Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
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Displaying 265 - 276 of 376
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $750
Including buyer's premium
Manuscript, large sheet of paper – records of R. Yakir Yosef, emissary of Jerusalem, who visited various communities in Romania and the surroundings. [Ca. 1814-1815].
Large sheet of paper folded into four narrow columns, written on both sides in Oriental (solitreo) script. At the top of the first column: "This is the Pinkas for Jerusalem in the towns and villages of Wallachia and Bogdania… anyone who donated for Jerusalem, by the emissary R. Avraham Avigdor, and by Yakir Yosef".
This leaf was presumably scribed by the emissary R. Yakir Yosef, based on his personal Pinkas, in order to leave a copy of the records with those charged with collecting the donations in Yas (Iași). It features lists of the contributors and gabbaim of the dozens of communities visited by the emissary, and a summation of the fundraising operation on behalf of Eretz Israel. One of the columns bears the heading: "Copy of the Pinkas". Further in the first paragraph, he writes that he gave this copy to R. Efraim son of R. Yissachar Blaj, gabbai of the fund in Yas, so that he can centralize all the donations from the surrounding communities, until an emissary arrives from Jerusalem to collect them.
Further in this section, he describes the fundraising efforts for Eretz Israel of the Ohev Yisrael – R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta, at that time rabbi of Yas. The emissary writes that the latter gave him a Pinkas, on which he based himself for his lists: "And these are the lists which were recorded in the Pinkas which I, Yakir Yosef, received from the rabbi of Apta, R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, who served as rabbi of the capital city of Yas".
In the section pertaining to the Yas community, the emissary once again mentions the rabbi of Apta: "In the community of Yas, the capital, they have committed to donate the sum of two hundred and fifty lei for Jerusalem, with the signature of R. Uziel, R. Daniel, R. Yosef, R. David HaKohen, and the rabbi of Apta…".
This manuscript contains a detailed documentation of dozens of communities in the area (which the emissary presumably visited during the course of his mission), with a record of his activities – appointing collectors and setting up a fundraising system to benefit Eretz Israel; as well as many details such as the names of the contributors and the periodic pledges of each community.
The communities documented in this manuscript include: Yas (Iași), Botoshan (Botoșani), Dorohoi, Bordezhen (Burdujeni), Hertz (Herța), Hotin (Khotyn), Lipkan (Lipcani), Ataky, Soroca, Rezina, Teleneshty (Teleneşti), Bender, Kishinev (Chișinău), Kalarash (Călărași), Ploiești, Blaj, Shtefanesht (Ştefăneşti), Fălticeni, Roman, Piatra Neamț, and others.
In the section about the Botoshan community, he mentions a "Shlomo son of R. Chaim". This may refer to the son of the Be'er Mayim Chaim (see his signature in Kedem Auction 63, item 81). Further in the same section, as well as in other sections, he mentions the years 1813-1815.
Apart from this document, no information about the emissary R. Yakir Yosef is known to us. About his predecessor mentioned in this document, R. Avraham Avigdor, no further information is known apart from a certificate dated Tishrei 1812, published by M.D. Gaon in his book Yehudei HaMizrach BeEretz Israel (II, Jerusalem 1938, p. 395), which mentions R. Avraham Avigdor's mission and the news of his passing at that time.
The rebbe of Apta is known for his intensive efforts to raise funds and arrange Maamadot for Polish, Volhynian and Galician immigrants who settled in Safed and Tiberias. He began his activities in this field in 1796. In 1814, he was appointed president of the kollel of Eretz Israel funds for immigrants from Volhyn. His extensive activities on behalf of Eretz Israel are documented in many letters and documents, printed in the book Igrot HaOhev Yisrael (Jerusalem 2000), and this manuscript provides further testimony to his charitable activities.
Large sheet of paper (8 written columns). 48X39 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Wear and tears, slightly affecting text. Folding marks.
Large sheet of paper folded into four narrow columns, written on both sides in Oriental (solitreo) script. At the top of the first column: "This is the Pinkas for Jerusalem in the towns and villages of Wallachia and Bogdania… anyone who donated for Jerusalem, by the emissary R. Avraham Avigdor, and by Yakir Yosef".
This leaf was presumably scribed by the emissary R. Yakir Yosef, based on his personal Pinkas, in order to leave a copy of the records with those charged with collecting the donations in Yas (Iași). It features lists of the contributors and gabbaim of the dozens of communities visited by the emissary, and a summation of the fundraising operation on behalf of Eretz Israel. One of the columns bears the heading: "Copy of the Pinkas". Further in the first paragraph, he writes that he gave this copy to R. Efraim son of R. Yissachar Blaj, gabbai of the fund in Yas, so that he can centralize all the donations from the surrounding communities, until an emissary arrives from Jerusalem to collect them.
Further in this section, he describes the fundraising efforts for Eretz Israel of the Ohev Yisrael – R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta, at that time rabbi of Yas. The emissary writes that the latter gave him a Pinkas, on which he based himself for his lists: "And these are the lists which were recorded in the Pinkas which I, Yakir Yosef, received from the rabbi of Apta, R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, who served as rabbi of the capital city of Yas".
In the section pertaining to the Yas community, the emissary once again mentions the rabbi of Apta: "In the community of Yas, the capital, they have committed to donate the sum of two hundred and fifty lei for Jerusalem, with the signature of R. Uziel, R. Daniel, R. Yosef, R. David HaKohen, and the rabbi of Apta…".
This manuscript contains a detailed documentation of dozens of communities in the area (which the emissary presumably visited during the course of his mission), with a record of his activities – appointing collectors and setting up a fundraising system to benefit Eretz Israel; as well as many details such as the names of the contributors and the periodic pledges of each community.
The communities documented in this manuscript include: Yas (Iași), Botoshan (Botoșani), Dorohoi, Bordezhen (Burdujeni), Hertz (Herța), Hotin (Khotyn), Lipkan (Lipcani), Ataky, Soroca, Rezina, Teleneshty (Teleneşti), Bender, Kishinev (Chișinău), Kalarash (Călărași), Ploiești, Blaj, Shtefanesht (Ştefăneşti), Fălticeni, Roman, Piatra Neamț, and others.
In the section about the Botoshan community, he mentions a "Shlomo son of R. Chaim". This may refer to the son of the Be'er Mayim Chaim (see his signature in Kedem Auction 63, item 81). Further in the same section, as well as in other sections, he mentions the years 1813-1815.
Apart from this document, no information about the emissary R. Yakir Yosef is known to us. About his predecessor mentioned in this document, R. Avraham Avigdor, no further information is known apart from a certificate dated Tishrei 1812, published by M.D. Gaon in his book Yehudei HaMizrach BeEretz Israel (II, Jerusalem 1938, p. 395), which mentions R. Avraham Avigdor's mission and the news of his passing at that time.
The rebbe of Apta is known for his intensive efforts to raise funds and arrange Maamadot for Polish, Volhynian and Galician immigrants who settled in Safed and Tiberias. He began his activities in this field in 1796. In 1814, he was appointed president of the kollel of Eretz Israel funds for immigrants from Volhyn. His extensive activities on behalf of Eretz Israel are documented in many letters and documents, printed in the book Igrot HaOhev Yisrael (Jerusalem 2000), and this manuscript provides further testimony to his charitable activities.
Large sheet of paper (8 written columns). 48X39 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Wear and tears, slightly affecting text. Folding marks.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $1,500
Sold for: $2,125
Including buyer's premium
Handwritten letter requesting to support the settlements of the Vilna Gaon's disciples in Safed and Jerusalem. Signed by the disciple of the Gaon of Vilna – R. Yisrael of Shklow, and by other leading disciples. Jerusalem and Safed, Kislev 1830.
An individualized request letter, to be used by the emissary R. Tzvi Hirsh son of R. Yehuda, with a blank space intended for the name of the donor.
Signatures of R. "Chaim Kohen, formerly Rabbi of Pinsk and the region" [Rabbi of Pinsk for 20 years, where he was accepted by the Chassidim as well; immigrated to Safed in 1826 and served in its rabbinate until his death in 1831]; R. "Yisrael, author of Taklin Chaddetin, of Safed" [R. Yisrael of Shklow, disciple of the Gaon of Vilna]; R. "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yosef Leon" [one of the heads of the Ashkenazi settlement in Safed]; R. "Shlomo Zalman son of R. Z. Wolf HaKohen" [Eretz Israel emissary, father-in-law of R. Yaakov Sapir, passed away in 1847 in Calcutta, India]; R. "Natan Notte son of R. M. Mendel of Jerusalem" [known as "the great R. Notte" (d. 1846 in Jerusalem), a leader of the first aliyah of the Vilna Gaon's disciples in 1809; his father, R. Mendel of Shklow, immigrated one year earlier in preparation for the 1809 aliyah]; R. "Natan Notte son of R. Saadia of Jerusalem" [R. Notte (d. 1849) was a righteous man, who merited serving the Gaon of Vilna, reciting Mishnayot for him; his father, R. Saadia, was the head of the Gaon's disciples in Jerusalem]; R. "Tzvi Hirsh son of R. Zerach Shapiro of Jerusalem" [his signature does not appear on most other copies of this letter]; R. "Aryeh son of R. Yerachmiel, trustee of the Jerusalem Kollel" [R. Aryeh Leib son of R. Yerachmiel Markus of Keidan (1800-1877), trustee of the Kollel HaPerushim in Jerusalem and one of the founders of the Churva Synagogue].
[1] leaf. 24 cm. Good condition. A few stains. Minor marginal worming.
An individualized request letter, to be used by the emissary R. Tzvi Hirsh son of R. Yehuda, with a blank space intended for the name of the donor.
Signatures of R. "Chaim Kohen, formerly Rabbi of Pinsk and the region" [Rabbi of Pinsk for 20 years, where he was accepted by the Chassidim as well; immigrated to Safed in 1826 and served in its rabbinate until his death in 1831]; R. "Yisrael, author of Taklin Chaddetin, of Safed" [R. Yisrael of Shklow, disciple of the Gaon of Vilna]; R. "Aryeh Leib son of R. Yosef Leon" [one of the heads of the Ashkenazi settlement in Safed]; R. "Shlomo Zalman son of R. Z. Wolf HaKohen" [Eretz Israel emissary, father-in-law of R. Yaakov Sapir, passed away in 1847 in Calcutta, India]; R. "Natan Notte son of R. M. Mendel of Jerusalem" [known as "the great R. Notte" (d. 1846 in Jerusalem), a leader of the first aliyah of the Vilna Gaon's disciples in 1809; his father, R. Mendel of Shklow, immigrated one year earlier in preparation for the 1809 aliyah]; R. "Natan Notte son of R. Saadia of Jerusalem" [R. Notte (d. 1849) was a righteous man, who merited serving the Gaon of Vilna, reciting Mishnayot for him; his father, R. Saadia, was the head of the Gaon's disciples in Jerusalem]; R. "Tzvi Hirsh son of R. Zerach Shapiro of Jerusalem" [his signature does not appear on most other copies of this letter]; R. "Aryeh son of R. Yerachmiel, trustee of the Jerusalem Kollel" [R. Aryeh Leib son of R. Yerachmiel Markus of Keidan (1800-1877), trustee of the Kollel HaPerushim in Jerusalem and one of the founders of the Churva Synagogue].
[1] leaf. 24 cm. Good condition. A few stains. Minor marginal worming.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Sold for: $1,250
Including buyer's premium
Sefer HaTakanot VeHaskamot, public regulations and halachic customs established by Jerusalem rabbis throughout the generations, by R. Chaim Avraham Gagin. Jerusalem: R. Yisrael Bak, 1842.
Two title pages. The first title page is decorated with a woodcut. The second title page is on leaf [5], after R. Gagin's preface.
The second Hebrew book printed in Jerusalem. Printed in the printing press established by R. Yisrael Bak of Berditchev and Safed, disciple of R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev and R. Yisrael of Ruzhin.
This book is comprised of two parts: the first contains R. Gagin's preface and a long responsum (dated 1824) by R. Shlomo Moshe Suzin regarding the authority of the Beit Din to issue public regulations. The second part includes a compilation of the regulations and customs of Eretz Israel following the order of the four sections of Shulchan Aruch. At the end of the book, approbations dated 1841 and 1842, by rabbis and community officials, according R. Yisrael Bak the exclusive rights to printing in Eretz Israel. The approbations describe how R. Yisrael established a new printing press in Jerusalem after his press in Safed was destroyed by vandals. (There are some copies without the final leaf – approbation from 1842. See Bibliography of the Hebrew Book listing 123175, and Sh. HaLevy, HaSefarim HaIvriim Shenidpesu BiYerushalayim, no. 3).
The bibliographer A. Tauber, in his article "History of the Printing Press in Eretz Israel" (Mechkarim Bibliographim, pp. 10-11; Kovetz Yerushalayim – Lechakirat Eretz Israel, Jerusalem 1928, pp. 179-192), posits that the main purpose of this book was to reinforce several controversial public regulations (especially regulations regarding estate and ownership titles). In order to be able to print this book, R. Gagin and the Sephardic community officials encouraged the establishment of R. Yisrael Bak's printing press, intending that this would be the first book to be published there. R. Gagin, who was persecuted by his opponents, initiated the printing of this book in order to answer their contentions. In order that this should not be obvious, R. Gagin instructed R. Yaakov Capiloto and R. Avraham Ashkenazi, two Jerusalemite scholars, to research the customs and ordinances of Eretz Israel, arrange them in the order of the four sections of Shulchan Aruch, and combine them with the responses to those who questioned the abovementioned ordinances.
This book was presumably printed in stages, according to the progress of the abovementioned editors. According to Tauber, the first part of Sefer HaTakanot was already printed in 1841 (before the printing of Avodat HaKodesh, which is recognized as the first Hebrew book printed in Jerusalem). The printing was only concluded after R. Capiloto and R. Ashkenazi completed compiling and editing the second part of the book.
[16], 13-72, [4] leaves. Misfoliation. 15 cm. Good condition. Stains, including dark stains to some leaves. Small open tear to final leaf, minimally affecting text. Handwritten inscriptions and markings. Early binding, with leather spine. Damage to binding.
Sh. HaLevy, no. 3 (this is in fact the second book printed in Jerusalem, since listing no. 2 in Sh. HaLevy's book is actually a broadside and not a book).
Includes leaf of approbation from 1842, which was not included in all copies.
Two title pages. The first title page is decorated with a woodcut. The second title page is on leaf [5], after R. Gagin's preface.
The second Hebrew book printed in Jerusalem. Printed in the printing press established by R. Yisrael Bak of Berditchev and Safed, disciple of R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev and R. Yisrael of Ruzhin.
This book is comprised of two parts: the first contains R. Gagin's preface and a long responsum (dated 1824) by R. Shlomo Moshe Suzin regarding the authority of the Beit Din to issue public regulations. The second part includes a compilation of the regulations and customs of Eretz Israel following the order of the four sections of Shulchan Aruch. At the end of the book, approbations dated 1841 and 1842, by rabbis and community officials, according R. Yisrael Bak the exclusive rights to printing in Eretz Israel. The approbations describe how R. Yisrael established a new printing press in Jerusalem after his press in Safed was destroyed by vandals. (There are some copies without the final leaf – approbation from 1842. See Bibliography of the Hebrew Book listing 123175, and Sh. HaLevy, HaSefarim HaIvriim Shenidpesu BiYerushalayim, no. 3).
The bibliographer A. Tauber, in his article "History of the Printing Press in Eretz Israel" (Mechkarim Bibliographim, pp. 10-11; Kovetz Yerushalayim – Lechakirat Eretz Israel, Jerusalem 1928, pp. 179-192), posits that the main purpose of this book was to reinforce several controversial public regulations (especially regulations regarding estate and ownership titles). In order to be able to print this book, R. Gagin and the Sephardic community officials encouraged the establishment of R. Yisrael Bak's printing press, intending that this would be the first book to be published there. R. Gagin, who was persecuted by his opponents, initiated the printing of this book in order to answer their contentions. In order that this should not be obvious, R. Gagin instructed R. Yaakov Capiloto and R. Avraham Ashkenazi, two Jerusalemite scholars, to research the customs and ordinances of Eretz Israel, arrange them in the order of the four sections of Shulchan Aruch, and combine them with the responses to those who questioned the abovementioned ordinances.
This book was presumably printed in stages, according to the progress of the abovementioned editors. According to Tauber, the first part of Sefer HaTakanot was already printed in 1841 (before the printing of Avodat HaKodesh, which is recognized as the first Hebrew book printed in Jerusalem). The printing was only concluded after R. Capiloto and R. Ashkenazi completed compiling and editing the second part of the book.
[16], 13-72, [4] leaves. Misfoliation. 15 cm. Good condition. Stains, including dark stains to some leaves. Small open tear to final leaf, minimally affecting text. Handwritten inscriptions and markings. Early binding, with leather spine. Damage to binding.
Sh. HaLevy, no. 3 (this is in fact the second book printed in Jerusalem, since listing no. 2 in Sh. HaLevy's book is actually a broadside and not a book).
Includes leaf of approbation from 1842, which was not included in all copies.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Sold for: $2,375
Including buyer's premium
Collection of books by R. Yehosef Schwartz, first editions printed in Jerusalem. Complete set in good condition.
1-4. Divrei Yosef by R. Yehosef Schwartz, halacha and astronomy of Eretz Israel. Jerusalem, 1843. First title within elaborate woodcut border.
Bound with Tevuot HaAretz (part II of Divrei Yosef), Totzaot HaAretz and Maaseh HaAretz. Scientific and halachic study of Eretz Israel. Jerusalem, 1845.
[12] (originally: [8] leaves. The preface and errata were included twice), 70, [6] leaves; [2], 156 leaves; [1], 22 leaves; [1], 24-52, [3] leaves; (five title pages). 15.5 cm. Very good condition. Stamps. Early binding, with marbled endpapers and leather spine.
5. Divrei Yosef (Parts III and IV), Jerusalem, 1861.
Pri Tevua, Pardes, explanations and various scholarly topics suitable for all. Corrections and additions to Tevuot HaAretz, which was published in 1845. Illustrations on leaf [7].
[7], 247, [1] leaves. 16 cm. Very good condition. Stamps. Old binding.
6. Divrei Yosef (Parts III and IV – second "head"). Responsa. Jerusalem, 1862.
[4], 170, [1] leaves. 15 cm. Very good condition. Small marginal tear to title page. Stamps. Old binding.
R. Yehosef Schwartz (1804-1865, see: Gellis, MiDemuyot Yerushalayim, pp. 64-70), a kabbalist and outstanding Torah scholar. He was one of the first to engage in the study of Eretz Israel. A disciple of R. Avraham Bing in the Würzburg yeshiva, he concurrently studied geography and languages in the local university. While still in Germany, he began studying the land of Israel, and in 1829, he published a map of Eretz Israel in Hebrew and German (which was used by historians and geographers in his times). He immigrated to Jerusalem in 1833, where he was welcomed by his colleagues from Germany (founders of Kollel Holland and Deutschland), R. Moshe Saks and R. Eliezer Bergmann. R. Yehosef continued delving in the study of both hidden and revealed sections of the Torah his entire life, and studied kabbalah in the Beit El yeshiva for kabbalists. He pursued his historical and geographical studies of Eretz Israel, travelling from place to place and exploring the land. He determined the names of places based on the study of local languages, biblical and Talmudic sources. His identifications of places are accepted until this day, and his books still serve as basis for many discussions regarding Eretz Israel, whether from a Torah-halachic viewpoint or from the scientific-historic perspective. His series of books is named Tevuot HaAretz (after the main book in the series) and was published in Hebrew in Jerusalem. In 1850, Descriptive Geography and Brief Historical Sketch of Palestine, an English translation of Tevuot HaAretz, was published in Philadelphia (with a map of Eretz Israel and the famous portrait of the author – who exchanged his European garb for Middle Eastern dress, even donning a Middle Eastern turban), and in 1852, a German translation of Tevuot HaAretz was published in Frankfurt.
Sh. HaLevy: 17, 31, 58, 62.
1-4. Divrei Yosef by R. Yehosef Schwartz, halacha and astronomy of Eretz Israel. Jerusalem, 1843. First title within elaborate woodcut border.
Bound with Tevuot HaAretz (part II of Divrei Yosef), Totzaot HaAretz and Maaseh HaAretz. Scientific and halachic study of Eretz Israel. Jerusalem, 1845.
[12] (originally: [8] leaves. The preface and errata were included twice), 70, [6] leaves; [2], 156 leaves; [1], 22 leaves; [1], 24-52, [3] leaves; (five title pages). 15.5 cm. Very good condition. Stamps. Early binding, with marbled endpapers and leather spine.
5. Divrei Yosef (Parts III and IV), Jerusalem, 1861.
Pri Tevua, Pardes, explanations and various scholarly topics suitable for all. Corrections and additions to Tevuot HaAretz, which was published in 1845. Illustrations on leaf [7].
[7], 247, [1] leaves. 16 cm. Very good condition. Stamps. Old binding.
6. Divrei Yosef (Parts III and IV – second "head"). Responsa. Jerusalem, 1862.
[4], 170, [1] leaves. 15 cm. Very good condition. Small marginal tear to title page. Stamps. Old binding.
R. Yehosef Schwartz (1804-1865, see: Gellis, MiDemuyot Yerushalayim, pp. 64-70), a kabbalist and outstanding Torah scholar. He was one of the first to engage in the study of Eretz Israel. A disciple of R. Avraham Bing in the Würzburg yeshiva, he concurrently studied geography and languages in the local university. While still in Germany, he began studying the land of Israel, and in 1829, he published a map of Eretz Israel in Hebrew and German (which was used by historians and geographers in his times). He immigrated to Jerusalem in 1833, where he was welcomed by his colleagues from Germany (founders of Kollel Holland and Deutschland), R. Moshe Saks and R. Eliezer Bergmann. R. Yehosef continued delving in the study of both hidden and revealed sections of the Torah his entire life, and studied kabbalah in the Beit El yeshiva for kabbalists. He pursued his historical and geographical studies of Eretz Israel, travelling from place to place and exploring the land. He determined the names of places based on the study of local languages, biblical and Talmudic sources. His identifications of places are accepted until this day, and his books still serve as basis for many discussions regarding Eretz Israel, whether from a Torah-halachic viewpoint or from the scientific-historic perspective. His series of books is named Tevuot HaAretz (after the main book in the series) and was published in Hebrew in Jerusalem. In 1850, Descriptive Geography and Brief Historical Sketch of Palestine, an English translation of Tevuot HaAretz, was published in Philadelphia (with a map of Eretz Israel and the famous portrait of the author – who exchanged his European garb for Middle Eastern dress, even donning a Middle Eastern turban), and in 1852, a German translation of Tevuot HaAretz was published in Frankfurt.
Sh. HaLevy: 17, 31, 58, 62.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Emissary letter for R. Baruch Pinto, leaving on a mission to Sefrou, Morocco, on behalf of the Beit El yeshiva of kabbalists in Jerusalem. Signed by the yeshiva dean – R. Yedidia Refael Abulafia (HaRav HaYareh), and other leading kabbalists of the Beit El yeshiva. Jerusalem, 1865.
Neat script, with the calligraphic signatures of the leading kabbalists of Jerusalem: R. Refael Chai Yedidia Abulafia – dean of the Beit El yeshiva of kabbalists (including his stamp), R. Yosef Vital, R. Rachamim Chaim David Antebi, R. Yitzchak Calamaro, R. Aharon Pereira, and two other signatories.
The Beit El yeshiva of kabbalists, also known as Midrash HaChassidim or Kehal Chassidim, was founded in Jerusalem in 1737 by R. Gedalia Hayun, and was designated as a place for studying Kabbalah. Ever since, the kabbalists of Jerusalem have gathered to study there, directed by foremost kabbalists. Of particular prominence were R. Shalom Sharabi (the Rashash), who headed the yeshiva, and his successor R. Yom Tov Algazi. Reputedly, R. Gershon of Kitov – brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov, also studied there. Following the passing of R. Chaim Avraham Gagin in 1848, R. Yedidia Refael Abulafia (1806-1869), was appointed in his stead, a position he held until his passing. R. Abulafia's disciples include the sons of Rebbe Moshe of Lelov; the Imrei Binah, rabbi of Jerusalem (who, following R. Abulafia's advice, instituted the prohibition of playing musical instruments in Jerusalem); R. Shalom Moshe Chai Gagin, who succeeded him as dean of the Beit El yeshiva; and others. The kabbalists who signed this letter were amongst the elite of the yeshiva studying alongside R. Abulafia: R. Yitzchak Calamaro (d. 1884; edited the second edition of Nahar Shalom by the Rashash, as well as other kabbalistic works. The Jerusalem 1866 edition of Etz Chaim includes his notes), R. Aharon Refael Chaim Moshe Pereira (author of Toldot Aharon UMoshe and other books. See item 260), R. Yosef Bechor Vital (published some of R. Chaim Vital's Shemonah She'arim in 1866, together with his colleague R. Yitzchak Calamaro), R. Rachamim Chaim David Antebi (d. 1874, see: LiKedoshim Asher BaAretz, Jerusalem 2009, section 508, p. 262), and others.
The emissary, R. Baruch Pinto, travelled to the Maghreb several times on behalf of the yeshiva, and was "renowned for his wisdom". He died in 1893 at the young age of fifty-two, and was eulogized by R. Yaakov Shaul Elyashsar (see: Avraham Yaari, Sheluchei Eretz Israel, pp. 736-737).
[1] leaf. 30 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, folding marks. Minute tears to margins and folding marks (slightly affecting one character).
Neat script, with the calligraphic signatures of the leading kabbalists of Jerusalem: R. Refael Chai Yedidia Abulafia – dean of the Beit El yeshiva of kabbalists (including his stamp), R. Yosef Vital, R. Rachamim Chaim David Antebi, R. Yitzchak Calamaro, R. Aharon Pereira, and two other signatories.
The Beit El yeshiva of kabbalists, also known as Midrash HaChassidim or Kehal Chassidim, was founded in Jerusalem in 1737 by R. Gedalia Hayun, and was designated as a place for studying Kabbalah. Ever since, the kabbalists of Jerusalem have gathered to study there, directed by foremost kabbalists. Of particular prominence were R. Shalom Sharabi (the Rashash), who headed the yeshiva, and his successor R. Yom Tov Algazi. Reputedly, R. Gershon of Kitov – brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov, also studied there. Following the passing of R. Chaim Avraham Gagin in 1848, R. Yedidia Refael Abulafia (1806-1869), was appointed in his stead, a position he held until his passing. R. Abulafia's disciples include the sons of Rebbe Moshe of Lelov; the Imrei Binah, rabbi of Jerusalem (who, following R. Abulafia's advice, instituted the prohibition of playing musical instruments in Jerusalem); R. Shalom Moshe Chai Gagin, who succeeded him as dean of the Beit El yeshiva; and others. The kabbalists who signed this letter were amongst the elite of the yeshiva studying alongside R. Abulafia: R. Yitzchak Calamaro (d. 1884; edited the second edition of Nahar Shalom by the Rashash, as well as other kabbalistic works. The Jerusalem 1866 edition of Etz Chaim includes his notes), R. Aharon Refael Chaim Moshe Pereira (author of Toldot Aharon UMoshe and other books. See item 260), R. Yosef Bechor Vital (published some of R. Chaim Vital's Shemonah She'arim in 1866, together with his colleague R. Yitzchak Calamaro), R. Rachamim Chaim David Antebi (d. 1874, see: LiKedoshim Asher BaAretz, Jerusalem 2009, section 508, p. 262), and others.
The emissary, R. Baruch Pinto, travelled to the Maghreb several times on behalf of the yeshiva, and was "renowned for his wisdom". He died in 1893 at the young age of fifty-two, and was eulogized by R. Yaakov Shaul Elyashsar (see: Avraham Yaari, Sheluchei Eretz Israel, pp. 736-737).
[1] leaf. 30 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, folding marks. Minute tears to margins and folding marks (slightly affecting one character).
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $500
Sold for: $1,875
Including buyer's premium
Ledger recording the construction expenses of the Nachalat Shiv'a neighborhood in Jerusalem. Jerusalem, Iyar-Av 1869.
Ledger recording the construction expenses of two houses in Nachalat Shiv'a – of R. Michel HaKohen and R. Yosef Rivlin (the first two houses built in the neighborhood). The ledger lists all the construction costs; several account totals are signed by R. Michel HaKohen and R. Yosef Rivlin. Most of the ledger was written by R. Yosef Rivlin, initiator of the neighborhood. The ledger reveals that R. Shmuel Salant was involved in the establishment of the neighborhood and provided money to cover some of construction expenses (he is referred to in the ledger as "רש"ס").
According to this ledger, the quarrying and foundation digging began on 15th Iyar 1869. The ledger lists the salaries of the stonemasons and the other workers, their names and professions (some of the workers are listed as residing in "Beit Jali" – presumably Beit Jala), expenses for equipment (nails, mats, etc.) and every other expense related to construction (including tobacco for the workers). The ledger also records who paid for each expense.
The Nachalat Shiv'a neighborhood was one of the first Jewish neighborhoods built outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem in 1869. The neighborhood was named after the seven pioneers who founded it: R. Yosef Rivlin (who lived alone in the neighborhood for two years), R. Yoel Moshe Salomon, R. Chaim HaLevi Kovner, R. Yehoshua Yellin, R. Leib Horowitz of Lomza, R. Michel HaKohen and R. Binyamin Beinish Salant.
Tall, narrow notebooks, 29 cm. Approx. 27 written pages. High-quality paper. Overall good condition. Wear and stains. Minor tears and damage. New binding.
Ledger recording the construction expenses of two houses in Nachalat Shiv'a – of R. Michel HaKohen and R. Yosef Rivlin (the first two houses built in the neighborhood). The ledger lists all the construction costs; several account totals are signed by R. Michel HaKohen and R. Yosef Rivlin. Most of the ledger was written by R. Yosef Rivlin, initiator of the neighborhood. The ledger reveals that R. Shmuel Salant was involved in the establishment of the neighborhood and provided money to cover some of construction expenses (he is referred to in the ledger as "רש"ס").
According to this ledger, the quarrying and foundation digging began on 15th Iyar 1869. The ledger lists the salaries of the stonemasons and the other workers, their names and professions (some of the workers are listed as residing in "Beit Jali" – presumably Beit Jala), expenses for equipment (nails, mats, etc.) and every other expense related to construction (including tobacco for the workers). The ledger also records who paid for each expense.
The Nachalat Shiv'a neighborhood was one of the first Jewish neighborhoods built outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem in 1869. The neighborhood was named after the seven pioneers who founded it: R. Yosef Rivlin (who lived alone in the neighborhood for two years), R. Yoel Moshe Salomon, R. Chaim HaLevi Kovner, R. Yehoshua Yellin, R. Leib Horowitz of Lomza, R. Michel HaKohen and R. Binyamin Beinish Salant.
Tall, narrow notebooks, 29 cm. Approx. 27 written pages. High-quality paper. Overall good condition. Wear and stains. Minor tears and damage. New binding.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $375
Including buyer's premium
Printed booklet – "Regulation booklet of the Maoz LaDal charity society, in Jerusalem". Jerusalem: HaRav Agan and R. Shmuel Zuckermann, 1881.
Title page printed entirely in gold. The stamps of the society are printed in gold on the final page. On the verso of the title page, printed letter from R. Yehoshua Leib Diskin regarding the importance of this society and the virtue of charity.
[1], 2-16 pages + original (blank) wrappers. 16.5 cm. Good condition. New binding.
Sh. HaLevy, no. 765.
Title page printed entirely in gold. The stamps of the society are printed in gold on the final page. On the verso of the title page, printed letter from R. Yehoshua Leib Diskin regarding the importance of this society and the virtue of charity.
[1], 2-16 pages + original (blank) wrappers. 16.5 cm. Good condition. New binding.
Sh. HaLevy, no. 765.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $600
Sold for: $1,250
Including buyer's premium
Letter from Moses Montefiore to the Chief Rabbi of the British Empire, R. Nathan Marcus Adler. Ramsgate (England), March 15, 5643 [1883]. English.
Written by a secretary, on official stationery, and hand-signed by Montefiore.
Montefiore tells of a letter he received from one Mr. Sandel (in response to a letter Montefiore and. R. Adler had sent him), regarding the "Jaffa Garden" (known as the "Montefiore Garden"). Mr. Sandel visited the garden on February 16 to examine its condition, and reported, among other things, about "a number of orange or lemon trees (probably Ethrogim) recently planted in the garden".
The Montefiore Garden (or Montefiore Orchard) is considered to be the first Jewish orchard in Eretz Israel. It was planted in 1842, by Yehuda HaLevi Margoza, one of the leaders of the Jewish community of Jaffa, and was purchased by Montefiore in 1855. The management of the orchard was entrusted to the Simchon family of Jaffa, and under their supervision, it became one of the best orchards in Jaffa. In 1875, it held 900 trees.
Over the years, many members of the Moses Montefiore Fund (established by Montefiore to assist the Jewish Yishuv in Eretz Israel), led by R. Nathan Marcus Adler, attempted to arrange the sale or lease of the orchard, claiming it was unprofitable. Nevertheless, Montefiore refused to give up ownership of the orchard, which was important to him for reasons beyond profit.
Montefiore, who headed the Sephardic community of London, had a long-standing friendship with R. Nathan Marcus Adler (1803-1890), the Chief Rabbi of the British Empire. The cordial relationship between them, which was accompanied by extensive correspondence, led to cooperation in a variety of community projects, including raising funds for the Jewish Yishuv in Eretz Israel. R. Adler, who by the power of his position as Chief Rabbi headed the United Synagogue, an organization that united all the orthodox communities of Britain, gathered the funds raised by the synagogues and sent them to Eretz Israel through Montefiore's representatives.
[1] double leaf, official stationery (four written pages). Thin paper. 19.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks. Tears to bottom, not affecting text.
Written by a secretary, on official stationery, and hand-signed by Montefiore.
Montefiore tells of a letter he received from one Mr. Sandel (in response to a letter Montefiore and. R. Adler had sent him), regarding the "Jaffa Garden" (known as the "Montefiore Garden"). Mr. Sandel visited the garden on February 16 to examine its condition, and reported, among other things, about "a number of orange or lemon trees (probably Ethrogim) recently planted in the garden".
The Montefiore Garden (or Montefiore Orchard) is considered to be the first Jewish orchard in Eretz Israel. It was planted in 1842, by Yehuda HaLevi Margoza, one of the leaders of the Jewish community of Jaffa, and was purchased by Montefiore in 1855. The management of the orchard was entrusted to the Simchon family of Jaffa, and under their supervision, it became one of the best orchards in Jaffa. In 1875, it held 900 trees.
Over the years, many members of the Moses Montefiore Fund (established by Montefiore to assist the Jewish Yishuv in Eretz Israel), led by R. Nathan Marcus Adler, attempted to arrange the sale or lease of the orchard, claiming it was unprofitable. Nevertheless, Montefiore refused to give up ownership of the orchard, which was important to him for reasons beyond profit.
Montefiore, who headed the Sephardic community of London, had a long-standing friendship with R. Nathan Marcus Adler (1803-1890), the Chief Rabbi of the British Empire. The cordial relationship between them, which was accompanied by extensive correspondence, led to cooperation in a variety of community projects, including raising funds for the Jewish Yishuv in Eretz Israel. R. Adler, who by the power of his position as Chief Rabbi headed the United Synagogue, an organization that united all the orthodox communities of Britain, gathered the funds raised by the synagogues and sent them to Eretz Israel through Montefiore's representatives.
[1] double leaf, official stationery (four written pages). Thin paper. 19.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks. Tears to bottom, not affecting text.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $688
Including buyer's premium
Document signed by 14 rabbis, rebbes and prominent members of the Chassidic community of Safed. Safed, Tevet 1880.
A document confirming the appointment of the shochet R. Shlomo Horowitz (a Sadigura Chassid). Including a report of a meeting held to discuss the situation of the shechita in Safed, due to the passing and aging of some of the shochatim, a situation necessitating the appointment of an additional shochet.
The appointment is followed by an additional letter dated Elul 1882, from R. "Shalom Meir son of R. A.Sh." (R. Shalom Meir son of R. Avraham Shlomo of Ludmir, descendant of R. Avraham HaMalach and R. Shlomo of Karlin), who writes that he supports the appointment which was effected while he was away from Safed – "Especially since I know that this is viewed favorably by my relative the rebbe, holy of holies" [of Sadigura?].
The signatories include: R. "Tzvi Aryeh son of the famous rabbi of Olik" [Rebbe Tzvi Aryeh Brandwein (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, p. 584). Son of Rebbe Yosef David Landau of Olik. Served during his father's lifetime as rebbe of Felshtin. He immigrated to Eretz Israel following his father's passing in 1849. Died 1884]; R. "Yosef Yehuda Leib, Rabbi of Rachmastrivka" [R. Yosef Yehuda Leib Shapiro, Rabbi of Rachmastrivka (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 145). Immigrated to Eretz Israel in 1833 and headed the Chassidic settlement in Safed and Tiberias]; R. Mordechai Segal; R. "Avraham, dayan and posek of Odessa" [R. Avraham Rashkovitz, dayan and posek in Odessa. Died ca. 1883]; R. "Yechiel Dov of Mezhibuzh [R. Yechiel Dov "grandson of the Baal Shem Tov" (ca. 1825-ca. 1895), descendant of the Baal Shem Tov and author of Toldot. A prominent Sadigura Chassid and trustee of Kollel Volhyn from 1883]; R. "Refael son of the late rabbi, dayan and posek" [R. Refael Zilberman (1839-1917, later rabbi of Safed. Son of the rabbi of Uman, who passed away in 1872]; R. "Refael son of R. A.D." [of Botoshan]; R. Mendel Auerbach; R. Elazar Reis; R. Mordechai Ze'ev of Tolotchin (Talachyn); R. Avraham David HaKohen of Iași; and other signatories.
[1] leaf. 32 cm. Good-fair condition. Minor stains. Wear and tears to folds, slightly affecting text.
A document confirming the appointment of the shochet R. Shlomo Horowitz (a Sadigura Chassid). Including a report of a meeting held to discuss the situation of the shechita in Safed, due to the passing and aging of some of the shochatim, a situation necessitating the appointment of an additional shochet.
The appointment is followed by an additional letter dated Elul 1882, from R. "Shalom Meir son of R. A.Sh." (R. Shalom Meir son of R. Avraham Shlomo of Ludmir, descendant of R. Avraham HaMalach and R. Shlomo of Karlin), who writes that he supports the appointment which was effected while he was away from Safed – "Especially since I know that this is viewed favorably by my relative the rebbe, holy of holies" [of Sadigura?].
The signatories include: R. "Tzvi Aryeh son of the famous rabbi of Olik" [Rebbe Tzvi Aryeh Brandwein (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, p. 584). Son of Rebbe Yosef David Landau of Olik. Served during his father's lifetime as rebbe of Felshtin. He immigrated to Eretz Israel following his father's passing in 1849. Died 1884]; R. "Yosef Yehuda Leib, Rabbi of Rachmastrivka" [R. Yosef Yehuda Leib Shapiro, Rabbi of Rachmastrivka (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 145). Immigrated to Eretz Israel in 1833 and headed the Chassidic settlement in Safed and Tiberias]; R. Mordechai Segal; R. "Avraham, dayan and posek of Odessa" [R. Avraham Rashkovitz, dayan and posek in Odessa. Died ca. 1883]; R. "Yechiel Dov of Mezhibuzh [R. Yechiel Dov "grandson of the Baal Shem Tov" (ca. 1825-ca. 1895), descendant of the Baal Shem Tov and author of Toldot. A prominent Sadigura Chassid and trustee of Kollel Volhyn from 1883]; R. "Refael son of the late rabbi, dayan and posek" [R. Refael Zilberman (1839-1917, later rabbi of Safed. Son of the rabbi of Uman, who passed away in 1872]; R. "Refael son of R. A.D." [of Botoshan]; R. Mendel Auerbach; R. Elazar Reis; R. Mordechai Ze'ev of Tolotchin (Talachyn); R. Avraham David HaKohen of Iași; and other signatories.
[1] leaf. 32 cm. Good-fair condition. Minor stains. Wear and tears to folds, slightly affecting text.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $400
Sold for: $1,250
Including buyer's premium
Large decorated certificate; the heading reads: "The way of the righteous is like the light of dawn; it shines ever brighter until the day is perfect". Written for Rebbe "Menachem Mendel… president and administrator of the Holy Land" (presumably the Rebbe of Radzymin, who was president of Kollel Polin at that time), signed by 16 prominent members of the Safed community. Safed, [ca. first decade of the 20th century].
The poetic text, written in Ashkenzic cursive script, is set within a decorated frame (in color) – columns and verses in square calligraphic script, in gold ink. The Jews of Safed thank the rebbe for money he had sent.
The list of signees is headed by R. Avraham Yitzchak Heller (d. 1909. Son of R. Shmuel Heller Rabbi of Safed and great-grandfather of Rebbe Avraham Yitzchak Kahn of Toldot Aharon, who was named after him). The other signatories include: R. Shlomo of Warsaw, R. Tuvia Goldzweig, R. Yaakov Sternberg, R. Baruch Kahana, R. Asher Lemel HaKohen, R. Yechiel Aryeh Leib HaKohen Zlatipoler, and others.
The Jews of Safed mention their prayers on his behalf at holy sites, so that the rebbe should merit to have offspring.
The recipient of this certificate is presumably Rebbe Aharon Menachem Mendel Gutterman of Radzymin (1860-1934, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 193-195), leading rebbe in Poland. He headed the Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes fund of Kollel Polin (he visited Eretz Israel in 1929, and donated funds for the partition at the Western Wall). He was the only son of Rebbe Shlomo David Yehoshua of Radzimin. In 1912, he established a yeshiva in Radzymin, where he delivered an occasional lecture. He left behind over one hundred manuscripts, of which only some have been printed. He was the son-in-law of Rebbe Yitzchak Yaakov Rabinowitz of Biala through his first marriage, and of Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno through his second marriage. He was childless. Following his passing, he was succeeded by his nephews R. Yaakov Aryeh Morgenstern of Mishkova and R. Avraham Pinchas Morgenstern of Shedlitz.
[1] large leaf. 41X57 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains and foxing. Wear and folding marks. Tears (repaired). In a passe-partout frame.
The poetic text, written in Ashkenzic cursive script, is set within a decorated frame (in color) – columns and verses in square calligraphic script, in gold ink. The Jews of Safed thank the rebbe for money he had sent.
The list of signees is headed by R. Avraham Yitzchak Heller (d. 1909. Son of R. Shmuel Heller Rabbi of Safed and great-grandfather of Rebbe Avraham Yitzchak Kahn of Toldot Aharon, who was named after him). The other signatories include: R. Shlomo of Warsaw, R. Tuvia Goldzweig, R. Yaakov Sternberg, R. Baruch Kahana, R. Asher Lemel HaKohen, R. Yechiel Aryeh Leib HaKohen Zlatipoler, and others.
The Jews of Safed mention their prayers on his behalf at holy sites, so that the rebbe should merit to have offspring.
The recipient of this certificate is presumably Rebbe Aharon Menachem Mendel Gutterman of Radzymin (1860-1934, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 193-195), leading rebbe in Poland. He headed the Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes fund of Kollel Polin (he visited Eretz Israel in 1929, and donated funds for the partition at the Western Wall). He was the only son of Rebbe Shlomo David Yehoshua of Radzimin. In 1912, he established a yeshiva in Radzymin, where he delivered an occasional lecture. He left behind over one hundred manuscripts, of which only some have been printed. He was the son-in-law of Rebbe Yitzchak Yaakov Rabinowitz of Biala through his first marriage, and of Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno through his second marriage. He was childless. Following his passing, he was succeeded by his nephews R. Yaakov Aryeh Morgenstern of Mishkova and R. Avraham Pinchas Morgenstern of Shedlitz.
[1] large leaf. 41X57 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dampstains and foxing. Wear and folding marks. Tears (repaired). In a passe-partout frame.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $1,188
Including buyer's premium
Varied collection of letters and documents, signed receipts and printed decorated leaves (some in color and gold ink), including letters from Safed rabbis and rulings. Safed, ca. 1876-1928.
• Ruling signed by R. "Moshe son of R. Sh. of Rudnik", R. "Refael son of the late rabbi, dayan and posek" [R. Refael Zilberman] and R. "Yosef Aryeh son of R. Shlomo HaKohen". Safed, Tammuz 1876. • Letter addressed to R. Moshe Grünwald Rabbi of Khust (author of Arugat HaBosem), signed by R. Menachem Mendel son of R. Yitzchak of Deyzh, R. Moshe Deutsch of Reteag and R. Yitzchak Blau. Safed, Kislev 1902. • Letter in calligraphic script, addressed to Sir Moses Montefiore, acknowledging his donation for brides and the infirm, signed by R. Moshe Charag (trustee of the Austrian Kollel). Safed, Kislev 1884. • Receipt from the Austrian Kollel, with the signatures of seven trustees and leaders of the Kollel. Safed, Nissan 1892. • Letter addressed to rabbis in the United States, on behalf of the Bar Yochai yeshiva in Meron and the old age home, with the signatures of 19 community leaders in Safed, including the signature of R. Yaakov Tzvi Bahr, R. Eliezer Bronfeld, R. Yosef Tzvi Geiger (a renowned Safed artist and activist, at the turn of the 20th century). Safed, Shevat 1925. • Letter regarding the Ezrat HaGalil organization of New York, signed by 11 gabbaim of Safed synagogues. Safed, Sivan 1928.
16 paper items. Size and condition vary. Overall good to good-fair condition.
• Ruling signed by R. "Moshe son of R. Sh. of Rudnik", R. "Refael son of the late rabbi, dayan and posek" [R. Refael Zilberman] and R. "Yosef Aryeh son of R. Shlomo HaKohen". Safed, Tammuz 1876. • Letter addressed to R. Moshe Grünwald Rabbi of Khust (author of Arugat HaBosem), signed by R. Menachem Mendel son of R. Yitzchak of Deyzh, R. Moshe Deutsch of Reteag and R. Yitzchak Blau. Safed, Kislev 1902. • Letter in calligraphic script, addressed to Sir Moses Montefiore, acknowledging his donation for brides and the infirm, signed by R. Moshe Charag (trustee of the Austrian Kollel). Safed, Kislev 1884. • Receipt from the Austrian Kollel, with the signatures of seven trustees and leaders of the Kollel. Safed, Nissan 1892. • Letter addressed to rabbis in the United States, on behalf of the Bar Yochai yeshiva in Meron and the old age home, with the signatures of 19 community leaders in Safed, including the signature of R. Yaakov Tzvi Bahr, R. Eliezer Bronfeld, R. Yosef Tzvi Geiger (a renowned Safed artist and activist, at the turn of the 20th century). Safed, Shevat 1925. • Letter regarding the Ezrat HaGalil organization of New York, signed by 11 gabbaim of Safed synagogues. Safed, Sivan 1928.
16 paper items. Size and condition vary. Overall good to good-fair condition.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue
Auction 74 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 15, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $2,000
Including buyer's premium
Large collection of letters and manuscripts, mostly handwritten by R. Berish Salz (a rabbi of Safed), and some handwritten by other Safed rabbis. Safed, ca. 1910s-1930s.
The collection includes: • Tena'im for the betrothal of R. Berish son of R. Avraham Salz, to the daughter of R. Yaakov Yitzchak Unger of Safed, in Cheshvan 1911. • Drafts of letters and essays of Torah thoughts, handwritten by R. Berish Salz, including: Draft of a letter to R. Nachum Weidenfeld, author of Chazon Nachum, signed by R. Berish ("servant to worshippers of G-d, Yissachar Berish Salz son of R. Ch.A. Salz, grandson of the Taz"); draft of a letter with his signature, containing an essay on the topic of Matza made from wheat grown in an unpunctured pot, 1930s (he mentions his teacher the Ridvaz, rabbi of Safed, and suggests to give the essay to R. Sh.A. Weber to have it printed in the Kol Torah monthly); transcript of responsa by his teacher, R. Sh.A. Alfandari; collection of "Torah novellae heard from my father", Safed, 1941 (written by another person, possibly the son of R. Berish Salz. Contains a copy of a transcript of a letter sent to R. Y.M. Charlap, dated 13th Tammuz 1941); and other drafts of letters and notes of Torah novellae.
R. Yissachar Berish Salz (1893-1961), a leading Safed rabbi. An outstanding Torah scholar and kabbalist, he devoted his entire life to Torah study, and served as dean and posek in Safed. He came from one of the oldest families of the Safed community. His father was R. Chaim Avraham Salz (descendant of R. David HaLevi, the Taz) and his father-in-law was R. Yaakov Yitzchak Unger (descendant of Rebbe Mordechai David Unger of Dombrowa). He was a close disciple of the Ridvaz (R. Yaakov David Wilowsky, rabbi of Safed) and dean of the latter's yeshiva Bnei Yaakov – Ridvaz in Safed. He was also a close disciple and confidant of R. Sh.A. Alfandari, during the latter's tenure as rabbi of Safed, and served as scribe in his Beit Din (this collection includes responsa from R. Alfandari, who was a Torah scholar of Turkey and the East, arranged and written in Ashkenazic script, presumably that of R. Berish Salz. These responsa are printed in the book Responsa of the Saba Kaddisha). He exchanged halachic and friendly correspondence with R. Tzvi Pesach Frank and other rabbis in Eretz Israel.
55 written leaves. Size and condition vary.
The collection includes: • Tena'im for the betrothal of R. Berish son of R. Avraham Salz, to the daughter of R. Yaakov Yitzchak Unger of Safed, in Cheshvan 1911. • Drafts of letters and essays of Torah thoughts, handwritten by R. Berish Salz, including: Draft of a letter to R. Nachum Weidenfeld, author of Chazon Nachum, signed by R. Berish ("servant to worshippers of G-d, Yissachar Berish Salz son of R. Ch.A. Salz, grandson of the Taz"); draft of a letter with his signature, containing an essay on the topic of Matza made from wheat grown in an unpunctured pot, 1930s (he mentions his teacher the Ridvaz, rabbi of Safed, and suggests to give the essay to R. Sh.A. Weber to have it printed in the Kol Torah monthly); transcript of responsa by his teacher, R. Sh.A. Alfandari; collection of "Torah novellae heard from my father", Safed, 1941 (written by another person, possibly the son of R. Berish Salz. Contains a copy of a transcript of a letter sent to R. Y.M. Charlap, dated 13th Tammuz 1941); and other drafts of letters and notes of Torah novellae.
R. Yissachar Berish Salz (1893-1961), a leading Safed rabbi. An outstanding Torah scholar and kabbalist, he devoted his entire life to Torah study, and served as dean and posek in Safed. He came from one of the oldest families of the Safed community. His father was R. Chaim Avraham Salz (descendant of R. David HaLevi, the Taz) and his father-in-law was R. Yaakov Yitzchak Unger (descendant of Rebbe Mordechai David Unger of Dombrowa). He was a close disciple of the Ridvaz (R. Yaakov David Wilowsky, rabbi of Safed) and dean of the latter's yeshiva Bnei Yaakov – Ridvaz in Safed. He was also a close disciple and confidant of R. Sh.A. Alfandari, during the latter's tenure as rabbi of Safed, and served as scribe in his Beit Din (this collection includes responsa from R. Alfandari, who was a Torah scholar of Turkey and the East, arranged and written in Ashkenazic script, presumably that of R. Berish Salz. These responsa are printed in the book Responsa of the Saba Kaddisha). He exchanged halachic and friendly correspondence with R. Tzvi Pesach Frank and other rabbis in Eretz Israel.
55 written leaves. Size and condition vary.
Category
Eretz Israel: Jerusalem, Safed and Elsewhere –
Letters, Documents and Books
Catalogue