Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
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Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $20,000
Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000
Sold for: $32,500
Including buyer's premium
Leaf, handwritten on both sides – Two authorizations, accepting members to the Chevrat Mishnayot in the city of Volozhin, signed by the members of the society, including the signatures of R. Chaim of Volozhin, author of Nefesh HaChaim and of his eldest brother, R. Simcha of Volozhin. Volozhin, 1764.
This document was issued by the society of Torah study in Volozhin, in which R. Chaim of Volozhin participated. He signed this document at the age of 15, a decade before he was appointed Rabbi of Volozhin and many years before he established his famous yeshiva in the city.
On one side of the leaf is an authorization written on the 8th of Iyar 1764, accepting R. Shmuel son of R. Shimon to the Chevrat Mishnayot.
The last signature appearing on the leaf is "Chaim son of R. Yitzchak" – The signature of R. Chaim of Volozhin [next to his signature, the word "of Volozhin" was written in another handwriting].
The other signatures: "Mordechai son of Meir", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak", "Simcha son of R. Yitzchak", "Moshe son of R. Yaakov", "Yeshaya son of Chaim Zecharya", "Avraham son of R. Aharon", "Shimshon son of R. Moshe".
On the other side of the leaf is an authorization for accepting R. Avraham Duber son of R. Yehuda Yidel and his son-in-law R. Avril and R. Yaakov his brother, dated Tuesday, the 11th of MarCheshvan 1764.
The last signature is: "Chaim son of R. Yitzchak" – Signature of R. Chaim of Volozhin.
The other signatures: "Zvi Hirsh son of R. H…", "Simcha son of R. Yitzchak", "Moshe son of R. Yitzchak", "Avraham son of R. Aharon".
Apparently the signature "Simcha son of R. Yitzchak" belongs to R. Simcha of Volozhin, eldest brother of R. Chaim.
R. Chaim of Volozhin (1749-1821), author of Nefesh HaChaim, Torah luminary who stood at the helm of Lithuanian Jewry and was active in advancing Torah study. Born in Volozhin, son of R. Yitzchak, a community leader, close disciple of the Vilna Gaon and founder or the Volozhin yeshiva, forerunner of Lithuanian yeshivot. In his youth, he was a disciple of R. Refael HaCohen of Hamburg, author of Torah Yekutiel at the time the latter officiated as rabbi in Minsk and continued his studies at the yeshiva of the Shaagat Aryeh during his second tenure in the Volozhin rabbinate. He then basked in the luminance of the Vilna Gaon, becoming his most prominent disciple and clinging to his venerable teacher for many years until the Gaon's passing. His companion and friend R. Yisrael of Shklow lavishly praised R. Chaim in the introduction to his work Taklin Chadtin, using superlative titles describing his Torah greatness and pure character.
In 1774, at about the age of 25, R. Chaim was appointed Rabbi of Volozhin and held this position until 1789. He then relocated to serve as Rabbi of Ukmergė (Vilkmergė), however due to opposition by a number of members of that community, he returned to Volozhin after only one year, officiating as rabbi until his passing. He was an active leader, wrote halachic responsa to great Torah scholars in his times and was the decisive opinion on current issues in his days. His yeshiva thrived under his management and drew disciples from all over Lithuania, becoming a prototype of other yeshivot founded throughout Lithuania. In contrast to his teacher, the Vilna Gaon, who severely opposed the Chassidic movement, R. Chaim believed that their intent was praiseworthy and their claims should be addressed. This led to his famous work "Nefesh HaChaim", outlining pure conduct and service of G-d according to exoteric and esoteric Torah teachings, following the teachings of the Vilna Gaon and his disciples.
R. Simcha of Volozhin and Nyasvizh, eldest brother of R. Chaim of Volozhin was an exceptional Torah scholar and diligently studied together with his younger brother day and night, both were disciples of the Shaagat Aryeh. If the oil lamp burned out, they would study Torah by moonlight as recounted by R. Itzele of Volozhin in his introduction to Nefesh HaChaim, telling the history of his father: "From his youth, he studied Torah with amazing diligence and at the age of 14, studied together with his elder brother, R. Simcha and they would study day and night…". R. Simcha guided his younger brother in the manner of toiling in Torah study. R. Yosef Zundel of Salant recounts that his teacher R. Chaim of Volozhin told him that he is grateful to his brother R. Simcha "for etching faith in his heart for 48 years with all that a man must know" (HaTzaddik Rabbi Yosef Zundel M'Salant V'Rabbotav, Jerusalem 1926, p. 113). Reputedly, he officiated in the rabbinate of a Lithuanian city (perhaps in Nyasvizh, his home for many years). At the age of 24, he wrote the book Kitzur Piskei Dinim similar to the format of Simlah Chadasha authored by the author of Tevu'ot Shor.
[1] leaf, [2] written pages. 19.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains, dark stains and ink smears. Wear and tiny tears to margins. Folding marks.
This document was issued by the society of Torah study in Volozhin, in which R. Chaim of Volozhin participated. He signed this document at the age of 15, a decade before he was appointed Rabbi of Volozhin and many years before he established his famous yeshiva in the city.
On one side of the leaf is an authorization written on the 8th of Iyar 1764, accepting R. Shmuel son of R. Shimon to the Chevrat Mishnayot.
The last signature appearing on the leaf is "Chaim son of R. Yitzchak" – The signature of R. Chaim of Volozhin [next to his signature, the word "of Volozhin" was written in another handwriting].
The other signatures: "Mordechai son of Meir", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak", "Simcha son of R. Yitzchak", "Moshe son of R. Yaakov", "Yeshaya son of Chaim Zecharya", "Avraham son of R. Aharon", "Shimshon son of R. Moshe".
On the other side of the leaf is an authorization for accepting R. Avraham Duber son of R. Yehuda Yidel and his son-in-law R. Avril and R. Yaakov his brother, dated Tuesday, the 11th of MarCheshvan 1764.
The last signature is: "Chaim son of R. Yitzchak" – Signature of R. Chaim of Volozhin.
The other signatures: "Zvi Hirsh son of R. H…", "Simcha son of R. Yitzchak", "Moshe son of R. Yitzchak", "Avraham son of R. Aharon".
Apparently the signature "Simcha son of R. Yitzchak" belongs to R. Simcha of Volozhin, eldest brother of R. Chaim.
R. Chaim of Volozhin (1749-1821), author of Nefesh HaChaim, Torah luminary who stood at the helm of Lithuanian Jewry and was active in advancing Torah study. Born in Volozhin, son of R. Yitzchak, a community leader, close disciple of the Vilna Gaon and founder or the Volozhin yeshiva, forerunner of Lithuanian yeshivot. In his youth, he was a disciple of R. Refael HaCohen of Hamburg, author of Torah Yekutiel at the time the latter officiated as rabbi in Minsk and continued his studies at the yeshiva of the Shaagat Aryeh during his second tenure in the Volozhin rabbinate. He then basked in the luminance of the Vilna Gaon, becoming his most prominent disciple and clinging to his venerable teacher for many years until the Gaon's passing. His companion and friend R. Yisrael of Shklow lavishly praised R. Chaim in the introduction to his work Taklin Chadtin, using superlative titles describing his Torah greatness and pure character.
In 1774, at about the age of 25, R. Chaim was appointed Rabbi of Volozhin and held this position until 1789. He then relocated to serve as Rabbi of Ukmergė (Vilkmergė), however due to opposition by a number of members of that community, he returned to Volozhin after only one year, officiating as rabbi until his passing. He was an active leader, wrote halachic responsa to great Torah scholars in his times and was the decisive opinion on current issues in his days. His yeshiva thrived under his management and drew disciples from all over Lithuania, becoming a prototype of other yeshivot founded throughout Lithuania. In contrast to his teacher, the Vilna Gaon, who severely opposed the Chassidic movement, R. Chaim believed that their intent was praiseworthy and their claims should be addressed. This led to his famous work "Nefesh HaChaim", outlining pure conduct and service of G-d according to exoteric and esoteric Torah teachings, following the teachings of the Vilna Gaon and his disciples.
R. Simcha of Volozhin and Nyasvizh, eldest brother of R. Chaim of Volozhin was an exceptional Torah scholar and diligently studied together with his younger brother day and night, both were disciples of the Shaagat Aryeh. If the oil lamp burned out, they would study Torah by moonlight as recounted by R. Itzele of Volozhin in his introduction to Nefesh HaChaim, telling the history of his father: "From his youth, he studied Torah with amazing diligence and at the age of 14, studied together with his elder brother, R. Simcha and they would study day and night…". R. Simcha guided his younger brother in the manner of toiling in Torah study. R. Yosef Zundel of Salant recounts that his teacher R. Chaim of Volozhin told him that he is grateful to his brother R. Simcha "for etching faith in his heart for 48 years with all that a man must know" (HaTzaddik Rabbi Yosef Zundel M'Salant V'Rabbotav, Jerusalem 1926, p. 113). Reputedly, he officiated in the rabbinate of a Lithuanian city (perhaps in Nyasvizh, his home for many years). At the age of 24, he wrote the book Kitzur Piskei Dinim similar to the format of Simlah Chadasha authored by the author of Tevu'ot Shor.
[1] leaf, [2] written pages. 19.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains, dark stains and ink smears. Wear and tiny tears to margins. Folding marks.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $20,000
Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000
Sold for: $25,000
Including buyer's premium
Handwritten leaf – letter of appointment, by notables of the Volozhin community appointing R. Chaim of Volozhin to a three-year tenure as Rabbi of their community from Iyar 1782 until Iyar 1785, with another letter of appointment appointing him to another three-year term, from Iyar 1785 until Iyar 1788.
On one side of the leaf is the first letter signed by dignitaries of the Volozhin community expressing their unanimous decision to appoint R. Chaim to the community rabbinate, signed by community leaders and rabbis: "Duber son of R. Yehuda Yedel", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak", "Yonah Avraham son of R. Yehuda Yedel", "Shmuel son of R. Avraham", "Avraham son of R. Aharon", "Yehuda Leib son of R. Mordechai", "Dov Ber son of R. Yosef", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak Isaac".
On the verso of the document is a similar text dated Monday, the 3rd of MarCheshvan 1785, extending R. Chaim's term in the rabbinate for another three years from the end of the previous term: "From the 4th of Iyar 1785 until the 4th of Iyar 1788…". Signed by community leaders and rabbis: "Avraham son of R. Aharon", "Dov Ber son of R. Yosef", "Ozer son of R. Naftali", "Yehuda Leib son of R. Mordechai", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak Isaac", "Aharon Zelig son of R. Michael", "Shmuel son of R. Avraham".
R. Chaim of Volozhin (1749-1821), close disciple of the Vilna Gaon and founder or the Volozhin yeshiva, forerunner of Lithuanian yeshivot. Born in Volozhin to his father, R. Yitzchak, a community leader. In his youth, he was a disciple of R. Refael HaCohen of Hamburg, author of Torah Yekutiel, at the time the latter officiated as rabbi in Minsk and continued his studies at the yeshiva of the Shaagat Aryeh during the latter's second tenure in the Volozhin rabbinate.
In 1774, at about the age of 25, R. Chaim was appointed Rabbi of Volozhin and held this position until 1789. He then relocated to serve as Rabbi of Ukmergė (Vilkmergė), however due to opposition by a number of members of that community, he returned to the Volozhin after only one year, officiating as rabbi until his passing.
Following the common practice in those days, a rabbi was appointed for only three years (see the Chatam Sofer responsa, Orach Chaim, Siman 206: "The custom in most of the Diaspora is to write a rabbinic contract for a limited time, sometimes for three years and at times for five years. The reason for this is cited in Choshen Mishpat Siman 333, prohibiting a person to lease himself for more than three years, which changes his status from an employee to a slave and one is prohibited to enslave himself"). After three years, the community leaders would assemble to renew the rabbi's contract and would sign another three-year contract. These letters of appointment are for three years from 1782 to 1785 and from 1785 to 1788.
Double leaf, [2] written pages. 20.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains, dampstains. Wear and tears to margins. Folding marks.
On one side of the leaf is the first letter signed by dignitaries of the Volozhin community expressing their unanimous decision to appoint R. Chaim to the community rabbinate, signed by community leaders and rabbis: "Duber son of R. Yehuda Yedel", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak", "Yonah Avraham son of R. Yehuda Yedel", "Shmuel son of R. Avraham", "Avraham son of R. Aharon", "Yehuda Leib son of R. Mordechai", "Dov Ber son of R. Yosef", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak Isaac".
On the verso of the document is a similar text dated Monday, the 3rd of MarCheshvan 1785, extending R. Chaim's term in the rabbinate for another three years from the end of the previous term: "From the 4th of Iyar 1785 until the 4th of Iyar 1788…". Signed by community leaders and rabbis: "Avraham son of R. Aharon", "Dov Ber son of R. Yosef", "Ozer son of R. Naftali", "Yehuda Leib son of R. Mordechai", "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yitzchak Isaac", "Aharon Zelig son of R. Michael", "Shmuel son of R. Avraham".
R. Chaim of Volozhin (1749-1821), close disciple of the Vilna Gaon and founder or the Volozhin yeshiva, forerunner of Lithuanian yeshivot. Born in Volozhin to his father, R. Yitzchak, a community leader. In his youth, he was a disciple of R. Refael HaCohen of Hamburg, author of Torah Yekutiel, at the time the latter officiated as rabbi in Minsk and continued his studies at the yeshiva of the Shaagat Aryeh during the latter's second tenure in the Volozhin rabbinate.
In 1774, at about the age of 25, R. Chaim was appointed Rabbi of Volozhin and held this position until 1789. He then relocated to serve as Rabbi of Ukmergė (Vilkmergė), however due to opposition by a number of members of that community, he returned to the Volozhin after only one year, officiating as rabbi until his passing.
Following the common practice in those days, a rabbi was appointed for only three years (see the Chatam Sofer responsa, Orach Chaim, Siman 206: "The custom in most of the Diaspora is to write a rabbinic contract for a limited time, sometimes for three years and at times for five years. The reason for this is cited in Choshen Mishpat Siman 333, prohibiting a person to lease himself for more than three years, which changes his status from an employee to a slave and one is prohibited to enslave himself"). After three years, the community leaders would assemble to renew the rabbi's contract and would sign another three-year contract. These letters of appointment are for three years from 1782 to 1785 and from 1785 to 1788.
Double leaf, [2] written pages. 20.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains, dampstains. Wear and tears to margins. Folding marks.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $4,500
Including buyer's premium
Historical document – letter bearing 45 signatures of Lviv (Lvov) community notables, sent to the Rabbi of the city, R. Yaakov Meshulam Orenstein (author of Yeshuot Yaakov). Lviv, Adar Bet 1810.
The community members signed an appointment document requesting the city rabbi to appoint a Magid Mesharim (preacher) and posek in the city to succeed the holy kabbalist R. Meshulam HaCohen [died during Sukkot of that year], particularly requesting the appointment of R. Zvi Hirsh Charif (Heller) Rabbi of Brzesko (Brigel; author of Tiv Gittin) to fill this position. Historic document related to the history of the Lviv community [the history of the Lviv community has been lengthily documented in the book Klilat Yofi (Krakow, 1888, 1893), however this document of appointment is not mentioned there].
The letter contains praise of their late rabbi who led the community for many years. They also write of their wish to continue strengthening Torah study and describe their fervent wish to appoint a prominent Torah scholar to teach Torah in their community [in the end, R. Zvi Hirsch did not accept the position; he chose to head the Brody Yeshiva].
Kabbalist R. Meshulam Cohen Tzedek (1758-1810), author of Ikar Tosfot Yom Tov on the Mishnah and Pitchei Nidah on the laws of Nidah, officiated as Rabbi of Korets from 1788, succeeding his brother Kabbalist R. Yitzchak Isaac HaCohen, author of Brit Kehunat Olam, disciple of the Magid of Mezritch. In the early 1790s, he was appointed magid and posek of "out of town" Lviv [the name a large suburb of Lviv. Eminent Torah scholars officiated as rabbis of "out of town" and their status was similar to deputy rabbi of greater Lviv]. Descendant of Kabbalist R. Naftali Katz, author of Semicha Chachamim, he studied kabbalah extensively and published his brother's profound book Brit Kehunat Olam. He endorsed many books, including books with kabbalistic and Chassidic content and the books of the Admor HaZaken, Baal HaTanya.
R. Zvi Hirsch Heller (1776-1835, Encyclopedia L'Chachmei Galicia, Vo. 2, pp. 665-671), prominent Rabbi of Galicia and Hungary hailed as "R. Hirsch Charif" (the sharp), due to his genius and cleverness. Rabbi of Brzesko in Galicia and later head of the renowned Brody Yeshiva. Slanderous accusations compelled him to flee the city to Hungary, there he officiated in the Bonyhád, Uzhhorod and Óbuda (Alt-Ofen) rabbinates. Many leading rabbis were his disciples, such as R. Zvi Hirsch of Liska (Olaszliszka) and R. Shlomo Ganzfried, author of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. Author of the Tiv Gittin novellae and other compositions.
Large leaf. 38 cm. Written on both sides. Good condition. Stains and wear.
The community members signed an appointment document requesting the city rabbi to appoint a Magid Mesharim (preacher) and posek in the city to succeed the holy kabbalist R. Meshulam HaCohen [died during Sukkot of that year], particularly requesting the appointment of R. Zvi Hirsh Charif (Heller) Rabbi of Brzesko (Brigel; author of Tiv Gittin) to fill this position. Historic document related to the history of the Lviv community [the history of the Lviv community has been lengthily documented in the book Klilat Yofi (Krakow, 1888, 1893), however this document of appointment is not mentioned there].
The letter contains praise of their late rabbi who led the community for many years. They also write of their wish to continue strengthening Torah study and describe their fervent wish to appoint a prominent Torah scholar to teach Torah in their community [in the end, R. Zvi Hirsch did not accept the position; he chose to head the Brody Yeshiva].
Kabbalist R. Meshulam Cohen Tzedek (1758-1810), author of Ikar Tosfot Yom Tov on the Mishnah and Pitchei Nidah on the laws of Nidah, officiated as Rabbi of Korets from 1788, succeeding his brother Kabbalist R. Yitzchak Isaac HaCohen, author of Brit Kehunat Olam, disciple of the Magid of Mezritch. In the early 1790s, he was appointed magid and posek of "out of town" Lviv [the name a large suburb of Lviv. Eminent Torah scholars officiated as rabbis of "out of town" and their status was similar to deputy rabbi of greater Lviv]. Descendant of Kabbalist R. Naftali Katz, author of Semicha Chachamim, he studied kabbalah extensively and published his brother's profound book Brit Kehunat Olam. He endorsed many books, including books with kabbalistic and Chassidic content and the books of the Admor HaZaken, Baal HaTanya.
R. Zvi Hirsch Heller (1776-1835, Encyclopedia L'Chachmei Galicia, Vo. 2, pp. 665-671), prominent Rabbi of Galicia and Hungary hailed as "R. Hirsch Charif" (the sharp), due to his genius and cleverness. Rabbi of Brzesko in Galicia and later head of the renowned Brody Yeshiva. Slanderous accusations compelled him to flee the city to Hungary, there he officiated in the Bonyhád, Uzhhorod and Óbuda (Alt-Ofen) rabbinates. Many leading rabbis were his disciples, such as R. Zvi Hirsch of Liska (Olaszliszka) and R. Shlomo Ganzfried, author of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. Author of the Tiv Gittin novellae and other compositions.
Large leaf. 38 cm. Written on both sides. Good condition. Stains and wear.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $8,000
Estimate: $12,000 - $20,000
Sold for: $10,000
Including buyer's premium
Collection of handwritten leaves, novellae on Tractate Bava Metzia – Daf 2-5. Autograph of 29 pages, handwritten by R. Nachum Weisfish of Shadik (Szadek). Jerusalem, 1847. The top of the first page contains an opening title: "Bava Metzia, [Daf] 2. Here in the holy city of Jerusalem, Tuesday Iyar 4, 1847". R. Nachum Rabbi of Shadik (1813-1868) was the son of R. Moshe Avraham Loew Weisfish and disciple of the Chemdat Shlomo, a leading Torah scholar in Poland, who granted him rabbinical ordination at the age of 18. He served as rabbi of Shadik, Poland for a few years, and immigrated to Eretz Israel in 1843 together with his two brothers, R. Asher Lemel Rabbi of Gołyń and R. Yaakov Yehuda Leib, following a dream they all three dreamt separately, instructing them to immigrate to Eretz Israel. In Jerusalem, he would sit for the main part of the day bedecked with Tallit and Tefillin, learning with great diligence. He founded Yeshivat HaRan, where he delivered scholarly lectures to the leading young Torah scholars of Jerusalem. He learnt Kabbalah together with R. Yosef Zundel of Salant from the Kabbalist R. Yehuda HaKohen. He passed away in a Cholera epidemic in 1868 and his epitaph on the Mount of Olives reads: "A holy and pure man, at the age of eight he began searching for G-d and devoted his whole life to Torah, fasts and ascetism. He studied Torah without respite, day and night. He merited to learn and teach, and edified many disciples… A pious and modest man…". This composition was presumably composed whilst learning with his disciples in Yeshivat HaRan, where he taught the tractates Ketubot and Bava Metzia only for approximately ten years. The novella were published based on a manuscript in his book Avnei Kodesh (Jerusalem 1971; Jerusalem 2012). 15 leaves. 21.5 cm. Written on both sides – a total of 29 autograph pages. Thick, dark paper. Fair-good condition. Stains and wear. Detached leaves. Damage to text at the margins.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $5,750
Including buyer's premium
Lengthy letter (approx. 65 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn, author of Shoel UMeshiv, addressed to R. Yaakov Shlomo Heilprin, a rabbi of Premishlan (Peremyshliany). [Lviv], Adar 1852.
Interesting halachic responsum, regarding disqualifying a Shochet in Premishlan. In this responsum, the Shoel UMeshiv discusses laws of testimony and dayanim, and responds to several responsa and polemic letters sent to him regarding this Shochet. This responsum discloses the interesting combination of R. Yosef Shaul's leadership. On the one hand, his resolute defence of the honor of the dayanim of the city, and his great concern for upholding Kashrut, on the other hand, his obvious considerateness and sensitivity for the dignity and livelihood of the disqualified Shochet (even adding in the address a special request to be particular not to deprive the emissary of his tip).
The Shoel UMeshiv writes his clear conclusion, prohibiting that Shochet to act as Shochet and Bodek in Premishlan, but on the other hand requests that the town find a different source of livelihood for his family. He writes with decisiveness yet compassion: "Accept my compassion for this person and his family, undoubtedly children depend on him, and these young sheep, what wrong did they commit, therefore my beloved friends, provide him with some source of income, until he repents, admits his wrongdoing and undertakes not to return to his foolishness, then he will be able to find sustenance for himself and his household, whether in this city or in different places. And it is very distressing that he was enticed to behave so, and lost his source of sustenance by his own fault… and until his fitness is established with unequivocal testimony, he is henceforth disqualified from ritual slaughtering. This too I do out of mercy for him, but there is no mercy in judgement, and I will not make my Torah a deception, and the One whose Name is truth should guide me in the path of the truth, since my whole aspiration is for truth".
In the lines of the address, an interesting note is added in the handwriting of the Shoel UMeshiv, requesting a tip be paid to the emissary transmitting this letter.
R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn (1808-1875) was a leading Torah scholar in Galicia. Already in his youth, he composed together with his brother-in-law R. Mordechai Zev Ettinger the books Mefarshei HaYam on Bava Kama and Magen Giborim on Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim. He sent responses to thousands of queries, and authored many books: Responsa Shoel UMeshiv – 15 parts; Divrei Shaul on the Torah, Rambam and Shulchan Aruch; Yadot Nedarim and others. From 1857, he served as Chief Rabbi of Lviv, which was the largest and principal Galician community. After his passing, he was eulogized by R. Shlomo Zalman Spitzer (son-in-law of the Chatam Sofer): "A leader of outstanding Torah scholars, master of the entire Jewish people… whom all the leading Torah scholars of our times addressed their questions to on difficult matters… he was holy from birth and was raised in holiness to Torah and worship of G-d… already 40 years ago, my father-in-law the Chatam Sofer praised him effusively and termed him a Gaon...".
The recipient of the letter: R. Yaakov Shlomo Heilprin (1827-1895), rabbi of Dunayev and Premishlan, was the son of R. Dov Berish Heilprin Rabbi of Premishlan. He maintained close ties with R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn, and judging by the large number of responsa addressed to him contained in Responsa Shoel UMeshiv, it appears that he was one of his confidants. He composed the booklet Yefeh Anaf on the history of the Heilprin family.
[1] double leaf, 21.5 cm. 2 written pages. Fair-good condition. Marginal wear. Creases and folding marks.
This responsum was printed based on this manuscript in Responsa Shoel UMeshiv seventh edition (Jerusalem, 1995), Yoreh De'ah section 2, pp. 108-110 (with a few errors).
Interesting halachic responsum, regarding disqualifying a Shochet in Premishlan. In this responsum, the Shoel UMeshiv discusses laws of testimony and dayanim, and responds to several responsa and polemic letters sent to him regarding this Shochet. This responsum discloses the interesting combination of R. Yosef Shaul's leadership. On the one hand, his resolute defence of the honor of the dayanim of the city, and his great concern for upholding Kashrut, on the other hand, his obvious considerateness and sensitivity for the dignity and livelihood of the disqualified Shochet (even adding in the address a special request to be particular not to deprive the emissary of his tip).
The Shoel UMeshiv writes his clear conclusion, prohibiting that Shochet to act as Shochet and Bodek in Premishlan, but on the other hand requests that the town find a different source of livelihood for his family. He writes with decisiveness yet compassion: "Accept my compassion for this person and his family, undoubtedly children depend on him, and these young sheep, what wrong did they commit, therefore my beloved friends, provide him with some source of income, until he repents, admits his wrongdoing and undertakes not to return to his foolishness, then he will be able to find sustenance for himself and his household, whether in this city or in different places. And it is very distressing that he was enticed to behave so, and lost his source of sustenance by his own fault… and until his fitness is established with unequivocal testimony, he is henceforth disqualified from ritual slaughtering. This too I do out of mercy for him, but there is no mercy in judgement, and I will not make my Torah a deception, and the One whose Name is truth should guide me in the path of the truth, since my whole aspiration is for truth".
In the lines of the address, an interesting note is added in the handwriting of the Shoel UMeshiv, requesting a tip be paid to the emissary transmitting this letter.
R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn (1808-1875) was a leading Torah scholar in Galicia. Already in his youth, he composed together with his brother-in-law R. Mordechai Zev Ettinger the books Mefarshei HaYam on Bava Kama and Magen Giborim on Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim. He sent responses to thousands of queries, and authored many books: Responsa Shoel UMeshiv – 15 parts; Divrei Shaul on the Torah, Rambam and Shulchan Aruch; Yadot Nedarim and others. From 1857, he served as Chief Rabbi of Lviv, which was the largest and principal Galician community. After his passing, he was eulogized by R. Shlomo Zalman Spitzer (son-in-law of the Chatam Sofer): "A leader of outstanding Torah scholars, master of the entire Jewish people… whom all the leading Torah scholars of our times addressed their questions to on difficult matters… he was holy from birth and was raised in holiness to Torah and worship of G-d… already 40 years ago, my father-in-law the Chatam Sofer praised him effusively and termed him a Gaon...".
The recipient of the letter: R. Yaakov Shlomo Heilprin (1827-1895), rabbi of Dunayev and Premishlan, was the son of R. Dov Berish Heilprin Rabbi of Premishlan. He maintained close ties with R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn, and judging by the large number of responsa addressed to him contained in Responsa Shoel UMeshiv, it appears that he was one of his confidants. He composed the booklet Yefeh Anaf on the history of the Heilprin family.
[1] double leaf, 21.5 cm. 2 written pages. Fair-good condition. Marginal wear. Creases and folding marks.
This responsum was printed based on this manuscript in Responsa Shoel UMeshiv seventh edition (Jerusalem, 1995), Yoreh De'ah section 2, pp. 108-110 (with a few errors).
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $6,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter of blessings in honor of the 70th birthday of R. Azriel Hildesheimer, by rabbis and notables of the city of Kaunas (Kovne), including R. Yitzchak Elchanan Spektor, Rabbi of Kaunas, and R. Yitzchak Blazer, Rabbi of St. Petersburg. Kaunas, 1890.
A long letter on a large-format leaf. The first four lines are in the handwriting of R. Yitzchak Elchanan, followed by a letter in scribal writing with good wishes and blessings in honor of R. Azriel's 70th birthday.
The margins bear the signature and stamp of R. Yitzchak Elchanan Spektor and four signatures of Kaunas rabbis and notables: R. Yitzchak Meir Rabinowitz, Rabbi of Slobodka (then a suburb of Kaunas); R. Yitzchak (Itzele) Blazer, Rabbi of St. Petersburg"; R. Baruch Broide, Kaunas notable and follower of the Musar Movement and R. Zvi Hirsh Soltzovsky, son-in-law of R. Yitzchak Elchanan.
Beside the signatures of the Rabbis appears the stamp of Kollel Perushim in Kaunas with the inscription: "Society of founders of our People's philanthropists established by the Torah scholars of our times to support those who study Torah and to guide them in Torah learning and fear [of G-d] to train them to become Torah authorities".
R. Yitzchak Elchanan Spektor (1817-1896), a Torah luminary in his generation, renowned for his exceptional Torah knowledge, his diligence and outstanding piety. The supreme Torah authority of his times, he led Lithuanian and Russian Jewry for years with wisdom and compassion. Officiated in the rabbinate from ca. 1837 and in 1864, was appointed Rabbi of Kaunas (Kovne), his name spreading all over the world as a leading posek. His responsa and novellae are printed in his books Be'er Yitzchak, Nachal Yitzchak and Ein Yitzchak.
R. Yitzchak (Itzele) Blazer (1837-1907), prominent disciple of R. Yisrael of Salant, luminary in his days and disseminator of the Musar Movement. Officiated in the rabbinate of the capital city St. Petersburg and from 1862-1878, headed the Kovne Kollel. In his senior years, he moved to Jerusalem. Authored Pri Yitzchak Responsa and Kochvei Or which he published together with the book Or Yisrael by his revered teacher, R. Yisrael of Salant.
R. Yitzchak Meir Rabinowitz (1843-1891), Lithuanian Torah scholar, Rabbi of Žasliai, later of Slobodka (from ca. 1885).
The recipient, R. Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899), a leader in his times, was a disciple of the Aruch LaNer and of R. Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg. He served as rabbi of Eisenstadt between 1851-1869 where he founded an innovative yeshiva integrating secular studies according to the Torah with Derech Eretz doctrine. This move drew opposition and criticism both from the Reform movement and from certain sects of Orthodox Judaism. However, the leading rabbis of Hungary and Germany recognized his greatness and backed his yeshiva. In 1869, he was appointed rabbi of Berlin, where he established the Rabbinical seminary, standing at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in Germany.
R. Yitzchak Elchanan and R. Azriel Hildesheimer developed a close relationship during their mutual activities on behalf of the Jewish People, R. Yitzchak Elchanan from his base in Russia and R. Azriel from Germany. Among other joint undertakings, they labored to assist Russian Jewry after the 1881 pogroms (Sufot BaNegev), establishing a relief committee for Russian Jewry in Berlin; both luminaries extended great efforts to annul decrees against the Jewish People from their respective countries.
[1] leaf. 36 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Folding marks, filing holes.
A long letter on a large-format leaf. The first four lines are in the handwriting of R. Yitzchak Elchanan, followed by a letter in scribal writing with good wishes and blessings in honor of R. Azriel's 70th birthday.
The margins bear the signature and stamp of R. Yitzchak Elchanan Spektor and four signatures of Kaunas rabbis and notables: R. Yitzchak Meir Rabinowitz, Rabbi of Slobodka (then a suburb of Kaunas); R. Yitzchak (Itzele) Blazer, Rabbi of St. Petersburg"; R. Baruch Broide, Kaunas notable and follower of the Musar Movement and R. Zvi Hirsh Soltzovsky, son-in-law of R. Yitzchak Elchanan.
Beside the signatures of the Rabbis appears the stamp of Kollel Perushim in Kaunas with the inscription: "Society of founders of our People's philanthropists established by the Torah scholars of our times to support those who study Torah and to guide them in Torah learning and fear [of G-d] to train them to become Torah authorities".
R. Yitzchak Elchanan Spektor (1817-1896), a Torah luminary in his generation, renowned for his exceptional Torah knowledge, his diligence and outstanding piety. The supreme Torah authority of his times, he led Lithuanian and Russian Jewry for years with wisdom and compassion. Officiated in the rabbinate from ca. 1837 and in 1864, was appointed Rabbi of Kaunas (Kovne), his name spreading all over the world as a leading posek. His responsa and novellae are printed in his books Be'er Yitzchak, Nachal Yitzchak and Ein Yitzchak.
R. Yitzchak (Itzele) Blazer (1837-1907), prominent disciple of R. Yisrael of Salant, luminary in his days and disseminator of the Musar Movement. Officiated in the rabbinate of the capital city St. Petersburg and from 1862-1878, headed the Kovne Kollel. In his senior years, he moved to Jerusalem. Authored Pri Yitzchak Responsa and Kochvei Or which he published together with the book Or Yisrael by his revered teacher, R. Yisrael of Salant.
R. Yitzchak Meir Rabinowitz (1843-1891), Lithuanian Torah scholar, Rabbi of Žasliai, later of Slobodka (from ca. 1885).
The recipient, R. Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899), a leader in his times, was a disciple of the Aruch LaNer and of R. Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg. He served as rabbi of Eisenstadt between 1851-1869 where he founded an innovative yeshiva integrating secular studies according to the Torah with Derech Eretz doctrine. This move drew opposition and criticism both from the Reform movement and from certain sects of Orthodox Judaism. However, the leading rabbis of Hungary and Germany recognized his greatness and backed his yeshiva. In 1869, he was appointed rabbi of Berlin, where he established the Rabbinical seminary, standing at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in Germany.
R. Yitzchak Elchanan and R. Azriel Hildesheimer developed a close relationship during their mutual activities on behalf of the Jewish People, R. Yitzchak Elchanan from his base in Russia and R. Azriel from Germany. Among other joint undertakings, they labored to assist Russian Jewry after the 1881 pogroms (Sufot BaNegev), establishing a relief committee for Russian Jewry in Berlin; both luminaries extended great efforts to annul decrees against the Jewish People from their respective countries.
[1] leaf. 36 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Folding marks, filing holes.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $4,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $4,750
Including buyer's premium
Lengthy and interesting letter handwritten and signed by R. Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin – the Netziv of Volozhin. Volozhin (Valozhyn) 1890.
Addressed to R. Azriel Hildesheimer in Berlin, the letter contains heartfelt blessings in flowery terms, on the occasion of his 70th birthday – "May G-d add to him years of life, vitalize him, guard him and satisfy him… and may his fragrance be amongst his people like the wine of Harel and Ariel". The Netziv praises his accomplishments in the Rabbinical Seminary in Berlin: "I am like the masses of the Jewish nation, who know and understand that he has achieved much, by building and planting in Prussia (Germany) a place for the study of Torah and Halacha, an abode for the honor and service of G-d, and he is comparable to the glow of the stars, who illuminate the night for the multitudes. Therefore, I hereby extend by blessings and prayers, that G-d should help him build more pathways to serving Him and may the light of the merit of the Torah guide his ways, to draw after him the Jewish people pleasantly…".
The Netziv signs off the letter with a request from R. Azriel Hildesheimer to in turn bless him: "And may I as well be blessed with his blessings, to continue guarding the yeshiva, at the age when one already requires rest from old age. I, his friend who is loaded with a great deal of work. Awaiting G-d's salvation – Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin".
R. Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin – the Netziv of Volozhin (1817-1893), a foremost and outstanding Torah scholar of his generation, was the son-in-law of R. Yitzchak of Volozhin and his successor as dean of the yeshiva for decades. His father, R. Yaakov Berlin of Mir (1794-1868), immigrated to Jerusalem in 1854 and was one of the leaders of the Prushim community in Jerusalem.
Known for his great diligence and brilliance, the Netziv led the Volozhin yeshiva with devotion and love for many years, until the yeshiva became the main breeding ground for Torah leaders who were the glory of Lithuanian, Russian and Polish Jewry. With his noble personality and profound, thorough erudition, he produced generations of eminent Torah scholars, yeshiva deans, dayanim and rabbis. He was also engaged in public leadership and his opinion was conclusive for all community matters in Russia and Lithuania. He responded to halachic queries which many rabbis sent to him, customarily signing his letters in those years as "he who is laden with work". He composed many books, including HaEmek She'ela – novellae on She'iltot; HaEmek Davar on the Torah; Responsa Meishiv Davar; Talmudic novellae and commentaries on Halachic midrashim: Mechilta, Sifri and Sifra.
The recipient of the letter, R. Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899), a leader in his times, was a disciple of the Aruch LaNer and of R. Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg. He served as rabbi of Eisenstadt between 1851-1869 where he founded an innovative yeshiva integrating secular studies according to the Torah with Derech Eretz doctrine. This move drew opposition and criticism both from the Reform movement and from certain sects of Orthodox Judaism. However, the leading rabbis of Hungary and Germany recognized his greatness and backed his yeshiva. In 1869, he was appointed rabbi of Berlin, where he established the Rabbinical seminary, standing at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in Germany.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 25 cm. 17 handwritten lines. Good-fair condition. Stains and creases. Minor wear.
Addressed to R. Azriel Hildesheimer in Berlin, the letter contains heartfelt blessings in flowery terms, on the occasion of his 70th birthday – "May G-d add to him years of life, vitalize him, guard him and satisfy him… and may his fragrance be amongst his people like the wine of Harel and Ariel". The Netziv praises his accomplishments in the Rabbinical Seminary in Berlin: "I am like the masses of the Jewish nation, who know and understand that he has achieved much, by building and planting in Prussia (Germany) a place for the study of Torah and Halacha, an abode for the honor and service of G-d, and he is comparable to the glow of the stars, who illuminate the night for the multitudes. Therefore, I hereby extend by blessings and prayers, that G-d should help him build more pathways to serving Him and may the light of the merit of the Torah guide his ways, to draw after him the Jewish people pleasantly…".
The Netziv signs off the letter with a request from R. Azriel Hildesheimer to in turn bless him: "And may I as well be blessed with his blessings, to continue guarding the yeshiva, at the age when one already requires rest from old age. I, his friend who is loaded with a great deal of work. Awaiting G-d's salvation – Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin".
R. Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin – the Netziv of Volozhin (1817-1893), a foremost and outstanding Torah scholar of his generation, was the son-in-law of R. Yitzchak of Volozhin and his successor as dean of the yeshiva for decades. His father, R. Yaakov Berlin of Mir (1794-1868), immigrated to Jerusalem in 1854 and was one of the leaders of the Prushim community in Jerusalem.
Known for his great diligence and brilliance, the Netziv led the Volozhin yeshiva with devotion and love for many years, until the yeshiva became the main breeding ground for Torah leaders who were the glory of Lithuanian, Russian and Polish Jewry. With his noble personality and profound, thorough erudition, he produced generations of eminent Torah scholars, yeshiva deans, dayanim and rabbis. He was also engaged in public leadership and his opinion was conclusive for all community matters in Russia and Lithuania. He responded to halachic queries which many rabbis sent to him, customarily signing his letters in those years as "he who is laden with work". He composed many books, including HaEmek She'ela – novellae on She'iltot; HaEmek Davar on the Torah; Responsa Meishiv Davar; Talmudic novellae and commentaries on Halachic midrashim: Mechilta, Sifri and Sifra.
The recipient of the letter, R. Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899), a leader in his times, was a disciple of the Aruch LaNer and of R. Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg. He served as rabbi of Eisenstadt between 1851-1869 where he founded an innovative yeshiva integrating secular studies according to the Torah with Derech Eretz doctrine. This move drew opposition and criticism both from the Reform movement and from certain sects of Orthodox Judaism. However, the leading rabbis of Hungary and Germany recognized his greatness and backed his yeshiva. In 1869, he was appointed rabbi of Berlin, where he established the Rabbinical seminary, standing at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in Germany.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 25 cm. 17 handwritten lines. Good-fair condition. Stains and creases. Minor wear.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $4,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Interesting letter handwritten and signed by R. Yechiel Michel HaLevi Epstein Rabbi of Navahrudak, author of Aruch HaShulchan, to his relative R. Yosef David [Shachor] Rabbi of Siemiatycze. Navahrudak, Shevat 1904.
In an interesting letter, R. Yechiel Michel announces the engagement of his granddaughter Rashke [orphaned daughter of his son-in-law R. Efraim Zalman Shachor-Warhaftig, brother of R. Yosef David recipient of this letter], with R. Yehonatan Nachumovsky, nephew of R. Eliyahu Chaim Meisel of Lodz. At the end of this joyful letter, R. Yechiel Michel blesses the recipient "that he should see pleasure and satisfaction from his progeny and their children forever".
The Aruch HaShulchan recounts all the details of the shidduch and the undertakings of all parties. He relates that his son R. Baruch Epstein of Pinsk [author of Torah Temima] suggested the match and describes the progress of the shidduch, completed in Vilna in the home of his son, R. Dov Ber [the orphaned bride was a niece to both him and his wife Lifsha (Shachor), from her paternal and maternal sides, see article by R. Eitam Henkin, Chapters in the history of the author of Aruch HaShulchan, Yeshurun, 27, p. 662].
R. Yechiel Michel Epstein (1829-1908), Rabbi of Navahrudak, leading Lithuanian posek. Authored Aruch HaShulchan on the four parts of the Shulchan Aruch and other books. Disciple of R. Eliyahu Rabbi of Babruysk and disciple of R. Itzele in the Volozhin Yeshiva. Son-in-law of R. Yaakov Berlin (the Netziv's father) and by second marriage father-in-law of the Netziv's brother-in-law.
The recipient, R. Yosef David Shachor (died 1906), grandson of R. Chaim Leib Shachor of Mir [brother-in-law of R. Yechiel Michel, sons-in-law of R. Yaakov Berlin of Mir]. His late brother was R. Yechiel Michel's son-in-law, sons of R. Alexander Ziskind Shachor of Ruzhany and Jerusalem. R. Yosef David was the disciple of his relative the Netziv of Volozhin. Served 11 years in the Antopal community and from 1900 as Rabbi of Siemiatycze.
Several letters by the Aruch HaShulchan to R. Yosef David Rabbi of Siemiatycze about the shidduch and marriage of R. Yosef David's niece were printed in the book Zecher Avot [containing the history of the Shachor family, Tel Aviv, 1993, pp. 286-289], however, this letter does not appear in the book and is hitherto unknown.
Postcard, 9X14 cm. 13 lines handwritten and signed by him. Good condition.
In an interesting letter, R. Yechiel Michel announces the engagement of his granddaughter Rashke [orphaned daughter of his son-in-law R. Efraim Zalman Shachor-Warhaftig, brother of R. Yosef David recipient of this letter], with R. Yehonatan Nachumovsky, nephew of R. Eliyahu Chaim Meisel of Lodz. At the end of this joyful letter, R. Yechiel Michel blesses the recipient "that he should see pleasure and satisfaction from his progeny and their children forever".
The Aruch HaShulchan recounts all the details of the shidduch and the undertakings of all parties. He relates that his son R. Baruch Epstein of Pinsk [author of Torah Temima] suggested the match and describes the progress of the shidduch, completed in Vilna in the home of his son, R. Dov Ber [the orphaned bride was a niece to both him and his wife Lifsha (Shachor), from her paternal and maternal sides, see article by R. Eitam Henkin, Chapters in the history of the author of Aruch HaShulchan, Yeshurun, 27, p. 662].
R. Yechiel Michel Epstein (1829-1908), Rabbi of Navahrudak, leading Lithuanian posek. Authored Aruch HaShulchan on the four parts of the Shulchan Aruch and other books. Disciple of R. Eliyahu Rabbi of Babruysk and disciple of R. Itzele in the Volozhin Yeshiva. Son-in-law of R. Yaakov Berlin (the Netziv's father) and by second marriage father-in-law of the Netziv's brother-in-law.
The recipient, R. Yosef David Shachor (died 1906), grandson of R. Chaim Leib Shachor of Mir [brother-in-law of R. Yechiel Michel, sons-in-law of R. Yaakov Berlin of Mir]. His late brother was R. Yechiel Michel's son-in-law, sons of R. Alexander Ziskind Shachor of Ruzhany and Jerusalem. R. Yosef David was the disciple of his relative the Netziv of Volozhin. Served 11 years in the Antopal community and from 1900 as Rabbi of Siemiatycze.
Several letters by the Aruch HaShulchan to R. Yosef David Rabbi of Siemiatycze about the shidduch and marriage of R. Yosef David's niece were printed in the book Zecher Avot [containing the history of the Shachor family, Tel Aviv, 1993, pp. 286-289], however, this letter does not appear in the book and is hitherto unknown.
Postcard, 9X14 cm. 13 lines handwritten and signed by him. Good condition.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
![Lengthy letter handwritten and signed by R. Yaakov David Ridvaz. [Safed?], Shevat 1909. Lengthy halachic responsum, regarding](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale63-public/38.jpg "Letter of Halachic Responsum from the Ridvaz, Rabbi of Slutsk and Safe")
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $1,625
Including buyer's premium
Lengthy letter handwritten and signed by R. Yaakov David Ridvaz. [Safed?], Shevat 1909.
Lengthy halachic responsum, regarding a "dispensation of one hundred rabbis" for a man whose wife does not conform with Jewish law. The letter itself consists of 27 lines in his handwriting, with some 30 lines of additions, written in the margins, between the lines and on the verso of the leaf.
The Ridvaz – R. Yaakov David Willowsky (1845-1913), was a prominent Torah scholar renowned since his youth as a leading Torah scholar in his generation. He served as rabbi in several places, including Slutsk, Chicago and Safed. He would commonly sign with the acronym Ridvaz (which originally stood for Rinat Yaakov David Ben Zev, yet later, when the name Refael was added to him during an illness, it simply stood for his initials Refael Yaakov David Ben Zev. See his preface to his book Responsa Beit Ridvaz). He composed many books, yet his magnum-opus remains his comprehensive commentary on Jerusalem Talmud, and most editions of Jerusalem Talmud include it. His granddaughter married the head of the London Beit Din, R. Yechezkel Abramsky, author of Chazon Yechezkel.
This responsum was published with variations (based on a different manuscript, not including the additions on the verso of this leaf), in Responsa Kerem Ridvaz (Jerusalem 1995).
[1] leaf. 27 cm. Written on both sides. Fair condition. Stains and tears. Repairs to paper.
Lengthy halachic responsum, regarding a "dispensation of one hundred rabbis" for a man whose wife does not conform with Jewish law. The letter itself consists of 27 lines in his handwriting, with some 30 lines of additions, written in the margins, between the lines and on the verso of the leaf.
The Ridvaz – R. Yaakov David Willowsky (1845-1913), was a prominent Torah scholar renowned since his youth as a leading Torah scholar in his generation. He served as rabbi in several places, including Slutsk, Chicago and Safed. He would commonly sign with the acronym Ridvaz (which originally stood for Rinat Yaakov David Ben Zev, yet later, when the name Refael was added to him during an illness, it simply stood for his initials Refael Yaakov David Ben Zev. See his preface to his book Responsa Beit Ridvaz). He composed many books, yet his magnum-opus remains his comprehensive commentary on Jerusalem Talmud, and most editions of Jerusalem Talmud include it. His granddaughter married the head of the London Beit Din, R. Yechezkel Abramsky, author of Chazon Yechezkel.
This responsum was published with variations (based on a different manuscript, not including the additions on the verso of this leaf), in Responsa Kerem Ridvaz (Jerusalem 1995).
[1] leaf. 27 cm. Written on both sides. Fair condition. Stains and tears. Repairs to paper.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $4,250
Including buyer's premium
Lengthy letter (4 pages) handwritten and signed by R. Meir Arik, Rabbi of Yazlovets. Yazlovets, days of Selichot 1912.
A halachic responsum concerning laws of a misguided betrothal, in a case when a person married an insane woman "who does not have any intelligence whatsoever, to distinguish between summer and winter, and she is like an animal in form of a human being…". The responsum was sent to R. Moshe Stern Rabbi of Polien (Poienile de sub Munte) and to his son-in-law R. David Sperber, posek in that city (a disciple of R. Meir Arik). R. Meir relates in it to a responsum by R. Shlomo Leib Tabak, author of Erech Shai, on this topic. This responsum was published based on a manuscript in Responsa Imrei Yosher HaChadash (Jerusalem, 1997), Even HaEzer section 78, pp. 71-72. R. Meir Arik concludes the letter with blessings for a good year: "I hereby seek their wellbeing wholeheartedly, and bless them with a good inscribing and sealing. Meir Arik, Rabbi of this city".
R. Meir Arik (1855-1925), a leading Galician Torah scholar, served as rabbi of Yazlovets, Buchach and Tarnów. He was a disciple of R. Yaakov of Rimalov (Hrymailiv) and of the Maharsham. From 1885, he served as rabbi of Yazlovets, in place of his teacher the Maharsham who moved to Berezhany. From 1912, he served as rabbi of Buchach. During WWI, he fled to Vienna, studying Torah there with his friend R. Yosef Engel. Following the war, he returned to Poland and was appointed rabbi of Tarnów. Many of Poland's leading Torah scholars were his disciples, the most renowned ones include R. Meir Shapiro of Lublin, R. Aryeh Tzvi Frumer – the Gaon of Koziegłowy, R. David Sperber Gaon of Brașov (recipient of this letter), R. Yehuda Horowitz – Rebbe of Dzikov, R. Meshulam Roth author of Kol Mevaser, R. Reuven Margolies and R. Yehoshua Erenberg Rabbi of Tel Aviv.
He published many books, yet most of his manuscripts were lost during his escape to Vienna during WWI, including five large volumes of halachic responsa. His books: Sheyarei Tahara on Mishnayot Order Taharot (Kolomyia, 1890); Minchat Kenaot on Tractate Sota (Lviv, 1894); Minchat Pitim on Shulchan Aruch Yoreh De'ah and Even HaEzer (Munkacs, 1898-1908); Tal Torah (Vienna, 1921); Responsa Imrei Yosher part I (Munkacs, 1913), part II (Kraków-Tarnów, 1925); and other books containing selections of his Torah thought and letters: Minchat Aharon – Me'irat Einayim (Brooklyn, 1978) and Imrei Yosher HaChadash – Tal Torah HaChadash (Jerusalem, 1997).
[1] double leaf, 4 pages, approx. 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Minor tears and dampstains.
A halachic responsum concerning laws of a misguided betrothal, in a case when a person married an insane woman "who does not have any intelligence whatsoever, to distinguish between summer and winter, and she is like an animal in form of a human being…". The responsum was sent to R. Moshe Stern Rabbi of Polien (Poienile de sub Munte) and to his son-in-law R. David Sperber, posek in that city (a disciple of R. Meir Arik). R. Meir relates in it to a responsum by R. Shlomo Leib Tabak, author of Erech Shai, on this topic. This responsum was published based on a manuscript in Responsa Imrei Yosher HaChadash (Jerusalem, 1997), Even HaEzer section 78, pp. 71-72. R. Meir Arik concludes the letter with blessings for a good year: "I hereby seek their wellbeing wholeheartedly, and bless them with a good inscribing and sealing. Meir Arik, Rabbi of this city".
R. Meir Arik (1855-1925), a leading Galician Torah scholar, served as rabbi of Yazlovets, Buchach and Tarnów. He was a disciple of R. Yaakov of Rimalov (Hrymailiv) and of the Maharsham. From 1885, he served as rabbi of Yazlovets, in place of his teacher the Maharsham who moved to Berezhany. From 1912, he served as rabbi of Buchach. During WWI, he fled to Vienna, studying Torah there with his friend R. Yosef Engel. Following the war, he returned to Poland and was appointed rabbi of Tarnów. Many of Poland's leading Torah scholars were his disciples, the most renowned ones include R. Meir Shapiro of Lublin, R. Aryeh Tzvi Frumer – the Gaon of Koziegłowy, R. David Sperber Gaon of Brașov (recipient of this letter), R. Yehuda Horowitz – Rebbe of Dzikov, R. Meshulam Roth author of Kol Mevaser, R. Reuven Margolies and R. Yehoshua Erenberg Rabbi of Tel Aviv.
He published many books, yet most of his manuscripts were lost during his escape to Vienna during WWI, including five large volumes of halachic responsa. His books: Sheyarei Tahara on Mishnayot Order Taharot (Kolomyia, 1890); Minchat Kenaot on Tractate Sota (Lviv, 1894); Minchat Pitim on Shulchan Aruch Yoreh De'ah and Even HaEzer (Munkacs, 1898-1908); Tal Torah (Vienna, 1921); Responsa Imrei Yosher part I (Munkacs, 1913), part II (Kraków-Tarnów, 1925); and other books containing selections of his Torah thought and letters: Minchat Aharon – Me'irat Einayim (Brooklyn, 1978) and Imrei Yosher HaChadash – Tal Torah HaChadash (Jerusalem, 1997).
[1] double leaf, 4 pages, approx. 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Minor tears and dampstains.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
![Letter (approx. 10 lines), handwritten and signed by R. "Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin". [Radin (Radun')], Elul 1926. Letter](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale63-public/40.jpg "Letter Handwritten and Signed by the Chafetz Chaim – Wishes for the Ne")
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $12,000 - $15,000
Sold for: $17,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter (approx. 10 lines), handwritten and signed by R. "Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin". [Radin (Radun')], Elul 1926.
Letter of blessings for the New Year, addressed to the philanthropist R. David Potash in Tel Aviv (who made great effort to assist the Chafetz Chaim in his immigration plan to Eretz Israel).
"To my honorable and outstanding friend, a seeker of charity and kindness, R. David Potash… as the year draws to its close, I hereby extend my blessings… may G-d renew upon him a year of life, peace, blessing and success in all his endeavors, and may his eyes see the salvation of the Jewish people and the raising of the prestige of the Torah, in accordance with his wishes and the wishes of his friend who blesses him with Ketiva VeChatima Tova – Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin".
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933), leader of the Jewish people, was widely known by the name of his first book, the Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored many halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chessed and dozens more. This letter was written in his later years, at the age of about 90.
Official stationery. 28 cm. Good condition. Folding marks and light wear.
Letter of blessings for the New Year, addressed to the philanthropist R. David Potash in Tel Aviv (who made great effort to assist the Chafetz Chaim in his immigration plan to Eretz Israel).
"To my honorable and outstanding friend, a seeker of charity and kindness, R. David Potash… as the year draws to its close, I hereby extend my blessings… may G-d renew upon him a year of life, peace, blessing and success in all his endeavors, and may his eyes see the salvation of the Jewish people and the raising of the prestige of the Torah, in accordance with his wishes and the wishes of his friend who blesses him with Ketiva VeChatima Tova – Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin".
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933), leader of the Jewish people, was widely known by the name of his first book, the Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored many halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chessed and dozens more. This letter was written in his later years, at the age of about 90.
Official stationery. 28 cm. Good condition. Folding marks and light wear.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue
Auction 63 - Rare and Important Items
November 13, 2018
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $15,000 - $20,000
Sold for: $15,000
Including buyer's premium
Handwritten title page for Likutei Halachot on Tractates Zevachim and Menachot, handwritten and signed by the author R. "Yisrael Meir son of R. Aryeh Zev HaKohen" (approx. 9 lines). [Warsaw, ca. 1899].
· Three printed leaves – galley proofs of leaves 1-3 containing the author's prefaces. A lengthy note (3 lines), handwritten by the author the Chafetz Chaim, appears on p. 3a.
"Sefer Likutei Halachot – a compilation of the essential laws derived from the topics in the Order of Kodashim [currently published from Zevachim and Menachot] according to the rulings of the Rambam, a little here and there the opinions of other Rishonim on these topics will also be explained… All this I did with the assistance of the One who grants man wisdom - Yisrael Meir son of R. Aryeh Zev HaKohen".
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933), leader of the Jewish people, was widely known by the name of his first book, the Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored many halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chessed and dozens more. One of his greatest enterprises was Likutei Halachot, a complement to Hilchot HaRav Alfas by the Rif, with a clear and concise commentary, compiled from books of the Rishonim. The Rif's book was written on Talmudic topics which are currently relevant and applicable. Likutei Halachot covers topics relating to the Temple and its services, which are not practiced at the present time. The objective of the Chafetz Chaim in publishing this book was to encourage the study of topics pertaining to the Temple services and offerings, thereby bolstering the yearning for the rebuilding of the Temple, speedily in our times.
The first part of Likutei Halachot on Tractates Zevachim and Menachot was printed in Warsaw in the autumn of 1899, and these leaves were written then during the printing process.
[4] leaves. Approx. 23 cm. Fair condition. Tears to the center of the leaves affecting text. Wear and worming.
· Three printed leaves – galley proofs of leaves 1-3 containing the author's prefaces. A lengthy note (3 lines), handwritten by the author the Chafetz Chaim, appears on p. 3a.
"Sefer Likutei Halachot – a compilation of the essential laws derived from the topics in the Order of Kodashim [currently published from Zevachim and Menachot] according to the rulings of the Rambam, a little here and there the opinions of other Rishonim on these topics will also be explained… All this I did with the assistance of the One who grants man wisdom - Yisrael Meir son of R. Aryeh Zev HaKohen".
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933), leader of the Jewish people, was widely known by the name of his first book, the Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored many halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chessed and dozens more. One of his greatest enterprises was Likutei Halachot, a complement to Hilchot HaRav Alfas by the Rif, with a clear and concise commentary, compiled from books of the Rishonim. The Rif's book was written on Talmudic topics which are currently relevant and applicable. Likutei Halachot covers topics relating to the Temple and its services, which are not practiced at the present time. The objective of the Chafetz Chaim in publishing this book was to encourage the study of topics pertaining to the Temple services and offerings, thereby bolstering the yearning for the rebuilding of the Temple, speedily in our times.
The first part of Likutei Halachot on Tractates Zevachim and Menachot was printed in Warsaw in the autumn of 1899, and these leaves were written then during the printing process.
[4] leaves. Approx. 23 cm. Fair condition. Tears to the center of the leaves affecting text. Wear and worming.
Category
Lithuanian, Polish and Galician Rabbis – Manuscripts, Letters and Signatures
Catalogue