Tzemach Hashem LiTzvi, Chassidic essays on the Torah, by R. Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvirna. [Berditchev (Berdychiv): R. Yisrael Bak, ca. 1818]. First edition.
The author, Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Nadvirna (1740-1802, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, pp. 604-607), was one of the leading third generation Chassidic rebbes. Disciple of the Maggid of Mezritch. His primary teacher was R. Yechiel Michel of Złoczew, who was known to say that R. Tzvi Hirsh was the greatest of his disciples and that Eliyahu HaNavi desires his closeness. R. Tzvi Hirsh's disciples include R. Menachem Mendel of Kosov, R. Tzvi Hirsh of Zhydachiv, R. Avraham David of Buchach and others. He wrote many books and was famous for his primary work Tzemach Hashem LiTzvi. His book Alfa Beta merited many editions and R. Eliezer Papo, author of Pele Yo'etz, included it in his composition.
[2], 28; 138, [1] leaves. Leaf [3] of the approbations and omissions is bound at the end of the volume. Bluish paper. 21 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains and wear. Many dampstains. Repaired tears to bottom margins of title page and first leaves. New leather binding.
Includes leaf [3], with the third approbation and omissions from Parshiot Ki Tisa and Shmini, which is found in only some of the copies.
The date of printing follows A. Yaari, The Hebrew Printing in Berditchev, Kiryat Sefer, 21, 1944-1945, pp. 120-121. The title page ornamentation, a Torah shield, is the device of R. Yisrael Bak's printing press.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 500.