Nefesh HaChaim, by Rabbi Chaim of Volozhin. Vilna and Grodno, 1824. First edition. Introductions by his sons Rabbi Yitzchak of Volozhin and Rabbi Yosef of Chorzów. Approbations by Rabbi Shaul Katznelbogin and Rabbi Avraham Avli Pasvoler of Vilna.
A basic book of the teachings of the Vilna Gaon and of his disciples about the way of conduct and pure service of G-d according to revealed and kabbalistic rites [many parts of the book were written as rejoinders to the Chassidic school of thought according to the ways and philosophy of the Vilna Gaon and of his disciples]. The author, R. Chaim of Volozhin cherished this book more that all his prolific halachic writings, and before his death, he ordered his sons to expedite its publishing. The book was edited and brought to print by his son R. Yitzchak of Volozhin and by his nephew, the kabbalist R. Avraham Simcha of Mstsislaw, who both served as heads of the Volozhin Yeshiva.
[6], 17; 10; 8, [1]; 4; 17 leaves, 22 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and wear. Worn leather binding. Various ownership inscriptions and signatures.