvi Elimelech Langsam-Shapiro (1783-1841), a most prominent Chassidic leader, close disciple of R. Mendele of Rimanov and disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin, as well as of the Rebbe of Apta and the Maggid of Kozhnitz. From a young age, he served as rabbi of various Galician towns, yet is primarily renowned as rabbi of Dinov (Dynów), where he was later appointed rebbe in 1815. He also served as rabbi of Munkacs (Mukachevo). He authored dozens of compositions on halachah and aggadah, Chassidut and Kabbalah. His magnum opus, by whose name he became known throughout the Jewish world, is the book Bnei Yissaschar. His descendants branched out into many dynasties of rabbis and rebbes: Dinov, Munkacs, Bikovsk and more.
Stamps of the Kloiz of the Rebbe of Bohosh in Safed.
[1], 24; 72 leaves. Leaves 5-6, 67-70 of second sequence bound out of order. Without part II on Tishrei-Nissan. 24 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains, and wear. Mold stains to some leaves. Extensive worming, affecting text. Marginal open tears to title page and other leaves. Marginal paper repairs to title page. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 91.
Part I only, on the months of Nissan-Elul, with Maamarei HaShabbatot. Part II, with essays on the months of Tishrei-Adar, was printed separately in Lviv that year, and is not included here (the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book presumes that part II was printed separately, since the typeface is different and there is a blank page at the end of part I).
Reputedly, the author would experience exceptional holiness and elevation during Chanukah. He once wished to question his prime teacher the Chozeh of Lublin as to the cause of this phenomenon, and even before he had a chance to ask, his teacher explained: You originate from the tribe of Yissachar, and in your earlier incarnation you were a member of the Beit Din of the Chashmonaim, which is why you experience extra holiness during Chanukah. He therefore named his book Bnei Yissaschar. It is recorded that the Divrei Chaim of Sanz once closeted himself in his room on Rosh Hashanah before the shofar blowing, studying the book Bnei Yissaschar for several hours with great intensity, as a preparation for the shofar blowing (foreword to Yod'ei Binah, by R. Elazar Tzvi Shapiro, son of the Bnei Yissachar; Beit Shlomo, New York 2005 edition, p. 15; Shai Agnon, Sefer Sofer VeSipur, p. 457).
Rebbe Tzvi Elimelech Langsam-Shapiro (1783-1841), a most prominent Chassidic leader, close disciple of R. Mendele of Rimanov and disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin, as well as of the Rebbe of Apta and the Maggid of Kozhnitz. From a young age, he served as rabbi of various Galician towns, yet is primarily renowned as rabbi of Dinov (Dynów), where he was later appointed rebbe in 1815. He also served as rabbi of Munkacs (Mukachevo). He authored dozens of compositions on halachah and aggadah, Chassidut and Kabbalah. His magnum opus, by whose name he became known throughout the Jewish world, is the book Bnei Yissaschar. His descendants branched out into many dynasties of rabbis and rebbes: Dinov, Munkacs, Bikovsk and more.
Stamps of the Kloiz of the Rebbe of Bohosh in Safed.
[1], 24; 72 leaves. Leaves 5-6, 67-70 of second sequence bound out of order. Without part II on Tishrei-Nissan. 24 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains, and wear. Mold stains to some leaves. Extensive worming, affecting text. Marginal open tears to title page and other leaves. Marginal paper repairs to title page. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 91.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $2,750
Including buyer's premium
Ohev Yisrael, Chassidic homiletics on the Torah portions, by Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta. Zhitomir: R. Chanina Lipa and R. Yehoshua Heshel Shapira, grandsons of the rabbi of Slavita, 1863. First edition.
The book was brought to press by the author's grandson, Rebbe Meshulam Zusia of Zinkov (Zinkiv). In his foreword, he relates how his father, Rebbe Yitzchak Meir, son of the author, realized that many were copying the rebbe's teachings – each person according to his own understanding, and was concerned that this would lead to mistakes. He therefore chose one astute, outstanding Torah scholar and designated him to record the holy teachings, after which the writings were reviewed, and when necessary corrected, by the rebbe. Further in the foreword, he explains that the book was named Ohev Yisrael, based on the author's repeated assertion that the one character trait in which he could confidently take pride, even before the Heavenly court, was his outstanding love for his fellow Jew. Before his demise, he instructed his sons to write no other praise on his tombstone but Ohev Yisrael (Lover of Jews).
In his approbation (to the Lviv edition), R. Yosef Shaul Nathansohn writes: "...he loved every Jewish person with his heart and soul, and would show great affection particularly to Torah scholars. And our fathers related to us that while he was here [in Lviv], all the leading Torah scholars of the city would arise early to come and absorb his wondrous teachings...".
[1], 117 leaves. 24.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Wear and minor open tears to title page and lower margins of some leaves, due to erasing of penciled inscriptions (minor damage to text on title page). Many pen inscriptions on verso of title page, deleted with correction fluid. Additional marginal tears to several leaves, not affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Tears to leaf 112 (including long tear), affecting text, repaired with paper and tape. Worming to several leaves. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 19.
The book was brought to press by the author's grandson, Rebbe Meshulam Zusia of Zinkov (Zinkiv). In his foreword, he relates how his father, Rebbe Yitzchak Meir, son of the author, realized that many were copying the rebbe's teachings – each person according to his own understanding, and was concerned that this would lead to mistakes. He therefore chose one astute, outstanding Torah scholar and designated him to record the holy teachings, after which the writings were reviewed, and when necessary corrected, by the rebbe. Further in the foreword, he explains that the book was named Ohev Yisrael, based on the author's repeated assertion that the one character trait in which he could confidently take pride, even before the Heavenly court, was his outstanding love for his fellow Jew. Before his demise, he instructed his sons to write no other praise on his tombstone but Ohev Yisrael (Lover of Jews).
In his approbation (to the Lviv edition), R. Yosef Shaul Nathansohn writes: "...he loved every Jewish person with his heart and soul, and would show great affection particularly to Torah scholars. And our fathers related to us that while he was here [in Lviv], all the leading Torah scholars of the city would arise early to come and absorb his wondrous teachings...".
[1], 117 leaves. 24.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Wear and minor open tears to title page and lower margins of some leaves, due to erasing of penciled inscriptions (minor damage to text on title page). Many pen inscriptions on verso of title page, deleted with correction fluid. Additional marginal tears to several leaves, not affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Tears to leaf 112 (including long tear), affecting text, repaired with paper and tape. Worming to several leaves. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 19.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $5,000
Including buyer's premium
Complete set (five parts in five volumes) of the book 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. Five volumes.
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 Tefillah LeMoshe on Tehillim.
Five volumes. Bereshit: [1], 117 leaves. Shemot: 90 leaves. Vayikra: 42 leaves. Bamidbar: [1], 49 leaves. Devarim: 72, [1] leaves. Approx. 23 cm. Condition varies. First three volumes in overall good condition. Final two volumes in fair-good to fair condition. Stains, including dark stains and dampstains (many dampstains in the Bamidbar vol., with mold stains; particularly dark stains in Devarim vol.). Tears, including open tears affecting text to several leaves of Vayikra vol., and in several other places. Tears to title pages of Bereshit and Bamidbar vols., repaired with paper (damage to text on verso of title page of Bamidbar vol. from paper repair). Worming to several leaves of final two volumes, affecting text. Leaves trimmed with damage to headings. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New, uniform 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 Tefillah LeMoshe on Tehillim.
Five volumes. Bereshit: [1], 117 leaves. Shemot: 90 leaves. Vayikra: 42 leaves. Bamidbar: [1], 49 leaves. Devarim: 72, [1] leaves. Approx. 23 cm. Condition varies. First three volumes in overall good condition. Final two volumes in fair-good to fair condition. Stains, including dark stains and dampstains (many dampstains in the Bamidbar vol., with mold stains; particularly dark stains in Devarim vol.). Tears, including open tears affecting text to several leaves of Vayikra vol., and in several other places. Tears to title pages of Bereshit and Bamidbar vols., repaired with paper (damage to text on verso of title page of Bamidbar vol. from paper repair). Worming to several leaves of final two volumes, affecting text. Leaves trimmed with damage to headings. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New, uniform leather bindings.
Stefansky Chassidut, nos. 239, 240.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $2,500
Including buyer's premium
Six Orders of the Mishnah, with the commentaries of R. Ovadia of Bartenura and Tosafot Yom Tov, and with the Maaseh Oreg, Pnei Zaken and Atzei Eden commentaries, by Rebbe Yitzchak Eizik Yehuda Yechiel Safrin of Komarno. Lviv, 1862. First edition, second printing.
Complete in six volumes.
The Rebbe of Komarno composed three commentaries on the Mishnayot: Atzei Eden covers nearly the entire Mishnah (ending in the middle of Ohalot) and comprises a short summary of the classic commentaries on the Mishnah (divided into two parts: Etz HaChaim and the Kabbalistic Etz HaDaat); two other commentaries on Order Zera'im and Order Taharot – Maaseh Oreg on the Jerusalem Talmud and the Tosefta pertaining to the Mishnah, and Pnei Zaken which contains the halachic conclusions according to the Rambam.
The author's prefaces were printed at the beginning of Part I (Zera'im) and Part VI (Taharot). At the end of the preface to Taharot, the author writes: "I will copy the Tosefta… and explain it according to the foundations of the Rambam, in the works named Maaseh Oreg and Pnei Zaken. Afterward, I will explain the Mishnah according to the Rambam and based on the books of the Gaon of Vilna… I have arranged the Tosefta according to the order of the Gaon of Vilna…" (referring to the book Taharat HaKodesh, Zhovkva 1804, containing the commentaries and corrections of the Gaon of Vilna).
Rebbe Yitzchak Eizik Yehuda Yechiel Safrin Rabbi of Zidichov and Komarno (1806-1874), a G-dly kabbalist and leading transmitter of the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, a nephew and close disciple of the Sar Beit HaZohar, Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Zidichov. He was cherished by foremost Chassidic leaders – the Chozeh of Lublin (who served as his matchmaker), the Rebbe of Apta, R. Moshe Tzvi of Savran, his uncle R. Moshe of Sambor, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, and others. He authored many books on Chassidut and Kabbalah, including the Heichal HaBerachah commentary to the Five Books of the Torah, based on the teachings of the Arizal and the Baal Shem Tov. The Heichal HaBerachah Chumashim are considered fundamental books in Chassidic thought and Kabbalah. They were especially cherished by rebbes of various dynasties (the Zidichov dynasty, the Divrei Chaim and his descendants, the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch, and others), who extolled the exceptional holiness of the kabbalistic teachings contained in his commentaries.
Many handwritten inscriptions (in all the volumes) of "David Shlomo son of R. Yitzchak Eizek Gangel of Krakow".
6 volumes. Zera'im: [5], 97; 26; 92, [1] leaves. Mo'ed: [1], 59, 61-142, [1] leaves. Nashim: [1], 129, [1] leaves. Nezikin: [1], 4, 7-14, 17-171, [1], 172-184 leaves. Extra copy of leaf 171, with typographic differences. Kodashim: [1], 94; 43 leaves. Taharot: [1], 296 leaves. Misfoliation. Approx. 28 cm. Condition varies, good-fair. Stains, including dampstains. Minor wear in several places. Open tears affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Open tears affecting title page border of Zera'im vol.; tears slightly affecting text on title page of Order Nashim; and tears slightly affecting text on other title pages, repaired with paper. Worming in several places. Inscriptions and stamps. New, uniform leather bindings.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 367.
There were two printings of the first edition, with minor differences. The first printing was published in 1861, with the printers' device on the title pages. The second printing was published in 1862, using copies of the first printing, with new title pages not including the printers' device.
Complete in six volumes.
The Rebbe of Komarno composed three commentaries on the Mishnayot: Atzei Eden covers nearly the entire Mishnah (ending in the middle of Ohalot) and comprises a short summary of the classic commentaries on the Mishnah (divided into two parts: Etz HaChaim and the Kabbalistic Etz HaDaat); two other commentaries on Order Zera'im and Order Taharot – Maaseh Oreg on the Jerusalem Talmud and the Tosefta pertaining to the Mishnah, and Pnei Zaken which contains the halachic conclusions according to the Rambam.
The author's prefaces were printed at the beginning of Part I (Zera'im) and Part VI (Taharot). At the end of the preface to Taharot, the author writes: "I will copy the Tosefta… and explain it according to the foundations of the Rambam, in the works named Maaseh Oreg and Pnei Zaken. Afterward, I will explain the Mishnah according to the Rambam and based on the books of the Gaon of Vilna… I have arranged the Tosefta according to the order of the Gaon of Vilna…" (referring to the book Taharat HaKodesh, Zhovkva 1804, containing the commentaries and corrections of the Gaon of Vilna).
Rebbe Yitzchak Eizik Yehuda Yechiel Safrin Rabbi of Zidichov and Komarno (1806-1874), a G-dly kabbalist and leading transmitter of the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, a nephew and close disciple of the Sar Beit HaZohar, Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Zidichov. He was cherished by foremost Chassidic leaders – the Chozeh of Lublin (who served as his matchmaker), the Rebbe of Apta, R. Moshe Tzvi of Savran, his uncle R. Moshe of Sambor, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, and others. He authored many books on Chassidut and Kabbalah, including the Heichal HaBerachah commentary to the Five Books of the Torah, based on the teachings of the Arizal and the Baal Shem Tov. The Heichal HaBerachah Chumashim are considered fundamental books in Chassidic thought and Kabbalah. They were especially cherished by rebbes of various dynasties (the Zidichov dynasty, the Divrei Chaim and his descendants, the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch, and others), who extolled the exceptional holiness of the kabbalistic teachings contained in his commentaries.
Many handwritten inscriptions (in all the volumes) of "David Shlomo son of R. Yitzchak Eizek Gangel of Krakow".
6 volumes. Zera'im: [5], 97; 26; 92, [1] leaves. Mo'ed: [1], 59, 61-142, [1] leaves. Nashim: [1], 129, [1] leaves. Nezikin: [1], 4, 7-14, 17-171, [1], 172-184 leaves. Extra copy of leaf 171, with typographic differences. Kodashim: [1], 94; 43 leaves. Taharot: [1], 296 leaves. Misfoliation. Approx. 28 cm. Condition varies, good-fair. Stains, including dampstains. Minor wear in several places. Open tears affecting text, repaired in part with paper. Open tears affecting title page border of Zera'im vol.; tears slightly affecting text on title page of Order Nashim; and tears slightly affecting text on other title pages, repaired with paper. Worming in several places. Inscriptions and stamps. New, uniform leather bindings.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 367.
There were two printings of the first edition, with minor differences. The first printing was published in 1861, with the printers' device on the title pages. The second printing was published in 1862, using copies of the first printing, with new title pages not including the printers' device.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Unsold
Year-round siddur, based on the rite of Rebbe Shlomo Chaim Perlow of Koidanov and his customs, with Or HaYashar – practices and kavanot by R. Meir Poppers, edited by R. Tzvi Hirsh of Poznan. The siddur was compiled and brought to print by R. Yitzchak of Vileyka. [Vilna, 1877]. First edition.
Rare siddur. The present copy is lacking the first six leaves and final leaf.
The prayer text in this siddur was established by Rebbe Shlomo Chaim Perlow of Koidanov, grandson and close disciple of Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz.
The text was memorized by two of his grandsons, R. Yitzchak Perlow posek in Vileyka (1850-1902), author of Erez BaLevanon (Vilna 1899), who compiled and published this siddur; and Rebbe Aharon Perlow of Koidanov (1839-1897). In his foreword (lacking in the present copy), R. Yitzchak writes how he recorded the prayer text of his grandfather (Rebbe Shlomo Chaim Perlow of Koidanov), word for word from memory, with the assistance of his brother-in-law Rebbe Aharon Perlow of Koidanov. He also recorded dozens of customs and practices of his grandfather.
The siddur also includes the Or HaYashar composition – essays on ethics and kabbalistic practices by R. Meir Poppers, edited, arranged and expanded upon by R. Tzvi Hirsh Chazan of Poznan, as first printed in Amsterdam 1709.
In the approbation of Rebbe Aharon of Koidanov to this siddur (lacking in the present copy), the Rebbe blesses whoever buys the siddur: "I request of our Jewish brethren, especially our fellow Chassidim, to each buy this siddur at its designated price, and they should not try to save on the money, and first buyers will be first to be blessed, especially our fellow Chassidim, it is fitting that they should not pray from any other siddur using any other text, rather everyone should buy this siddur... and it will be good for him".
This siddur was reprinted with various additions in 1903, 1928 and in other editions. In his foreword to the 1903 edition, the publisher mentions the present edition, describing how it was immediately cherished and enjoyed, and rapidly sold out, to the extent that the last copies were sold at a high price (meaning that already then these siddurim were rare). The rebbes of Koidanov, Lechovitz, Karlin and Stolin, and the Beit Avraham of Slonim all prayed from this siddur. Current siddurim of Karlin and Stolin Chassidim are based on the text of this siddur. This siddur was referred to by elder Koidanov Chassidim as "Dem Rebben's Siddur", and in the Chassidic world as "Der Koidanover Siddur".
Rebbe Chaim Meir of Narol testified in his approbation to the 1979 edition of the siddur that this siddur was very cherished by the rebbes of Belz, especially by Rebbe Aharon of Belz: " Many Tzaddikim and Chassidim drew fear of G-d from this siddur, especially the rebbes of Belz, and I personally witnessed Rebbe Aharon of Belz praying from this siddur, especially the mussaf prayer of Shabbat Rosh Chodesh".
The author of the present siddur, Rebbe Shlomo Chaim Perlow of Koidanov –elder rebbe of Koidanov and founder of the dynasty (1797-1862) was the grandson and disciple of Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz and Rebbe Asher of Stolin (his grandfather Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz passed away in Stolin on his wedding day). He combined in his conduct and approach the influences of both these grandfathers. He was also associated with the Beit Aharon of Karlin. The Koidanov Chassidut which he founded was at that time one of the largest Chassidic courts in Lithuania. His practices were published in an independent booklet, which was bound at the end of later editions of this siddur.
Incomplete copy. 7-255 leaves. Lacking 7 leaves: first 6 leaves (including two title pages; replaced in photocopy), and final leaf. 20 cm. Dry and brittle paper. Fair condition. Stains, including dark dampstains. Wax stains in several places. Extensive wear. Tears, including many open tears, affecting text (paper repairs to two leaves). Worming to several leaves. Old binding, worn.
Listed in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book based on a picture of the second title page from the copy in the National Library of Finland. There is no physical copy in the National Library in Jerusalem (only a link to the digitized copy in the Schneersohn Library, Moscow). Not listed in Stefansky.
Rare siddur. The present copy is lacking the first six leaves and final leaf.
The prayer text in this siddur was established by Rebbe Shlomo Chaim Perlow of Koidanov, grandson and close disciple of Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz.
The text was memorized by two of his grandsons, R. Yitzchak Perlow posek in Vileyka (1850-1902), author of Erez BaLevanon (Vilna 1899), who compiled and published this siddur; and Rebbe Aharon Perlow of Koidanov (1839-1897). In his foreword (lacking in the present copy), R. Yitzchak writes how he recorded the prayer text of his grandfather (Rebbe Shlomo Chaim Perlow of Koidanov), word for word from memory, with the assistance of his brother-in-law Rebbe Aharon Perlow of Koidanov. He also recorded dozens of customs and practices of his grandfather.
The siddur also includes the Or HaYashar composition – essays on ethics and kabbalistic practices by R. Meir Poppers, edited, arranged and expanded upon by R. Tzvi Hirsh Chazan of Poznan, as first printed in Amsterdam 1709.
In the approbation of Rebbe Aharon of Koidanov to this siddur (lacking in the present copy), the Rebbe blesses whoever buys the siddur: "I request of our Jewish brethren, especially our fellow Chassidim, to each buy this siddur at its designated price, and they should not try to save on the money, and first buyers will be first to be blessed, especially our fellow Chassidim, it is fitting that they should not pray from any other siddur using any other text, rather everyone should buy this siddur... and it will be good for him".
This siddur was reprinted with various additions in 1903, 1928 and in other editions. In his foreword to the 1903 edition, the publisher mentions the present edition, describing how it was immediately cherished and enjoyed, and rapidly sold out, to the extent that the last copies were sold at a high price (meaning that already then these siddurim were rare). The rebbes of Koidanov, Lechovitz, Karlin and Stolin, and the Beit Avraham of Slonim all prayed from this siddur. Current siddurim of Karlin and Stolin Chassidim are based on the text of this siddur. This siddur was referred to by elder Koidanov Chassidim as "Dem Rebben's Siddur", and in the Chassidic world as "Der Koidanover Siddur".
Rebbe Chaim Meir of Narol testified in his approbation to the 1979 edition of the siddur that this siddur was very cherished by the rebbes of Belz, especially by Rebbe Aharon of Belz: " Many Tzaddikim and Chassidim drew fear of G-d from this siddur, especially the rebbes of Belz, and I personally witnessed Rebbe Aharon of Belz praying from this siddur, especially the mussaf prayer of Shabbat Rosh Chodesh".
The author of the present siddur, Rebbe Shlomo Chaim Perlow of Koidanov –elder rebbe of Koidanov and founder of the dynasty (1797-1862) was the grandson and disciple of Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz and Rebbe Asher of Stolin (his grandfather Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz passed away in Stolin on his wedding day). He combined in his conduct and approach the influences of both these grandfathers. He was also associated with the Beit Aharon of Karlin. The Koidanov Chassidut which he founded was at that time one of the largest Chassidic courts in Lithuania. His practices were published in an independent booklet, which was bound at the end of later editions of this siddur.
Incomplete copy. 7-255 leaves. Lacking 7 leaves: first 6 leaves (including two title pages; replaced in photocopy), and final leaf. 20 cm. Dry and brittle paper. Fair condition. Stains, including dark dampstains. Wax stains in several places. Extensive wear. Tears, including many open tears, affecting text (paper repairs to two leaves). Worming to several leaves. Old binding, worn.
Listed in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book based on a picture of the second title page from the copy in the National Library of Finland. There is no physical copy in the National Library in Jerusalem (only a link to the digitized copy in the Schneersohn Library, Moscow). Not listed in Stefansky.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $2,375
Including buyer's premium
Shenei Luchot HaBrit (Shelah), words of ethics and fear of G-d, kabbalah and halachah, by R. Yeshaya HaLevi Horowitz. Amsterdam: Immanuel son of Yosef Athias, 1698. Engraved title page (by Avraham son of Yaakov HaGer).
Shenei Luchot HaBrit contains many halachic novellae, Kabbalistic principles, homiletics and ethics, and incorporates all realms of the Torah. The book was received with awe throughout the Jewish world, and its teachings are quoted in the books of leading poskim and kabbalists. Many renowned Chassidic leaders were extraordinarily devoted to the study of the books of the Shelah.
The Bach – R. Yoel Sirkis, notably acclaimed the author and his works in his approbation to the Shaar HaShamayim siddur: "R. Yeshaya HaLevi… left behind blessing in his holy compositions, and upon seeing or reading them, we sensed the outpouring of holiness in all our limbs, and this is the sign that his works were composed for the sake of heaven, to elevate future generations…". The Tosafot Yom Tov in his approbation to the siddur writes: "He is a holy, awe-inspiring man… no doubt he was invested with a heavenly spirit".
This edition of the Shelah was printed in Amsterdam in 1698, birth year of the Baal Shem Tov, and Chassidic lore ties these two events. The Rebbe Rayatz of Lubavitch writes (Igrot, 2853) of the elaborate edition of the Shelah printed in the year "Nachat" (gratification; the numerical value of 'nachat' corresponds to the Hebrew year 5458, i.e. 1698). He states that "this alludes to the heavenly gratification caused by the revelation of the holy book, and in that year the Baal Shem Tov was born". The Baal Shem Tov was used to saying that he was born in the year of the printing of the Shelah HaKadosh, in order to enlighten the world with G-d's light of Torah and fear of Heaven with service of the heart. The Rebbe Rayatz brings a wondrous tradition from R. Mendel of Vitebsk regarding the first and second editions of the Shelah: "During the printing of the Shelah… this holy book enthused and inspired the hearts of the Jewish people, drawing the Evil Eye, which brought about the infamous Chmielnicki pogroms"; "In the year the Baal Shem Tov was born, the second edition of Shelah was printed in Amsterdam, and then as well there was an accusation in heaven against the Jewish people in Poland, similar to the first accusation upon the initial publication of the Shelah, yet thank G-d, it was a year of serenity" (Likutei Diburim HaMeturgam, I, p. 50).
[4], 422; 44; [12] leaves. 29.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dark stains. Minor wear. Large open tears to engraved title page, affecting engraving, repaired with paper and photocopy replacement. Open tears to several other leaves, repaired. Worming, affecting text. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New binding.
Shenei Luchot HaBrit contains many halachic novellae, Kabbalistic principles, homiletics and ethics, and incorporates all realms of the Torah. The book was received with awe throughout the Jewish world, and its teachings are quoted in the books of leading poskim and kabbalists. Many renowned Chassidic leaders were extraordinarily devoted to the study of the books of the Shelah.
The Bach – R. Yoel Sirkis, notably acclaimed the author and his works in his approbation to the Shaar HaShamayim siddur: "R. Yeshaya HaLevi… left behind blessing in his holy compositions, and upon seeing or reading them, we sensed the outpouring of holiness in all our limbs, and this is the sign that his works were composed for the sake of heaven, to elevate future generations…". The Tosafot Yom Tov in his approbation to the siddur writes: "He is a holy, awe-inspiring man… no doubt he was invested with a heavenly spirit".
This edition of the Shelah was printed in Amsterdam in 1698, birth year of the Baal Shem Tov, and Chassidic lore ties these two events. The Rebbe Rayatz of Lubavitch writes (Igrot, 2853) of the elaborate edition of the Shelah printed in the year "Nachat" (gratification; the numerical value of 'nachat' corresponds to the Hebrew year 5458, i.e. 1698). He states that "this alludes to the heavenly gratification caused by the revelation of the holy book, and in that year the Baal Shem Tov was born". The Baal Shem Tov was used to saying that he was born in the year of the printing of the Shelah HaKadosh, in order to enlighten the world with G-d's light of Torah and fear of Heaven with service of the heart. The Rebbe Rayatz brings a wondrous tradition from R. Mendel of Vitebsk regarding the first and second editions of the Shelah: "During the printing of the Shelah… this holy book enthused and inspired the hearts of the Jewish people, drawing the Evil Eye, which brought about the infamous Chmielnicki pogroms"; "In the year the Baal Shem Tov was born, the second edition of Shelah was printed in Amsterdam, and then as well there was an accusation in heaven against the Jewish people in Poland, similar to the first accusation upon the initial publication of the Shelah, yet thank G-d, it was a year of serenity" (Likutei Diburim HaMeturgam, I, p. 50).
[4], 422; 44; [12] leaves. 29.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dark stains. Minor wear. Large open tears to engraved title page, affecting engraving, repaired with paper and photocopy replacement. Open tears to several other leaves, repaired. Worming, affecting text. Stamps and handwritten inscriptions. New binding.
Category
Chassidic Books
Catalogue
Auction 83 - Part I - Rare and Important Items
November 23, 2021
Opening: $15,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000
Sold for: $20,000
Including buyer's premium
Responsa Me'il Tzedaka, by R. Yonah Landsofer. Prague, [1756].
Wide-margined copy. Copy of R. Yechezkel Landau, author of Noda BiYehuda, with a gloss in his handwriting.
His name (in his handwriting?) appears within the title page illustration (in Hebrew and Latin characters): "Yechezkel Landau – Ezeckiel Landau". At the top of the title page is an ownership inscription in his son's handwriting: "Belongs to my father... R. Yechezkel HaLevi Landau, rabbi here in Prague". On the last leaf (p. 82a) is another inscription in a different handwriting: "Belongs to the great luminary, the famous R. Yechezkel Segal Landau, rabbi of Prague". Many more Hebrew and German inscriptions appear on the endpapers, attesting that the book belonged to R. Yechezkel Landau, Rabbi of Prague.
On p. 31a, a long neat gloss, handwritten by the Noda BiYehuda, relating to a passage in Responsum 27 on the topic of the size of the gris (see below). This gloss was presumably never printed.
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Segal Landau (1713-1793) was a leading Halachic authority of all times, whom the entire Jewish nation relied upon. From a young age, he was renowned as a leading Torah scholar of his generation. From the age of 13 until 30, he resided in Brody, a thriving Torah center in those times, home to the celebrated Kloiz – Beit Midrash renowned for the study of all realms of Torah, and for the famous compositions on the Talmud, in Halachah and in Kabbalah which it produced. He served for about ten years as the rabbi of one of the four Batei Din in Brody. During his stay in Brody, he became close to the Kloiz scholars, including R. Chaim Sanzer and R. Gershon of Kitov (brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov). During those years, he studied the Arizal's writings together with R. Chaim Sanzer, a leading scholar in the Kloiz.
Ca. 1745, he went to serve as rabbi of Jampol, and in 1754, he began serving as rabbi of Prague and the region. In Prague, he led his community fearlessly, becoming a foremost leader of his generation. He established a large yeshiva there, in which he educated thousands of disciples, including many of the leaders of that generation (his disciple R. Elazar Fleckeles, author of Teshuva MeAhavah, eulogized him: "He edified several thousands of disciples, including hundreds of rabbis and dayanim"; Olat HaChodesh HaShlishi, 17, p. 85a). Thousands of questions were addressed to him from far-flung places. Approximately 850 of his responsa were published in Noda BiYehuda. His books published in his lifetime, Responsa Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Kama, and Tzelach on Tractates Pesachim and Berachot, earned him worldwide fame already then (Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Tinyana, printed after his passing, Prague 1811, includes hundreds of his responsa to questions about his first book, addressed to him from various places).
The Chida in Shem HaGedolim greatly praises the book Noda BiYehuda as well as its author, describing him as an exceptionally outstanding Torah scholar who disseminated much Torah through his books and disciples, and mentions the acuity and extensive Torah wisdom apparent in his responsa and books. The Noda BiYehuda himself wrote in a responsum regarding one of his novellae, that in his opinion it is a true Torah thought (Even HaEzer, Mahadura Tinyana, section 23, 2). The Chatam Sofer relates to this responsum in one of his responsa (Part II, Even HaEzer, section 95): "The words of G-d are in his mouth, truth".
The author of the book, R. Yonah Landsofer (1678-1712), was a leading rabbi in Prague in the generation preceding the Noda BiYehuda. Died at the young age of 34. This book of responsa was the first of his compositions to be published, after his death. Among the approbations at the beginning of the book is a long approbation by the Noda BiYehuda and his Beit Din. R. Yonah instructed in his will that his book should be printed anonymously, and indeed, his name does not appear on the title page or in the introduction. However, the Noda BiYehuda reveals the author's name in his approbation: "Although the author modestly concealed his name... he is clearly the great Torah scholar... the famous pious genius R. Yonah Landsofer...".
Responsum 27, to which the Noda BiYehuda added a gloss in this copy, is a well-known responsum of the Me'il Tzedakah, being the first to calculate the size of the gris used in the laws of niddah. This responsum features several sketches, including sketches demonstrating the size of the gris according to the calculations of the Me'il Tzedakah. The Me'il Tzedakah's measurement of a gris became accepted by most leading poskim. The Chatam Sofer wrote that after much effort and study, he found this measurement to be correct. The Noda BiYehuda also agreed with R. Landsofer, as his disciple wrote in his name in the book Teshuva MeAhavah (III, 365).
[6], 82 leaves. 26.5 cm. Wide margins. Good condition. Stains. Tears to endpapers and to several other leaves. Repaired tear to bottom of title page, not affecting text. Hole in the upper margin of all leaves, not affecting text. Stamps. New leather binding.
Wide-margined copy. Copy of R. Yechezkel Landau, author of Noda BiYehuda, with a gloss in his handwriting.
His name (in his handwriting?) appears within the title page illustration (in Hebrew and Latin characters): "Yechezkel Landau – Ezeckiel Landau". At the top of the title page is an ownership inscription in his son's handwriting: "Belongs to my father... R. Yechezkel HaLevi Landau, rabbi here in Prague". On the last leaf (p. 82a) is another inscription in a different handwriting: "Belongs to the great luminary, the famous R. Yechezkel Segal Landau, rabbi of Prague". Many more Hebrew and German inscriptions appear on the endpapers, attesting that the book belonged to R. Yechezkel Landau, Rabbi of Prague.
On p. 31a, a long neat gloss, handwritten by the Noda BiYehuda, relating to a passage in Responsum 27 on the topic of the size of the gris (see below). This gloss was presumably never printed.
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Segal Landau (1713-1793) was a leading Halachic authority of all times, whom the entire Jewish nation relied upon. From a young age, he was renowned as a leading Torah scholar of his generation. From the age of 13 until 30, he resided in Brody, a thriving Torah center in those times, home to the celebrated Kloiz – Beit Midrash renowned for the study of all realms of Torah, and for the famous compositions on the Talmud, in Halachah and in Kabbalah which it produced. He served for about ten years as the rabbi of one of the four Batei Din in Brody. During his stay in Brody, he became close to the Kloiz scholars, including R. Chaim Sanzer and R. Gershon of Kitov (brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov). During those years, he studied the Arizal's writings together with R. Chaim Sanzer, a leading scholar in the Kloiz.
Ca. 1745, he went to serve as rabbi of Jampol, and in 1754, he began serving as rabbi of Prague and the region. In Prague, he led his community fearlessly, becoming a foremost leader of his generation. He established a large yeshiva there, in which he educated thousands of disciples, including many of the leaders of that generation (his disciple R. Elazar Fleckeles, author of Teshuva MeAhavah, eulogized him: "He edified several thousands of disciples, including hundreds of rabbis and dayanim"; Olat HaChodesh HaShlishi, 17, p. 85a). Thousands of questions were addressed to him from far-flung places. Approximately 850 of his responsa were published in Noda BiYehuda. His books published in his lifetime, Responsa Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Kama, and Tzelach on Tractates Pesachim and Berachot, earned him worldwide fame already then (Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Tinyana, printed after his passing, Prague 1811, includes hundreds of his responsa to questions about his first book, addressed to him from various places).
The Chida in Shem HaGedolim greatly praises the book Noda BiYehuda as well as its author, describing him as an exceptionally outstanding Torah scholar who disseminated much Torah through his books and disciples, and mentions the acuity and extensive Torah wisdom apparent in his responsa and books. The Noda BiYehuda himself wrote in a responsum regarding one of his novellae, that in his opinion it is a true Torah thought (Even HaEzer, Mahadura Tinyana, section 23, 2). The Chatam Sofer relates to this responsum in one of his responsa (Part II, Even HaEzer, section 95): "The words of G-d are in his mouth, truth".
The author of the book, R. Yonah Landsofer (1678-1712), was a leading rabbi in Prague in the generation preceding the Noda BiYehuda. Died at the young age of 34. This book of responsa was the first of his compositions to be published, after his death. Among the approbations at the beginning of the book is a long approbation by the Noda BiYehuda and his Beit Din. R. Yonah instructed in his will that his book should be printed anonymously, and indeed, his name does not appear on the title page or in the introduction. However, the Noda BiYehuda reveals the author's name in his approbation: "Although the author modestly concealed his name... he is clearly the great Torah scholar... the famous pious genius R. Yonah Landsofer...".
Responsum 27, to which the Noda BiYehuda added a gloss in this copy, is a well-known responsum of the Me'il Tzedakah, being the first to calculate the size of the gris used in the laws of niddah. This responsum features several sketches, including sketches demonstrating the size of the gris according to the calculations of the Me'il Tzedakah. The Me'il Tzedakah's measurement of a gris became accepted by most leading poskim. The Chatam Sofer wrote that after much effort and study, he found this measurement to be correct. The Noda BiYehuda also agreed with R. Landsofer, as his disciple wrote in his name in the book Teshuva MeAhavah (III, 365).
[6], 82 leaves. 26.5 cm. Wide margins. Good condition. Stains. Tears to endpapers and to several other leaves. Repaired tear to bottom of title page, not affecting text. Hole in the upper margin of all leaves, not affecting text. Stamps. New leather binding.
Category
Rabbis – Autographs
Catalogue