Shaar Gan Eden, foundations of Kabbalah, by R. Yaakov Koppel Lifshitz of Mezeritch. Korets, [1803]. First edition. With an approbation by R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev.
The books of R. Yaakov Koppel of Mezeritch - Shaar Gan Eden and the Kol Yaakov siddur, are adapted and edited compilations of the writings of the Remak, R. Chaim Vital and R. Yisrael Sarug, with the addition of his own novellae.
The Mezeritch Torah scholars write in their approbation of the veneration the Baal Shem Tov displayed for the writings of R. Yaakov Koppel (while they were still in manuscript, prior to printing). This testimony is repeated in further detail on the title page, which describes how when this book was brought before the Baal Shem Tov, together with Siddur Kol Yaakov, he read a few sections from them, hugged and kissed them, and expressed great reverence for them. R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev praises the author in his approbation: "He was a reliable kabbalist, who's words all emanate from Divine Inspiration".
Many of the leading Chassidic masters quote the book Shaar Gan Eden in their writings, and base their teachings on its principles.
[2], 84 leaves. 33.5 cm. Bluish paper. Fair condition. Stains. Wear, damage and worming to several leaves. Large marginal tears to final leaves, repaired with clear plastic. Old binding, with damage.
Stefansky Chassidut, no. 588.