Letter signed by Rebbe Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Rabbi of Shinova (Sieniawa). Sieniawa (Poland), Chanukah 1886.
Blessings of recovery for the residents of Téglás, who sent their names to be mentioned in prayer by the Rebbe (presumably following an epidemic):
"An abundance of goodness and imminent salvation to my friends the rabbis… residents of the Téglás village. I received your letter with the Pidyon Nefesh (redemption money) for the members of your community mentioned by name. May G-d have compassion on you, the healthy should not fall ill and the ill should recover speedily, and no misfortune should be heard in your boundaries nor in any Jewish town, only life, health and all the best…".
Written on his behalf by his scribe and attendant, the letter concludes with a line in the handwriting of the Rebbe: "So are the words of one who awaits good tidings amongst the entire Jewish people, Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam".
The first Shinova Rebbe, R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Rabbi of Sieniawa (1815-1899), was the author of Divrei Yechezkel and eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. An outstanding Torah scholar, he was proficient in all realms of Torah, exoteric and esoteric, Halachic and Chassidic teachings. He was venerated in his role as rabbi and rebbe already during his father's lifetime. Progenitor of important Chassidic dynasties, with many of his sons and grandsons serving as rabbis and rebbes in various cities already in his lifetime. Holy and pure from his youth, he attended leading rebbes of his times and was considered their prominent disciple. He was famed for the miracles he performed, and reputedly instructed his disciples to save his letters, which would afford them protection and salvation.
[1] leaf. 22.5 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folding marks. Adhesive tape stains. Professionally mounted on thin paper for preservation. Stamp of the Rebbe: "Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam, Sieniawa".