Manuscript, Midrash Nur Eltzalem [Ma'Or HaAfela], by Rabbi Netanel Ben Yishaya. [Yemen, 15th century].
Rabbi Netanel ben Yishaya, among first great scholars of Yemen, who lived during the first half of 14th century, authored the Ma'or HaAfela composition in 1329. This Talmudic legend was originally written in Judeo-Arabic and was one of the basic books on Judaism in Yemen. The author integrated philosophical and Kabbalistic concepts with literal and homiletic commentaries and explanations, according to the order of the weekly Torah portions.
Large volume in good condition. Ancient Yemenite writing on quality paper. Illustrations of Noah's Ark, Zodiac constellations, Cave of the Patriarchs, Tablets of Law, Temple vessels (Menorah, Ark, Cherubs and more), priestly clothes, and more.
This manuscript is one of the most ancient forms of the composition. The manuscript was in possession of Gaon Rabbi Yichye Yitzchak HaLevi (1867-1932), Av Beit Din of Sana'a and chief Rabbi of Yemen and among greatest leaders of Yemenite Jewry, who hand-signed it (page 15) and estimated that it was written during the 15th century: "Based upon the writing technique the book Nur Eltzalem was written over five hundred years ago, Yichye Yitzchak son of Rabbi Moshe HaLevi".
Manuscript begins in middle of Parashat Bereshit and ends in middle of Parashat Ki Tetzeh. 523 pages. 27 cm. Good condition, stains, wear, fading of ink in several places. New binding.
Provenance: The David Sassoon collection, no. 1176.