Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
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Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $18,000 - $22,000
Sold for: $27,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter (15 lines) handwritten by the Chafetz Chaim and with his full signature: "Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin, author of Chafetz Chaim". [Radin (Raduń)], Elul 1888.
Letter of recommendation for a diligent yeshiva student of the Eishishok yeshiva, whom the Chafetz Chaim was acquainted with: "Behold, I have long known the young man Yosef, who is outstanding in Torah and fear of G-d and is exceptionally proficient. He has been learning diligently in nearby Eishishok (Eišiškės) for several years, and I attest to his great value, he toiled and delved in Torah study with his entire being, and he is renowned in this milieu for his tremendous diligence and erudition…".
The Chafetz Chaim recommends to draw him close, support him and provide him with adequate sustenance, so that he may continue delving in his Torah studies. The letter ends with the Chafetz Chaim's blessings for those who support this student.
Eishishok was home to a famous and prestigious Kibbutz yeshiva. It attracted the finest, most talented students, who later became the leading Torah scholars of the generation. The townspeople undertook to provide for all the students' needs, refusing to share this merit with other towns. The Chafetz Chaim, who lived in Radin, adjacent to Eishishok, would spend varying lengths of time there, learning alongside the foremost Torah scholars in the yeshiva. The identity of this diligent student R. Yosef is uncertain, yet it appears to be R. Yosef Shimshelevich of Karelitz (Karelichy; 1864-1934), a Torah scholar renowned for his diligence and erudition, who studied for close to ten years in Eishishok, until ca. 1888. He later studied in Radin, where he was closely associated with the Chafetz Chaim, and after a short period, he went to study under the Saba of Kelm and in the Kollel HaPrushim of R. Yitzchal Elchanan in Kovno. He immigrated to Jerusalem in the lifetime of R. Shmuel Salant, and served as examiner in the Etz Chaim yeshiva (see article in his memory: HaShakdan HaOlami by R. Meir Stolevitz, serialized in the HaYesod weekly, Tel Aviv, 22nd Tammuz/Av 1934. This article was recently published in Tevunot, II, Nissan 2018, pp. 801-804). R. Meir Stolevitz relates in his article that R. Yosef came to Eishishok at the young age of 15, yet amazed the entire yeshiva with his diligence, as he delved in his studies for no less than 18 hours a day. R. Yosef would review his learning hundreds of times; he knew the entire Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmud by heart, was proficient in the Rambam, Tur, Shulchan Aruch and their commentaries, and was one of the only students who could quote verbatim any passage of the Talmud and halachic literature.
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933), leader of the Jewish people, was renowned by the name of his first book – Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored numerous halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chesed, and dozens more. This letter is from his early years, when he shied away from publicity and did not issue open letters (he originally published his book Chafetz Chaim anonymously, and only later revealed the name of the author), yet in honor of this diligent scholar, the Chafetz Chaim departed from his standard practice and wrote him a letter of recommendation with his full signature: "Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin, author of Chafetz Chaim".
[1] double leaf. 17.5 cm. Fair condition. Wear and tears (repaired with paper, affecting text in several places). Stains.
This letter was not published in Michtavei HaChafetz Chaim.
Letter of recommendation for a diligent yeshiva student of the Eishishok yeshiva, whom the Chafetz Chaim was acquainted with: "Behold, I have long known the young man Yosef, who is outstanding in Torah and fear of G-d and is exceptionally proficient. He has been learning diligently in nearby Eishishok (Eišiškės) for several years, and I attest to his great value, he toiled and delved in Torah study with his entire being, and he is renowned in this milieu for his tremendous diligence and erudition…".
The Chafetz Chaim recommends to draw him close, support him and provide him with adequate sustenance, so that he may continue delving in his Torah studies. The letter ends with the Chafetz Chaim's blessings for those who support this student.
Eishishok was home to a famous and prestigious Kibbutz yeshiva. It attracted the finest, most talented students, who later became the leading Torah scholars of the generation. The townspeople undertook to provide for all the students' needs, refusing to share this merit with other towns. The Chafetz Chaim, who lived in Radin, adjacent to Eishishok, would spend varying lengths of time there, learning alongside the foremost Torah scholars in the yeshiva. The identity of this diligent student R. Yosef is uncertain, yet it appears to be R. Yosef Shimshelevich of Karelitz (Karelichy; 1864-1934), a Torah scholar renowned for his diligence and erudition, who studied for close to ten years in Eishishok, until ca. 1888. He later studied in Radin, where he was closely associated with the Chafetz Chaim, and after a short period, he went to study under the Saba of Kelm and in the Kollel HaPrushim of R. Yitzchal Elchanan in Kovno. He immigrated to Jerusalem in the lifetime of R. Shmuel Salant, and served as examiner in the Etz Chaim yeshiva (see article in his memory: HaShakdan HaOlami by R. Meir Stolevitz, serialized in the HaYesod weekly, Tel Aviv, 22nd Tammuz/Av 1934. This article was recently published in Tevunot, II, Nissan 2018, pp. 801-804). R. Meir Stolevitz relates in his article that R. Yosef came to Eishishok at the young age of 15, yet amazed the entire yeshiva with his diligence, as he delved in his studies for no less than 18 hours a day. R. Yosef would review his learning hundreds of times; he knew the entire Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmud by heart, was proficient in the Rambam, Tur, Shulchan Aruch and their commentaries, and was one of the only students who could quote verbatim any passage of the Talmud and halachic literature.
R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin (1837-1933), leader of the Jewish people, was renowned by the name of his first book – Chafetz Chaim. He founded the Radin yeshiva and authored numerous halachic and ethical works: Mishna Berura, Shemirat HaLashon, Ahavat Chesed, and dozens more. This letter is from his early years, when he shied away from publicity and did not issue open letters (he originally published his book Chafetz Chaim anonymously, and only later revealed the name of the author), yet in honor of this diligent scholar, the Chafetz Chaim departed from his standard practice and wrote him a letter of recommendation with his full signature: "Yisrael Meir HaKohen of Radin, author of Chafetz Chaim".
[1] double leaf. 17.5 cm. Fair condition. Wear and tears (repaired with paper, affecting text in several places). Stains.
This letter was not published in Michtavei HaChafetz Chaim.
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $22,000
Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000
Unsold
Lengthy letter (approx. 3.5 written pages – unsigned), handwritten by R. Yisrael Meir HaKohen author of Chafetz Chaim. Radin (Raduń), 1897.
Interesting documentation of the Chafetz Chaim's efforts to sell his books in the United States, in order to spread the light of Torah in America. In this letter, the Chafetz Chaim mentions his renowned books: Chafetz Chaim, Shemirat HaLashon, Mishna Berura and others.
Addressed to "My outstanding and honored friend, R. Yosef Stern" in the United States. The Chafetz Chaim expresses his gratitude to R. Yosef for his efforts to distribute the books in the United States, and comforts him for the minimal profits: "And regarding his distress over the low revenue, obviously it is all from G-d, and no one knows which place he will earn from, and G-d will replenish him from a different source". Further in the letter, the Chafetz Chaim describes the system they employ for distributing the books in Russia, through agents who deliver sermons (maggidim), which is more effective than a travelling salesman: "As we are a bit experienced in this business, we assume that the true reason for the low proceeds is because they are being sold without maggidim, since all our agents who travel through Russia are maggidim, and for a maggid it is easier, since as a result of the two hours he stands at the podium, the entire town already knows the object of his visit and the purpose of the books, and consequently, it is easy for him to sell since everyone knows him. Conversely, when one needs to approach each person individually and present the books before him, and get him to understand the purpose of the books, time will run out before he manages to sell to a dozen people". The Chafetz Chaim relates that before they began using the maggidim system in Russia, there as well the profits were minimal.
The Chafetz Chaim further relates that he decided to publish Nidchei Yisrael in Yiddish, since he heard that in America, the people don't understand Hebrew, and it will be of greater benefit if the book is printed in the language the people speak.
The Chafetz Chaim informs the recipient that he holds the exclusive rights of selling the books in New York, and that he notified another agent from Radin who wished to sell his books in America, that the latter is not authorized to sell in New York, only in Boston, Chicago, other towns and in "the country", and he adds further details in this regard.
The Chafetz Chaim then lists the exact number of books he is sending and the price of each book, and other interesting data. For instance, he writes that he is sending 10 copies of Nidchei Yisrael in Hebrew, and 120 copies in Yiddish. Likewise, the prices of the books are listed in American cents. The cheapest book is Shem Olam, sold at 25 cents, while a volume of Mishna Berura costs 80 cents.
On page [3], several lines were added, clearly written by the Chafetz Chaim at a later point, in which he informs him that after thinking over the matter, he decided to lower the price of the books to the limit of his capacity, since the bookseller is making almost no profit from the sale of these books.
[2] leaves (approx. 3.5 written pages). 22 cm. Dry paper. Good-fair condition. Minor tears to margins and folds.
Enclosed is a report from an expert on rabbinic manuscripts, identifying the handwriting as that of the Chafetz Chaim.
Interesting documentation of the Chafetz Chaim's efforts to sell his books in the United States, in order to spread the light of Torah in America. In this letter, the Chafetz Chaim mentions his renowned books: Chafetz Chaim, Shemirat HaLashon, Mishna Berura and others.
Addressed to "My outstanding and honored friend, R. Yosef Stern" in the United States. The Chafetz Chaim expresses his gratitude to R. Yosef for his efforts to distribute the books in the United States, and comforts him for the minimal profits: "And regarding his distress over the low revenue, obviously it is all from G-d, and no one knows which place he will earn from, and G-d will replenish him from a different source". Further in the letter, the Chafetz Chaim describes the system they employ for distributing the books in Russia, through agents who deliver sermons (maggidim), which is more effective than a travelling salesman: "As we are a bit experienced in this business, we assume that the true reason for the low proceeds is because they are being sold without maggidim, since all our agents who travel through Russia are maggidim, and for a maggid it is easier, since as a result of the two hours he stands at the podium, the entire town already knows the object of his visit and the purpose of the books, and consequently, it is easy for him to sell since everyone knows him. Conversely, when one needs to approach each person individually and present the books before him, and get him to understand the purpose of the books, time will run out before he manages to sell to a dozen people". The Chafetz Chaim relates that before they began using the maggidim system in Russia, there as well the profits were minimal.
The Chafetz Chaim further relates that he decided to publish Nidchei Yisrael in Yiddish, since he heard that in America, the people don't understand Hebrew, and it will be of greater benefit if the book is printed in the language the people speak.
The Chafetz Chaim informs the recipient that he holds the exclusive rights of selling the books in New York, and that he notified another agent from Radin who wished to sell his books in America, that the latter is not authorized to sell in New York, only in Boston, Chicago, other towns and in "the country", and he adds further details in this regard.
The Chafetz Chaim then lists the exact number of books he is sending and the price of each book, and other interesting data. For instance, he writes that he is sending 10 copies of Nidchei Yisrael in Hebrew, and 120 copies in Yiddish. Likewise, the prices of the books are listed in American cents. The cheapest book is Shem Olam, sold at 25 cents, while a volume of Mishna Berura costs 80 cents.
On page [3], several lines were added, clearly written by the Chafetz Chaim at a later point, in which he informs him that after thinking over the matter, he decided to lower the price of the books to the limit of his capacity, since the bookseller is making almost no profit from the sale of these books.
[2] leaves (approx. 3.5 written pages). 22 cm. Dry paper. Good-fair condition. Minor tears to margins and folds.
Enclosed is a report from an expert on rabbinic manuscripts, identifying the handwriting as that of the Chafetz Chaim.
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $4,000
Sold for: $1,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski. Vilna, eve of Sukkot, Tishrei 1930.
Addressed to the heads of the Helsingfors community (Helsinki, capital of Finland), regarding the appointment of a rabbi for their city. R. Chaim Ozer writes that he heard that the post of rabbi is vacant in their city, and asks them to inform him what the situation is "and what their requirements are for the spiritual director of their city… to direct them along the correct path and regarding proper actions, to lead their community with wisdom and understanding, in peace and equity". R. Chaim Ozer concludes his letter with blessings: "And may G-d spread over them and the entire Jewish people, a canopy of peace… One who revers and respects them, Chaim Ozer Grodzenski".
R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski (1863-1940) was a foremost rabbi of his generation and leader of the entire European Jewry. He was the son of R. David Shlomo Grodzinski Rabbi of Iwye. He was renowned from his childhood for his exceptional brilliance. He entered the Volozhin yeshiva at the young age of 11, and became a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk. At the age of 24, he was appointed rabbi and posek of Vilna, in place of his father-in-law R. Eliyahu Eliezer Grodnansky posek in Vilna, son-in-law of R. Yisrael Salanter. He assumed the yoke of public leadership from a young age, and his opinion was conclusive on all public issues which arose in the Diaspora for close to fifty years. He was involved in communal matters locally and in other countries, and this letter discloses that even the heads of the Finland community were awaiting his utterance to appoint a rabbi for their community.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 26.5 cm. Approx. 7 autograph lines and signature. Good-fair condition. Wear and folding marks.
Addressed to the heads of the Helsingfors community (Helsinki, capital of Finland), regarding the appointment of a rabbi for their city. R. Chaim Ozer writes that he heard that the post of rabbi is vacant in their city, and asks them to inform him what the situation is "and what their requirements are for the spiritual director of their city… to direct them along the correct path and regarding proper actions, to lead their community with wisdom and understanding, in peace and equity". R. Chaim Ozer concludes his letter with blessings: "And may G-d spread over them and the entire Jewish people, a canopy of peace… One who revers and respects them, Chaim Ozer Grodzenski".
R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski (1863-1940) was a foremost rabbi of his generation and leader of the entire European Jewry. He was the son of R. David Shlomo Grodzinski Rabbi of Iwye. He was renowned from his childhood for his exceptional brilliance. He entered the Volozhin yeshiva at the young age of 11, and became a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk. At the age of 24, he was appointed rabbi and posek of Vilna, in place of his father-in-law R. Eliyahu Eliezer Grodnansky posek in Vilna, son-in-law of R. Yisrael Salanter. He assumed the yoke of public leadership from a young age, and his opinion was conclusive on all public issues which arose in the Diaspora for close to fifty years. He was involved in communal matters locally and in other countries, and this letter discloses that even the heads of the Finland community were awaiting his utterance to appoint a rabbi for their community.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 26.5 cm. Approx. 7 autograph lines and signature. Good-fair condition. Wear and folding marks.
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $8,000
Estimate: $15,000 - $25,000
Sold for: $12,500
Including buyer's premium
Nine letters (in Yiddish) from R. Baruch Ber Leibowitz dean of the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Kamenitz (Kamyenyets). Kamenitz, 1933-1936.
The letters were sent to yeshiva donors, the Feigin family of Philadelphia, United States. The letters contain wishes for various festivals and good year blessings, details regarding the commemoration of yahrzeits of relatives of the donors, words of encouragement and blessings for the supporters of the yeshiva, and descriptions of the state of the yeshiva. Each letter consists of two leaves, mostly typewritten, and concludes with several lines (between 3 to 7 lines) of hearty and profuse blessings in Yiddish and Hebrew, handwritten by the yeshiva dean and with his signature: "Baruch Dov Leibowitz dean of the Beit Yitzchak yeshiva".
R. Baruch Dov (Ber) Leibowitz (1864-1939), author of Birkat Shmuel, was a leading disseminator of Torah in his generation. He was a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk in the Volozhin yeshiva and son-in-law of R. Avraham Yitzchak Zimmerman Rabbi of Halusk. After the latter relocated to Kremenchug to serve as rabbi there, R. Baruch Ber succeeded him as rabbi of Halusk and established there a yeshiva. After 13 years, he was invited to serve as dean of the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Slabodka. During WWI, he wandered with the yeshiva to Minsk, Kremenchug and Vilna, finally establishing it in Kamenitz. He authored Birkat Shmuel on Talmudic topics. His orally transmitted and written teachings are the basis of in-depth, yeshiva study.
[18] leaves, official stationery (9 leaves contain blessings handwritten and signed by R. Baruch Ber). 27.5-29.5 cm. Overall good condition. Folding marks. Minor tears to several leaves, some strengthened with acid-free tape (on verso).
The letters were sent to yeshiva donors, the Feigin family of Philadelphia, United States. The letters contain wishes for various festivals and good year blessings, details regarding the commemoration of yahrzeits of relatives of the donors, words of encouragement and blessings for the supporters of the yeshiva, and descriptions of the state of the yeshiva. Each letter consists of two leaves, mostly typewritten, and concludes with several lines (between 3 to 7 lines) of hearty and profuse blessings in Yiddish and Hebrew, handwritten by the yeshiva dean and with his signature: "Baruch Dov Leibowitz dean of the Beit Yitzchak yeshiva".
R. Baruch Dov (Ber) Leibowitz (1864-1939), author of Birkat Shmuel, was a leading disseminator of Torah in his generation. He was a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk in the Volozhin yeshiva and son-in-law of R. Avraham Yitzchak Zimmerman Rabbi of Halusk. After the latter relocated to Kremenchug to serve as rabbi there, R. Baruch Ber succeeded him as rabbi of Halusk and established there a yeshiva. After 13 years, he was invited to serve as dean of the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Slabodka. During WWI, he wandered with the yeshiva to Minsk, Kremenchug and Vilna, finally establishing it in Kamenitz. He authored Birkat Shmuel on Talmudic topics. His orally transmitted and written teachings are the basis of in-depth, yeshiva study.
[18] leaves, official stationery (9 leaves contain blessings handwritten and signed by R. Baruch Ber). 27.5-29.5 cm. Overall good condition. Folding marks. Minor tears to several leaves, some strengthened with acid-free tape (on verso).
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $2,750
Including buyer's premium
Two letters from R. Elchanan Wasserman and his son R. Naftali Wasserman in Baranovich (Baranavichy), addressed to R. David Potash in Tel Aviv. Cheshvan 1936.
In the first letter dated "Tuesday evening, Parashat Lech Lecha, 5th Cheshvan 1936", R. Naftali replies on behalf of his father to a letter from R. David dated 25th Tishrei: "…and behold, my father has not yet returned from his journey, he will return please G-d in two weeks". The letter is signed: "Naftali son of R. E.".
The second letter is handwritten and signed by R. Elchanan, and was written in Baranovich on "Thursday evening, Erev Shabbat Chayei Sara" (presumably also in Cheshvan 1936, approximately two weeks after the first letter). R. Elchanan writes: "Yesterday I returned from my trip abroad – in Lithuania – after remaining there for close to three months, and I was able to collect a sum of money for the yeshiva, but of what value is it compared to our heavy debts". Further in the letter, R. Elchanan relates to the distribution of his book Kovetz He'arot on Yevamot (Piotrkow, 1936): "Regarding the books, I wrote to R. Eliyahu Weiner in Jerusalem… and I requested that he make every effort to sell them to Torah scholars, at least to those capable of understanding the Aggadah section of the book".
R. Elchanan concludes the letter by blessing R. David: "His friend, who reveres and honors him for his elevated stature, and blesses him and all those who accompany him, with a life of happiness, blessing and ultimate good… Elchanan Bunem Wasserman".
R. Elchanan Wasserman (1875-1941) was a disciple of R. Shimon Shkop in the Telshe yeshiva and prominent disciple of the Chafetz Chaim. He served as lecturer and dean in the Brisk (Brest) yeshiva and in other places. During WWI, at the behest of the Chafetz Chaim, he established a yeshiva in Smilavichy (Minsk province, today Belarus), and R. David Potash, then one of the wealthiest people in Russia, was a leading supporter of the yeshiva. After the war, R. Elchanan founded Yeshivat Ohel Torah in Baranovich.
A renowned Torah scholar and a foremost yeshiva dean in Lithuania, he represented the Chafetz Chaim and R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski in the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael. He composed many essays on Jewish ideology which were later published in his book Ikveta DeMeshicha, in which he expressed the Torah stance of his teacher the Chafetz Chaim on Zionist nationalism and the spiritual state of the Jewish people. During the Holocaust, he was deported to the Kovno (Kaunas) ghetto, and was later murdered in the Seventh Fort, while studying the laws of Kiddush HaShem. His teachings and lectures were published in the following books: Kovetz Shiurim, Kovetz He'arot, Kovetz Inyanim, Kovetz Igrot HaGaon R. Elchanan Wasserman and others. His approach in learning and his books serve until this day as the basis of intensive yeshiva study in the Torah world.
Following the passing of his teacher, the Chafetz Chaim, R. Elchanan Wasserman would spend Elul and the High Holidays every year in the Beit HaTalmud of Kelm (Kelmė), Lithuania, and this is was presumably the three-month stay in Lithuania R. Elchanan referred to in the letter (in the interwar period, crossing the border from Baranovich, Poland, to Kelm, Lithuania, was complex, since Lithuania maintained hostile relations with Poland, which had conquered large parts of it).
His son, R. Naftali Beinush Wasserman (1914-perished in the Holocaust Cheshvan 1941), was amongst the most diligent students in Lithuanian yeshivot. He studied under his father, and under R. Shimon Shkop. He later attended the Mir yeshiva, where he was one of the leading students, with long lines of young Torah scholars queuing up to discuss their studies with him. When his father would absent himself from the yeshiva for long periods of time, he would call upon his son, the student R. Naftali Beinush, to substitute him in delivering lectures to the highest class of yeshiva students, and in managing the yeshiva. He got married in the summer of 1940, during the Holocaust, while the yeshiva was exiled in Lithuania. He was confined together with his father in the Kovno ghetto, where the latter taught him to recite the blessing of Kiddush HaShem according to the text recorded in book of the Shelah, as he had been taught by the Chafetz Chaim (Or Elchanan, II, p. 280). He perished in the Holocaust together with his young wife on 9th Cheshvan 1941. Remnants of his novellae were published in the book of his illustrious father, and in the books of his close friend, R. Shmuel Rosovsky.
Two postcards, with the official heading of the "Metivta Rabta 'Ohel Torah' Baranovich (Poland)". Approx. 10X14.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Creases. Postage stamps removed.
In the first letter dated "Tuesday evening, Parashat Lech Lecha, 5th Cheshvan 1936", R. Naftali replies on behalf of his father to a letter from R. David dated 25th Tishrei: "…and behold, my father has not yet returned from his journey, he will return please G-d in two weeks". The letter is signed: "Naftali son of R. E.".
The second letter is handwritten and signed by R. Elchanan, and was written in Baranovich on "Thursday evening, Erev Shabbat Chayei Sara" (presumably also in Cheshvan 1936, approximately two weeks after the first letter). R. Elchanan writes: "Yesterday I returned from my trip abroad – in Lithuania – after remaining there for close to three months, and I was able to collect a sum of money for the yeshiva, but of what value is it compared to our heavy debts". Further in the letter, R. Elchanan relates to the distribution of his book Kovetz He'arot on Yevamot (Piotrkow, 1936): "Regarding the books, I wrote to R. Eliyahu Weiner in Jerusalem… and I requested that he make every effort to sell them to Torah scholars, at least to those capable of understanding the Aggadah section of the book".
R. Elchanan concludes the letter by blessing R. David: "His friend, who reveres and honors him for his elevated stature, and blesses him and all those who accompany him, with a life of happiness, blessing and ultimate good… Elchanan Bunem Wasserman".
R. Elchanan Wasserman (1875-1941) was a disciple of R. Shimon Shkop in the Telshe yeshiva and prominent disciple of the Chafetz Chaim. He served as lecturer and dean in the Brisk (Brest) yeshiva and in other places. During WWI, at the behest of the Chafetz Chaim, he established a yeshiva in Smilavichy (Minsk province, today Belarus), and R. David Potash, then one of the wealthiest people in Russia, was a leading supporter of the yeshiva. After the war, R. Elchanan founded Yeshivat Ohel Torah in Baranovich.
A renowned Torah scholar and a foremost yeshiva dean in Lithuania, he represented the Chafetz Chaim and R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski in the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael. He composed many essays on Jewish ideology which were later published in his book Ikveta DeMeshicha, in which he expressed the Torah stance of his teacher the Chafetz Chaim on Zionist nationalism and the spiritual state of the Jewish people. During the Holocaust, he was deported to the Kovno (Kaunas) ghetto, and was later murdered in the Seventh Fort, while studying the laws of Kiddush HaShem. His teachings and lectures were published in the following books: Kovetz Shiurim, Kovetz He'arot, Kovetz Inyanim, Kovetz Igrot HaGaon R. Elchanan Wasserman and others. His approach in learning and his books serve until this day as the basis of intensive yeshiva study in the Torah world.
Following the passing of his teacher, the Chafetz Chaim, R. Elchanan Wasserman would spend Elul and the High Holidays every year in the Beit HaTalmud of Kelm (Kelmė), Lithuania, and this is was presumably the three-month stay in Lithuania R. Elchanan referred to in the letter (in the interwar period, crossing the border from Baranovich, Poland, to Kelm, Lithuania, was complex, since Lithuania maintained hostile relations with Poland, which had conquered large parts of it).
His son, R. Naftali Beinush Wasserman (1914-perished in the Holocaust Cheshvan 1941), was amongst the most diligent students in Lithuanian yeshivot. He studied under his father, and under R. Shimon Shkop. He later attended the Mir yeshiva, where he was one of the leading students, with long lines of young Torah scholars queuing up to discuss their studies with him. When his father would absent himself from the yeshiva for long periods of time, he would call upon his son, the student R. Naftali Beinush, to substitute him in delivering lectures to the highest class of yeshiva students, and in managing the yeshiva. He got married in the summer of 1940, during the Holocaust, while the yeshiva was exiled in Lithuania. He was confined together with his father in the Kovno ghetto, where the latter taught him to recite the blessing of Kiddush HaShem according to the text recorded in book of the Shelah, as he had been taught by the Chafetz Chaim (Or Elchanan, II, p. 280). He perished in the Holocaust together with his young wife on 9th Cheshvan 1941. Remnants of his novellae were published in the book of his illustrious father, and in the books of his close friend, R. Shmuel Rosovsky.
Two postcards, with the official heading of the "Metivta Rabta 'Ohel Torah' Baranovich (Poland)". Approx. 10X14.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Creases. Postage stamps removed.
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
![Letter handwritten and signed by R. Elchanan Bunem Wasserman. [Baranovich (Baranavichy), ca. 1936]. Written in reply to a req](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale66-public/91.jpg "Letter of Guidance on Study Methods, by Rabbi Elchanan Wasserman, to h")
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $1,500
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $8,125
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Elchanan Bunem Wasserman. [Baranovich (Baranavichy), ca. 1936].
Written in reply to a request for guidance, which his beloved disciple R. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro (later dean of the Be'er Yaakov yeshiva) sent him, upon relocating to the Mir yeshiva. R. Elchanan addresses his disciple with terms of friendship and affection: "Peace and blessing to my dear and exceptional friend, of distinguished lineage, Mr. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro".
Further in this enlightening letter, R. Elchanan offers detailed instructions on correct study methods (see Hebrew description).
R. Elchanan Wasserman (1875-1941), a renowned Torah scholar and a foremost yeshiva dean in Lithuania. He was a disciple of R. Shimon Shkop in the Telshe yeshiva and prominent disciple of the Chafetz Chaim. He served as lecturer and dean in the Brisk (Brest) yeshiva and in other places. After WWI, R. Elchanan founded Yeshivat Ohel Torah in Baranovich. His teachings and lectures were published in the following books: Kovetz Shiurim, Kovetz He'arot, Kovetz Inyanim, Kovetz Igrot HaGaon R. Elchanan Wasserman and others. His approach in learning and his books serve until this day as the basis of intensive yeshiva study in the Torah world.
Recipient of the letter: R. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro (1917-2006), dean of the Be'er Yaakov yeshiva and a renowned Torah leader in the recent generation. He was born in Białystok to R. Aryeh Shapiro (a rabbi of Białystok and Tel Aviv. Son of R. Refael Shapiro of Volozhin and grandson of the Netziv). He studied in the Baranovich, Kamenitz and Mir yeshivot, and then immigrated to Eretz Israel where he studied in the Lomzha yeshiva in Petach Tikva. He was renowned for his intensive and diligent study, and for the exceptional joy he experienced in his Torah study (presumably, following the instruction of his teacher, who wrote in this letter: "If he learns according to his ability, there is no place for dejection"). After the Brisker Rav – R. Yitzchak Zev Soloveitchik (his cousin) immigrated to Eretz Israel, he went to study under him for a while in Jerusalem. In 1949, he established the yeshiva in Be'er Yaakov, together with his colleague, R. Shlomo Wolbe, who served as mashgiach. In the early years of the yeshiva, he also served as rabbi of the town of Be'er Yaakov (later handing over the position to R. Moshe Jacobson Rabbi of Be'er Yaakov). He edified numerous disciples, including prominent yeshiva deans and leading Torah scholars. He also bore the burden of public leadership for many years, serving as head of Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah, Chinuch HaAtzmai, and Vaad HaYeshivot, influentially leading the Yeshivot and Orthodox educational system together with R. Elazar Menachem Shach. His books include: Kuntres HaBiurim, Shaarei Shemuot, and others.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 14.5X21.5 cm. Approx. 12 autograph lines and signature. Good condition. Wear to folds, with minor tears.
This letter was published in Yeshurun (vol. 18, Kislev 2006, Section in Memory of R. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro, p. 303) and in other forums.
Written in reply to a request for guidance, which his beloved disciple R. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro (later dean of the Be'er Yaakov yeshiva) sent him, upon relocating to the Mir yeshiva. R. Elchanan addresses his disciple with terms of friendship and affection: "Peace and blessing to my dear and exceptional friend, of distinguished lineage, Mr. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro".
Further in this enlightening letter, R. Elchanan offers detailed instructions on correct study methods (see Hebrew description).
R. Elchanan Wasserman (1875-1941), a renowned Torah scholar and a foremost yeshiva dean in Lithuania. He was a disciple of R. Shimon Shkop in the Telshe yeshiva and prominent disciple of the Chafetz Chaim. He served as lecturer and dean in the Brisk (Brest) yeshiva and in other places. After WWI, R. Elchanan founded Yeshivat Ohel Torah in Baranovich. His teachings and lectures were published in the following books: Kovetz Shiurim, Kovetz He'arot, Kovetz Inyanim, Kovetz Igrot HaGaon R. Elchanan Wasserman and others. His approach in learning and his books serve until this day as the basis of intensive yeshiva study in the Torah world.
Recipient of the letter: R. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro (1917-2006), dean of the Be'er Yaakov yeshiva and a renowned Torah leader in the recent generation. He was born in Białystok to R. Aryeh Shapiro (a rabbi of Białystok and Tel Aviv. Son of R. Refael Shapiro of Volozhin and grandson of the Netziv). He studied in the Baranovich, Kamenitz and Mir yeshivot, and then immigrated to Eretz Israel where he studied in the Lomzha yeshiva in Petach Tikva. He was renowned for his intensive and diligent study, and for the exceptional joy he experienced in his Torah study (presumably, following the instruction of his teacher, who wrote in this letter: "If he learns according to his ability, there is no place for dejection"). After the Brisker Rav – R. Yitzchak Zev Soloveitchik (his cousin) immigrated to Eretz Israel, he went to study under him for a while in Jerusalem. In 1949, he established the yeshiva in Be'er Yaakov, together with his colleague, R. Shlomo Wolbe, who served as mashgiach. In the early years of the yeshiva, he also served as rabbi of the town of Be'er Yaakov (later handing over the position to R. Moshe Jacobson Rabbi of Be'er Yaakov). He edified numerous disciples, including prominent yeshiva deans and leading Torah scholars. He also bore the burden of public leadership for many years, serving as head of Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah, Chinuch HaAtzmai, and Vaad HaYeshivot, influentially leading the Yeshivot and Orthodox educational system together with R. Elazar Menachem Shach. His books include: Kuntres HaBiurim, Shaarei Shemuot, and others.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 14.5X21.5 cm. Approx. 12 autograph lines and signature. Good condition. Wear to folds, with minor tears.
This letter was published in Yeshurun (vol. 18, Kislev 2006, Section in Memory of R. Moshe Shmuel Shapiro, p. 303) and in other forums.
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $3,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $3,750
Including buyer's premium
Postcard, letter handwritten and signed by R. Avraham Yeshayahu Karelitz author of Chazon Ish, with an additional letter in Yiddish. Vilna (Vilnius), Iyar 1933.
The letter was sent to Baranovich (Baranavichy), to the nephew of the Chazon Ish "My nephew R. Sh." (R. Shemaryahu Greineman, who was studying at that time in the Baranovich yeshiva). The second letter in Yiddish is not signed, though it was presumably written by the sister of the Chazon Ish, Rebbetzin Tzivia Greineman – mother of R. Shemaryahu.
The Chazon Ish urges him to record Torah novellae, and requests that he send him thoughts "being discussed in the Beit Midrash". The Chazon Ish praises the previous letter he received from him and writes: "The treatise you wrote regarding the opinions of the Rishonim on Kefiat Binyan Kotel, was very well written, and write often in this format. One who seeks your wellbeing, Ish. Monday, 41st day of the Omer (26th Iyar) 1933".
In her letter, the mother tells her son about his two younger brothers Chaim and David, who will grow up and also attend the yeshiva. She reports that they are currently studying Gemara with an older student, and reviewing Mishnayot to be tested on them by heart (the letter relates to his brothers, the twins Chaim and David Greineman, who were at that time 6 years old, and were known for their exceptional capacities).
R. Avraham Yeshayahu Karelitz (1879-1953), author of Chazon Ish, a foremost scholar in Halacha and Jewish philosophy in our generations. A preeminent Torah scholar and hidden righteous man, his first book Chazon Ish was published in 1911 anonymously, and he thereafter became known under that title. In his great modesty, he would sign with his acronym only: "Ish". Following WWI, he resided in Vilna for several years, leaving in Tammuz 1933 (two months after writing this letter) for Eretz Israel, where he became recognized as the leading Torah authority, and stood at the helm of the resurrection of the Torah world in our generation.
Postcard. Approx. 10X15 cm. Good condition. Address of sender: R. Shmuel Greineman, 3 Szopena St. [Vilna].
The letter was sent to Baranovich (Baranavichy), to the nephew of the Chazon Ish "My nephew R. Sh." (R. Shemaryahu Greineman, who was studying at that time in the Baranovich yeshiva). The second letter in Yiddish is not signed, though it was presumably written by the sister of the Chazon Ish, Rebbetzin Tzivia Greineman – mother of R. Shemaryahu.
The Chazon Ish urges him to record Torah novellae, and requests that he send him thoughts "being discussed in the Beit Midrash". The Chazon Ish praises the previous letter he received from him and writes: "The treatise you wrote regarding the opinions of the Rishonim on Kefiat Binyan Kotel, was very well written, and write often in this format. One who seeks your wellbeing, Ish. Monday, 41st day of the Omer (26th Iyar) 1933".
In her letter, the mother tells her son about his two younger brothers Chaim and David, who will grow up and also attend the yeshiva. She reports that they are currently studying Gemara with an older student, and reviewing Mishnayot to be tested on them by heart (the letter relates to his brothers, the twins Chaim and David Greineman, who were at that time 6 years old, and were known for their exceptional capacities).
R. Avraham Yeshayahu Karelitz (1879-1953), author of Chazon Ish, a foremost scholar in Halacha and Jewish philosophy in our generations. A preeminent Torah scholar and hidden righteous man, his first book Chazon Ish was published in 1911 anonymously, and he thereafter became known under that title. In his great modesty, he would sign with his acronym only: "Ish". Following WWI, he resided in Vilna for several years, leaving in Tammuz 1933 (two months after writing this letter) for Eretz Israel, where he became recognized as the leading Torah authority, and stood at the helm of the resurrection of the Torah world in our generation.
Postcard. Approx. 10X15 cm. Good condition. Address of sender: R. Shmuel Greineman, 3 Szopena St. [Vilna].
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $3,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $5,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter (approx. 7 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Avraham Yeshayahu Karelitz – the Chazon Ish. Bnei Brak, Iyar 1939.
In this letter addressed to R. Yitzchak Gerstenkorn, founder and mayor of Bnei Brak, the Chazon Ish urges to enlarge the municipal water pool by heightening the pool, to avoid the necessity of using pumps on Shabbat, which operate on electricity generated through Shabbat desecration.
"I wish to draw his honor's attention to arrange for Shabbat conformance in the water plant, as we have already discussed many times… and I am convinced that with his great dynamism and understanding, he will be successful in orchestrating this, and it will serve as an ongoing merit for him, and fortunate is the one who has a share in this good deed, which involves Torah observance and public benefit, and I hereby wish him success in this endeavor… One who seeks his wellbeing, Ish".
One of the prominent battles the Chazon Ish led was his extensive activism against the Shabbat desecration perpetrated by the Israel Electric Corporation. Reputedly, the Chazon Ish once pointed out the blatant irony involved in the electric sign posted on the dome of the Great Synagogue on Allenby St. in Tel Aviv, proclaiming "Remember the Shabbat day to sanctify it", which was powered by the Shabbat desecration of Jews working in the IEC on Shabbat (see: Pe'er HaDor, part II, pp. 90-92). Until this day, many G-d fearing Orthodox Jews follow the directives of the Chazon Ish and refrain from using electricity produced by the IEC on Shabbat. Many avail themselves of batteries, and all Orthodox neighborhoods in Eretz Israel are equipped with private electric networks providing electricity produced by local generators.
Pe'er HaDor, biography of the Chazon Ish (part II, pp. 86-92) relates, that one of the Chazon Ish's enterprises was to encourage and urge the mayor R. Yitzchak (Itche) Gerstenkorn to set up large water tanks, which could store sufficient water for a three day supply, so that even in years when Shabbat would follow two days of Rosh Hashana, water could be provided to the residents of Bnei Brak without requiring to operate the electric pump. In 1939, R. Yitzchak set up such a pool, incurring colossal debts. Pe'er HaDor quotes one of the rabbis of Bnei Brak who eulogized R. Y. Gerstenkorn and related that several years prior, he met R. Gerstenkorn who told him: "If I depart from this world before you, I request that if you eulogize me, mention the merit I had – the merit of establishing the large pool in Bnei Brak" (Pe'er HaDor, part II, p. 88, footnote 38; based on the Diglenu newspaper, issue 154, Cheshvan 1962).
R. Avraham Yeshayahu Karelitz (1879-1953), author of the Chazon Ish, a foremost scholar in Halacha and Jewish philosophy in our times. A preeminent Torah scholar and hidden righteous man, his first book Chazon Ish was published in 1911 anonymously, and he thereafter became known under that title. In his great modesty, he would sign using his acronym only: "Ish". He authored and published numerous volumes of Chazon Ish, which were written with great toil and in-depth study, covering nearly all Talmudic topics. In 1933, he immigrated to Eretz Israel, where he soon became recognized as the leading Torah authority, and stood at the helm of the resurrection of the Torah world in our generation. He encouraged and bolstered adherence to Halachah, and fought staunchly for the observance of Shabbat and Shemittah, serving as the prime halachic authority on any Torah matters which arose.
[1] leaf. 26 cm. Good condition. Folding marks.
In this letter addressed to R. Yitzchak Gerstenkorn, founder and mayor of Bnei Brak, the Chazon Ish urges to enlarge the municipal water pool by heightening the pool, to avoid the necessity of using pumps on Shabbat, which operate on electricity generated through Shabbat desecration.
"I wish to draw his honor's attention to arrange for Shabbat conformance in the water plant, as we have already discussed many times… and I am convinced that with his great dynamism and understanding, he will be successful in orchestrating this, and it will serve as an ongoing merit for him, and fortunate is the one who has a share in this good deed, which involves Torah observance and public benefit, and I hereby wish him success in this endeavor… One who seeks his wellbeing, Ish".
One of the prominent battles the Chazon Ish led was his extensive activism against the Shabbat desecration perpetrated by the Israel Electric Corporation. Reputedly, the Chazon Ish once pointed out the blatant irony involved in the electric sign posted on the dome of the Great Synagogue on Allenby St. in Tel Aviv, proclaiming "Remember the Shabbat day to sanctify it", which was powered by the Shabbat desecration of Jews working in the IEC on Shabbat (see: Pe'er HaDor, part II, pp. 90-92). Until this day, many G-d fearing Orthodox Jews follow the directives of the Chazon Ish and refrain from using electricity produced by the IEC on Shabbat. Many avail themselves of batteries, and all Orthodox neighborhoods in Eretz Israel are equipped with private electric networks providing electricity produced by local generators.
Pe'er HaDor, biography of the Chazon Ish (part II, pp. 86-92) relates, that one of the Chazon Ish's enterprises was to encourage and urge the mayor R. Yitzchak (Itche) Gerstenkorn to set up large water tanks, which could store sufficient water for a three day supply, so that even in years when Shabbat would follow two days of Rosh Hashana, water could be provided to the residents of Bnei Brak without requiring to operate the electric pump. In 1939, R. Yitzchak set up such a pool, incurring colossal debts. Pe'er HaDor quotes one of the rabbis of Bnei Brak who eulogized R. Y. Gerstenkorn and related that several years prior, he met R. Gerstenkorn who told him: "If I depart from this world before you, I request that if you eulogize me, mention the merit I had – the merit of establishing the large pool in Bnei Brak" (Pe'er HaDor, part II, p. 88, footnote 38; based on the Diglenu newspaper, issue 154, Cheshvan 1962).
R. Avraham Yeshayahu Karelitz (1879-1953), author of the Chazon Ish, a foremost scholar in Halacha and Jewish philosophy in our times. A preeminent Torah scholar and hidden righteous man, his first book Chazon Ish was published in 1911 anonymously, and he thereafter became known under that title. In his great modesty, he would sign using his acronym only: "Ish". He authored and published numerous volumes of Chazon Ish, which were written with great toil and in-depth study, covering nearly all Talmudic topics. In 1933, he immigrated to Eretz Israel, where he soon became recognized as the leading Torah authority, and stood at the helm of the resurrection of the Torah world in our generation. He encouraged and bolstered adherence to Halachah, and fought staunchly for the observance of Shabbat and Shemittah, serving as the prime halachic authority on any Torah matters which arose.
[1] leaf. 26 cm. Good condition. Folding marks.
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $1,875
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten, stamped and signed by the Steipler – R. Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, dean of the Beit-Yosef Novardok yeshiva in Bnei Brak, addressed to R. Yisrael Taussig – rabbi of Mattersdorf (Mattersburg), author of Beit Yisrael. Bnei Brak, Shevat 1940.
The Steipler writes to R. Yisrael Taussig regarding his son, Yechezkel Taussig, a student in his yeshiva, extolling his virtues in effusive terms: "I would like to attest and apprise regarding his son, who is prominent in Torah and fear of G-d, a diligent and profound student, with exemplary qualities and character traits… R. Yechezkel. I certify that he is outstanding in his studies, and we are very satisfied with him, may the likes of him abound in the Jewish people".
The Steipler continues to relate in distress of an embarrassing prank perpetrated on the son of R. Taussig by several foolish and reckless youths, who publicized a defamatory flyer against him, bearing the yeshiva stamp, while in reality having no connection to the yeshiva whatsoever: "And behold, three foolish and reckless boys, who are not connected to the yeshiva in any way, circulated a fraudulent flyer against him, bearing the yeshiva stamp, which they obtained from an irresponsible person… and all with the intent of causing anguish to his illustrious son… and in order to appease him and his son, I am writing these lines, to inform him not to pay any attention to this at all, and his son's presence is vital to the yeshiva, since he is the driving force behind the intensive, in-depth learning… I hereby sign with a pained heart over the insult to the Torah and those who learn it, Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, dean and director of this yeshiva".
R. Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky (1899-1985), an extraordinary Torah leader of the past generation. He was known as the Steipler, an appellation derived from his hometown Hornostaipil, Ukraine. A foremost student of the Novardok yeshivot in Ukraine and Poland, he was reputed as one of the most diligent and scholarly students in the yeshiva world. Following his marriage to the sister of the Chazon Ish, he was appointed dean of the Novardok yeshiva in Pinsk, and in 1934, he immigrated to Eretz Israel to serve as dean of the Beit-Yosef Novardok yeshiva in Bnei Brak. For many years, he lived in Bnei Brak in the same house as his brother-in-law, the Chazon Ish. After the yeshiva shut down, he resumed his studies in Kollel Chazon Ish and in his home, and authored the Kehillot Yaakov series on most Talmudic topics and tractates. He was known as a wonder-worker who benefitted from Divine Inspiration, and many sought his blessings and counsel.
Recipient of the letter: R. Yisrael Taussig (1889-Tishrei 1967), known in Jerusalem as "the rabbi from Mattersdorf". A Hungarian rabbi, he served as dayan and posek in Mattersdorf. Following his immigration to Eretz Israel, he settled in Batei Ungarin where he served as rabbi of the neighborhood. His teachings and essays were published in the Beit Yisrael series.
R. Yechezkel Taussig (1917-1972), whose virtues the Steipler extols in this letter, was the author of Tiferet Yechezkel. He devoted his life to Torah study in holiness and purity, and edified many prominent and G-d fearing disciples. He was the son-in-law of R. Shmuel Tefillinski author of Kuntres HaTzavaa. He studied in Hungarian yeshivot, and following his immigration to Eretz Israel together with his parents, in the Beit-Yosef Novardok yeshiva in Bnei Brak. He later attended the Shevet Sofer – Pressburg yeshiva, which was established by the rabbi of Pressburg, who immigrated to Jerusalem in 1940.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 29.5 cm. Approx. 20 autograph lines. Good condition. Creases and folding marks. Glue remnants on verso (the letter was apparently previously mounted in an album or frame).
The Steipler writes to R. Yisrael Taussig regarding his son, Yechezkel Taussig, a student in his yeshiva, extolling his virtues in effusive terms: "I would like to attest and apprise regarding his son, who is prominent in Torah and fear of G-d, a diligent and profound student, with exemplary qualities and character traits… R. Yechezkel. I certify that he is outstanding in his studies, and we are very satisfied with him, may the likes of him abound in the Jewish people".
The Steipler continues to relate in distress of an embarrassing prank perpetrated on the son of R. Taussig by several foolish and reckless youths, who publicized a defamatory flyer against him, bearing the yeshiva stamp, while in reality having no connection to the yeshiva whatsoever: "And behold, three foolish and reckless boys, who are not connected to the yeshiva in any way, circulated a fraudulent flyer against him, bearing the yeshiva stamp, which they obtained from an irresponsible person… and all with the intent of causing anguish to his illustrious son… and in order to appease him and his son, I am writing these lines, to inform him not to pay any attention to this at all, and his son's presence is vital to the yeshiva, since he is the driving force behind the intensive, in-depth learning… I hereby sign with a pained heart over the insult to the Torah and those who learn it, Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, dean and director of this yeshiva".
R. Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky (1899-1985), an extraordinary Torah leader of the past generation. He was known as the Steipler, an appellation derived from his hometown Hornostaipil, Ukraine. A foremost student of the Novardok yeshivot in Ukraine and Poland, he was reputed as one of the most diligent and scholarly students in the yeshiva world. Following his marriage to the sister of the Chazon Ish, he was appointed dean of the Novardok yeshiva in Pinsk, and in 1934, he immigrated to Eretz Israel to serve as dean of the Beit-Yosef Novardok yeshiva in Bnei Brak. For many years, he lived in Bnei Brak in the same house as his brother-in-law, the Chazon Ish. After the yeshiva shut down, he resumed his studies in Kollel Chazon Ish and in his home, and authored the Kehillot Yaakov series on most Talmudic topics and tractates. He was known as a wonder-worker who benefitted from Divine Inspiration, and many sought his blessings and counsel.
Recipient of the letter: R. Yisrael Taussig (1889-Tishrei 1967), known in Jerusalem as "the rabbi from Mattersdorf". A Hungarian rabbi, he served as dayan and posek in Mattersdorf. Following his immigration to Eretz Israel, he settled in Batei Ungarin where he served as rabbi of the neighborhood. His teachings and essays were published in the Beit Yisrael series.
R. Yechezkel Taussig (1917-1972), whose virtues the Steipler extols in this letter, was the author of Tiferet Yechezkel. He devoted his life to Torah study in holiness and purity, and edified many prominent and G-d fearing disciples. He was the son-in-law of R. Shmuel Tefillinski author of Kuntres HaTzavaa. He studied in Hungarian yeshivot, and following his immigration to Eretz Israel together with his parents, in the Beit-Yosef Novardok yeshiva in Bnei Brak. He later attended the Shevet Sofer – Pressburg yeshiva, which was established by the rabbi of Pressburg, who immigrated to Jerusalem in 1940.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 29.5 cm. Approx. 20 autograph lines. Good condition. Creases and folding marks. Glue remnants on verso (the letter was apparently previously mounted in an album or frame).
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $2,500
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $7,500
Including buyer's premium
Collection of five lengthy letters handwritten and signed by R. Moshe Feinstein, addressed to rabbis of Memphis, Tennessee: His beloved disciple R. Efraim Greenblatt (author of Rivevot Efraim) and R. Aryeh Abba Levin. New York and Monsey, 1957-1972.
Responsa pertaining to various halachic topics. The introductions and conclusions of the letters relate to personal matters, good year blessings and holiday wishes, regards, words of encouragement and friendship, condolences and visiting the sick, and other topics (in the letter from Tishrei 1957, R. Moshe informs of the wedding of his son R. Shalom Reuven on 18th Cheshvan – "May G-d allow us to only announce good news to one another").
The halachic contents of the letter were mostly printed in the responsa series Igrot Moshe (Yoreh De'ah I, sections 256-257; Yoreh De'ah II, sections 32 and 172; Orach Chaim IV, section 31; Orach Chaim III, sections 71, 41, 101, 31). The personal matters and some of the halachic responsa were not published, such as responsa on the topic of answering Amen after "VeYatzmach Purkanei"; answering Amen in the middle of Asher Yatzar; on the laws of a High Priest who was removed from priesthood; and regarding the reason for not reciting Tachanun in the days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot.
R. Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986), foremost halachic authority in the United States. A leader of Orthodox Jewry, he served as president of the Union of Orthodox Rabbis of the United States and Canada, and chairman of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. He was the dean of the Tiferet Yerushalayim yeshiva in New York. He authored Responsa Igrot Moshe, Dibrot Moshe – Talmudic novellae and Darash Moshe - novellae on the Torah.
5 letters, official stationery. Approx. 28 cm. Three of the letters are written on both sides. Good condition. Light wear and minor stains.
Responsa pertaining to various halachic topics. The introductions and conclusions of the letters relate to personal matters, good year blessings and holiday wishes, regards, words of encouragement and friendship, condolences and visiting the sick, and other topics (in the letter from Tishrei 1957, R. Moshe informs of the wedding of his son R. Shalom Reuven on 18th Cheshvan – "May G-d allow us to only announce good news to one another").
The halachic contents of the letter were mostly printed in the responsa series Igrot Moshe (Yoreh De'ah I, sections 256-257; Yoreh De'ah II, sections 32 and 172; Orach Chaim IV, section 31; Orach Chaim III, sections 71, 41, 101, 31). The personal matters and some of the halachic responsa were not published, such as responsa on the topic of answering Amen after "VeYatzmach Purkanei"; answering Amen in the middle of Asher Yatzar; on the laws of a High Priest who was removed from priesthood; and regarding the reason for not reciting Tachanun in the days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot.
R. Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986), foremost halachic authority in the United States. A leader of Orthodox Jewry, he served as president of the Union of Orthodox Rabbis of the United States and Canada, and chairman of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. He was the dean of the Tiferet Yerushalayim yeshiva in New York. He authored Responsa Igrot Moshe, Dibrot Moshe – Talmudic novellae and Darash Moshe - novellae on the Torah.
5 letters, official stationery. Approx. 28 cm. Three of the letters are written on both sides. Good condition. Light wear and minor stains.
Category
Letters – Lithuanian Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $2,000 - $4,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Lengthy letter (3 pages, approx. 45 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Meir Arik, rabbi of Tarnów. Tarnów, Aseret Yemei Teshuvah, 1923.
A letter on a Talmudic topic pertaining to monetary laws. Addressed to R. David Zeidman, the letter opens with blessings: "May the year and its blessings begin… May G-d in His mercy conclude the sealing for the good, for him and for those close to him, for good and sound life, and may we merit to study and teach, observe and accomplish in happiness, much satisfaction and bounty, in serenity for many years". The letter concludes with blessings: "And may G-d lengthen his years and renew upon him and upon the entire Jewish nation a good, blessed year, with much satisfaction, redemption and salvation… With much love, Meir Arik Rabbi of the aforementioned community".
At the foot of the letter (on the third page), R. Meir relates to his being prevented from travelling to the first Knessia Gedolah of Agudath Yisrael (which took place in Vienna, Elul 1923), despite his wishes take part in it: "… and though my strength has waned, I nevertheless truly wished to travel to it, but was not able to, as I described the actual facts to the Agudah. The abovementioned".
HaMeir LeOlam, biographical essay on R. Meir Arik (printed at the end of Chiddushei R. Meir Arik on Mikvaot, Antwerp 2006 edition, pp. 78-79) relates that R. Meir Arik's initial plan was to travel by train together with the Chafetz Chaim and the Imrei Emet, yet he was unable to do so since his passport (which was needed for crossing the border between Galicia and Austria), was delayed. This was the official reason, though in reality, the impediment was surreptitiously orchestrated by several zealous Chassidim, residents of Tarnów. These did not approve of their rabbi's attendance of the Knessia Gedolah of Agudath Yisrael, and devised various schemes to hinder his participation, causing him much anguish. R. Meir was a member of Agudath Yisrael throughout his life, and during his stay in Vienna in WWI, was extensively involved in the activities of Agudath Yisrael on behalf of the war refugees. In the first Knessia Gedolah, which, as mentioned, he was held back from attending, he was appointed in absentia as member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. This responsum was printed in Tzefunot (issue 16, Tammuz 1992, pp. 41-42) and in Responsa Imrei Yosher HaChadash (Jerusalem, 1997, Inyanim, section 111, pp. 120-121).
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 Galicia and was appointed rabbi of Tarnów. Many of Poland's leading Torah scholars were his close 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, 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 in his escape to Vienna during WWI, including five large volumes of halachic responsa. His books include: 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). 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 (3 written pages, approx. 45 lines), official stationery. Approx. 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and dampstains.
A letter on a Talmudic topic pertaining to monetary laws. Addressed to R. David Zeidman, the letter opens with blessings: "May the year and its blessings begin… May G-d in His mercy conclude the sealing for the good, for him and for those close to him, for good and sound life, and may we merit to study and teach, observe and accomplish in happiness, much satisfaction and bounty, in serenity for many years". The letter concludes with blessings: "And may G-d lengthen his years and renew upon him and upon the entire Jewish nation a good, blessed year, with much satisfaction, redemption and salvation… With much love, Meir Arik Rabbi of the aforementioned community".
At the foot of the letter (on the third page), R. Meir relates to his being prevented from travelling to the first Knessia Gedolah of Agudath Yisrael (which took place in Vienna, Elul 1923), despite his wishes take part in it: "… and though my strength has waned, I nevertheless truly wished to travel to it, but was not able to, as I described the actual facts to the Agudah. The abovementioned".
HaMeir LeOlam, biographical essay on R. Meir Arik (printed at the end of Chiddushei R. Meir Arik on Mikvaot, Antwerp 2006 edition, pp. 78-79) relates that R. Meir Arik's initial plan was to travel by train together with the Chafetz Chaim and the Imrei Emet, yet he was unable to do so since his passport (which was needed for crossing the border between Galicia and Austria), was delayed. This was the official reason, though in reality, the impediment was surreptitiously orchestrated by several zealous Chassidim, residents of Tarnów. These did not approve of their rabbi's attendance of the Knessia Gedolah of Agudath Yisrael, and devised various schemes to hinder his participation, causing him much anguish. R. Meir was a member of Agudath Yisrael throughout his life, and during his stay in Vienna in WWI, was extensively involved in the activities of Agudath Yisrael on behalf of the war refugees. In the first Knessia Gedolah, which, as mentioned, he was held back from attending, he was appointed in absentia as member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. This responsum was printed in Tzefunot (issue 16, Tammuz 1992, pp. 41-42) and in Responsa Imrei Yosher HaChadash (Jerusalem, 1997, Inyanim, section 111, pp. 120-121).
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 Galicia and was appointed rabbi of Tarnów. Many of Poland's leading Torah scholars were his close 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, 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 in his escape to Vienna during WWI, including five large volumes of halachic responsa. His books include: 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). 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 (3 written pages, approx. 45 lines), official stationery. Approx. 22.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and dampstains.
Category
Letters – Galician and Polish Rabbis
Catalogue
![Letter of recommendation from R. Shmuel Engel Rabbi of Radomyshl. [Košice? Iyar 1918]. Written by a scribe. On the second lea](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale66-public/97.jpg "Letters of Recommendation from R. Shmuel Engel Rabbi of Radomyshl and")
Auction 66 - Rare and Important Items
May 15, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $2,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter of recommendation from R. Shmuel Engel Rabbi of Radomyshl. [Košice? Iyar 1918]. Written by a scribe. On the second leaf, two lines handwritten and signed by R. Shmuel Engel.
At the foot of the leaf, another letter (over 3 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Shmuel Rosenberg Rabbi of Unsdorf (Huncovce). [Unsdorf, 12th Elul 1918].
The recommendation is for R. Yom Tov Lipman Rubin of Jerusalem, son of R. Shmuel Aharon Rubin Rabbi of Korczyna (Galicia), who was travelling through Europe raising funds to provide for his family, who were suffering from the terrible famine prevailing in Eretz Israel at that time (during WWI).
The first leaf contains a lengthy letter from R. Shmuel Engel, who, due to his weakness, had it written on his behalf. The letter concludes with two lines handwritten and signed by R. Shmuel Engel: "Due to my weakness, I will be brief and request… on behalf of the bearer of this letter, and may the merit of charity bring us a salvation speedily. Shmuel Engel of Radomyshl, currently amongst the exiles". With his stamp as rabbi of Radomyshl: "Samuel Engel – Rabbiner – Radomysl Wielki".
On the second leaf, R. Shmuel Rosenberg Rabbi of Unsdorf added: "Due to the extent of the strain and sorrow, I am hereby adding to… since one cannot fathom the importance of this good deed… And his reward from Heaven will be great… Shmuel Rosenberg".
R. Shmuel Engel, rabbi of Radomyshl (1853-1935), a leading Galician Torah scholar and foremost halachic authority of his generation. A prime disciple of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz and of his son R. Yechezkel Halberstam of Shinova. At the young age of 18, he was appointed rabbi of Biłgoraj (Poland). In 1879, he was compelled to leave Poland, and resided for a couple of years in Rudnik (Galicia) at the home of his friend R. Baruch Halberstam of Gorlitz and together they studied Torah, Halacha and Kabbalah. In 1881, he was appointed Rabbi of Dukla (Galicia) and in ca. 1887, of Radomyshl (Galicia). During WWI, he fled to Waitzen (Vác, Hungary) and in 1918, he wandered further and settled in Kashoi (Košice), were he headed of the Beit Din, remaining there until his passing. His son R. Chaim Engel succeeded him in the Radomyshl rabbinate. R Shmuel Engel authored the eight-book Responsa Maharash series, Chiddushei Maharash on the Talmud, Siftei Maharash on the Torah and more. His biography is printed in the book Shem MiShmuel (Munkacs, 1940).
R. Shmuel Rosenberg author of Be'er Shmuel (1842-1919), foremost Hungarian rabbi and yeshiva dean. He was a leading disciple of the Ketav Sofer. From 1873, he served as rabbi of Tshaba (Hejőcsaba), and in 1883, he was appointed rabbi of Unsdorf, where he founded a large yeshiva, of the most prominent in Hungary and the region. He was renowned for his exceptional devotion to his disciples, and indeed, many of them became the leaders of the next generation (R. Shmuel David Ungar Rabbi of Nitra, and other). He was reputed for his remarkable holiness, and rebbes of the Munkacs dynasty acclaimed him often for his Divine Inspiration. Many turned to him in quest of his blessings or prayers for various matters. He would conduct himself like a rebbe in his yeshiva, leading Tish and distributing shirayim. He fought to preserve faithful Jewry, and stood at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in its battles against the leaders of Reform.
[1] double leaf (two pages). 17X10.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Wear to folds. Filing holes.
At the foot of the leaf, another letter (over 3 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Shmuel Rosenberg Rabbi of Unsdorf (Huncovce). [Unsdorf, 12th Elul 1918].
The recommendation is for R. Yom Tov Lipman Rubin of Jerusalem, son of R. Shmuel Aharon Rubin Rabbi of Korczyna (Galicia), who was travelling through Europe raising funds to provide for his family, who were suffering from the terrible famine prevailing in Eretz Israel at that time (during WWI).
The first leaf contains a lengthy letter from R. Shmuel Engel, who, due to his weakness, had it written on his behalf. The letter concludes with two lines handwritten and signed by R. Shmuel Engel: "Due to my weakness, I will be brief and request… on behalf of the bearer of this letter, and may the merit of charity bring us a salvation speedily. Shmuel Engel of Radomyshl, currently amongst the exiles". With his stamp as rabbi of Radomyshl: "Samuel Engel – Rabbiner – Radomysl Wielki".
On the second leaf, R. Shmuel Rosenberg Rabbi of Unsdorf added: "Due to the extent of the strain and sorrow, I am hereby adding to… since one cannot fathom the importance of this good deed… And his reward from Heaven will be great… Shmuel Rosenberg".
R. Shmuel Engel, rabbi of Radomyshl (1853-1935), a leading Galician Torah scholar and foremost halachic authority of his generation. A prime disciple of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz and of his son R. Yechezkel Halberstam of Shinova. At the young age of 18, he was appointed rabbi of Biłgoraj (Poland). In 1879, he was compelled to leave Poland, and resided for a couple of years in Rudnik (Galicia) at the home of his friend R. Baruch Halberstam of Gorlitz and together they studied Torah, Halacha and Kabbalah. In 1881, he was appointed Rabbi of Dukla (Galicia) and in ca. 1887, of Radomyshl (Galicia). During WWI, he fled to Waitzen (Vác, Hungary) and in 1918, he wandered further and settled in Kashoi (Košice), were he headed of the Beit Din, remaining there until his passing. His son R. Chaim Engel succeeded him in the Radomyshl rabbinate. R Shmuel Engel authored the eight-book Responsa Maharash series, Chiddushei Maharash on the Talmud, Siftei Maharash on the Torah and more. His biography is printed in the book Shem MiShmuel (Munkacs, 1940).
R. Shmuel Rosenberg author of Be'er Shmuel (1842-1919), foremost Hungarian rabbi and yeshiva dean. He was a leading disciple of the Ketav Sofer. From 1873, he served as rabbi of Tshaba (Hejőcsaba), and in 1883, he was appointed rabbi of Unsdorf, where he founded a large yeshiva, of the most prominent in Hungary and the region. He was renowned for his exceptional devotion to his disciples, and indeed, many of them became the leaders of the next generation (R. Shmuel David Ungar Rabbi of Nitra, and other). He was reputed for his remarkable holiness, and rebbes of the Munkacs dynasty acclaimed him often for his Divine Inspiration. Many turned to him in quest of his blessings or prayers for various matters. He would conduct himself like a rebbe in his yeshiva, leading Tish and distributing shirayim. He fought to preserve faithful Jewry, and stood at the helm of Orthodox Jewry in its battles against the leaders of Reform.
[1] double leaf (two pages). 17X10.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Wear to folds. Filing holes.
Category
Letters – Galician and Polish Rabbis
Catalogue