Yesod Yosef, kabbalistic novellae, by the kabbalist R. Yosef Yoske HaLevi of Rivne [Minkovitz (Myn'kivtsi), 1803]. First edition. With an approbation by R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev.
The kabbalist R. Yosef Yoske HaLevi of Rivne (d. 1800, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, pp. 149-150), disciple of the Maggid of Mezeritch and of R. Michel of Zlotchov. R. Yosef was amongst the elite and initial disciples of the Maggid, R. Dov Ber of Mezeritch, while the latter still served as maggid in Rivne. R. Yosef was the one who brought him from Tortchin (Torchyn) to Rivne, appointing him as maggid there, with the assistance of his father-in-law R. Aharon Rabbi of Rivne. He also composed Likutei Yosef on Talmudical tractates (Minkovitz, 1803). He did not leave behind any descendants. In a letter sent by R. Zusha of Anipoli to the Chozeh of Lublin, he praises R. Yosef: "…regarding the renowned tzaddik, who is astute and erudite, the outstanding Torah scholar
R. Yosef… he was already asked to serve as rabbi in several communities, yet he refused… since it would detract from his Torah study and prayers… My brother, the holy R. Elimelech, cherished him greatly, and he also told me… that in the Higher spheres, he saw him clothed in white…". This letter is printed in this book, in the introduction of the publisher, who was the grandson of the author's sister.
Signature on title page: "Yaakov son of Aharon Yehuda", with his stamps (on title page and on p. 45b): "Yaakov son of Aharon Yehuda Botishansky". Another signature on title page: "R. C.K. son of R. Yeshaya".
[4], 91 leaves. 19.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Dampstains. Restored tears and damages to title page. Stamps. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 232.