Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
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Displaying 133 - 144 of 200
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $30,000
Estimate: $40,000 - $50,000
Unsold
Large collection of letters by the Rebbe the Rayatz of Lubavitch, bearing his signatures and some additions handwritten by him, most sent to Mr. Elchanan Glazer. Brooklyn, New york, 1944-1950.
35 letters, typewritten on the official stationery of the Rebbe the Rayatz, bearing his own signature. Most are in Yiddish, some in Hebrew and in English. Some of the letters have not been printed. Some bear the Rebbe's full signature, including his last name and several are signed with the letter Yud in Ashurit script, the special signature he used in the last year of his life.
The collection also contains two letters written in the name of the Rebbe the Rayatz on his stationery, signed by his secretary and a telegram sent on behalf of the Rebbe to his Chassidim in honor of Yom HaGeula.
Enclosed: · 5 envelopes with postage stamps sent with some of the letters in the collection, with the official letterhead of the Rebbe the Rayatz. · 4 photographs. Three are photos of the Rebbe and the fourth is a photo of a Chabad event (the Rebbe is not seen in the photo).
Items in the collection:
· Letter of good wishes for a wedding, with blessings for the New Year, with the Rebbe's full signature (including his last name).
· 4 letters of New Year wishes, one with two words in the Rebbe's handwriting.
· 6 letters of blessings related to medical issues, pregnancy and birth. A few words in the Rebbe's handwriting were added to four letters. Three were written in the last year of his life, with the letter Yud of his name Yitzchak in Ashurit script.
· 20 letters on various matters, some regarding assistance to refugees, another about reprinting the responsa of the Tzemach Tzedek, etc. One bears his full signature (including his last name). Most were not printed. Leaves with translations from Yiddish to English are attached to three of the letters.
· Two letters in the name of the Rebbe, signed by his secretary, R. Chaim Liberman.
· Letter in English, with his full signature (including his last name).
· Letter to R. Chanoch Hendel [Havlin] with a request to sell the property owned by the Rebbe the Rayatz in the city of Hebron, and with the proceeds to buy a new building in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. 1944. Unprinted.
· Long letter, 2 pages, in Yiddish, to the Committee for Taharat HaMishpacha in Montevideo, capital city of Uruguay, regarding the construction of a mikveh. 1946. Unprinted.
· Four large photographs, taken on his first visit to the US in 1930. One photo was taken during his visit to the White House and the others were taken on the deck of the ship on his return trip from the US. Another photo is from a Chabad event (without the Rebbe).
R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson of Lubavitch-Chabad (1880-1950) was appointed Rebbe in 1920. In the lifetime of his father, the Rashab, he began his leadership role as his father's close assistant (at the age of 15, he accompanied his father to rabbinic conventions in Russia and in Europe). After his father's death, he served as Rebbe and led Chabad Chassidim who devotedly engaged in Torah activities under the Communist rule. His efforts to maintain Jewish life in Communist Russia landed him in prison several times. His last imprisonment was in 1927 and he was sentenced to death. Due to international pressure, he was released on the 12th of Tamuz (hence, this date is celebrated by Chabad Chassidism as Chag HaGe'ula). After his release, from 1928-1933, he lived in Riga, the capital city of Latvia, and from 1933-1940 in Poland, getting trapped in Warsaw at the outbreak of WWII. Chabad Chassidim in the US feverishly attempted to rescue him from Poland. After involving senior American officials and with the assistance of the head of Intelligence of the German Army, the Rayatz and his family were smuggled from Poland to the US (in Adar Bet 1940). A short while after he immigrated to the US, he purchased the 770 building in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, NY, which became his residence in his later years and headquarters of the worldwide Chabad center. In the US, the Rayatz established the central institutes of Chabad Chassidism - "The center for education", "Machane Yisrael" and the Kehot (Karnei Hod Torah) Publication Society and the center of the Tomchei Temimim Yeshivas.
The Rayatz was a devoted, active leader who was involved in all matters related to the Jewish People and was famous for his love and dedication to all Jews, also famed as an outstanding educator who understood the souls of his students. In his many letters, he deeply discusses various educational issues (see his pamphlet: Rules of education and guidance). Known for his writings with clear concise explanations of deep intangible Kabbalistic and Chassidic concepts. After his passing, he left thousands of manuscripts which were printed in dozens of volumes of his letters, articles and discourses. R. Shloimke of Zvhil who greatly admired the Rayatz, told a close friend that he received a revelation from Heaven that the Rebbe the Rayatz was the tsaddik of his generation. In 1928, in honor of the 12th of Tamuz, the first Chag HaGeula, R. A.Y.H. Kook, Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem and of Eretz Israel, published a proclamation in the newpaper Doar Hayom: "…G-d has given us rescuing angel in our generation… the lofty holy tsaddik R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the Lubavitch Rebbe, who with amazing self-sacrifice upheld the pillars of the religion and Judaism and lit with the light of Torah and mitzvoth the gloom of that dark country (Russia)…".
48 paper items (containing 35 letters with the signature of the Rebbe the Rayatz) + 4 photographs. Size varies. Overall good condition.
35 letters, typewritten on the official stationery of the Rebbe the Rayatz, bearing his own signature. Most are in Yiddish, some in Hebrew and in English. Some of the letters have not been printed. Some bear the Rebbe's full signature, including his last name and several are signed with the letter Yud in Ashurit script, the special signature he used in the last year of his life.
The collection also contains two letters written in the name of the Rebbe the Rayatz on his stationery, signed by his secretary and a telegram sent on behalf of the Rebbe to his Chassidim in honor of Yom HaGeula.
Enclosed: · 5 envelopes with postage stamps sent with some of the letters in the collection, with the official letterhead of the Rebbe the Rayatz. · 4 photographs. Three are photos of the Rebbe and the fourth is a photo of a Chabad event (the Rebbe is not seen in the photo).
Items in the collection:
· Letter of good wishes for a wedding, with blessings for the New Year, with the Rebbe's full signature (including his last name).
· 4 letters of New Year wishes, one with two words in the Rebbe's handwriting.
· 6 letters of blessings related to medical issues, pregnancy and birth. A few words in the Rebbe's handwriting were added to four letters. Three were written in the last year of his life, with the letter Yud of his name Yitzchak in Ashurit script.
· 20 letters on various matters, some regarding assistance to refugees, another about reprinting the responsa of the Tzemach Tzedek, etc. One bears his full signature (including his last name). Most were not printed. Leaves with translations from Yiddish to English are attached to three of the letters.
· Two letters in the name of the Rebbe, signed by his secretary, R. Chaim Liberman.
· Letter in English, with his full signature (including his last name).
· Letter to R. Chanoch Hendel [Havlin] with a request to sell the property owned by the Rebbe the Rayatz in the city of Hebron, and with the proceeds to buy a new building in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. 1944. Unprinted.
· Long letter, 2 pages, in Yiddish, to the Committee for Taharat HaMishpacha in Montevideo, capital city of Uruguay, regarding the construction of a mikveh. 1946. Unprinted.
· Four large photographs, taken on his first visit to the US in 1930. One photo was taken during his visit to the White House and the others were taken on the deck of the ship on his return trip from the US. Another photo is from a Chabad event (without the Rebbe).
R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson of Lubavitch-Chabad (1880-1950) was appointed Rebbe in 1920. In the lifetime of his father, the Rashab, he began his leadership role as his father's close assistant (at the age of 15, he accompanied his father to rabbinic conventions in Russia and in Europe). After his father's death, he served as Rebbe and led Chabad Chassidim who devotedly engaged in Torah activities under the Communist rule. His efforts to maintain Jewish life in Communist Russia landed him in prison several times. His last imprisonment was in 1927 and he was sentenced to death. Due to international pressure, he was released on the 12th of Tamuz (hence, this date is celebrated by Chabad Chassidism as Chag HaGe'ula). After his release, from 1928-1933, he lived in Riga, the capital city of Latvia, and from 1933-1940 in Poland, getting trapped in Warsaw at the outbreak of WWII. Chabad Chassidim in the US feverishly attempted to rescue him from Poland. After involving senior American officials and with the assistance of the head of Intelligence of the German Army, the Rayatz and his family were smuggled from Poland to the US (in Adar Bet 1940). A short while after he immigrated to the US, he purchased the 770 building in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, NY, which became his residence in his later years and headquarters of the worldwide Chabad center. In the US, the Rayatz established the central institutes of Chabad Chassidism - "The center for education", "Machane Yisrael" and the Kehot (Karnei Hod Torah) Publication Society and the center of the Tomchei Temimim Yeshivas.
The Rayatz was a devoted, active leader who was involved in all matters related to the Jewish People and was famous for his love and dedication to all Jews, also famed as an outstanding educator who understood the souls of his students. In his many letters, he deeply discusses various educational issues (see his pamphlet: Rules of education and guidance). Known for his writings with clear concise explanations of deep intangible Kabbalistic and Chassidic concepts. After his passing, he left thousands of manuscripts which were printed in dozens of volumes of his letters, articles and discourses. R. Shloimke of Zvhil who greatly admired the Rayatz, told a close friend that he received a revelation from Heaven that the Rebbe the Rayatz was the tsaddik of his generation. In 1928, in honor of the 12th of Tamuz, the first Chag HaGeula, R. A.Y.H. Kook, Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem and of Eretz Israel, published a proclamation in the newpaper Doar Hayom: "…G-d has given us rescuing angel in our generation… the lofty holy tsaddik R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the Lubavitch Rebbe, who with amazing self-sacrifice upheld the pillars of the religion and Judaism and lit with the light of Torah and mitzvoth the gloom of that dark country (Russia)…".
48 paper items (containing 35 letters with the signature of the Rebbe the Rayatz) + 4 photographs. Size varies. Overall good condition.
Category
Chabad Chassidism – Letters and Printed Books Including Early and Rare Editions
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $10,000
Unsold
Eight booklets of Chassidic essays, printed and distributed by Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneersohn, the Lubavitch-Chabad Rebbe, from 1977-1992.
The Lubavitcher Rebbe was known for his love of the printed word. He printed hundreds of letters addressed to various authors, some containing encouragement for printing Torah novellae and others with comments on their books. During the years of his leadership and even earlier, dozens of books of Chabad teachings were printed and proofread by the Rebbe. "The rebbe practiced a distinctive custom of handing out books or booklets containing Chassidic teachings with his own holy hands to the large audience who came to see him, men, women and children" (History of the Kehot Publishing Co.).
This lot contains eight booklets handed out by the Rebbe:
· "Kuntress Ahavat Yisrael", anthology of sayings and articles of Chabad Rebbes on the subject of Ahavat Yisrael. Brooklyn, Nissan, 1977. Inscription on title page: "I have received this from the holy hands of the Rebbe, David Gottesman".
· "Kuntress 11th of Nisan – 1990", Chassidic essay, discourse delivered by the Rebbe on the 11th of Nisan 1978, which he himself proofread and printed in honor of his 88th birthday. Brooklyn, Nisan, 1990. First edition.
This booklet was distributed by the Rebbe on the eve of the 11th of Nisan 1990, in honor of his 88th birthday. It was bound in a "light-blue festive binding… the countenance of the Rebbe was particularly shining while distributing [the booklets]…" (Beit Chayenu).
· "Kuntress Etz HaChaim", about the obligation to study esoteric facets of the Torah, by R. Shalom Duber Schneerson of Lubavitch. Cheshvan, 1991.
· Kuntress "Ma'amar Baruch She'asa Nisim – 1904", Chassidic essay of a discourse delivered by R. Shalom Duber Schneerson of Lubavitch in 1904, put into writing by his son the Rayatz. Brooklyn, Shevat, 1991. First edition.
· "Kuntress Siyum V'Hachnassat Sefer Torah", two Chassidic articles containing a discourse delivered by the Rebbe at two events of dedication of new Sifrei Torah in 1970 and in 1981, proofread by the Rebbe. Brooklyn, Kislev, 1992. Inscription on title page: "Received from the holy hand of the Rebbe, David Avraham Gottesman".
This booklet was distributed by the Rebbe, on the eve of the 28th of Cheshvan 1992, in honor of a hachnasat Sefer Torah written by Moroccan Jews in memory of his wife, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka. "The booklet for a siyum and hachnasat Sefer Torah, with a brown cover, slightly similar to parchment… 'Special edition' appears under the title".
· "Kuntress Derushei Chatuna" (homilies for weddings), seven Chassidic essays spoken and written by R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the Rayatz of Lubavitch, in honor of his daughter's marriage to his son-in-law the Rebbe in Kislev 1929, with two articles by the Rebbe based on his father-in-law's articles printed in this booklet.
Brooklyn, Kislev, 1992.
The booklet was handed out by the Rebbe on the 17th of Kislev. "It is bound in a light-blue cover of high-quality paper and inscribed in spectacular red letters: Kuntress Derushei Chatuna… Thousands of people passed before the Rebbe, one after another… quickly, to merit a glimpse of the king's countenance… and to leave happily with a special gift…".
· "Kuntress Ma'amarim 1912", three Chassidic articles, their content delivered and written by R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson, the Rayatz of Lubavitch in Tishrei 1912. Brooklyn, Shevat, 1922. First edition. Inscribed on the title page: "Received from the holy hand of the Rebbe, David Avraham Gottesman".
The booklet was distributed by the Rebbe on the eve of the 10th of Shevat 1992.
· "Kovetz 22nd of Shevat", compilation of discourses and letters of the Rebbe, "related to the special role of a woman and Jewish daughter in fulfilling the special mission of our generation in disseminating Torah and Judaism…". Brooklyn, Shevat, 1992. Inscribed on title page: "Received from the holy hand of the Rebbe, David Avraham Gottesman".
This booklet was distributed by the Rebbe on the 22nd of Shevat 1992. "The booklet contains about 60 pages, pink color… The distribution lasted for five hours during which the Rebbe handed out more than 10,000 pamphlets…".
The Lubavitcher Rebbe R. Menachem Mendel Schneerson (1902-1994) was the seventh Chabad-Lubavitch Rebbe, son of R. Levi Yitzchak, rabbi of Ekatrinoslav (today Dnipro, Ukraine) and sixth-generation direct descendant of the Tzemach Tzedek. His brilliance and outstanding leadership qualities were evident from a young age. He married the daughter of the Rebbe Rayatz and upon their immigration to the US, he became his father-in-law's close assistant and among other tasks, undertook the management of the central Chabad institutes and was chief editor of Kehot publishing. After the passing of his father-in-law in 1950, R. Menachem Mendel was appointed Rebbe and head of the world Lubavitch Chassidism. He established the "sheluchim" (emissaries) project which has spread to all corners of the world and the Rebbe was renowned for his genuine love and concern for each and every Jew. Famed as a miracle worker with far-reaching foresight, his prayers and blessing assisted thousands. His vast knowledge in all spheres of Torah, halacha and Kabbalah were world-renowned and evident in the dozens of books he authored. Esteemed by the leading Chassidic Rebbes of his times, the Rebbe, author of Netivot Shalom of Slonim referred to his in a letter written in 1961: "The great and holy leader crown and glory of the Jewish People".
8 items. Size varies. Overall good condition.
The Lubavitcher Rebbe was known for his love of the printed word. He printed hundreds of letters addressed to various authors, some containing encouragement for printing Torah novellae and others with comments on their books. During the years of his leadership and even earlier, dozens of books of Chabad teachings were printed and proofread by the Rebbe. "The rebbe practiced a distinctive custom of handing out books or booklets containing Chassidic teachings with his own holy hands to the large audience who came to see him, men, women and children" (History of the Kehot Publishing Co.).
This lot contains eight booklets handed out by the Rebbe:
· "Kuntress Ahavat Yisrael", anthology of sayings and articles of Chabad Rebbes on the subject of Ahavat Yisrael. Brooklyn, Nissan, 1977. Inscription on title page: "I have received this from the holy hands of the Rebbe, David Gottesman".
· "Kuntress 11th of Nisan – 1990", Chassidic essay, discourse delivered by the Rebbe on the 11th of Nisan 1978, which he himself proofread and printed in honor of his 88th birthday. Brooklyn, Nisan, 1990. First edition.
This booklet was distributed by the Rebbe on the eve of the 11th of Nisan 1990, in honor of his 88th birthday. It was bound in a "light-blue festive binding… the countenance of the Rebbe was particularly shining while distributing [the booklets]…" (Beit Chayenu).
· "Kuntress Etz HaChaim", about the obligation to study esoteric facets of the Torah, by R. Shalom Duber Schneerson of Lubavitch. Cheshvan, 1991.
· Kuntress "Ma'amar Baruch She'asa Nisim – 1904", Chassidic essay of a discourse delivered by R. Shalom Duber Schneerson of Lubavitch in 1904, put into writing by his son the Rayatz. Brooklyn, Shevat, 1991. First edition.
· "Kuntress Siyum V'Hachnassat Sefer Torah", two Chassidic articles containing a discourse delivered by the Rebbe at two events of dedication of new Sifrei Torah in 1970 and in 1981, proofread by the Rebbe. Brooklyn, Kislev, 1992. Inscription on title page: "Received from the holy hand of the Rebbe, David Avraham Gottesman".
This booklet was distributed by the Rebbe, on the eve of the 28th of Cheshvan 1992, in honor of a hachnasat Sefer Torah written by Moroccan Jews in memory of his wife, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka. "The booklet for a siyum and hachnasat Sefer Torah, with a brown cover, slightly similar to parchment… 'Special edition' appears under the title".
· "Kuntress Derushei Chatuna" (homilies for weddings), seven Chassidic essays spoken and written by R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the Rayatz of Lubavitch, in honor of his daughter's marriage to his son-in-law the Rebbe in Kislev 1929, with two articles by the Rebbe based on his father-in-law's articles printed in this booklet.
Brooklyn, Kislev, 1992.
The booklet was handed out by the Rebbe on the 17th of Kislev. "It is bound in a light-blue cover of high-quality paper and inscribed in spectacular red letters: Kuntress Derushei Chatuna… Thousands of people passed before the Rebbe, one after another… quickly, to merit a glimpse of the king's countenance… and to leave happily with a special gift…".
· "Kuntress Ma'amarim 1912", three Chassidic articles, their content delivered and written by R. Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson, the Rayatz of Lubavitch in Tishrei 1912. Brooklyn, Shevat, 1922. First edition. Inscribed on the title page: "Received from the holy hand of the Rebbe, David Avraham Gottesman".
The booklet was distributed by the Rebbe on the eve of the 10th of Shevat 1992.
· "Kovetz 22nd of Shevat", compilation of discourses and letters of the Rebbe, "related to the special role of a woman and Jewish daughter in fulfilling the special mission of our generation in disseminating Torah and Judaism…". Brooklyn, Shevat, 1992. Inscribed on title page: "Received from the holy hand of the Rebbe, David Avraham Gottesman".
This booklet was distributed by the Rebbe on the 22nd of Shevat 1992. "The booklet contains about 60 pages, pink color… The distribution lasted for five hours during which the Rebbe handed out more than 10,000 pamphlets…".
The Lubavitcher Rebbe R. Menachem Mendel Schneerson (1902-1994) was the seventh Chabad-Lubavitch Rebbe, son of R. Levi Yitzchak, rabbi of Ekatrinoslav (today Dnipro, Ukraine) and sixth-generation direct descendant of the Tzemach Tzedek. His brilliance and outstanding leadership qualities were evident from a young age. He married the daughter of the Rebbe Rayatz and upon their immigration to the US, he became his father-in-law's close assistant and among other tasks, undertook the management of the central Chabad institutes and was chief editor of Kehot publishing. After the passing of his father-in-law in 1950, R. Menachem Mendel was appointed Rebbe and head of the world Lubavitch Chassidism. He established the "sheluchim" (emissaries) project which has spread to all corners of the world and the Rebbe was renowned for his genuine love and concern for each and every Jew. Famed as a miracle worker with far-reaching foresight, his prayers and blessing assisted thousands. His vast knowledge in all spheres of Torah, halacha and Kabbalah were world-renowned and evident in the dozens of books he authored. Esteemed by the leading Chassidic Rebbes of his times, the Rebbe, author of Netivot Shalom of Slonim referred to his in a letter written in 1961: "The great and holy leader crown and glory of the Jewish People".
8 items. Size varies. Overall good condition.
Category
Chabad Chassidism – Letters and Printed Books Including Early and Rare Editions
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $15,000 - $20,000
Sold for: $32,500
Including buyer's premium
Four books of the Maharal of Prague, first editions that were printed in his lifetime in Krakow, Prague and Venice, bound together in an early leather binding:
· Tiferet Yisrael, discussing the virtue of Torah and mitzvoth, by the Maharal of Prague. Venice: Daniel Zanetti, [1599]. 65 leaves.
On the title page, the Maharal is titled "The amazing Torah scholar, wonder of our times… Head of the Yeshiva R. Yuda Loew son of R. Bezalel… the light of his Torah shines on the holy community of Prague in the country of Pihem [Bohemia]".
· Gevurot Hashem, regarding Passover and the Exodus, with a commentary on the Passover Haggadah, by the Maharal of Prague. Krakow: Yitzchak son of Aharon of Prostějov, 1582. 93, [3] leaves.
· Netzach Yisrael, on Messianic matters and the Jewish Redemption, by the Maharal of Prague. Prague: Moshe son of R. Yosef Bezalel Katz, [1599]. 63 leaves.
· Be'er HaGolah, commentary on Aggadot Chazal, by the Maharal of Prague. Prague: printer not indicated, [1598]. 46 leaves.
On the title page of Gevurot Hashem and on the verso of the title page of Netzach Yisrael are the signatures of "Shmuel Avatz". The owner's signature: "…Meir Tzerndorf" appears on the front flyleaf.
The Maharal, R. Yehuda Loew son of Bezalel (1512-1609), illustrious Torah scholar, born in Worms on the eve of Passover, 1512 (according to some, 1522). Rabbi and Head of Yeshiva in Nikolsburg, Posen and Prague. Teacher of the renowned R. Yom Tov Lipman, author of Tosfot Yom Tov, father-in-law of R. Yitzchak Katz and of R. Eliyahu Luantz, the "Ba'al Shem of Worms". Prominent rabbi and celebrated Jewish philosopher of all times, his distinctive thinking and explanations of Aggadot Chazal (Jewish sages) enlighten the Jewish People until our times. Leader of Moravian Jewry, he was known for his ties with non-Jewish kings and for his tireless battle against blood libels. The Maharal is etched in the hearts of the people as a wonder-worker, especially famed for his Golem created by yichudim and kavanot extracted from Sefer Yetzira and sent by its maker on mysterious missions to thwart anti-Jewish libels [see Nifla'ot Maharal and many folk tales printed about the Golem of Prague]. He printed most of his philosophical compositions during his lifetime, thereby preserving them for posterity (most of his other works on halacha and his Talmudic novellae were lost). These are two of the books printed in his city of Prague (Be'er HaGolah and Netzach Yisrael), one book printed in Krakow (Gevurot Hashem) and one in Venice (Tiferet Yisrael). For many years, these books were not reprinted, however 200 years later, Chassidic leaders and especially the Magid of Koznitz recognized the importance of the reflective teachings of the Maharal and encouraged their reprinting at the end of the 18th century, and thereafter these books profoundly influenced Jewish philosophy and thought.
Four books in one volume. 29 cm. Some darkened leaves. Overall good condition. Stains. Dampstains in some places. Several loose leaves and gatherings. The margins of the first title page are trimmed, affecting its border. Minor defects and paper gluing to the second title page and to other leaves. Early leather binding, torn and damaged.
· Tiferet Yisrael, discussing the virtue of Torah and mitzvoth, by the Maharal of Prague. Venice: Daniel Zanetti, [1599]. 65 leaves.
On the title page, the Maharal is titled "The amazing Torah scholar, wonder of our times… Head of the Yeshiva R. Yuda Loew son of R. Bezalel… the light of his Torah shines on the holy community of Prague in the country of Pihem [Bohemia]".
· Gevurot Hashem, regarding Passover and the Exodus, with a commentary on the Passover Haggadah, by the Maharal of Prague. Krakow: Yitzchak son of Aharon of Prostějov, 1582. 93, [3] leaves.
· Netzach Yisrael, on Messianic matters and the Jewish Redemption, by the Maharal of Prague. Prague: Moshe son of R. Yosef Bezalel Katz, [1599]. 63 leaves.
· Be'er HaGolah, commentary on Aggadot Chazal, by the Maharal of Prague. Prague: printer not indicated, [1598]. 46 leaves.
On the title page of Gevurot Hashem and on the verso of the title page of Netzach Yisrael are the signatures of "Shmuel Avatz". The owner's signature: "…Meir Tzerndorf" appears on the front flyleaf.
The Maharal, R. Yehuda Loew son of Bezalel (1512-1609), illustrious Torah scholar, born in Worms on the eve of Passover, 1512 (according to some, 1522). Rabbi and Head of Yeshiva in Nikolsburg, Posen and Prague. Teacher of the renowned R. Yom Tov Lipman, author of Tosfot Yom Tov, father-in-law of R. Yitzchak Katz and of R. Eliyahu Luantz, the "Ba'al Shem of Worms". Prominent rabbi and celebrated Jewish philosopher of all times, his distinctive thinking and explanations of Aggadot Chazal (Jewish sages) enlighten the Jewish People until our times. Leader of Moravian Jewry, he was known for his ties with non-Jewish kings and for his tireless battle against blood libels. The Maharal is etched in the hearts of the people as a wonder-worker, especially famed for his Golem created by yichudim and kavanot extracted from Sefer Yetzira and sent by its maker on mysterious missions to thwart anti-Jewish libels [see Nifla'ot Maharal and many folk tales printed about the Golem of Prague]. He printed most of his philosophical compositions during his lifetime, thereby preserving them for posterity (most of his other works on halacha and his Talmudic novellae were lost). These are two of the books printed in his city of Prague (Be'er HaGolah and Netzach Yisrael), one book printed in Krakow (Gevurot Hashem) and one in Venice (Tiferet Yisrael). For many years, these books were not reprinted, however 200 years later, Chassidic leaders and especially the Magid of Koznitz recognized the importance of the reflective teachings of the Maharal and encouraged their reprinting at the end of the 18th century, and thereafter these books profoundly influenced Jewish philosophy and thought.
Four books in one volume. 29 cm. Some darkened leaves. Overall good condition. Stains. Dampstains in some places. Several loose leaves and gatherings. The margins of the first title page are trimmed, affecting its border. Minor defects and paper gluing to the second title page and to other leaves. Early leather binding, torn and damaged.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $4,250
Including buyer's premium
Levush HaOra, commentary on Rashi's commentary on the Torah, by R. Mordechai Yaffe – "Ba'al HaLevush". Prague: Chaim son of Ya'akov HaCohen, [1604]. First edition, printed in the author's lifetime.
Commentary of R. Mordechai Yaffe Rabbi of Posen, "Ba'al HaLevush", on the Rashi commentary on the Torah. On the verso of the printed title page: "This book is the sixth Levush of the book Levush HaMalchut, composed by R. Mordechai called Yaffe… contains explanations of Rashi's commentary on the Torah and discussion of a few of the commentaries on Rashi - R. Eliyahu Mizrachi and the Maharal of Prague, author of Gur Aryeh… and he named this book Levush HaOra after the verse The Jews had light (ora)…".
The device of the printer, Chaim son of Ya'akov HaCohen, appears on the verso of the title page. The device of another printer, Yehuda Loewy son of Moshe, an employee of the printing press, appears on the last page.
An illustrated map of Eretz Israel appears on p. 84b, prefaced on the previous page: "This is a drawing of the borders of Eretz Israel according to the Rashi commentary as I have been taught and it is true and correct according to Rashi's words as I will explain. Just as we have merited drawing it, so shall we merit seeing it with our own eyes rebuilt and settled…".
The [9] last leaves contain appendixes and novellae by the author to his books Levush HaTechelet and Levush HaChur after their printing.
Page [5b] bears an illustration of a palm of a hand, with signs for calculating the tekufot of the months of the year, accompanied by a discussion and detailed explanation of the correct way to calculate the months according to the parts of the palm of the hand.
Ancient ownership inscription on the title page: "Given to me as a gift by--- Meir son of R. L. of Łęczyca, the 22nd of Shevat 1703". Stamps on title page and in other places: "--- Yitzchak Tuvia Landau", "From the estate of my dear father R. Yisrael Mordechai, Lodz 1810, Yehuda Leibush Morgenstern", "R. Zeligman".
91, [9] leaves. 29.5 cm. Condition varies among the leaves. Most of the inside leaves of the book are in good to good-fair condition. The title page, the following leaf and approximately the last 12 leaves have tears and damage, primarily to the margins, mostly without affecting text. These leaves have been restored with paper and gluing (perhaps some were replaced with leaves from other copies). The next to last leaf is a high-quality photocopy. The rest of the leaves have stains and dampstains. Minor worming to margins of several leaves. New binding.
The map was not recorded in the Eran Laor Cartographic Collection.
Commentary of R. Mordechai Yaffe Rabbi of Posen, "Ba'al HaLevush", on the Rashi commentary on the Torah. On the verso of the printed title page: "This book is the sixth Levush of the book Levush HaMalchut, composed by R. Mordechai called Yaffe… contains explanations of Rashi's commentary on the Torah and discussion of a few of the commentaries on Rashi - R. Eliyahu Mizrachi and the Maharal of Prague, author of Gur Aryeh… and he named this book Levush HaOra after the verse The Jews had light (ora)…".
The device of the printer, Chaim son of Ya'akov HaCohen, appears on the verso of the title page. The device of another printer, Yehuda Loewy son of Moshe, an employee of the printing press, appears on the last page.
An illustrated map of Eretz Israel appears on p. 84b, prefaced on the previous page: "This is a drawing of the borders of Eretz Israel according to the Rashi commentary as I have been taught and it is true and correct according to Rashi's words as I will explain. Just as we have merited drawing it, so shall we merit seeing it with our own eyes rebuilt and settled…".
The [9] last leaves contain appendixes and novellae by the author to his books Levush HaTechelet and Levush HaChur after their printing.
Page [5b] bears an illustration of a palm of a hand, with signs for calculating the tekufot of the months of the year, accompanied by a discussion and detailed explanation of the correct way to calculate the months according to the parts of the palm of the hand.
Ancient ownership inscription on the title page: "Given to me as a gift by--- Meir son of R. L. of Łęczyca, the 22nd of Shevat 1703". Stamps on title page and in other places: "--- Yitzchak Tuvia Landau", "From the estate of my dear father R. Yisrael Mordechai, Lodz 1810, Yehuda Leibush Morgenstern", "R. Zeligman".
91, [9] leaves. 29.5 cm. Condition varies among the leaves. Most of the inside leaves of the book are in good to good-fair condition. The title page, the following leaf and approximately the last 12 leaves have tears and damage, primarily to the margins, mostly without affecting text. These leaves have been restored with paper and gluing (perhaps some were replaced with leaves from other copies). The next to last leaf is a high-quality photocopy. The rest of the leaves have stains and dampstains. Minor worming to margins of several leaves. New binding.
The map was not recorded in the Eran Laor Cartographic Collection.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $4,500
Including buyer's premium
Igeret Baalei Chaim, parable of animals and people, by R. Kalonymus son of Kalonymus. Mantua: Venturino Ruffinello for Yosef son of Yaakov of Padua, [1557]. First edition.
The book has five sections, and tells a tale about animals, people, kings and devils, integrated with words of wisdom and ethics. As written in the introduction to the book by R. Kalonymus son of Kalonymus, this composition is part of a long literary work in Arabic which he translated, adapted and edited.
R. Kalonymus son of Kalonymus was a 14th century Jewish French-Italian intellectual who descended from the important Kalonymus family. In the framework of his literary work, he translated books of ethics, philosophy and medical literature from Arabic to Hebrew. The famous book of ethics which he authored, Even Bochan, gained wide circulation and was reprinted a number of times.
A "poem containing all the content of this nice book", composed by R. Avraham ibn Ezra (his name appears in the acrostic) based on the Arabic source, is printed at the end of the book. This section was omitted from all the following editions (with the exception of the Jerusalem 1949 edition).
This composition has been printed in many editions, some translated into Yiddish.
The initial words and letters are adorned with fine woodcut decorations.
The printer's name is mentioned in the colophon at the end of the book: "And its printing was finished on Rosh Chodesh Iyar 1557, here in Mantua in the house of Venturino Ruffinello, by and for Yosef son of R. Yaakov of Padua…". The printer's device of Yosef of Padua appears under the colophon (see: A. Yaari, Diglei HaMadpisim HaIvriim, p. 12, illustration no. 19; and p. 132).
Ownership inscriptions in Sephardic script with calligraphic signatures on the verso of the title page and on the (blank) last leaf: "Our rabbis have taught that a person should always write his name on his book lest a random person come along and say that it is his, therefore I have written [my name] in this book… EzraAlchadav"; "I will write my name in my book with the help of my hand and my quill… Shlomo son of Ezra Alchadavi".
[The first signature, apparently, belongs to R. Ezra son of R. Shlomo Alchadav, a Venetian sage, disciple of R. Aharon ibn Chaim author of Lev Aharon and of R. Yehuda Aryeh of Modena, friend of R. Azaria Piccio (Figo) author of Gidulei Teruma. R. Ezra was the scribe of the Venice Yeshiva and many documents of the Venice Ledger from 1630-1633 bear his signature. For further information, see: M. Benayahu, The Relations between the Jews of Greece and the Jews of Italy, pp. 237-240].
Latin inscriptions on front flyleaf.
[92] leaves. The last leaf is blank (this blank leaf is not recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book). 13.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, dampstains. Minor worming. Repaired tears to title page (slightly affecting its border) and several other leaves. New elegant leather binding, slipcased.
The book has five sections, and tells a tale about animals, people, kings and devils, integrated with words of wisdom and ethics. As written in the introduction to the book by R. Kalonymus son of Kalonymus, this composition is part of a long literary work in Arabic which he translated, adapted and edited.
R. Kalonymus son of Kalonymus was a 14th century Jewish French-Italian intellectual who descended from the important Kalonymus family. In the framework of his literary work, he translated books of ethics, philosophy and medical literature from Arabic to Hebrew. The famous book of ethics which he authored, Even Bochan, gained wide circulation and was reprinted a number of times.
A "poem containing all the content of this nice book", composed by R. Avraham ibn Ezra (his name appears in the acrostic) based on the Arabic source, is printed at the end of the book. This section was omitted from all the following editions (with the exception of the Jerusalem 1949 edition).
This composition has been printed in many editions, some translated into Yiddish.
The initial words and letters are adorned with fine woodcut decorations.
The printer's name is mentioned in the colophon at the end of the book: "And its printing was finished on Rosh Chodesh Iyar 1557, here in Mantua in the house of Venturino Ruffinello, by and for Yosef son of R. Yaakov of Padua…". The printer's device of Yosef of Padua appears under the colophon (see: A. Yaari, Diglei HaMadpisim HaIvriim, p. 12, illustration no. 19; and p. 132).
Ownership inscriptions in Sephardic script with calligraphic signatures on the verso of the title page and on the (blank) last leaf: "Our rabbis have taught that a person should always write his name on his book lest a random person come along and say that it is his, therefore I have written [my name] in this book… EzraAlchadav"; "I will write my name in my book with the help of my hand and my quill… Shlomo son of Ezra Alchadavi".
[The first signature, apparently, belongs to R. Ezra son of R. Shlomo Alchadav, a Venetian sage, disciple of R. Aharon ibn Chaim author of Lev Aharon and of R. Yehuda Aryeh of Modena, friend of R. Azaria Piccio (Figo) author of Gidulei Teruma. R. Ezra was the scribe of the Venice Yeshiva and many documents of the Venice Ledger from 1630-1633 bear his signature. For further information, see: M. Benayahu, The Relations between the Jews of Greece and the Jews of Italy, pp. 237-240].
Latin inscriptions on front flyleaf.
[92] leaves. The last leaf is blank (this blank leaf is not recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book). 13.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, dampstains. Minor worming. Repaired tears to title page (slightly affecting its border) and several other leaves. New elegant leather binding, slipcased.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $6,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $27,500
Including buyer's premium
"This is the book of Adam HaRishon given to him by Raziel HaMalach". Kabbalah and Segulot. Amsterdam: Moses Mendes Coitinho, [1701]. First edition. Many Kabbalistic illustrations.
This is the first edition, edited and printed from manuscripts. This book is the source of many renowned Segulot, for remembering Torah study, a protective amulet for a woman giving birth, etc. Just having this book in the house is a reputed Segula for protection from harm and fire as stated in the title page: "An excellent Segula to bear wise and sage sons, for success, blessing and to extinguish fire, so that it shouldn't affect his home, and no evil being should reside in his home, since the holy, awesome book is concealed with his money in his treasury and in times of trouble it will afford him speedy salvation. And this, any learned person will attest". Some say that it is a Segula for the childless and women experiencing difficult labor.
18, [1], 19-45 leaves. 23.5 cm. Fine copy with wide margins. Good condition. Stains. Dampstains. Early wood and leather binding, with clasp remnants. New leather spine.
This is the first edition, edited and printed from manuscripts. This book is the source of many renowned Segulot, for remembering Torah study, a protective amulet for a woman giving birth, etc. Just having this book in the house is a reputed Segula for protection from harm and fire as stated in the title page: "An excellent Segula to bear wise and sage sons, for success, blessing and to extinguish fire, so that it shouldn't affect his home, and no evil being should reside in his home, since the holy, awesome book is concealed with his money in his treasury and in times of trouble it will afford him speedy salvation. And this, any learned person will attest". Some say that it is a Segula for the childless and women experiencing difficult labor.
18, [1], 19-45 leaves. 23.5 cm. Fine copy with wide margins. Good condition. Stains. Dampstains. Early wood and leather binding, with clasp remnants. New leather spine.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $4,000
Sold for: $2,000
Including buyer's premium
Siddur, following the rite of the holy Sephardi community, containing prayers for special days, festivals and the five fast days. Amsterdam: Joseph Athias, [1658-1659].
Three parts, each with a separate title page: prayers for weekdays and Shabbat, for special days and festivals, and the order for the five fast days.
This is the first book printed in the printing press of Joseph Athias. His youth and the circumstances of his arrival in Amsterdam are obscure. He established his printing press in the city in 1658, at the young age of 23. He was an intelligent person with shrewd commercial acumen, which helped him create ties with agents and book-traders in the Netherlands and in other countries. Eventually, his printing press became one of the largest and most important printing presses in Amsterdam. Athias developed various novel printing techniques, which enabled him to reprint books very quickly. For further information, see: A.M. Haberman, Chapters in the History of the Hebrew Printers, pp. 293-310.
Stamps on the title page and on the last leaf of "Rabbiner Dr. A. Neuwirth" (presumably, R. Aharon Neuwirth – father of R. Yehoshua Yeshaya Neuwirth, author of Shemirat Shabbat K'Hilchata). Signatures of "Moses Neuwirth" (presumably a relative).
546 leaves. 12 cm. Good condition. Few stains. Gilt edges. Old leather-like binding, with a metal clasp for fastening (lacking the second clasp). Damage to binding.
Three parts, each with a separate title page: prayers for weekdays and Shabbat, for special days and festivals, and the order for the five fast days.
This is the first book printed in the printing press of Joseph Athias. His youth and the circumstances of his arrival in Amsterdam are obscure. He established his printing press in the city in 1658, at the young age of 23. He was an intelligent person with shrewd commercial acumen, which helped him create ties with agents and book-traders in the Netherlands and in other countries. Eventually, his printing press became one of the largest and most important printing presses in Amsterdam. Athias developed various novel printing techniques, which enabled him to reprint books very quickly. For further information, see: A.M. Haberman, Chapters in the History of the Hebrew Printers, pp. 293-310.
Stamps on the title page and on the last leaf of "Rabbiner Dr. A. Neuwirth" (presumably, R. Aharon Neuwirth – father of R. Yehoshua Yeshaya Neuwirth, author of Shemirat Shabbat K'Hilchata). Signatures of "Moses Neuwirth" (presumably a relative).
546 leaves. 12 cm. Good condition. Few stains. Gilt edges. Old leather-like binding, with a metal clasp for fastening (lacking the second clasp). Damage to binding.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $35,000
Estimate: $50,000 - $60,000
Sold for: $52,500
Including buyer's premium
Shaar HaShamayim Siddur – Weekday, Shabbat and Festival prayers, Yotzerot, Passover Haggadah, piyyutim and Selichot for fasts, book of Tehillim with Maamadot, including a commentary on the prayers according to Kabbalistic teachings entitled Shaar HaShamayim – by R. Yeshaya HaLevi Horowitz – the holy Shelah.
Includes an anthology of laws and customs, by the editor and publisher R. Avraham Segal Horowitz of Posen (Poznań), great-grandson of the author. Amsterdam, [1717]. First edition. Complete copy containing all the parts. Four title pages appear, the first title page is a copper engraving depicting the figures of Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov and the Festivals. Separate title pages for the book of Tehillim and Seder Maamadot.
The Shelah wrote in his foreword to the siddur: "Blessed be G-d… who guided me in the correct path… and brought me to the holy city of Jerusalem, on Friday of Parashat Vayetze 1621… the gate through which prayers rise… via Shaar HaShamayim (the gates of Heaven)". In his will, printed at the beginning of the siddur, he added: "I thought to compose this holy work, in order to print it and distribute it throughout the Jewish world, so that I may have a merit and share in all the prayers of the Jewish people".
The text of the prayers in this siddur on the whole follows Ashkenazi rite, apart from some prayers which were printed in both Ashkenazi and Sephardi rite, side by side. This was done following the author's will printed at the beginning of the siddur (though in practice, the compiler and publisher did not incorporate all the author's instructions regarding the variations of text in the body of the siddur).
Praying from this siddur bears the special Segula of the prayer being accepted and not going unanswered. As the Bach wrote in his approbation to the siddur: "We have no doubt that when it will become widespread amongst the Jewish people, whoever prays from it will not have his prayer rejected". R. Avraham Yaakov, first Rebbe of Sadigura, mentions this Segula in his approbation to the third edition of the siddur (Warsaw, 1882): "Siddur Shaar HaShamayim by the holy Shelah, as the renowned scholar, the Bach, testified… there is no doubt that whoever prays from it, his prayer will not be rejected". The holy kabbalist R. Naftali Katz, author of Semichat Chachamim, ascribes this Segula to the author himself, the Shelah, as he writes: "…order of prayers… from the beginning of the year until the end of the year, arranged and composed by R. Yeshaya Segal author of Shnei Luchot HaBrit, and he was very attached to this siddur, and directed his descendants to publish it, to give the public the privilege of praying in this order, with these Kavanot, and pledged that whoever prays with all his might in this order with those Kavanot, his prayers will not go unanswered. Go out and see how people practice, and the approbations of the great Torah scholars of that generation… R. Yoel Sirkis author of Bayit Chadash, and R. Yaakov Rabbi of Lublin… R. Yom Tov Lipman Heller author of Tosfot Yom Tov… and they all concur that whoever prays with these Kavanot, his prayer will not be rejected".
The Baal HaTanya reputedly prayed in his youth utilizing the Shaar HaShamayim siddur, and following the Kavanot of the Shelah (Beit Rebbi, Berdychiv 1902, p. 2 chapter 1).
[5], 4-335; 139; 130; [1], 52 leaves. 20.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains and wear. Minor damage and tears to two title pages and last three leaves, repaired. Gatherings split in the middle of the book. Tears to leaves 51, 97-100, not affecting text. New leather binding, with cracks to the spine.
Includes an anthology of laws and customs, by the editor and publisher R. Avraham Segal Horowitz of Posen (Poznań), great-grandson of the author. Amsterdam, [1717]. First edition. Complete copy containing all the parts. Four title pages appear, the first title page is a copper engraving depicting the figures of Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov and the Festivals. Separate title pages for the book of Tehillim and Seder Maamadot.
The Shelah wrote in his foreword to the siddur: "Blessed be G-d… who guided me in the correct path… and brought me to the holy city of Jerusalem, on Friday of Parashat Vayetze 1621… the gate through which prayers rise… via Shaar HaShamayim (the gates of Heaven)". In his will, printed at the beginning of the siddur, he added: "I thought to compose this holy work, in order to print it and distribute it throughout the Jewish world, so that I may have a merit and share in all the prayers of the Jewish people".
The text of the prayers in this siddur on the whole follows Ashkenazi rite, apart from some prayers which were printed in both Ashkenazi and Sephardi rite, side by side. This was done following the author's will printed at the beginning of the siddur (though in practice, the compiler and publisher did not incorporate all the author's instructions regarding the variations of text in the body of the siddur).
Praying from this siddur bears the special Segula of the prayer being accepted and not going unanswered. As the Bach wrote in his approbation to the siddur: "We have no doubt that when it will become widespread amongst the Jewish people, whoever prays from it will not have his prayer rejected". R. Avraham Yaakov, first Rebbe of Sadigura, mentions this Segula in his approbation to the third edition of the siddur (Warsaw, 1882): "Siddur Shaar HaShamayim by the holy Shelah, as the renowned scholar, the Bach, testified… there is no doubt that whoever prays from it, his prayer will not be rejected". The holy kabbalist R. Naftali Katz, author of Semichat Chachamim, ascribes this Segula to the author himself, the Shelah, as he writes: "…order of prayers… from the beginning of the year until the end of the year, arranged and composed by R. Yeshaya Segal author of Shnei Luchot HaBrit, and he was very attached to this siddur, and directed his descendants to publish it, to give the public the privilege of praying in this order, with these Kavanot, and pledged that whoever prays with all his might in this order with those Kavanot, his prayers will not go unanswered. Go out and see how people practice, and the approbations of the great Torah scholars of that generation… R. Yoel Sirkis author of Bayit Chadash, and R. Yaakov Rabbi of Lublin… R. Yom Tov Lipman Heller author of Tosfot Yom Tov… and they all concur that whoever prays with these Kavanot, his prayer will not be rejected".
The Baal HaTanya reputedly prayed in his youth utilizing the Shaar HaShamayim siddur, and following the Kavanot of the Shelah (Beit Rebbi, Berdychiv 1902, p. 2 chapter 1).
[5], 4-335; 139; 130; [1], 52 leaves. 20.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains and wear. Minor damage and tears to two title pages and last three leaves, repaired. Gatherings split in the middle of the book. Tears to leaves 51, 97-100, not affecting text. New leather binding, with cracks to the spine.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $40,000
Estimate: $60,000 - $80,000
Sold for: $57,500
Including buyer's premium
Orchot Chaim – Five books of the Torah, with Targum and the Rashi commentary, including the Or HaChaim commentary by Rabbeinu Chaim ibn Attar – The Or HaChaim HaKadosh. Venice, [1741]. Complete set in two volumes, first edition of the Or HaChaim commentary on the Torah.
The title page reads: "…a new commentary on the five books of the Torah… was prepared and researched… by the scholar who is complete in wisdom, fear and humility, R. Chaim ibn Attar, a resident of the Maghreb, who went to set up his study hall in Jerusalem… innovative novellae which our predecessors did not envision…". The author begins his commentary with the statement: "The skies opened up and I perceived heavenly sights…".
This book was accepted in the entire Jewish Diaspora and became a classic commentary in editions of the Torah. This composition was especially sacred to the leaders of the Chassidic movement. The book became instantly recognized, due to the Baal Shem Tov's praise of the eminence of the author's soul, as the Chida, disciple of the Or HaChaim, relates in his book Shem HaGedolim: "The commentary on the Torah by the outstanding and holy R. Chaim ibn Attar, was printed in Venice in the Torah edition with Targum and Rashi. And we heard that it is now held in high regard in Poland, and was printed there in another two editions. And this was due to the praise of the holy R. Yisrael Baal Shem Tov on the greatness of R. Chaim's soul" (Maarechet Sefarim, I, 54).
Chassidic leaders describe the importance and holiness of the book in effusive terms. Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin stated that learning the Or HaChaim commentary purifies the soul. His son, Rebbe David Moshe of Chortkov (Chortkiv) related that after hearing this, he began learning the Or HaChaim commentary on the weekly portion consistently. R. Pinchas of Korets testified that he was the one who publicized the Or HaChaim, through an episode which occurred in Tcherin (Chyhyryn), when he exclaimed that he could see a great light in the city and he inquired whether anyone held a book of the Or HaChaim commentary in their possession. When the book was found, he asserted that it was what was illuminating the whole town. On a different occasion, his son took ill, and he undertook to learn a page a day of the Or HaChaim commentary (Imrei Pinchas HaShalem, I, p. 281).
The Arvei Nachal, in one instance, before elucidating an ambiguous passage of the Or HaChaim commentary, described it as unfathomable without Divine Inspiration.
The author, R. Chaim ibn Attar (1696-1743), known as the holy Or HaChaim, was a Torah scholar from Salé, Morocco, who spent the years 1739-1741 in Livorno, Italy, on his way to Eretz Israel. He completed his composition Or HaChaim while in Livorno (on Av 15, 1741), and sent it to Venice to be published. The book was printed in autumn 1741.
In his biographic description of the Or HaChaim, his disciple the Chida wrote: "R. Chaim ibn Attar, a holy man from Salé, came to Jerusalem in the summer of 1742. And I merited to be a member of his elevated yeshiva, and my eyes saw the greatness of his Torah, he uprooted mountains, and his holiness was wondrous… he was like an ever-gushing fountain… and in Tamuz 1743 he was called up to Heaven at the age of 47. He authored Chefetz HaShem, Rishon LeTzion, Or HaChaim and Pri Toar, and his sagacity is discernable in his books, yet this is only a tenth of his wisdom… his sharpness was unbelievable, he exercised continuous separation from materialism …" (Shem HaGedolim, Maarechet Gedolim, 8, 42).
Rebbe Yitzchak Isaac of Komarno, in his book Netiv Mitzvotecha, quotes the exalted terms the Baal Shem Tov used to describe the soul of the Or HaChaim, "…every night he heard Torah from G-d, most of his holiness is not possible to describe in words, and he descended from the Merkava…".
R. Efraim Zalman Margolies, the Beit Efraim, also described him in superlative terms, as a heavenly being, father of all Torah bearers in the Western countries.
On both title pages, the title was originally printed as "Orchot Chaim", and only in the author's preface and in the body of the book is the commentary named Or HaChaim. In this copy, a strip of paper bearing the printed words Or HaChaim, was pasted over the title in the title page of the first volume. This phenomenon is recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book (see listing 304649).
On the title page of the first volume, a signature in Italian script appears: "Mine, D.T." (this may be the signature of R. Daniel Terni Rabbi of Florence, author of Ikrei HaDat).
Two volumes. Vol. I (Bereishit-Shemot): [4], 86; 78 leaves. Vol. II (Vayikra-Bamidbar-Devarim): [2], 60; 72; 58; 8; 12 leaves. 34 cm. Fine copy, light-colored high-quality leaves. Most of the leaves in good condition, several leaves in fair condition. Vol. I: Stains, light wear. Marginal damage and tears to title page and three subsequent leaves, professionally restored. Repairs to several other leaves. Vol. II: Stains, dampstains to several leaves. Light wear. Large tears to the foot of leaf 3 of the second pagination, affecting text, repaired. Paper repairs to the bottom of leaves 65-66 of the second pagination. Marginal repairs to several other leaves (leaves of Haftarot at the end). Several leaves may be provided from a different copy. Ownership inscriptions. New, elaborate leather bindings.
The title page reads: "…a new commentary on the five books of the Torah… was prepared and researched… by the scholar who is complete in wisdom, fear and humility, R. Chaim ibn Attar, a resident of the Maghreb, who went to set up his study hall in Jerusalem… innovative novellae which our predecessors did not envision…". The author begins his commentary with the statement: "The skies opened up and I perceived heavenly sights…".
This book was accepted in the entire Jewish Diaspora and became a classic commentary in editions of the Torah. This composition was especially sacred to the leaders of the Chassidic movement. The book became instantly recognized, due to the Baal Shem Tov's praise of the eminence of the author's soul, as the Chida, disciple of the Or HaChaim, relates in his book Shem HaGedolim: "The commentary on the Torah by the outstanding and holy R. Chaim ibn Attar, was printed in Venice in the Torah edition with Targum and Rashi. And we heard that it is now held in high regard in Poland, and was printed there in another two editions. And this was due to the praise of the holy R. Yisrael Baal Shem Tov on the greatness of R. Chaim's soul" (Maarechet Sefarim, I, 54).
Chassidic leaders describe the importance and holiness of the book in effusive terms. Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin stated that learning the Or HaChaim commentary purifies the soul. His son, Rebbe David Moshe of Chortkov (Chortkiv) related that after hearing this, he began learning the Or HaChaim commentary on the weekly portion consistently. R. Pinchas of Korets testified that he was the one who publicized the Or HaChaim, through an episode which occurred in Tcherin (Chyhyryn), when he exclaimed that he could see a great light in the city and he inquired whether anyone held a book of the Or HaChaim commentary in their possession. When the book was found, he asserted that it was what was illuminating the whole town. On a different occasion, his son took ill, and he undertook to learn a page a day of the Or HaChaim commentary (Imrei Pinchas HaShalem, I, p. 281).
The Arvei Nachal, in one instance, before elucidating an ambiguous passage of the Or HaChaim commentary, described it as unfathomable without Divine Inspiration.
The author, R. Chaim ibn Attar (1696-1743), known as the holy Or HaChaim, was a Torah scholar from Salé, Morocco, who spent the years 1739-1741 in Livorno, Italy, on his way to Eretz Israel. He completed his composition Or HaChaim while in Livorno (on Av 15, 1741), and sent it to Venice to be published. The book was printed in autumn 1741.
In his biographic description of the Or HaChaim, his disciple the Chida wrote: "R. Chaim ibn Attar, a holy man from Salé, came to Jerusalem in the summer of 1742. And I merited to be a member of his elevated yeshiva, and my eyes saw the greatness of his Torah, he uprooted mountains, and his holiness was wondrous… he was like an ever-gushing fountain… and in Tamuz 1743 he was called up to Heaven at the age of 47. He authored Chefetz HaShem, Rishon LeTzion, Or HaChaim and Pri Toar, and his sagacity is discernable in his books, yet this is only a tenth of his wisdom… his sharpness was unbelievable, he exercised continuous separation from materialism …" (Shem HaGedolim, Maarechet Gedolim, 8, 42).
Rebbe Yitzchak Isaac of Komarno, in his book Netiv Mitzvotecha, quotes the exalted terms the Baal Shem Tov used to describe the soul of the Or HaChaim, "…every night he heard Torah from G-d, most of his holiness is not possible to describe in words, and he descended from the Merkava…".
R. Efraim Zalman Margolies, the Beit Efraim, also described him in superlative terms, as a heavenly being, father of all Torah bearers in the Western countries.
On both title pages, the title was originally printed as "Orchot Chaim", and only in the author's preface and in the body of the book is the commentary named Or HaChaim. In this copy, a strip of paper bearing the printed words Or HaChaim, was pasted over the title in the title page of the first volume. This phenomenon is recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book (see listing 304649).
On the title page of the first volume, a signature in Italian script appears: "Mine, D.T." (this may be the signature of R. Daniel Terni Rabbi of Florence, author of Ikrei HaDat).
Two volumes. Vol. I (Bereishit-Shemot): [4], 86; 78 leaves. Vol. II (Vayikra-Bamidbar-Devarim): [2], 60; 72; 58; 8; 12 leaves. 34 cm. Fine copy, light-colored high-quality leaves. Most of the leaves in good condition, several leaves in fair condition. Vol. I: Stains, light wear. Marginal damage and tears to title page and three subsequent leaves, professionally restored. Repairs to several other leaves. Vol. II: Stains, dampstains to several leaves. Light wear. Large tears to the foot of leaf 3 of the second pagination, affecting text, repaired. Paper repairs to the bottom of leaves 65-66 of the second pagination. Marginal repairs to several other leaves (leaves of Haftarot at the end). Several leaves may be provided from a different copy. Ownership inscriptions. New, elaborate leather bindings.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
![Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, by R. Shlomo Ganzfried. Ungvar (Uzhhorod), [1864]. First edition. First edition of the famous Kitzur](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale63-public/142.jpg "Kitzur Shulchan Aruch – First Edition – Ungvar, 1864")
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $3,000 - $6,000
Sold for: $5,000
Including buyer's premium
Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, by R. Shlomo Ganzfried. Ungvar (Uzhhorod), [1864]. First edition.
First edition of the famous Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, widely accepted throughout the Diaspora. 14 editions were printed during the lifetime of the author, and hundreds of additional editions, translated into various languages, were printed throughout the years. It is estimated that so far over 2 million copies of the book were printed, a unique phenomenon in Halachic Torah literature (Otzar Yisrael, New York, 1909, notes that up until that point, half a million copies had already been published, and according to the bibliographer Dr. Yitzchak Rivkind, over a million copies had been published by 1960).
R. Shlomo Ganzfried (1804-1886) was the son of R. Yosef, rabbi of Ungvar, Hungary and disciple of R. Zvi Hirsh Heller (R. Hirshle Charif), author of Tiv Gittin, who raised him after the untimely passing of his father. R. Ganzfried's first book, Keset HaSofer, on laws of scribal writing of Torah scrolls, Tefillin and Mezuzot (Óbuda, 1834), earned the approbation of the Chatam Sofer, who even annotated it. In this approbation, he states that no scribe should be ordained without demonstrating proficiency in this book. R. Ganzfried served as rabbi of Ungvar from 1850 until his passing in 1886, and was a foremost leader of the Orthodox rabbinate in Hungary.
He authored dozens of important works, however he is best known for his Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, a clear summary of the Shulchan Aruch (definitive code of Jewish law), printed in many editions since its first publishing in 1864 in Ungvar.
[4], 144 leaves. 21 cm. High-quality paper. Good condition. Stains and wear. Dampstains. Wormhole transpiercing most leaves. New leather binding.
First edition of the famous Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, widely accepted throughout the Diaspora. 14 editions were printed during the lifetime of the author, and hundreds of additional editions, translated into various languages, were printed throughout the years. It is estimated that so far over 2 million copies of the book were printed, a unique phenomenon in Halachic Torah literature (Otzar Yisrael, New York, 1909, notes that up until that point, half a million copies had already been published, and according to the bibliographer Dr. Yitzchak Rivkind, over a million copies had been published by 1960).
R. Shlomo Ganzfried (1804-1886) was the son of R. Yosef, rabbi of Ungvar, Hungary and disciple of R. Zvi Hirsh Heller (R. Hirshle Charif), author of Tiv Gittin, who raised him after the untimely passing of his father. R. Ganzfried's first book, Keset HaSofer, on laws of scribal writing of Torah scrolls, Tefillin and Mezuzot (Óbuda, 1834), earned the approbation of the Chatam Sofer, who even annotated it. In this approbation, he states that no scribe should be ordained without demonstrating proficiency in this book. R. Ganzfried served as rabbi of Ungvar from 1850 until his passing in 1886, and was a foremost leader of the Orthodox rabbinate in Hungary.
He authored dozens of important works, however he is best known for his Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, a clear summary of the Shulchan Aruch (definitive code of Jewish law), printed in many editions since its first publishing in 1864 in Ungvar.
[4], 144 leaves. 21 cm. High-quality paper. Good condition. Stains and wear. Dampstains. Wormhole transpiercing most leaves. New leather binding.
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
![Tehillim, with the Be'urei Zohar and Metzudat Zion commentaries. Safed: R. Yisrael Bak, [1833]. One of the first books print](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale63-public/143.jpg "Tehillim – Safed, 1833")
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $5,000
Estimate: $6,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $6,875
Including buyer's premium
Tehillim, with the Be'urei Zohar and Metzudat Zion commentaries. Safed: R. Yisrael Bak, [1833].
One of the first books printed by R. Yisrael Bak in Safed, about one year after he established his printing press in the city.
On the verso of the title page is the introduction of the printer R. Yisrael Bak: "And all who purchase and spend their gold and silver on books printed here in the Holy Land, especially books of Tehillim with the Zohar to carry in his bosom and in his bag, G-d should save him from all distress, harm and fright…". This is followed by another long introduction by R. Gershon Margaliot. He tells how he begged Yisrael Bak not to print the Kabbalistic commentary Be'urei HaZohar alone, rather alongside verses of Tehillim and in the end his advice was heeded.
Kavanat HaMeshorer (the intent of the poet) is printed at the beginning of each Psalm. The volume also contains prayers recited before and after reading Tehillim on weekdays, Shabbat, Yom Tov and Lel Hoshana Raba and a prayer for the sick and Seder Pidyon Nefesh.
[4], 152 leaves. 15 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Professionally restored tears to margins of title page and to margins of other leaves, particularly at the beginning of the book, slightly affecting text. Worming in a few places, repaired, affecting text. Defects. Bottom margins trimmed on several leaves, not affecting text. New, elegant leather binding.
An inscription in Ashkenazi script appears on the title page above the place of printing, "Safed": "The dust of Eretz Israel here [Safed]". This phrase was used as a signature by R. Yisrael of Shklow, the Vilna Gaon's disciple who lived in Safed at the time of this printing [in our opinion, this inscription was not written by him and was added at a later time].
One of the first books printed by R. Yisrael Bak in Safed, about one year after he established his printing press in the city.
On the verso of the title page is the introduction of the printer R. Yisrael Bak: "And all who purchase and spend their gold and silver on books printed here in the Holy Land, especially books of Tehillim with the Zohar to carry in his bosom and in his bag, G-d should save him from all distress, harm and fright…". This is followed by another long introduction by R. Gershon Margaliot. He tells how he begged Yisrael Bak not to print the Kabbalistic commentary Be'urei HaZohar alone, rather alongside verses of Tehillim and in the end his advice was heeded.
Kavanat HaMeshorer (the intent of the poet) is printed at the beginning of each Psalm. The volume also contains prayers recited before and after reading Tehillim on weekdays, Shabbat, Yom Tov and Lel Hoshana Raba and a prayer for the sick and Seder Pidyon Nefesh.
[4], 152 leaves. 15 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Professionally restored tears to margins of title page and to margins of other leaves, particularly at the beginning of the book, slightly affecting text. Worming in a few places, repaired, affecting text. Defects. Bottom margins trimmed on several leaves, not affecting text. New, elegant leather binding.
An inscription in Ashkenazi script appears on the title page above the place of printing, "Safed": "The dust of Eretz Israel here [Safed]". This phrase was used as a signature by R. Yisrael of Shklow, the Vilna Gaon's disciple who lived in Safed at the time of this printing [in our opinion, this inscription was not written by him and was added at a later time].
Category
Kabbalah Books and Basic Books
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $15,000 - $20,000
Sold for: $17,500
Including buyer's premium
Year-round prayers, with Kavanot HaAri, three parts, arranged by R. Asher Margolies of Medzhybizh and Brody. [Lviv: Shlomo Yarish Rappoport, 1787]. First edition.
Complete copy, all three parts in two volumes. Part I – weekday prayers, part II – Shabbat prayers, part III – Festival prayers.
The prayers in this siddur are according to Nusach Sefard, with the Arizal's corrections to the text of the prayers, and his abridged Kavanot.
The siddur in this format was arranged by the scholars and kabbalists of the Brody Kloiz, and was first printed in Zhovkva in 1781. The text and Kavanot in that edition were printed based on books of Chassidic teachings, and Pri Etz Chaim (still in manuscript form at that time). In the present edition of the siddur, mistakes which crept into the Zhovkva edition were corrected, and additions were inserted according to other books based on the writings of the Arizal: Etz Chaim, Sefer HaYichudim, Machberet HaKodesh, and from "the siddur of the great kabbalist and chassid R. Shabtai of Rașcov", disciple of the Baal Shem Tov (which was still in manuscript form).
This siddur was arranged by R. Asher son of R. Shlomo Zalman Margolies of Medzhybizh and Brody, a scholar of the Brody Kloiz, close disciple of "the great and prominent kabbalist, R. Chaim Sanzer of Brody… from whom I learnt much, particularly in this awesome and true wisdom" (from R. Asher's preface to his siddur). The siddur bears the approbations of the scholars of the Brody Kloiz, in addition to the approbation of R. Yissachar Dov, Rabbi of Zolochiv, a leading Chassidic figure.
Imrei Pinchas HaShalem (1, pp. 223-224) states: "their siddurim (of the disciples of the Baal Shem Tov) were the Arizal's siddur printed in Lviv (this edition), and they did not wish to pray from any other siddur, since the Rav (R. Pinchas of Korets) prayed from this siddur and held it in high regard… and when this siddur was printed, they grabbed it like a precious stone and greatly treasured it". Since R. Asher's siddur was printed, R. Pinchas of Korets would pray only from it. The Sar Beit HaZohar, R. Tzvi Hirsh of Zidichov (Zhydachiv), and the Rebbes descending from him, likewise prayed from this siddur and even adorned it with their notes. R. Yaakov Shimon, son of R. Pinchas of Korets, said: "One should only pray from the Lviv edition of the Arizal's siddur, or in the siddur of R. Shabtai, and not from other versions of more recent siddurim".
Complete copy, three parts in two volumes. Vol. I: [216] leaves. Vol. II: [182] leaves. 17.5 cm. Overall good condition. Most of the leaves are complete and in good condition, stains. Damage and tears to the title pages and approx. twenty more leaves at the beginning and end of the volumes, mostly in the margins, professionally restored (with slight damage to the text in a few places). Holes to the inner margins for binding purposes. Stamps. New, elaborate leather bindings.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 414.
The printing press of R. Shlomo Yarish Rappoport also notably published the holy book Noam Elimelech in 1788, and its workers were reputedly holy men of the 36 hidden righteous people of the generation (see: R. B. Landau, R. Elimelech MiLizhensk, Jerusalem, 1963, p. 311, who quotes an oral tradition [in the name of R. Moshe Halberstam], on the unique qualities of R. Shlomo Yarish's edition of the Noam Elimelech, which "was printed by G-d fearing workers, who worked in sanctity and purity, and some were of the 36 hidden righteous ones upon whom the world stands").
Complete copy, all three parts in two volumes. Part I – weekday prayers, part II – Shabbat prayers, part III – Festival prayers.
The prayers in this siddur are according to Nusach Sefard, with the Arizal's corrections to the text of the prayers, and his abridged Kavanot.
The siddur in this format was arranged by the scholars and kabbalists of the Brody Kloiz, and was first printed in Zhovkva in 1781. The text and Kavanot in that edition were printed based on books of Chassidic teachings, and Pri Etz Chaim (still in manuscript form at that time). In the present edition of the siddur, mistakes which crept into the Zhovkva edition were corrected, and additions were inserted according to other books based on the writings of the Arizal: Etz Chaim, Sefer HaYichudim, Machberet HaKodesh, and from "the siddur of the great kabbalist and chassid R. Shabtai of Rașcov", disciple of the Baal Shem Tov (which was still in manuscript form).
This siddur was arranged by R. Asher son of R. Shlomo Zalman Margolies of Medzhybizh and Brody, a scholar of the Brody Kloiz, close disciple of "the great and prominent kabbalist, R. Chaim Sanzer of Brody… from whom I learnt much, particularly in this awesome and true wisdom" (from R. Asher's preface to his siddur). The siddur bears the approbations of the scholars of the Brody Kloiz, in addition to the approbation of R. Yissachar Dov, Rabbi of Zolochiv, a leading Chassidic figure.
Imrei Pinchas HaShalem (1, pp. 223-224) states: "their siddurim (of the disciples of the Baal Shem Tov) were the Arizal's siddur printed in Lviv (this edition), and they did not wish to pray from any other siddur, since the Rav (R. Pinchas of Korets) prayed from this siddur and held it in high regard… and when this siddur was printed, they grabbed it like a precious stone and greatly treasured it". Since R. Asher's siddur was printed, R. Pinchas of Korets would pray only from it. The Sar Beit HaZohar, R. Tzvi Hirsh of Zidichov (Zhydachiv), and the Rebbes descending from him, likewise prayed from this siddur and even adorned it with their notes. R. Yaakov Shimon, son of R. Pinchas of Korets, said: "One should only pray from the Lviv edition of the Arizal's siddur, or in the siddur of R. Shabtai, and not from other versions of more recent siddurim".
Complete copy, three parts in two volumes. Vol. I: [216] leaves. Vol. II: [182] leaves. 17.5 cm. Overall good condition. Most of the leaves are complete and in good condition, stains. Damage and tears to the title pages and approx. twenty more leaves at the beginning and end of the volumes, mostly in the margins, professionally restored (with slight damage to the text in a few places). Holes to the inner margins for binding purposes. Stamps. New, elaborate leather bindings.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 414.
The printing press of R. Shlomo Yarish Rappoport also notably published the holy book Noam Elimelech in 1788, and its workers were reputedly holy men of the 36 hidden righteous people of the generation (see: R. B. Landau, R. Elimelech MiLizhensk, Jerusalem, 1963, p. 311, who quotes an oral tradition [in the name of R. Moshe Halberstam], on the unique qualities of R. Shlomo Yarish's edition of the Noam Elimelech, which "was printed by G-d fearing workers, who worked in sanctity and purity, and some were of the 36 hidden righteous ones upon whom the world stands").
Category
Books and Siddurim Printed in Russia and Poland, Slavita and Zhitomir
Catalogue