Likutim by Rav Hai Gaon, compilation of important works composed by early Spanish kabbalists. [Warsaw, 1798]. First edition. Approbation by the Maggid of Kozhnitz.
The book was printed with the encouragement of R. Yisrael, Maggid of Kozhnitz, based on manuscripts in his collection. These writings were copied by his disciple, the publisher R. Gabriel of Warsaw. In his approbation, printed on the verso of the title page, the Maggid of Kozhnitz writes about the manuscripts and their publications, and states that R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev also approved the publication of the book. The Maggid of Kozhnitz held this book in very high regard, and would study it in-depth. He also composed a profound kabbalistic commentary to it. This commentary was only published after his passing (Tishrei 1815), in Lviv, in the 1840s-1850s, and was entitled Ner Yisrael (see following item). In his books, the Maggid of Kozhnitz repeatedly mentions the Likutim and the commentary he wrote to it.
The book includes the following works: Likutim by R. Hai Gaon – commentary to the 42-letter name; Shaar HaShamayim by R. Yosef Gikatilla; Likutei Shem Tov; Maamar Ploni Almoni on the Ten Sefirot and Names; Prayer of R. Yaakov of Segovia; Sefer HaIyun by R. Chamai Gaon; Secrets by the kabbalist R. Yosef Gikatilla on the Mitzvot and Explanations to the Ramban's Torah secrets, by R. Shem Tov as heard from the Rashba.
In fact, the Likutim in this book were not composed by R. Hai Gaon. They were composed by R. Moshe of Burgos, a leading Spanish kabbalist in the 12th century, but since he brings in his work many traditions received from R. Hai Gaon, the composition is named Likutim from R. Hai Gaon. Likewise, other works in this book were erroneously attributed on the title page to other authors (for a full list of the true authors of these works, see listing in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book).
Folded Ilan Sefirot on leaf 36 (lacking half).
Signature on title page and following leaf: "Yisrael Yitzchak… here Lodz". Another signature at the end of the book, and on p. 7a: "Leizer…".
[1], 46 leaves. 17 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Open tears to title page and several other leaves, affecting text, partially repaired with paper. Leaf of Ilan Sefirot torn and lacking half, professionally restored with paper and photocopy replacement of missing text. Stamps. New leather binding.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 305.