Ma'ayanei HaYeshua, by Don Yitzchak Abarbanel, a commentary on Daniel. [Ferrara, 1551, Shmuel Tzarfati Printing Press]. First edition.
The book's essays are called Ma'ayanot (12 Einot Mayim, springs of water) and its sections are called Temarim, (dates); at the end "Index of Seventy Dates".
Contains long introductions by the author Don Yitzchak Abarbanel and by the publisher, disciple of Rabbi Baruch Uziel Chizkiyahu (who adds to his introduction the biography of Abarbanel). The introductions are a wellspring of information about the life of the Jews in Spain before their expulsion and after it; the book's purpose is to strengthen the People's belief in the future redemption, and it shows how all the events are hinted at in the Book of Daniel.
In 1492, Abarbanel expended much effort to prevent the Spanish Expulsion, but in the end he failed and went into exile together with his People to Naples, Italy. In 1495, he was forced to escape to Sicily and all his possessions were confiscated. He died in Venice and was buried in Padua in 1508.
Ancient owners' signature at top of second leaf: "Shlomo de Fadiya" and few handwritten notes in book leaves.
142 leaves, 20.5 cm. Missing and substituted by photocopy: title page, last four leaves.
Good general condition. Various stains on leaves. Tears to leaf margins that were professionally restored. Remnants of antique leather cover pasted on new leather cover.
The first Hebrew book completely printed in Ferrara, or one of the first Hebrew books printed there.
From Dr. Israel Mehlman's private collection.