Mateh Dan – Kuzari Sheni, "Proves and teaches with logical claims… the truth of the Oral Torah", by Rabbi David Nieto. London, [1714]. First edition.
The first edition was printed in three variations: Only Hebrew, only Spanish and Hebrew with Spanish. This is the combined edition, Hebrew and Spanish (column opposite column), which is the most rare out of the three.
Two illustrated title pages, one in Hebrew and one in Spanish. At the top of the title pages is a drawing of Rabbeinu HaKadosh (Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi) – the writer of the Mishnah. Between the Hebrew title page and the Spanish title page is a long printed dedication in Spanish to the community leaders and gabai of the Sha'ar HaShamayim congregation in London and a Hebrew introduction to the book.
Stamps. Ownership inscriptions and quill attempts on binding leaves. On back binding leaf is an ownership inscription in Italian writing: "The Great Mekubal Chassid Mohareridam [?]…".
Rabbi David Nieto (1654-1728, Otzar HaRabbanim 4926), a Torah genius with vast knowledge of science, dayan, speaker and doctor in Livorno and later first rabbi of the Sephardic community of London. Author of the famous book Mateh Dan – Kuzari Sheni defending the truth of the Oral Torah and contradicting mistaken theories which were rampant in the midst of the Anusim communities of Western Europe.
Complete copy. [10], 254 leaves. 22 cm. The body of the book is in a very good condition. Ink stains and reinforcement with glued paper on the first pages. Binding with parchment spine, damaged.
One of the first Hebrew books printed in England.