Auction 92 Part 1 Rare and Important Items
Mishnat Chachamim, novellae on the Six Orders of the Mishnah, Parts I-VI, by R. Meshulam Feivish HaLevi Horowitz of Kremenets (father-in-law of R. Avraham HaMalach, and great-grandfather of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin). Ostroh: Aharon son of Yonah, [1796]. First edition. Six parts in six volumes. Unique copy with title pages for each of the six orders (see below).
On verso of the title page of Nezikin, ownership inscription (partially deleted), handwritten and signed by R. Betzalel Margolies Rabbi of Ostroh. Additional signature in the heading of leaf 1 of this part: "Betzalel Margolies".
R. Betzalel Margolies Rabbi of Ostroh (d. 1821; Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 364-365), son of R. Meir Margolies Rabbi of Ostroh (ca. 1708 – 1790; prominent disciple of the Baal Shem Tov and one of his first associates; author of Meir Netivim and Or Olam), and son-in-law of R. Yehoshua of Drohobych. Served at first as rabbi of Zvhil. After the passing of his father in 1790, he succeeded him as rabbi of Ostroh, a position he held for over thirty years, until his passing. He was renowned as a pious and humble Torah scholar and kabbalist. By virtue of his position as rabbi of Ostroh, he wrote approbations to many books, including prominent Chassidic works published in those times (as well as the present work). In his approbation to Shivchei HaBaal Shem Tov, he relates teachings of the Baal Shem Tov which he heard from his father: "...and as I heard from my father... who from his youth was one of the Torah scholars associated with the Baal Shem Tov, and R. Meir would frequently extol his virtues...". R. Betzalel was a talented author and poet, and wrote many of his approbations in form of poem (Mazkeret LiGedolei Ostroh, p. 271). He authored Keter Shabbat (unpublished). R. Betzalel was closely associated with R. Zusha of Anipoli, and would host him whenever the latter visited Ostroh. Some of his Torah thoughts are published in Siftei Tzadikim by R. Pinchas of Dinovitz.
The book opens with approbations by the Noda BiYehuda, the Haflaah, R. Shaul Rabbi of Amsterdam, R. Betzalel Margolies Rabbi of Ostroh, R. Refael HaKohen Rabbi of Hamburg and other rabbis. Approbations by R. Eliezer Kalir Rabbi of Kolín and R. David Tzvi Auerbach Rabbi of Kremenets (father-in-law of R. Natan of Breslov) appear at the beginning of Order Nashim.
The author, R. Meshulam Feivish HaLevi Horowitz (born ca. 1710, died in Kislev between 1785 and 1790), was born and lived his entire life in Kremenets (Eastern Galicia), where he taught Torah. In his approbation to this book, R. Eliezer Kalir attests that R. Meshulam Feivish was holy from birth, and praises him for his exceptional greatness in Torah. The Noda BiYehuda, in his approbation, uncharacteristically extolled his virtues, comparing him to the Torah scholars of early generations.
His daughter Gittel wed R. Avraham the Malach, son of the Maggid of Mezeritch (their grandson was R. Yisrael of Ruzhin). Many stories of this match circulate among the Chassidic dynasties of his descendants. Rebbe Chaim Meir Yechiel of Mogielnica relates that when the Maggid of Mezeritch sought "a daughter of a Torah scholar" for his son R. Avraham, he asked that Heaven reveal to him the greatest Torah scholar of that generation, and he was informed that R. Feivel of Kremenets was the one (Toldot HaNiflaot, Warsaw 1899, no. 123). Another source recounts: "…our grandfather, the great Maggid of Mezeritch desired to match the daughter of R. Meshulam Feivish with his son R. Avraham the Malach since she was the daughter of a Torah scholar who studied Torah in holiness and purity, and he sent several of his disciples to the rabbi to suggest the match" (Toldot HaMishnat Chachamim, p. 694, at the end of the book Mishnat Chachamim, Machon Beit Avot edition, Brooklyn New York, 2014. See there for more stories about this match, about his wondrous meeting with the Maggid of Mezeritch and about his veneration of the great holiness of the Maggid and of his son R. Avraham the Malach).
Copy in six volumes. Zera'im: [3], 33 leaves. Mo'ed: [1], 15 leaves. Nashim: [1], 22 leaves. Nezikin: [1], 20 leaves. Kodashim: [1], 24 leaves. Taharot: [1], 45, [1] leaves. Final two leaves of order Taharot bound out of sequence. 19.5-20.5 cm. Overall good condition. Stains. Worming, slightly affecting text. Worming to several leaves of order Taharot, affecting text, and extensive worming to first two leaves of order Nezikin, affecting text. Leaves trimmed with damage to headings in several places. New bindings (uniform).
This volume includes six title pages – one at the beginning of each order. The first is a general, engraved title page. The next two are title pages printed especially for Orders Mo'ed and Nashim (bearing the titles of the orders). The fourth one, bound before Nezikin, is identical to the first engraved title page. The last two, bound before Kodashim and Taharot, are general title pages, without engravings. The Bibliography of the Hebrew Book records a copy with four title pages only (without title pages before Kodashim and Taharot).
Degel Machaneh Efraim, Chassidic teachings on the Torah, by R. Moshe Chaim Efraim Ashkenazi Rabbi of Sudilkov (Sudylkiv), grandson of the Baal Shem Tov. Korets: printer not indicated, [1810]. First edition.
Copy of R. Aharon Moshe MiGeza Tzvi of Brody, with his signature on the title page.
Other inscriptions and signatures. Early stamps of Chassidic Batei Midrash in Jerusalem.
Two glosses (one trimmed) in Rashi script, quoting teachings of the Baal Shem Tov mentioned in other Chassidic works.
R. Aharon Moshe MiGeza Tzvi of Brody (1775-1845), Chassidic leader, disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and R. Uri of Strelisk, amongst the first Chassidim to immigrate to Jerusalem (in 1799) and one of the founders of the Chassidic settlement there. His gravestone on Har HaZetim is inscribed with titles of praise which were rarely used in those times in Jerusalem.
Degel Machanah Efraim is an early Chassidic book. This book is one of the first and most reliable sources of the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, which the author, R. Moshe Chaim Efraim of Sudilkov (d. 1800), grandson of the Baal Shem Tov (son of the Baal Shem Tov's pious daughter Odel), received directly from him. In his renowned letter to his brother-in-law R. Gershon of Kitov in 1752, the Baal Shem Tov refers to this grandson as a tremendous genius.
The book includes approbations by foremost Chassidic leaders: R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, the Maggid R. Yisrael of Kozhnitz, R. Yaakov Yitzchak HaLevi Horowitz the Chozeh of Lublin, R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel Rabbi of Apta, and the Be'er Mayim Chaim. Selections by the Baal Shem Tov at the end of the book.
Chassidic leaders greatly praised the holiness of this book, and its ability to inspire whoever studies it with fear of G-d, as R. Levi Yitzchak wrote in his approbation to the book: "I am convinced that this book will enthuse the hearts of our Jewish brethren to worship G-d".
All the approbations emphasize the author's lineage as grandson of the Baal Shem Tov, and that the book is replete with the latter's essential teachings.
[2], 114 leaves. 20 cm. Most leaves in good-fair condition, final leaves in fair condition. Stains, including dampstains and traces of past dampness. Worming, slightly affecting text, repaired with paper. Minor marginal open tears to first leaves, and open tears affecting text to final leaves, repaired with paper. Handwritten replacement of missing text on final leaf; this leaf and several other leaves may have been supplied from a different copy. Leaves trimmed close to text in several places. Stamps (some rubbed off). Inscriptions. New leather binding.
Tehillim with the Rashi and Metzudot commentaries, Yiddish translation and Seder Maamadot by the Apter Rebbe. Warsaw: R. Nathan Schriftgisser, 1864. Separate title page for Seder Maamadot.
This edition was published for public benefit by Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz (Niesuchojeze), and it is reputed as a segulah book (see below).
Important copy, received by the rabbi of Stepan from the estate of the rebbe of Neshchiz, publisher of the book, as attested by the handwritten inscription on the title page of Seder Maamadot: "This Tehillim was given to me by the holy rabbi of Stepan, who received it from the estate of the holy rabbi of Neshchiz… belongs to R. Pinchas son of R. Yitzchak Aryeh Leib of Rakhvalivka" (additional signature by the same writer on the title page of Tehillim).
The "holy rabbi of Stepan" mentioned in the inscription is presumably the nephew of Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz – Rebbe Levi Yitzchak of Stepan (son of R. Yosef of Ustila, eldest brother of the rebbe of Neshchiz).
This Tehillim was published by Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz for public benefit, as stated at the foot of the second title page of his book Toldot Yitzchak (Warsaw, 1868 – "in the press of R. Nathan Schriftgisser, who printed in 1864 six thousand copies of the book of Tehillim, published by the rebbe to benefit the public"). Though it was printed at the time in six thousand copies, not many copies are extant today (not in NLI; recorded in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book based on a picture from an auction).
The book Zichron Tov relates (His Charitability, section 4) that in 1864, the rebbe decided to print Tehillim books and sell them at half the cost price, "so that people would choose to buy them and recite Tehillim daily, to benefit the public, and in honor of his ancestor King David, and he printed some six thousand… and bound them in leather". He originally intended to sell each copy for only two gulden, yet after a fire destroyed his Beit Midrash, he raised the price to one ruble each, in order to finance its rebuilding. "As each book was sold, the rebbe would hold it in his hand and bless the recipient of the Tehillim, sometimes kissing the Tehillim before handing it to the buyer". The book further relates that R. Yitzchak of Neshchiz refrained from speaking in public, but in the last year of his life, he departed from this custom and delivered discourses of his novellae on the weekly portion and of his commentary on Tehillim. When presenting the latter, "the Rebbe would hold… the Tehillim he printed in Warsaw, expounding from it his Torah novellae" (ibid, His Torah Novellae, section 11).
The main title page and the title page of Seder Maamadot state that the Maamadot were compiled "according to the renowned Torah scholar… R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta" (the Ohev Yisrael, Apter Rebbe). The approbation of the Ohev Yisrael's son, R. Yitzchak Meir of Zinkov (from the Medzhybizh 1827 edition), is printed on the verso of the title page of Seder Maamadot.
Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz (1789-1868) was the youngest son of Rebbe Mordechai of Neshchiz. A close disciple of R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, he married his granddaughter and transmitted many Torah thoughts in his name. He was also a disciple of R. Baruch of Medzhybizh and of the Chozeh of Lublin. He was appointed rebbe at a young age, and held this position for over sixty years. He was reputed for his prayers, the wonders he performed, and his Heavenly revelations. He was revered by all sects of Chassidism for his holiness and exceptional piety, and as one "who facilitates the flow of Heavenly bounty to the entire Jewish people" (as stated in a letter by R. Baruch Shapira, prominent Chassid of the Peshischa and Kotsk dynasties). His renowned disciples include: Rebbe Elimelech of Grodzisk, Rebbe Yaakov Tzvi of Parysów and others.
His nephew, R. Levi Yitzchak Katzenellenbogen of Stepan (presumably born after 1810 – d. Tevet 1874, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, p. 27), son of R. Yosef of Ustila (1764-1830, son of R. Mordechai of Neshchiz and eldest brother of R. Yitzchak of Neshchiz), son-in-law of R. Yisrael Dov Ber, the Maggid of Stepan (d. Cheshvan 1851; a prominent rebbe, grandson of R. Michel of Zlotchov). In his second marriage, he married Rebbetzin Mushkat Gitel, descendant of R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (Zichron Tov, p. 89). He succeeded his father-in-law as rebbe in Stepan in 1852, and many Chassidim flocked to his court. He was very closely associated with his illustrious uncle Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz, frequenting his court and corresponding with him (Zichron Tov, p. 72, letter 11). In his approbation to Toldot Yitzchak, he writes about his holy uncle in exalted terms.
Bound at the end of the book are two handwritten leaves by an unknown writer. One leaf contains a copying of a section from Sefer HaGan VeDerech Moshe (first printed in Lviv 1792); the second leaf comprises homiletic teachings on Parashat VaEtchanan and Parashat Mas'ei (quoting a teaching heard in the name of the rabbi of Berditchev).
Handwritten dedication on the front endpaper (dated 1954).
Complete copy. [1], 303, [1]; 31 leaves (leaf following title page mistakenly bound after Book of Tehillim) + [2] handwritten leaves bound at end of book. 19 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains, including many dampstains. Tears, including open tears, wear and blemishes, affecting text in several places. Sellotape repairs. Margins trimmed with damage to page headings in several places. Several detached leaves. Old binding, damaged and partially detached.
Toldot Yitzchak, Chassidic essays on the Torah, on the Jewish Holidays and on Tehillim, by Rebbe Yitzchak Shapiro of Neshchiz (Niesuchojeże). Warsaw: Nathan Schriftgiesser, 1868. First edition. Two title pages. Author's name printed on first title page in large, gilt letters.
Copy of Rebbe Baruch Halberstam of Gorlitz, with his signature at the top of the first title page.
Rebbe Baruch Halberstam of Gorlitz-Bnei Brak (1911-1982), son of Rebbe Elisha Halberstam of Gorlitz (1860-1941; perished in Siberia). His father was a leading Galician rebbe (son of Rebbe Baruch Halberstam of Gorlitz – son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, and son-in-law of his uncle R. Mordechai Dov of Hornosteipel). After the Holocaust, R. Baruch immigrated to Eretz Israel and established his court in Bnei Brak, where he was known as a pious and humble man, who worshipped G-d with utmost devotion.
Noted on the second title page, after the name of the printer: "printed in 1864 six thousand copies of the book of Tehillim, published by the rebbe [Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz] to benefit the public". Reputedly, when delivering the teachings on Tehillim printed in this book, R. Yitzchak of Neshchiz held and read from the Tehillim printed in Warsaw (Zichron Tov, Regarding His Novellae, no. 11; for further information about this Tehillim edition, see previous item).
With approbations of leading Chassidic rebbes, the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, the Maggid of Trisk, Rebbe Yehoshua of Ostrova and Rebbe Elimelech of Grodzisk. Rebbe Elimelech of Grodzisk writes in his approbation of the segulah in possessing this book: "It is fitting for every Jewish person to bring this book into his home so as to procure enduring blessing".
Throughout his lifetime, the author, Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz, rarely lectured in public. However, in the last year of his life, he delivered teachings on the Torah and on Tehillim almost daily. These teachings were written down and edited by his disciple and faithful assistant, R. Yitzchak Landau, who published them in this book several months after the author's passing (as recounted in length in Zichron Tov, by the aforementioned R. Yitzchak Landau).
Rebbe Yitzchak of Neshchiz (1789-1868) was the youngest son of Rebbe Mordechai of Neshchiz. He was a close disciple of R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, whose granddaughter he married, and transmitted many Torah thoughts in his name. He was also a disciple of R. Baruch of Medzhybizh and of the Chozeh of Lublin. Appointed Rebbe at a young age, he held this position for over sixty years. He was reputed for his prayers, the wonders he performed and his Heavenly revelations. He was revered by all Chassidic sects for his holiness and exceptional piety. Among his renowned disciples: Rebbe Elimelech of Grodzisk, Rebbe Yaakov Tzvi of Parysów and others.
[4], 32; 30; 22; 32 leaves. Leaf 24 of first sequence erroneously bound after leaf 26. Approx. 24.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Stains and wear. A few tears. Title page reinforced with paper on verso. Extensive worming. Inscriptions and scribbles on second title page and in other places. New binding.
Revid HaZahav, Torah novellae and selections, by Rebbe Yisrael Dov Ber Gelernter of Yashnitza (Jasienica Rosielna), disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and R. Naftali of Ropshitz, Part I. Lviv: Avraham Yitzchak Menkes, [1879]. First edition.
The book was passed down from generation to generation amongst rebbes of the Głogów-Ropshitz-Dombrowa dynasties. With signatures of Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Głogów, and stamps and signatures of his descendants, rebbes from the Rabin family.
On the title page and p. 49b, signatures of Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Głogów: "Menachem Mendel Rabin" (the signatures were compared to the photocopy of a letter signed by R. Menachem Mendel Rabin, rabbi of Głogów, published in the Nachalat Tzvi anthology [issue XII, pp. 120-122]). Signature on the final leaf and at the top of several pages: "Menachem", "Mendel" (presumably also in his handwriting).
On p. 49b, signature: "Meir Rabin of Dombrowa" (presumably Rebbe Meir Rubin [the first] of Dombrowa – see below). Signatures on several other leaves: "Meir", "Meir Rabin".
On the title page, signature of Rebbe Shalom Rabin of Reisha (Rzeszów), with his stamp: "Shalom Rabin, rabbi of Ruska Wieś by Rzeszów".
Stamps on the title page and other pages: "Book repairs by R. Shalom – Reisha".
Later stamps of R. Meir Rabin (the second) of Dombrowa, grandson of the brothers Rebbe Chaim Yechiel Rabin of Dombrowa and Rebbe Shalom of Reisha.
Rebbe Menachem Mendel Rabin (Rubin) of Głogów (1806-1873), grandson of R. Naftali of Ropshitz. Son of Rebbe Asher Yeshaya of Ropshitz and son-in-law of Rebbe Meir HaLevi of Apta, author of Or LaShamayim. Upon the passing of his father in 1845, he began serving as rebbe in Głogów. His Torah thoughts were published in Likutei R. Menachem Mendel at the end of the book Or Yesha of his father Rebbe Asher Yeshaya of Ropshitz.
His son Rebbe Meir Rabin (Rubin) of Dombrowa (Dąbrowa Tarnowska; 1829-1898), son-in-law of Rebbe Yosef Unger of Dombrowa. From 1877, he succeeded his father-in-law as rebbe of Dombrowa, settling in Reisha towards the end of his life.
Rebbe Meir's sons include: Rebbe Chaim Yechiel Rubin of Dombrowa (1854 – perished in the Holocaust), and Rebbe Shalom Rubin of Reisha (1857-1924) – whose signature and stamp appear in this book.
Rebbe Meir Rubin (the second) of Dombrowa (perished in the Holocaust), succeeded his grandfather as rebbe of Dombrowa. The stamps in this book indicate that he was the son of R. Menachem Mendel Rabin (Rubin) son of Chaim Yechiel Rubin of Dombrowa, and grandson of Rebbe Shalom of Reisha.
The author, Rebbe Yisrael Dov Ber of Yashnitza (1807-1867), disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and close disciple of R. Naftali of Ropshitz. He was also a disciple of the Ateret Tzvi of Zidichov, R. Mendel of Rimanov and R. Shimon of Yaroslav (teachings are quoted in his name in Bnei Yissachar, essay 3, where he is referred to as "one of the colleagues, the kabbalist R. Yisrael Dov", and the Bnei Yissachar holds his teachings in high regard).
[4], 81 leaves (without leaves 82-86 with list of pre-subscribers). 24 cm. Fair condition. Stains, tears and wear. Open tears affecting text, with paper repairs, some old (perhaps by the aforementioned book repair firm in Reisha). Stamps and inscriptions. New leather binding.
Shaar HaTefillah, on the topic of prayer, by R. Chaim Thirer Rabbi of Czernowitz (Chernivtsi), author of Be'er Mayim Chaim and Sidduro shel Shabbat. [Sudylkiv]: Eliezer son of Mordechai Bilitch, [1825]. First edition.
Copy of Rebbe Shlomo Friedman of Chortkov-Tel Aviv, with the rebbe's stamp on the title page.
Rebbe Shlomo Friedman of Chortkov (1894-1959), son of Rebbe Nachum Mordechai Friedman of Chortkov and son-in-law of his uncle R. Yisrael of Sadigura. His paternal grandfather was Rebbe Yisrael Friedman of Chortkov, and his maternal grandfather was Rebbe Shlomo Friedman of Sadigura. His father Rebbe Nachum Mordechai fled with his family from Vienna shortly before the Holocaust, immigrated to Eretz Israel and established his court in Tel Aviv. His son R. Shlomo succeeded him as rebbe after his passing, and his is the fourth and last rebbe of the Chortkov dynasty. Author of Divrei Shlomo.
The Shomer Emunim writes wondrous things about the remarkable holiness of this book: "The holy book Shaar HaTefillah was composed in the Holy Land in holiness and purity, and with extraordinary passion. On several occasions, he was so enthused that he was unable to write, and his attendant had to write while he dictated. An awe-inspiring incident once occurred while he was preparing one of the essays. At that time, he was in Meron by the gravesite of R. Shimon bar Yochai, and the attendant prepared ink and paper to write down the essay. As soon as R. Chaim began relating the essay with exceptional fervor, the attendant saw him flying in the air, and he continued dictating while the attendant wrote with fear and awe, until the essay was complete, and this discloses the extent of the book's exceptional holiness".
Printed here for the first time is the author's well known responsum regarding the recitation of "Leshem Yichud", in which he rebuts the opinion of the Noda BiYehuda, who criticized its recital.
The author, R. Chaim Thirer of Czernowitz (ca. 1740s – ca. 1813), was a Chassidic leader, disciple of the Maggid of Zlotchov, and served as rabbi of Mohyliv-Podilskyi, Botoşani, Kishinev (Chișinău) and Czernowitz. He was reputed as a holy man, and wondrous tales about him abound. According to Chassidic tradition, after his immersion before Shabbat, his form would change and he would grow taller by a handbreadth. Near the end of his life, he immigrated to Eretz Israel and settled in Safed in 1813, where he composed Shaar HaTefillah and was later buried. His fundamental works Sidduro shel Shabbat, Be'er Mayim Chaim and Shaar HaTefillah are unique for their clarity and conviction, as well as the enthusiastic Chassidic emotion which they exude. His books were published in many editions and are considered foundations of Chassidic teachings.
Handwritten inscription on p. 32a: "Belongs to the philanthropist R. Moshe Katz". On p. 33b: "Monday, Parashat Shelach 1847". On the final page: "Tuesday, Parashat Emor 1849".
Stamp on p. 97b: "This book belongs to the Beit Midrash of R. Mordechai Orenstein, Botoshan".
10; 102, 113-115 leaves. 21.5 cm. Bluish paper. Good-fair condition. Stains. Worming affecting text, mostly repaired with paper. Open tears to title page, repaired with paper. Open tears to several other leaves, slightly affecting text in several places, repaired in part with paper. Several leaves possibly supplied from a different copy. Old binding, with blemishes.
The book was printed in Sudylkiv. The word "Mohyliv" was printed in large letters on the title page, but this is an intentional deception, for the preceding smaller print states that the book was printed in Sudylkiv in the printing press of R. Eliezer son of Mordechai Bilitch, for R. Tzvi Ze'ev Rabinstein, "formerly printer in Mohyliv" (see: A. Yaari, The Hebrew Printing in Mohyliv-on-the-Dniester, Kiryat Sefer, 23, p. 312).
Arvei Nachal, on the Torah portions, by R. David Shlomo Eybeschutz, rabbi of Soroca. [Sudylkiv: printer not indicated, 1825-1826]. First edition. Two parts in two volumes.
The author, R. David Shlomo Eybeschutz (1755-1813, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 501-503), was a prominent Chassidic leader and posek, and served as rabbi of Soroca. In 1809, he immigrated to Eretz Israel and settled in Safed, where he was ultimately buried. His relative R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdychiv praises him in his approbation to Levushei Serad as "astute and well-versed in Torah as the sages of old, and all his deeds are performed for the sake of Heaven". R. Eybeschutz authored many compositions, including the famous halachic work Levushei Serad. His book Arvei Nachal became a classic Chassidic text, reprinted in over 20 editions.
Copy of Rebbe Chaim Meir Yechiel Shapiro of Drohobych, with many of his stamps on the title pages and other leaves in both volumes: "Chaim Meir Yechiel Shapiro Sadagura"; "Chaim Meir Yechiel Shapiro Drohobych (Galicia)".
Rebbe Chaim Meir Yechiel Shapira (1864-1924, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 607-610), was born in Sadigura and named after his grandfather the rebbe of Mogelnitza. He was a descendant of the Maggid of Kozhnitz and R. Elimelech of Lizhensk. His mother was the daughter of Rebbe Avraham Yaakov of Sadigura, granddaughter of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin. He served as rebbe in Drohobych. After WWI, he settled in Vienna, where he established the Yishuv Eretz Israel society, and in 1922, he immigrated to Eretz Israel with his family.
Stamps in the first volume: "Dov Tzvi Sad-[?]"; "Yosef Abeles of Belz[?]".
Two volumes. Vol. I: [2], 98; 41 leaves. Vol. II: [1], 43-166 leaves. Lacking final two leaves. 22.5 cm. Vol. I in fair-good condition, vol. II in good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Wear. Worming, affecting text. Tears, including minor open tears to several leaves, slightly affecting text. Paper repairs to both sides of title page of vol. I, affecting text on verso. Leaves trimmed with damage to headings in several places. Stamps. New bindings.
Two parallel editions of the book are known, with several typographic differences between them. Lieberman asserts that one of them is the first edition, and the second, "an intermediate edition" (see: Ch. Lieberman, Ohel Rachel, I, New York 1980, pp. 372-373; listed as such in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book). According to the differences listed by Lieberman, both of the present volumes are from the first edition.
Neot Deshe, responsa on Shulchan Aruch, by Rebbe David Shlomo Eybeschutz, author of Arvei Nachal and Levushei Serad. Lviv: Berel Leib Nechles, 1861. First edition.
Copy of the kabbalist R. Yitzchak Eizik Weisz of Svaliava, with his signature at the top of the title page, and stamp: "Izsak Weisz Rabbiner Szolyva". Several glosses and emendations, presumably mostly (or all) handwritten by R. Yitzchak Eizik. Additional signature at the top of leaf 60: "Sender Schub".
R. Yitzchak Eizik Weisz (1824-1894), rabbi of Svaliava and later head of the Munkacs Beit Din, author of Beit Yitzchak. He was the prime teacher of his nephew, R. Yosef Meir Weisz, first rebbe of Spinka, author of Imrei Yosef. Born in Munkacs to R. Avraham Weisz (who was like a son to R. Yitzchak Eizik of Kaliv). R. Yitzchak Eizik Weisz was a progenitor of Chassidut in Transylvania in the mid-19th century, and the disciple of foremost rebbes: Rebbe Tzvi Elimelech of Dinov author of Bnei Yissaschar, Rebbe Yehuda Tzvi of Rozdil author of Daat Kedoshim (the book was compiled by R. Yitzchak Eizik Weisz), Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yitzchak Eizik of Zidichov (who acclaimed him as one of the "sixty mighty men surrounding him", and relied upon him to edit his writings in Chassidut and Kabbalah). He also frequented the courts of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, Rebbe Chaim of Kosov, Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Rimanov and Rebbe Meir of Premishlan. His son-in-law was Rebbe Elimelech Lőwy, son of the first rebbe of Tosh R. Meshulam Feish Lőwy. The Maharshag, R. Shimon Grünfeld Rabbi of Szemihály described R. Yitzchak Eizik: "and I knew that he was a great Kabbalist, almost unique in the country in this wisdom" (Responsa Maharshag, part I, Orach Chaim section 30). From his large collection of writings, only the following were published: Toldot Yitzchak on the Torah, Divrei Yitzchak, and Beit Yitzchak on Tractate Megillah.
6 leaves at end of book: two responsa by R. Shlomo Kluger.
[3], 128, 6 leaves. 37 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. Wear and tears. Tears to leaf 33, with old paper repairs. Stamps. New binding.
Etz Chaim, kabbalah of the Arizal by R. Chaim Vital. Lviv: S.L. Kugel, Lewin et Comp., 1864.
Copy of R. Shmuel Fränkel of Dorog (Hajdúdorog), with an ownership inscription in his handwriting and with his signature at the top of the title page: "G-d granted me this, Shmuel Fränkel MiBach". Stamps of his son-in-law R. Yaakov Tzvi Katz Rabbi of Hajdúszoboszló.
R. Shmuel Fränkel (1815-1881), prominent Chassidic rabbi in Hungary, renowned as an exalted Tzadik and wonder-worker. Close disciple of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He also frequented the court of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska. He lived in Komádi (Hungary; earning the title of "R. Shmuel Komader"), and in Berettyóújfalu. He would sign "MiBach", and is referred to as such on the title page of his book Imrei Shefer (according to some, this acronym stands for "MiBeit Chalfan", while others interpret it as "MiHar Chadash", after his place of residence Berettyóújfalu). In 1874, he was appointed rabbi of Hajdúdorog, Hungary. His descendants include many prominent rabbis and personalities. The Torah institutions of the Dorog Chassidut today were established in his memory.
[2], 2-99 leaves. 36.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Stamps. New binding.
In his foreword on the verso of the title page, the publisher states that the book was edited and published in accordance with the detailed instructions of his teacher, the rebbe of Zidichov.
Mareh Yechezkel and Shaarei Tzion, responsa and Talmudic novellae, by R. Yechezkel Paneth Rabbi of Karlsburg. Sighetu Marmației: Maramaroscher Actien-Buchdruckerei, [1875]. First edition, published by the author's son, Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Deyzh.
Approbation by the Divrei Chaim of Sanz (with blessings for those who purchase the book: "…those who love Torah and are fearful of G-d's word should bring blessing into their home by purchasing the book at full price… the merit of the holy author will stand for us to be saved speedily…"). Approbation by the Yitav Lev Rabbi of Sighet (who blesses: "…every person should purchase the book for the imposed price… in this merit G-d will fulfill all the hearts' desires…").
On on the front endpaper, inscription handwritten (unsigned) by the publisher, Rebbe Menachem Mendel, first rebbe of Deyzh, dedicating the book as a wedding gift to R. Aharon Tzvi son of R. Azriel Eizik Rabbi of Shomkut (Șomcuta).
On the title page, stamp of the Tekendorf (Teaca, Teke) rabbinate, and stamp of R. Levi Yitzchak Muller Rabbi of Niresh (Mireșu Mare). Some handwritten glosses. Handwritten inscriptions on the endpaper.
The author, R. Yechezkel Paneth Rabbi of Karlsburg and Siebenburgen (1783-1845), prominent Torah leader in his times. Close disciple of R. Mendel of Rimanov; Menachem Tzion was published from his notes of the latter's teachings.
His son, whose dedication appears in this book, was R. Menachem Mendel Paneth Rabbi of Deyzh (1818-1885). In 1837, R. Menachem Mendel studied in the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer and was the only young man in the Pressburg yeshiva who donned a Chassidic silk robe on Shabbat. His teacher, the Chatam Sofer, was very fond of him and every Shabbat eve he would stroll and converse with him (he dubbed him "the golden one"). While studying in the yeshiva of the Chatam Sofer, he merited a revelation of Eliyahu HaNavi who greeted him in the Beit Midrash, in the disguise of a poor person. In 1842, he was appointed rabbi of Urişor, and in 1858, of Deyzh. From ca. 1855, he served as chief rabbi of Siebenburgen (Transylvania). He authored Maaglei Tzedek on the Torah and a series of responsa books Avnei Tzedek, Shaarei Tzedek and Mishpat Tzedek.
The recipient of the book, R. Aharon Tzvi Keller (1860-1928), was a disciple of the Chatan Sofer. In 1880, he married the daughter of R. Yaakov Koppel Lichtenstein Rabbi of Betlen and Vásárhely. He served as rabbi of Vásárhely and Tekendorf. After the passing of his father R. Azriel Eizik Keller in 1904, he succeeded him as rabbi of Shomkut (Encyclopedia L'Yahadut Romania, II, pp. 724-725).
[5], 2-106, [3] leaves. 37 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears and worming, repaired in part with tape. New leather binding.
Sidduro shel Shabbat, Parts I & II, kabbalistic and Chassidic teachings regarding the holiness of Shabbat, and Halachic responsa, by Rebbe Chaim of Czernowitz (Chernivtsi). Mohyliv-Podilskyi: [Tzvi Ze'ev son of David Rabinstein, 1813]. First edition.
The author, R. Chaim Thirer of Czernowitz (ca. 1740s – ca. 1813), was a Chassidic leader, disciple of the Maggid of Zlotchov, and served as rabbi of Mohyliv-Podilskyi, Botoşani, Kishinev (Chișinău) and Czernowitz. He was reputed as a holy man, and wondrous tales about him abound. According to Chassidic tradition, after his immersion before Shabbat, his form would change and he would grow taller by a handbreadth. Near the end of his life, he immigrated to Eretz Israel and settled in Safed in 1813, where he composed Shaar HaTefillah and was later buried. His fundamental works Sidduro shel Shabbat, Shaar HaTefillah and Be'er Mayim Chaim are unique for their clarity and conviction, as well as the enthusiastic Chassidic emotion which they exude. His books were distributed and published in many editions and are considered foundations of Chassidic teachings.
This book is the only one printed in the lifetime of the author, before he travelled to Eretz Israel. The book was recognized as a fundamental Chassidic work, and until this day, regular lectures are delivered based on it. Chassidim of all times had set classes on it in preparation for Shabbat, as the author writes in his preface.
This book became well-known and accepted as soon as it was published. R. Mordechai of Kremenets (son of the Maggid of Zlotchov) writes in his approbation to Shaar HaTefillah: "And he already has a reputation from his book Sidduro shel Shabbat, an awesome volume… whoever studies it enjoys it immensely". R. Yehoshua of Ostrów praised the book: "The holy words of Rabbeinu entice every single Jew to serve G-d" (Or Yekarot by R. Sh. Ch. Porush, II, 175).
On the final page, stamp of Rebbe Yitzchak of Bender (trimmed): "Yitzchak Wertheim ---".
Rebbe Yitzchak Wertheim of Bender (d. 1911), grandson of R. Aryeh Leib of Bender (Bendery), who was the brother of R. Moshe Tzvi of Savran (the family descends from the illustrious R. Shimshon Wertheimer of Vienna). Son-in-law of Rebbe Yosef of Radvil. He passed away in 1911, and three days later, his Beit Midrash burned down. His book Be'erot HaMayim was published based on his manuscript by Machon Beit Aharon VeYisrael (Jerusalem, 1998). The rebbes of the Bender dynasty were associated with the courts of the Ruzhin and Sadigura dynasties throughout the generations.
Stamps (indistinct) on the title page: "Avraham Abish Segal Kanner, here Iași" – R. Avraham Abish Kanner of Chechiav (Czchów). His father, Rebbe Yaakov Shimshon Kanner founded the Chechiav Chassidic dynasty. In 1929, R. Avraham Abish was appointed rebbe in Botoşani, later relocating to Iași. Following WWII, he immigrated to Eretz Israel and served as rebbe in Haifa.
Two parts in one volume; part I missing 6 leaves: [1], 2-12; 108; [1], 64 leaves. Lacking [5] leaves after title page of part I, with author's preface to this part, and [1] leaf at end of part I with editor's afterword and errata. Leaves 2-12, with author's preface to part II, bound at beginning of part I. Approx. 19 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including many dampstains and dark stains. Worming, affecting text. Open tears to title page of part I and to margins of many other leaves, not affecting text, repaired with paper. Several leaves supplied from a different copy (including final leaf with stamp of Rebbe Yitzchak of Bender). Stamps. New leather binding.
Divrei Chaim – Part I on the Torah, and Part II on the festivals and Tractate Bava Metzia. Munkacs: Pinkas Blayer, 1877. First edition, published by "the sons of the author". Two parts in two volumes.
Stamps of Rebbe "Meshulam Zusia Heshel of Belz" on the title page of the first volume.
Rebbe Meshulam Zusia Heshel of Krilovitz-Apta (died at a young age in ca. 1900s), only son of Rebbe Yechiel Heshel of Krilovitz-Zinkov-Apta (1843-1916). He was raised by his maternal grandfather, Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz, and remained in his grandfather's household even after his wedding to the daughter of Rebbe Eliyahu Eichenstein of Zidichov (1837-1878). He studied together with his cousin Rebbe Aharon Roke'ach of Belz, who would mention him with profuse praise (Alfasi, HaRav MiApta, p. 193). He passed away at the age of 22 in his father's lifetime, and left behind one daughter – wife of Rebbe Moshe Tzvi Twersky of Tolna (1890-1972). One of his sisters was the wife of R. Yeshaya Halberstam of Chechiav, youngest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz.
In the second volume: various signatures and ownership inscriptions, and birth records from the 1880s-1900s.
Divrei Chaim on the Torah and festivals was published after the author's passing. In their foreword to the Torah part, the sons describe their holy father and the day of his death: "…his great holiness and piety… was well-known. He dedicated his entire life to Torah study, devoted service and great fear of Heaven from his youth… Our own eyes saw on the day of his death… that he sanctified himself like the heavenly Seraphim with yichudim and great fervor which did not cease for one moment until his soul clung to the Heavenly Light…". At the end of the foreword, they write about their father's will to publish these books: "…We, the sons of our holy father the author, have expended effort in printing this work in compliance with his command before his death to print and publish it speedily. The merit of our father should protect us and the entire Jewish People, and strengthen Torah and fear of Heaven, and we and all our Jewish brethren should be graced with an abundance of blessing and success".
In the foreword to part II, the author's sons relate that their father, the Divrei Chaim studied tractate Bava Metzia "with great concentration with a group of eminent Torah scholars for over 20 years and that he composed wonderful novellae…". They also write that their father's novellae follow both revealed and kabbalistic approaches.
Vol. I: [3], 2-84, [5] leaves. Vol. II: [2], 72; 48 leaves. 23.5 cm. Overall good condition. Dry and brittle paper. Stains and tears. Most leaves in good condition. Stamps. New leather binding.