Lot 388
Letter by Rabbi Moshe Zacuto – Mantua, 1681
Letter of authorization in holy handwriting and signature of Kabbalist Rabbi Moshe Zacuto – The Ramaz. Mantua, 7 Tishrei [1681].
“I have received… five hundred on account of the wages due to me from the holy congregations for the past three months; Tamuz, Av and Elul of 1681, and I have signed my name attesting to this here in Mantua, Moshe son of Rabbi Mordechai Zacuto”. Followed by signature of Rabbi Yehuda Briel [member of Beit Din of the Ramaz, successor to him in the rabbinate of Mantua and leading Torah scholar of Italy during that period – see attached material].
The Ramaz – Rabbi Moshe Zacuto (1612-1698, Otzar HaRabbanim 14674), divine genius and Kabbalist. Among transmitters of wisdom of Kabbalah in Italy and throughout countries of Europe. Native of Amsterdam; studied Kabbalah by Rabbi Shaul Mortira. Studied in Poland with Rabbi Yitzchak of Poznan and Rabbi Elchanan of Vilnius under whom he grew tremendously in Torah. He received the essence of the wisdom of Kabbalah from Kabbalist Rabbi Binyamin HaLevi, among disciples of the Ari (some ascribe him as author of Chemdat Yamim – see “Chemdat Yamim Treasury”).
In Shem HaGedolim, the Chida notes that he was granted a heavenly spirit. Rabbi Gur Aryeh HaLevi of Mantua testified that he heard the inner spirit speak from within him.
Served in the rabbinate of Venice together with Rabbi Azarya Figo. From 1673 served as rabbi in Mantua until his death on Sukkot (1697) – year of birth of the Ba’al Shem Tov.
His disciples include: Rabbi Binyamin HaKohen (the Rabach) father-in-law of Rabbi Yeshaya Basan among rabbis of the Ramchal, and Rabbi Avraham Reggio.
His books include: Rabbi Moshe Zacuto Responsa, Kol HaRamaz on the Mishnayot, Igrot HaRamaz (most of which were written to his disciple the Rabach), Shoda Dedeina, commentaries on Sefer HaZohar, Tifteh Aruch, Yesod Olam, Tikun Shovevim and more. Composed many poems and arranged many of the prayers which are customary until today according to Kabbalah – for additional information related to him see attached material.
9.5 cm. leaf. Very good condition. Folding marks, tear (not damaging text). Placed in especially elegant blue and red leather case with gilded imprints and protective glass cover.
