Taamei HaMitzvot, reasons for the Torah commandments, kabbalistic commentary on the reading of Shema and prayer kavanot, by the kabbalist R. Menachem Recanati. Basel: Ambrosius Froben, 1581.

The author,
R. Menachem son of Binyamin Recanati (1250-1310), one of the early Italian kabbalists. His most famous work is his halachic rulings, which served as an important halachic source for later generations, cited by poskim such as the Beit Yosef, Shach and Magen Avraham.

At the beginning and end of the book is a foreword and afterword by the publisher, the kabbalist R. Yaakov Luzzatto. At the end of the book is an index of hints and secrets, apparently also arranged by him. The publisher describes the importance of the book on the title page, concluding: "Whoever studies it will merit the salvation of redemption".

Inscription on title page: "Segre brothers", and two inscriptions deleted with ink.

On verso of last leaf, signature of censor Domenico Gerosolimitano, dated 1598. Additional censorship inscription on title page.

Several glosses in Italian script.

43, [5] leaves. 21.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Light wear. Worming, affecting text. New binding.