Torat HaOlah, philosophical-kabbalistic explanations regarding the Temple and sacrifices, by R. Moshe Isserles – the Rema. Prague: Mordechai (son of Gershom) Katz, 1570. First edition, printed in the author's lifetime.
Torat HaOlah is a philosophical-kabbalistic work discussing the Temple and sacrifices. The book is divided into three parts: Part I (titled "Har" – mountain) pertains to the structure of the Temple and its utensils; Part II ("Sadeh" – field) explains the meaning of the sacrifices and the laws of the kohanim in general; and Part III ("Bayit" – house) discusses each sacrifice in detail.
In his preface, the Rema explains that one of the purposes of his work is to achieve true appreciation of the great benefit gained from the Temple, and what we lost with its destruction. The title of the work was chosen by the Rema, who explains that since the Olah offering was brought to atone for improper thoughts, he desires his work to serve as an atonement for his sins, and to help purify his ideas and thoughts, in order that his love and worship of G-d should be more complete.
The book provides a philosophical interpretation of the Temple laws, combined with corresponding Kabbalistic concepts, as he writes in his book: "Kabbalah is philosophy, though in different terms" (Torat HaOlah, III, chapter IV). In one of his responsa, he speaks similarly of the relation between philosophy and kabbalah: "Both are the word of G-d… and are equally good…" (Responsa of the Rema, section 7).
The philosophy in this work is greatly influenced by the teachings of the Rambam, who is mentioned in almost every chapter. The structure of the book is reminiscent of the Rambam's Moreh Nevuchim.
Title page set in fine engraved border.
The preface is preceded by a poem in honor of the author, authored by "Manish". On the final leaf, two poems in honor of the author and the book, by "Shmuel son of Reuven, known as Shmuel Setzer… of Frankfurt am Main".
Conclusion by the Rema on leaf 172, with a commentary to the blessing of Baruch SheAmar.
Ownership inscriptions on title page, deleted with ink and difficult to decipher.

[6], 173 leaves. 28 cm. Browned paper. Fair-good condition. Stains, including large dampstains, dark stains and wax stains. Tears and worming, slightly affecting engraved title page border. Tears affecting text in several places, and open tears to title page (without damage to text), repaired with paper. Minor damage (singeing). Stamp on title page. New leather binding.