Sefer Derech HaChaim, polemic in opposition of Christianity, by Rabbi Raphael Kassin. Constantinople, [1848].
Inscription in handwriting of author: “From me, the author… Raphael Kassin” [name of recipient of book erased]. Additional ownership signature “Young Moshe Chai Binyamin Eliezer… Nissim Mali’ach”.
Interesting polemic book, written in form of argument between several characters: ‘Ya’akov the Jew’, ‘Matthew the Christian’ and ‘Abed al Nabi’. The author, Rabbi Raphael Kassin, originally wrote a longer composition named ‘Derech Emet’ as a response to the book “Netivot Olam” by the English-Christian missionary Alexander McCall, which was printed in Hebrew in 1839. The composition was not printed due to fear of a negative reaction by the “monarchy”; therefore he printed this book which serves as preface to his main book, thereby attempting to ascertain “whether he will be granted permission by the monarchy to publish the book Derech Emet…”. Eventually, the book ‘Derech Emet’ was not printed.
The Ga’on Rabbi Raphael Kassin (passed away in 1871), among scholars of Aleppo and from well-known rabbinical Kassin family. Served as chief rabbi (Chacham Bashi) of Jews of Babylon for several years, however, left this position due to local opposition to his appointment. Authored additional compositions, the following of which were printed: Sefer ‘Likutei Amarim’ – also a polemic book in opposition of Christianity (Hebrew with Ladino translation, Izmir 1855), and Sefer ‘Tokpo Shel Raphael’ (Jerusalem 1979). For additional information about him see: L’Kdoshim Asher BeAram Zova, p. 165.
[6], 2- 61 leaves. 20 cm. Stains, moth marks. Original (worn and loose) binding.