Auction 92 Part 1 Rare and Important Items
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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.
Nachalat Tzvi, halachic novellae on Shulchan Aruch Even HaEzer, by R. Tzvi HaKohen Katz. Venice: Gerolimo Bragadin per Lorenzo Prodotto, [1661]. Only edition.
Copy owned by rebbes of the Sanz-Shinova dynasty. With stamps of the first rebbe of Shinova, Rebbe Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam; stamp of his son Rebbe Aryeh Leibush Halberstam of Torna; and stamp of R. Shlomo Blaugrund of Torna, son-in-law of Rebbe Aryeh Leibush of Torna.
The first rebbe of Shinova, R. Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam (1815-1898), rabbi of Shinova (Sieniawa) and author of Divrei Yechezkel, eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz and son-in-law of R. Aryeh Leib Lifshitz of Vishnitsa, author of Aryeh D'Vei Ilai (son-in-law of R. Moshe Teitelbaum, author of Yishmach Moshe). An outstanding Torah scholar, he was proficient in all realms of Torah, exoteric and esoteric, halachic and Chassidic teachings. He was venerated in his role as rabbi and rebbe already during his father's lifetime. Progenitor of important Chassidic dynasties, with many of his sons and grandsons serving as rabbis and rebbes in various cities already in his lifetime. Holy and pure from his youth, he attended leading rebbes of his times and was considered their prominent disciple. He was famed for the miracles he performed, and would give out his belongings as a segulah for protection and salvation.
His son, Rebbe Aryeh Leibush of Torna (Tarnów; ca. 1860-1930), son-in-law of his brother Rebbe Moshe of Shinova. After his father's passing, he succeeded him as rebbe of the Sanz and Shinova kloiz in Torna, drawing a large group of followers. He led a group of men devoted to the service of G-d, and emphasized Torah study and meticulous halachah observance. He would pray every morning at sunrise (KeVatikin). He corresponded on halachic and polemic matters with R. Avraham Yehoshua Freund of Năsăud. His three sons served as rebbes in Torna, Sambor and Premishla.
[2], 134 leaves. 26.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dampstains. Large open tears to approx. eight final leaves, affecting text, repaired with paper. Worming to title page and other leaves, slightly affecting title page border and text. Stamps. New leather binding.
Igeret HaKodesh, Chassidic essays and various selections from Chassidic leaders: R. Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk, R. Avraham of Kalisk, R. Chaim Chaikel of Amdur and R. Elimelech of Lizhensk; with Pirkei Hanhagot HaMitboded by the Rambam and Sefer HaZechirah by R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev. [Russia-Poland (Lviv or Zhovkva?), ca. 1840].
Copy of Rebbe Shalom Halberstam, first rebbe of Stropkov, son of the Divrei Yechezkel of Shinova. Early stamp (faded) on the title page: "Shalom Halberstam son of the rebbe of Shinova. Here in Kraków".
Rebbe (Avraham) Shalom Halberstam (1856-1940), the Divrei Shalom, cherished son of Rebbe Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam of Shinova-Sanz, the Divrei Yechezkel (eldest son of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz), who would acclaim him for "his very holy and supremely lofty soul". R. Shalom was born from his father's fourth marriage, and the latter would say that he was able to effect salvations, since he was born in holiness, in accordance with the words of the Tana D'Vei Eliyahu (Zuta, chapter III), that one who marries for the sake of Heaven would have sons who would save the Jewish people in times of trouble (Rabbenu HaKadosh MiSanz, II, p. 190). He served as rabbi and rebbe of Stropkov, and was the first rebbe of the Stropkov Chassidic dynasty. His court was always teeming with Chassidim and thousands came to seek his blessings. He was reputed for his wonderworks. Over the years, the rebbe lived in several different places (Stropkov was a small town, remote from the Jewish centers, and the rebbe often spent extended periods of time in larger cities; see: Rabbenu HaKadosh MiSanz, II, p. 191). In the late 1900s, he relocated to Kraków, and the present stamp dates from that period (even while living in Kraków, he still served as rabbi of Stropkov, see his approbation from 1909 to the book Yemei Chayecha HaYamim, Munkacs 1911, where he signs "Shalom Halberstam Rabbi of Stropkov", while he was living in Kraków). In 1919, he moved to Ungvar (Uzhhorod), where he remained for several years, eventually returning to Stropkov. In 1930, the rebbe settled in Kashoi (Košice), despite the entreaties of the members of the Stropkov community (see Rabbenu HaKadosh MiSanz, ibid. p. 193).
[1], 2-19, [1], 21-24 leaves. 19.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, including dark marginal stains to title page and other leaves. Minor wear and tears. New leather binding.
Regarding this edition, see: Ch. Lieberman, Sefer Igeret HaKodesh, Kiryat Sefer 36 (1961), pp. 127-128.
Sefer Chassidim, by R. Yehuda HaChassid, with Perush Meforash (by R. David Aptrod) and the Brit Olam commentary by the Chida. Zhitomir: R. Chanina Lipa and R. Yehoshua Heshel Shapira, grandsons of the rabbi of Slavita, 1856.
Copy owned by rabbis and rebbes, including rebbes of the Ruzhin dynasty.
On p. 71, ownership inscription of R. Alexander Zusia Orenstein. R. Alexander Zusia Orenstein was the attendant of Rebbe Shlomo of Sadigura. In the present inscription, he attests to having received the book as a gift from Rebbe Nachum Dov Ber Friedman of Sadigura. The book was later passed on to Rebbe Shlomo Friedman of Chortkov-Tel Aviv, as attested by his stamp on the final page. Signature of R. Yehoshua Gnessin on the title page. Many handwritten glosses (possibly handwritten by R. Yehoshua Gnessin).
Rebbe Nachum Dov Ber Friedman of Sadigura (1843/1844 – 1883), grandson of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin. Son of R. Shalom Yosef and son-in-law of his uncle Rebbe Avraham Yaakov of Sadigura. R. Nachum Dov Ber was known as an important collector of manuscripts and early books (see: David Assaf, Derech HaMalchut, p. 454, note 34).
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. R. Shlomo succeeded him after his passing as the fourth and last rebbe of the Chortkov dynasty. Author of Divrei Shlomo.
R. Yehoshua Gnessin (1840-1921), a Chabad Chassid. Dean of the Starodub yeshiva, and rabbi in Krichev and Pochep. Yaakov Malkov and Yosef Chaim Brenner were amongst his students in Starodub (R. Gnessin remained in contact with the latter after he left the yeshiva). R. Yehoshua Gnessin's sons were the author Uri Nisan Gnessin, and the actor Menachem Gnessin.
288 pages. 22.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including many dampstains, dark stains and mold stains. Wear. Glosses on several leaves faded due to dampness. Tears and worming to final three leaves. Stamps. New binding.
Or HaMeir, Chassidic and Kabbalistic homilies and allusions on the Torah portions, Megillot and festivals, by Rebbe Ze'ev Wolf of Zhitomir. Korets: [R. Dov Ber of Slavita, after 1798]. Second edition.
Copy of the second rebbe of Slonim, Rebbe Shmuel Weinberg, author of Divrei Shmuel, with several ownership inscriptions in his handwriting and with his signature on the front and back endpapers.
The present book was inherited by the son of the Divrei Shmuel, Rebbe Yissachar Leib Weinberg, as attested by the stamps on the title page and endpaper: "From the estate of my father Rebbe Sh. of Slonim, Yissachar Leib Weinberg".
Several kvitlach notes given to the rebbe were placed between the pages of the book. One note states: "Avraham Tzvi son of Leah – May we have a good inscription and sealing for this new year, a blessed and successful year; may we shelter in the shadow of Tzadikim with complete faith and deep trust. May G-d bless me with all goodness, amongst the Jewish people".
Previous ownership inscriptions on the endpapers, including: "Shmuel son of R. Yosef", "Menachem Mendel, known as R. Mendel Shmuel Kalmans"; and more.
Rebbe Shmuel Weinberg of Slonim, author of Divrei Shmuel (1850-1916), grandson and close disciple of the Yesod HaAvodah – son of his son R. Yechiel Michel Aharon Weinberg. He began serving as rebbe ca. 1883. He always led his flock in Europe and Tiberias with love and exceptional devotion. For most of his life, he was engaged in raising funds for Kollel Reisin to support Torah scholars from Belarus in Tiberias. He also established the Or Torah yeshiva in Tiberias. Was one of the founders of Agudath Yisrael in 1912. The Divrei Shmuel would often frequent the Tzaddikim and rebbes of his generation, such as the Divrei Chaim of Sanz and R. Mordechai Shraga Feivish of Husiatyn. He often travelled to Rebbe David Moshe of Chortkov, whom he regarded as his prime teacher in all his affairs. The Divrei Chaim of Sanz once praised the Divrei Shmuel and stated that for more than three hundred years, a lofty soul like his had not come down to this world (R. Yitzchak David Lieder, Beit Deli, Jerusalem 2009, pp. 49-50). R. Chaim of Brisk testified that he was well versed in both Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmud, Sifra, Sifri and Tosefta (R. Shmuel Aharon Lieder, Nitei Esh, p. 471).
His eldest son, Rebbe Yissachar Leib Weinberg (1833-1928, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p 466-467), served as rebbe of Slonim after the passing of his father in 1916, alongside his younger brother Rebbe Avraham Weinberg, the Beit Avraham. The brothers shared a close friendship, and sometimes even led the Tish together, side by side. He was known for his wisdom and insight even in worldly matters, and for his tremendous love for his fellow Jew, giving a warm welcome to one and all. Rebbe Rayatz of Lubavitch stated about the two brothers, whom he knew from a young age, that he did not find such holy and pure brothers in entire Poland. Rebbe Yissachar Leib passed away on 28th Nissan 1928, leaving behind his son Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heshel (later rebbe of Slonim – Tel Aviv, 1898-1978, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 95-96).
Or HaMeir is one of the first Chassidic books, and contains teachings of the Baal Shem Tov. The author, R. Ze'ev Wolf of Zhitomir was one of the foremost disciples of the Maggid of Mezeritch, and a close disciple of R. Yaakov Yosef of Polonne, R. Nachum of Chernobyl and R. Levi Yitzchak of Berdichev. He was also close to R. Pinchas of Korets, who once said that he saw how R. Ze'ev Wolf was accompanied by Eliyahu the Prophet, who revealed to him holy secrets. R. Leib Sarah's said that he "saw upon his face the image of G-d in its perfection". The title page of this book bears exceptional praises about the author, such as: "He cleaved to his Creator at all times, unseparated while walking or sitting…". This book was dictated to his disciple R. Eliezer of Zhitomir, author of Pirkei HaNe'ezar. Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin remarked that "each Jew is obligated to conduct himself according to all that is written in the book". Of all Chassidic works, this book was particularly cherished by R. Chanoch Henich of Alexander (Tiferet Avot, Vizhnitz, 1993, p. 208).
Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz is reputed as saying that R. Ze'ev Wolf delivered only one eighth of the Torah he received from Heaven, and of what he delivered only one eighth was heard; from that which was heard only one eighth was understood; from that which the author of Pirkei HaNe'ezar comprehended he wrote only one eighth, and from that which was printed only one eighth is understood. R. Ze'ev Wolf passed away in 1798 and this book was printed shortly after his passing.
[2], 260 leaves. 21 cm. Fair condition. Stains, including dark stains. Open tears and worming, with extensive damage to text (many leaves were professionally restored with paper). Various stamps and inscriptions. New binding.
During 1798-1810, this book was printed in several similar editions, including several variants; see: A. Tauber, Bibliographic Studies, pp. 36-39; Y. Yudlov, Ginzei Yisrael, no. 1140. In this copy, the year stated is 1798, just like in the first edition, yet it contains several variations, including the prohibition to reprint the book, which was extended to 20 years.
Or HaGanuz, novellae on the Torah according to allegoric, kabbalistic and Chassidic approaches, with Part II – VeZot LiYehuda, novellae on Mishnayot "according to allegoric and kabbalistic approaches, lofty secrets", by R. Yehuda Leib HaKohen of Anipoli (Hannopil). Lviv: Uri Ze'ev Wolf Salat, [1866]. First edition. Divisional title page for Part II.
Copy with rare printed yellow wrappers.
Copy of the rebbes of Slonim – the present book belonged to the second rebbe of Slonim, the Divrei Shmuel, and was inherited by his son Rebbe Yissachar Leib, as attested by the stamps (indistinct) on the front wrapper and title page: "From the estate of my father Rebbe Sh. of Slonim, Yissachar Leib Weinberg".
Ownership inscriptions on the endpapers and wrappers, attesting that the book belonged to R. Yaakov Yehoshua Kopolowitz, grandson of Rebbe Shmuel of Slonim.
Rebbe Shmuel Weinberg of Slonim, author of Divrei Shmuel (1850-1916), grandson and close disciple of the Yesod HaAvodah – son of his son R. Yechiel Michel Aharon Weinberg. He began serving as rebbe ca. 1883. He always led his flock with love and exceptional devotion. For most of his life, he was engaged in raising funds for Kollel Reisin to support Torah scholars from Belarus in Tiberias. He also established the Or Torah yeshiva in Tiberias. Was one of the founders of Agudath Yisrael in 1912. The Divrei Shmuel would often frequent the Tzaddikim and rebbes of his generation, such as the Divrei Chaim of Sanz and R. Mordechai Shraga Feivish of Husiatyn. He often travelled to Rebbe David Moshe of Chortkov, whom he regarded as his prime teacher in all his affairs. The Divrei Chaim of Sanz once praised the Divrei Shmuel and stated that for more than three hundred years, a lofty soul like his had not come down to this world (R. Yitzchak David Lieder, Beit Deli, Jerusalem 2009, pp. 49-50). R. Chaim of Brisk testified that he was well versed in both Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmud, Sifra, Sifri and Tosefta (R. Shmuel Aharon Lieder, Nitei Esh, p. 471).
His eldest son, Rebbe Yissachar Leib Weinberg (1833-1928, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p 466-467), served as rebbe of Slonim after the passing of his father in 1916, alongside his younger brother Rebbe Avraham Weinberg, the Beit Avraham. The brothers shared a close friendship, and sometimes even led the Tish together, side by side. He was known for his wisdom and insight even in worldly matters, and for his tremendous love for his fellow Jew, giving a warm welcome to one and all. Rebbe Rayatz of Lubavitch stated about the two brothers, whom he knew from a young age, that he did not find such holy and pure brothers in entire Poland. Rebbe Yissachar Leib passed away on 28th Nissan 1928, leaving behind his son Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heshel (later rebbe of Slonim – Tel Aviv, 1898-1978, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, I, pp. 95-96).
At the time of printing, Or HaGanuz received enthusiastic approbations from prominent Chassidic leaders of the time, including the only book approbation ever given by Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Lubavitch, the Tzemach Tzedek. The book was also accorded approbations by R. Mordechai of Chernobyl, by his holy sons – R. Aharon of Chernobyl, R. Avraham of Turiisk and R. David of Tolna, and by his nephew R. Yitzchak Yaakov of Makariv; and by R. Chaim of Sanz and R. Yitzchak Meir of Ger, the Chiddushei HaRim.
In his approbation, R. Mordechai of Chernobyl (the Maggid of Chernobyl), extols the segulah and protective qualities of the book: "Every person should purchase this holy book for merit and excellent protection for himself and his descendants". His holy sons – R. Aharon of Chernobyl, R. Avraham of Trisk (Turiisk) and R. David of Tolna – also mention in their approbations the segulah for protection that their father described. In the publisher's foreword, the author's grandson likewise cites the protective qualities of the book.
The author, R. Yehuda Leib HaKohen of Anipoli (d. 1807, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, pp. 33-34), was a disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch. According to one source, he was previously a disciple of the Gaon of Vilna. It is told that he was one of the four disciples who were at the side of the Maggid at the time of his death (together with R. Avraham HaMalach, the Baal HaTanya and R. Zusha of Anipoli). He and his friend R. Zusha of Anipoli were asked by R. Shneur Zalman of Liadi to grant their approbation to the Tanya.
[2], 12; 84; 33, [1] leaves (including front and back printed wrappers). 25.5 cm. Good condition. Stains, including dampstains and dark stains in several places. Minor worming. Stamps. New leather binding.