Lot 178
Ha-Rokeach – Fano, 1505 – The First Hebrew Book with Title Page
Ha-Rokeach, founded by Rabbi Elazar son of Rabbi Yehuda [from Germazia]. Fano, Passover [1505], [Gershom Soncino print]. First edition.
A compilation of laws on permissions and prohibitions [Issur Ve-Heiter], money matters [Mamonot], Festivals, and Women, combined with words of Yir’ah and Teshuva, Musar and Chasidut – among the prominent books of Halacha and Yir’ah.
According to many bibliographers, this book is the first Hebrew book ever printed with a title page.
Rabbi Elazar from Worms (Germazia) was apparently born in Mainz around 1176 and passed away there in 1238. He was the son of Rabbi Yehuda son of Rabbi Klonimus from Mainz, his father’s disciple as well as the disciple of Rabbi Yehuda Ha-Chasid, author of “Sefer Chasidim” who taught him Kabalistic secrets. Authored about thirty books, the Roke’ach being the most important one.
[109] Leaves, 27 cm. light, Great quality paper. Good-fair condition except for leaves [2-3] - which were added from a different copy - are detached and have cut margins. Professionally restored tears and damages.
From Dr. Israel Mehlman’s private collection.
