Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
Displaying 1 - 12 of 42
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $2,000
Sold for: $2,500
Including buyer's premium
Leaf bearing an ownership inscription signed "Moshe son of R. G. of Zaloshin". Kislev 1820.
R. Moshe of Zaloshin (Działoszyn) son of R. Gershon (1789-1831, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, pp. 273-276) was the author of Siddur Tikunei Shabbat, the Mishpat Tzedek commentary to Tehillim and Ge'ulat Yisrael on the Passover Haggada, which were reprinted in dozens of editions.
A prominent Tzaddik of Poland, he was the father of Rebbe Yaakov Aharon of Zaloshin and R. Yosef Gershon of Dvart (Warta). According to several sources, R. Moshe of Zaloshin was a foremost disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin, but this fact is disputed by Chassidic historians (see Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, pp. 273-274). It is an established fact that the Chozeh of Lublin greatly revered him, going so far as to praise him "from the age of ten he dedicated himself to G-d". His son, Rebbe Yaakov Aharon of Zaloshin Rabbi of Alexander (Aleksandrów Łódzki), was a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and R. Bunem of Peshischa (see Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 252). His second son, R. Yosef Gershon Rabbi of Dvart, also served as rebbe (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 140).
His book Tikunei Shabbat was published anonymously in his lifetime in Warsaw, 1825. The book earned an enthusiastic approbation from R. Akiva Eiger, who terms the author "Righteous", "Outstanding in Torah and Chassidism, fearful and anxious of G-d's word". R. Efraim Zalman Margolies extols his virtues in his approbation to the aforementioned book, describing his holiness and diligent Torah study from a young age, his practice of secluding himself, his great modesty and loathing of honor, which drove him to publish the book anonymously.
Rebbe Yosef, "the Yehudi HaTov from Neustadt", who was engaged in reciting Psalms his entire life, would always keep on hand a Tehillim with the Mishpat Tzedek commentary composed by R. Moshe of Zaloshin.
At his passing, R. Meir Yeshaya Meisler of Zlotchov eulogized him, describing how he would cry exceedingly during prayer, arousing the whole congregation. R. Moshe was extensively engaged in charity, travelling around to collect funds for needy brides. His zealousness and meticulosity in Mitzva performance were exceptional. There was nothing he did not do with absolute devotion for love of his Creator. For many years, he adopted silence, writing notes when necessary. On Shabbat and Festivals, he would not speak about any secular matters, not even in the Holy Tongue.
[1] leaf. 14.5 cm. Good condition. Slight damage.
R. Moshe of Zaloshin (Działoszyn) son of R. Gershon (1789-1831, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, pp. 273-276) was the author of Siddur Tikunei Shabbat, the Mishpat Tzedek commentary to Tehillim and Ge'ulat Yisrael on the Passover Haggada, which were reprinted in dozens of editions.
A prominent Tzaddik of Poland, he was the father of Rebbe Yaakov Aharon of Zaloshin and R. Yosef Gershon of Dvart (Warta). According to several sources, R. Moshe of Zaloshin was a foremost disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin, but this fact is disputed by Chassidic historians (see Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, III, pp. 273-274). It is an established fact that the Chozeh of Lublin greatly revered him, going so far as to praise him "from the age of ten he dedicated himself to G-d". His son, Rebbe Yaakov Aharon of Zaloshin Rabbi of Alexander (Aleksandrów Łódzki), was a disciple of the Chozeh of Lublin and R. Bunem of Peshischa (see Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 252). His second son, R. Yosef Gershon Rabbi of Dvart, also served as rebbe (Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 140).
His book Tikunei Shabbat was published anonymously in his lifetime in Warsaw, 1825. The book earned an enthusiastic approbation from R. Akiva Eiger, who terms the author "Righteous", "Outstanding in Torah and Chassidism, fearful and anxious of G-d's word". R. Efraim Zalman Margolies extols his virtues in his approbation to the aforementioned book, describing his holiness and diligent Torah study from a young age, his practice of secluding himself, his great modesty and loathing of honor, which drove him to publish the book anonymously.
Rebbe Yosef, "the Yehudi HaTov from Neustadt", who was engaged in reciting Psalms his entire life, would always keep on hand a Tehillim with the Mishpat Tzedek commentary composed by R. Moshe of Zaloshin.
At his passing, R. Meir Yeshaya Meisler of Zlotchov eulogized him, describing how he would cry exceedingly during prayer, arousing the whole congregation. R. Moshe was extensively engaged in charity, travelling around to collect funds for needy brides. His zealousness and meticulosity in Mitzva performance were exceptional. There was nothing he did not do with absolute devotion for love of his Creator. For many years, he adopted silence, writing notes when necessary. On Shabbat and Festivals, he would not speak about any secular matters, not even in the Holy Tongue.
[1] leaf. 14.5 cm. Good condition. Slight damage.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $2,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe Avraham Yaakov of Sadigura. Sadigura (Sadhora), Elul 1856.
Written by a scribe, and signed by the Rebbe of Sadigura: "Avraham Yaakov son of R." (the left side of the leaf is lacking, and the name of his father "Yisrael", is missing at the end of the signature).
Letter addressed to the philanthropists R. Shlomo Torchin and R. Yosef Vanderveer(?), acknowledging and blessing them for their donations. The Rebbe blesses them: "May G-d pay their reward and recompense [----] with salvation, mercy and all good forever… and because of this thing, I hereby extend my blessing to them, may G-d protect them [----] and may they be blessed and enjoy much blessing and peace…".
Unknown letter. Does not appear in the three parts of "Igrot HaRav MiRuzhin UBanav".
Rebbe Avraham Yaakov Friedman (the first) of Sadigura (1819-1883) was a prominent Rebbe and Jewish leader in his generation. He was the son and successor of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin in his Beit Midrash in Sadigura (Sadhora), the son-in-law of R. Aharon of Karlin the Beit Aharon, and from his second marriage, of R. Menachem Nachum of Shtefanesht. In Elul 1851, he was appointed Rebbe of Sadigura, in place of his father (who passed away in Cheshvan 1850) and of his eldest brother R. Shalom Yosef (who passed away Elul 11, 1851).
He served as rebbe for close to 32 years, leading a court of thousands of Chassidim and pious men. Many flocked to receive his blessings, guidance and counsel. He concealed his holiness, and only by chance was it revealed that he dealt extensively in helping the deceased attain a reparation for their soul. He conducted himself with majestic opulence and lavishness, as was customary in the Ruzhin dynasty, yet he himself was holy and ascetic, eating so little that his intestines shriveled up. He stood at the helm of Orthodox Jewry of his generation, and joined Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz under the Machzikei HaDat organization in Galicia. At his initiative, the magnificent Tiferet Yisrael synagogue in Jerusalem was completed. In his public activism, he maintained ties with prominent figures in international politics, including Sir Moses Montefiore and the British diplomat Laurence Oliphant, who came to Sadigura specifically to meet him (Derech Malchut, p. 456). He suffered the Russian government's persecution of the Ruzhin dynasty, and after he addressed a letter to Montefiore requesting his intervention in saving Russian Jewry from the Russian Tsar, he was denounced to the government of the Austro-Hungarian empire under trumped up charges of counterfeiting money, which led to his incarceration for almost two years (between 1856-1858).
[1] double leaf. 27.5 cm. Fair-poor condition. Tears to folds and wear. Left side of leaf lacking (approx. a third of leaf), with loss of two-three words from each line.
Written by a scribe, and signed by the Rebbe of Sadigura: "Avraham Yaakov son of R." (the left side of the leaf is lacking, and the name of his father "Yisrael", is missing at the end of the signature).
Letter addressed to the philanthropists R. Shlomo Torchin and R. Yosef Vanderveer(?), acknowledging and blessing them for their donations. The Rebbe blesses them: "May G-d pay their reward and recompense [----] with salvation, mercy and all good forever… and because of this thing, I hereby extend my blessing to them, may G-d protect them [----] and may they be blessed and enjoy much blessing and peace…".
Unknown letter. Does not appear in the three parts of "Igrot HaRav MiRuzhin UBanav".
Rebbe Avraham Yaakov Friedman (the first) of Sadigura (1819-1883) was a prominent Rebbe and Jewish leader in his generation. He was the son and successor of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin in his Beit Midrash in Sadigura (Sadhora), the son-in-law of R. Aharon of Karlin the Beit Aharon, and from his second marriage, of R. Menachem Nachum of Shtefanesht. In Elul 1851, he was appointed Rebbe of Sadigura, in place of his father (who passed away in Cheshvan 1850) and of his eldest brother R. Shalom Yosef (who passed away Elul 11, 1851).
He served as rebbe for close to 32 years, leading a court of thousands of Chassidim and pious men. Many flocked to receive his blessings, guidance and counsel. He concealed his holiness, and only by chance was it revealed that he dealt extensively in helping the deceased attain a reparation for their soul. He conducted himself with majestic opulence and lavishness, as was customary in the Ruzhin dynasty, yet he himself was holy and ascetic, eating so little that his intestines shriveled up. He stood at the helm of Orthodox Jewry of his generation, and joined Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz under the Machzikei HaDat organization in Galicia. At his initiative, the magnificent Tiferet Yisrael synagogue in Jerusalem was completed. In his public activism, he maintained ties with prominent figures in international politics, including Sir Moses Montefiore and the British diplomat Laurence Oliphant, who came to Sadigura specifically to meet him (Derech Malchut, p. 456). He suffered the Russian government's persecution of the Ruzhin dynasty, and after he addressed a letter to Montefiore requesting his intervention in saving Russian Jewry from the Russian Tsar, he was denounced to the government of the Austro-Hungarian empire under trumped up charges of counterfeiting money, which led to his incarceration for almost two years (between 1856-1858).
[1] double leaf. 27.5 cm. Fair-poor condition. Tears to folds and wear. Left side of leaf lacking (approx. a third of leaf), with loss of two-three words from each line.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $8,000
Sold for: $10,000
Including buyer's premium
A handwritten wedding invitation letter, with two lines of conclusion and signature handwritten by Rebbe Yitzchak Meir of Zinkov (Zinkiv), son of R. Avraham Yehoshua Heschel, the Apter Rav. Zinkov, Kislev [1854].
Invitation to the wedding of his granddaughter, daughter of R. Meshulam Zusia of Zinkov, with the groom R. Yitzchak Yoel, son of Rebbe Gedalia Aharon of Linitz (Illintsi), on Thursday, Kislev 9, 1854. This was the last wedding which took place in the court of R. Yitzchak Meir of Zinkov, who passed away several months later.
The invitation, written at his behest by a scribe, reads: "…to the leaders of the community… of Morachwa (Staraya Murafa)… I said, can I hide from my beloved ones, who are attached to me with an ancestral covenant of powerful love, therefore I wish to inform them of the day of my celebration, so that they can rejoice on it, and please G-d, on the day of your celebration when you wed your children, my heart will rejoice and my soul will exult". The Rebbe then signs in his own handwriting: "So are the words of one who seeks the wellbeing and the good of our Jewish brethren… Yitzchak Meir son of the Rabbi of Apta".
R. Yitzchak Meir of Apta-Zinkov (1776-1855), a leading rebbe of his generation, was the eldest son of R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, the Ohev Yisrael of Apta (Opatów). His descendants married the children of great Chassidic leaders and he was the progenitor of many Chassidic dynasties. After his father's passing, thousands of Chassidim followed him, and he transferred his court from Medzhybizh to Zinkov. Just like his father, he was reputed for his love of his fellow Jew, and drew many Jews closer to their father in Heaven. His long life was replete with acts of charity and kindness, and he would pray and effect salvations for each and every member of the Jewish people who turned to him. He was the beloved mechutan of leading Chassidic leaders of his generation (R. Yisrael of Kozhnitz, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Moshe Tzvi Savran and others) and many of the great men of his generation sought his advice on all their matters. One of his granddaughters married Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz, who was very close to his illustrious grandfather. Many important dynasties of Rebbes and rabbis descended from his offspring.
The groom was Rebbe Yitzchak Yoel Rabinowitz, the Rebbe of Linitz-Kontikoziva (1840-1885). In 1868, he succeeded his father, in the latter's lifetime, as rabbi and maggid in Linitz. Exiled by the Russian government who persecuted Chassidic leaders, he settled in Kontikoziva (Prybuzhany, Kherson province). His sons were Rebbe Yehoshua Heshel of Monistritch and Rebbe Pinchas of Kontikoziva (father of Rebbe Yaakov Yisrael of Kherson and R. Menachem Nachum of Kherson-Haifa) and R. Meshulam Zusia of Arel.
The following interesting account regarding scheduling the date for the wedding is brought in Shemu'ot VeSipurim, at the end of Machshevet Nachum, (p. 238) - At the beginning of the year, R. Yitzchak Meir sent a letter to his mechutan R. Gedalia Aharon of Linitz, the Chen Aharon, writing that if the latter wishes his presence at the wedding, the date of the wedding, originally scheduled for Elul 1885, will have to be brought forward to Kislev, which is what they did. Several months later, on Rosh Chodesh Adar 1855, R. Yitzchak Meir passed away, as he had foreseen.
[1] leaf. Approx. 18.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Tears, creases and wear. Folding marks. Tape repairs.
The invitation was published, based on this manuscript (with minor copying errors), in the book Igrot HaOhev Yisrael, Jerusalem 2000, letter 66b, p. 140.
Invitation to the wedding of his granddaughter, daughter of R. Meshulam Zusia of Zinkov, with the groom R. Yitzchak Yoel, son of Rebbe Gedalia Aharon of Linitz (Illintsi), on Thursday, Kislev 9, 1854. This was the last wedding which took place in the court of R. Yitzchak Meir of Zinkov, who passed away several months later.
The invitation, written at his behest by a scribe, reads: "…to the leaders of the community… of Morachwa (Staraya Murafa)… I said, can I hide from my beloved ones, who are attached to me with an ancestral covenant of powerful love, therefore I wish to inform them of the day of my celebration, so that they can rejoice on it, and please G-d, on the day of your celebration when you wed your children, my heart will rejoice and my soul will exult". The Rebbe then signs in his own handwriting: "So are the words of one who seeks the wellbeing and the good of our Jewish brethren… Yitzchak Meir son of the Rabbi of Apta".
R. Yitzchak Meir of Apta-Zinkov (1776-1855), a leading rebbe of his generation, was the eldest son of R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel, the Ohev Yisrael of Apta (Opatów). His descendants married the children of great Chassidic leaders and he was the progenitor of many Chassidic dynasties. After his father's passing, thousands of Chassidim followed him, and he transferred his court from Medzhybizh to Zinkov. Just like his father, he was reputed for his love of his fellow Jew, and drew many Jews closer to their father in Heaven. His long life was replete with acts of charity and kindness, and he would pray and effect salvations for each and every member of the Jewish people who turned to him. He was the beloved mechutan of leading Chassidic leaders of his generation (R. Yisrael of Kozhnitz, R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, R. Moshe Tzvi Savran and others) and many of the great men of his generation sought his advice on all their matters. One of his granddaughters married Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz, who was very close to his illustrious grandfather. Many important dynasties of Rebbes and rabbis descended from his offspring.
The groom was Rebbe Yitzchak Yoel Rabinowitz, the Rebbe of Linitz-Kontikoziva (1840-1885). In 1868, he succeeded his father, in the latter's lifetime, as rabbi and maggid in Linitz. Exiled by the Russian government who persecuted Chassidic leaders, he settled in Kontikoziva (Prybuzhany, Kherson province). His sons were Rebbe Yehoshua Heshel of Monistritch and Rebbe Pinchas of Kontikoziva (father of Rebbe Yaakov Yisrael of Kherson and R. Menachem Nachum of Kherson-Haifa) and R. Meshulam Zusia of Arel.
The following interesting account regarding scheduling the date for the wedding is brought in Shemu'ot VeSipurim, at the end of Machshevet Nachum, (p. 238) - At the beginning of the year, R. Yitzchak Meir sent a letter to his mechutan R. Gedalia Aharon of Linitz, the Chen Aharon, writing that if the latter wishes his presence at the wedding, the date of the wedding, originally scheduled for Elul 1885, will have to be brought forward to Kislev, which is what they did. Several months later, on Rosh Chodesh Adar 1855, R. Yitzchak Meir passed away, as he had foreseen.
[1] leaf. Approx. 18.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Tears, creases and wear. Folding marks. Tape repairs.
The invitation was published, based on this manuscript (with minor copying errors), in the book Igrot HaOhev Yisrael, Jerusalem 2000, letter 66b, p. 140.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $2,000
Sold for: $6,875
Including buyer's premium
Letter signed by Rebbe Moshe of Kobryn, addressed to R. Menachem Mendel Epstein, trustee of Kollel Reisin (Belarus) in Tiberias. [Kobryn, 1853].
Letter written by a scribe, with the signature of Rebbe Moshe of Kobryn. Addressed to R. Menachem Mendel Epstein, one of the heads of Kollel Reisin in Tiberias. The letter is inscribed on a small piece of paper, and was originally written as a continuation of R. Moshe Kobryn's letter to the heads and directors of Kollel Reisin, regarding Kollel matters (see Kedem Auction 63, item 87; Auction 66, item 49). In this letter, the Rebbe addresses R. Menachem Mendel personally.
From the contents of the letter, it appears that the recipient of this letter, R. Menachem Mendel, requested a raise in his salary for his work on behalf of the Kollel, as the administrator of the distribution. To this the Rebbe responds, "Surely if this was a regular year, I would also wish [to add?] a little", but this is not feasible: "This year --- everything was done with loans" (that year - 1853, much of the donations were not collected, and the Rebbe of Kobryn was compelled to borrow funds to provide for the Kollel members in Tiberias, see Kedem Auction 63, where the Rebbe wrote in his letter: "Know that I have not yet succeeded in collecting all the donations… to the point that I was compelled to rely on loans").
Further in the letter, the Rebbe writes: "Believe me my friend, that the vast majority of his personal funds were not yet collected… and now, may they receive life and peace from the Master of peace, as is G-d's wish and that of his close friend" (personal funds - also named Maamadot - were funds collected for the benefit of specific members of the Kollel living in Eretz Israel, by their friends, acquaintances or family members, as opposed to funds raised as a general donation for the entire Kollel. This letter discloses that not only did the Rebbe experience difficulty in soliciting general donations, he was even unable to collect the personal funds - those intended specifically for R. Menachem Mendel). In the last line, the Rebbe added his signature in his own handwriting: "The above-mentioned Moshe".
Background to this letter: For many years, R. Moshe of Kobryn would devotedly make rounds throughout Lithuania and Reisin (Belarus), collecting funds to support the Chassidic settlement in Tiberias (descendants of the large Chassidic immigration in 1777). He had been appointed to this position by his teacher, R. Mordechai of Lechovitz. The Rebbe delegated the responsibility for collecting charity for Eretz Israel funds to various gabba'im in a number of regions, and he would travel several times a year to collect these monies from the gabba'im. In 1853, R. Moshe, who was nearing his seventies, had aged considerably and could not keep up these journeys (see Auction 63 for further details).
Rebbe Moshe Polier of Kobryn (1784-1858), a great Chassidic leader, and amongst the foremost righteous men in Lithuania. He was the close disciple of Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz (Lyakhavichy), and prime teacher of the first Rebbe of Slonim, R. Avraham Weinberg, author of Yesod HaAvoda. Supremely holy and righteous, he benefitted from Divine Inspiration and effected salvations. He loved his fellow Jew wholeheartedly. His worship of G-d was exceptionally devout, involving his entire being. He exerted himself in prayer to the extent of fainting. Reputedly, R. Yaakov Meir Padwa Rabbi of Brisk would advise Brisk residents: "Whoever wishes to pray during the High Holidays with a prayer leader possessing all the qualities which the sages require of a cantor, should travel to Kobryn", and indeed, many would travel to attend the prayer services led by R. Moshe of Kobryn. One of the travelers related that on Rosh Hashanah eve, the synagogue was filled to capacity, yet even those standing at the extremities of the synagogue heard clearly how "his teeth chattered in fear of G-d and of His glorious splendor", while he said Barchu (see: Torat Avot, Jerusalem 1989, pp. 294-295, section 121). The Beit HaLevi (whose father-in-law was a Kobryn chassid) reputedly acclaimed him: "Moshe is true and his Torah is truth".
Following the passing of his teacher Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz, in 1810, R. Moshe frequented the court of the former's son, Rebbe Noach of Lechovitz, and after the demise of R. Noach in 1833, R. Moshe was appointed rebbe in Kobryn. His leadership was described as following: "Many flocks gathered around him to thirstily drink his holy words, which enthused the hearts of the Jewish people towards their Father in Heaven with their passion and fieriness… and whatever exited his holy mouth was as if a man inquired of the word of G-d… still today, over sixty years following his passing, whenever his holy name is mentioned, one senses a respectful awe together with a concealed fear… and in his old age, he would frequent the court of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, and the righteous men of the generation cherished him greatly" (Or Yesharim, Warsaw 1924, p. 63).
R. Menachem Mendel son of R. Mordechai Epstein of Minsk (d. after 1879), recipient of this letter, was known as R. Mendel Reisisher. In 1834, he immigrated from Minsk to Eretz Israel. Around 1840, he was appointed one of the three trustees of Kollel Reisin. His signature appears on many of the Kollel documents, starting from the early 1840s. R. Mendel was respected and esteemed by all sects of the Jewish community in Tiberias, and even the Arabs in Tiberias revered him. Known to be scrupulous and trustworthy in monetary matters, R. Menachem Mendel is mentioned in one of the Kollel documents, which is signed by the Torat Chaim of Kosov and Rebbe Avraham Yaakov of Sadigura, as an honest, faithful person who can be relied upon. His son-in-law was R. Noach Weinberg of Tiberias, brother of the Divrei Shmuel, Rebbe of Slonim, and father of the Birkat Avraham, Rebbe of Slonim, grandfather of the current Rebbe of Slonim-Jerusalem.
A small piece of paper. Approx. 6 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Faded ink. Tears affecting text. Wear and folding marks. Some words undecipherable. Mounted on thin paper for preservation.
Letter written by a scribe, with the signature of Rebbe Moshe of Kobryn. Addressed to R. Menachem Mendel Epstein, one of the heads of Kollel Reisin in Tiberias. The letter is inscribed on a small piece of paper, and was originally written as a continuation of R. Moshe Kobryn's letter to the heads and directors of Kollel Reisin, regarding Kollel matters (see Kedem Auction 63, item 87; Auction 66, item 49). In this letter, the Rebbe addresses R. Menachem Mendel personally.
From the contents of the letter, it appears that the recipient of this letter, R. Menachem Mendel, requested a raise in his salary for his work on behalf of the Kollel, as the administrator of the distribution. To this the Rebbe responds, "Surely if this was a regular year, I would also wish [to add?] a little", but this is not feasible: "This year --- everything was done with loans" (that year - 1853, much of the donations were not collected, and the Rebbe of Kobryn was compelled to borrow funds to provide for the Kollel members in Tiberias, see Kedem Auction 63, where the Rebbe wrote in his letter: "Know that I have not yet succeeded in collecting all the donations… to the point that I was compelled to rely on loans").
Further in the letter, the Rebbe writes: "Believe me my friend, that the vast majority of his personal funds were not yet collected… and now, may they receive life and peace from the Master of peace, as is G-d's wish and that of his close friend" (personal funds - also named Maamadot - were funds collected for the benefit of specific members of the Kollel living in Eretz Israel, by their friends, acquaintances or family members, as opposed to funds raised as a general donation for the entire Kollel. This letter discloses that not only did the Rebbe experience difficulty in soliciting general donations, he was even unable to collect the personal funds - those intended specifically for R. Menachem Mendel). In the last line, the Rebbe added his signature in his own handwriting: "The above-mentioned Moshe".
Background to this letter: For many years, R. Moshe of Kobryn would devotedly make rounds throughout Lithuania and Reisin (Belarus), collecting funds to support the Chassidic settlement in Tiberias (descendants of the large Chassidic immigration in 1777). He had been appointed to this position by his teacher, R. Mordechai of Lechovitz. The Rebbe delegated the responsibility for collecting charity for Eretz Israel funds to various gabba'im in a number of regions, and he would travel several times a year to collect these monies from the gabba'im. In 1853, R. Moshe, who was nearing his seventies, had aged considerably and could not keep up these journeys (see Auction 63 for further details).
Rebbe Moshe Polier of Kobryn (1784-1858), a great Chassidic leader, and amongst the foremost righteous men in Lithuania. He was the close disciple of Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz (Lyakhavichy), and prime teacher of the first Rebbe of Slonim, R. Avraham Weinberg, author of Yesod HaAvoda. Supremely holy and righteous, he benefitted from Divine Inspiration and effected salvations. He loved his fellow Jew wholeheartedly. His worship of G-d was exceptionally devout, involving his entire being. He exerted himself in prayer to the extent of fainting. Reputedly, R. Yaakov Meir Padwa Rabbi of Brisk would advise Brisk residents: "Whoever wishes to pray during the High Holidays with a prayer leader possessing all the qualities which the sages require of a cantor, should travel to Kobryn", and indeed, many would travel to attend the prayer services led by R. Moshe of Kobryn. One of the travelers related that on Rosh Hashanah eve, the synagogue was filled to capacity, yet even those standing at the extremities of the synagogue heard clearly how "his teeth chattered in fear of G-d and of His glorious splendor", while he said Barchu (see: Torat Avot, Jerusalem 1989, pp. 294-295, section 121). The Beit HaLevi (whose father-in-law was a Kobryn chassid) reputedly acclaimed him: "Moshe is true and his Torah is truth".
Following the passing of his teacher Rebbe Mordechai of Lechovitz, in 1810, R. Moshe frequented the court of the former's son, Rebbe Noach of Lechovitz, and after the demise of R. Noach in 1833, R. Moshe was appointed rebbe in Kobryn. His leadership was described as following: "Many flocks gathered around him to thirstily drink his holy words, which enthused the hearts of the Jewish people towards their Father in Heaven with their passion and fieriness… and whatever exited his holy mouth was as if a man inquired of the word of G-d… still today, over sixty years following his passing, whenever his holy name is mentioned, one senses a respectful awe together with a concealed fear… and in his old age, he would frequent the court of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, and the righteous men of the generation cherished him greatly" (Or Yesharim, Warsaw 1924, p. 63).
R. Menachem Mendel son of R. Mordechai Epstein of Minsk (d. after 1879), recipient of this letter, was known as R. Mendel Reisisher. In 1834, he immigrated from Minsk to Eretz Israel. Around 1840, he was appointed one of the three trustees of Kollel Reisin. His signature appears on many of the Kollel documents, starting from the early 1840s. R. Mendel was respected and esteemed by all sects of the Jewish community in Tiberias, and even the Arabs in Tiberias revered him. Known to be scrupulous and trustworthy in monetary matters, R. Menachem Mendel is mentioned in one of the Kollel documents, which is signed by the Torat Chaim of Kosov and Rebbe Avraham Yaakov of Sadigura, as an honest, faithful person who can be relied upon. His son-in-law was R. Noach Weinberg of Tiberias, brother of the Divrei Shmuel, Rebbe of Slonim, and father of the Birkat Avraham, Rebbe of Slonim, grandfather of the current Rebbe of Slonim-Jerusalem.
A small piece of paper. Approx. 6 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Faded ink. Tears affecting text. Wear and folding marks. Some words undecipherable. Mounted on thin paper for preservation.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Letter signed by Rebbetzin Shaindel Twersky, widow of Rebbe Menachem Nachum Twersky of Shpikov and daughter of Rebbe David Twersky of Tolna. [Shpikov (Shpykiv), after Nisan 1887, ca. late 1880s].
Written by a scribe, with the Rebbetzin's signature. The letter was written after the passing of her husband Rebbe Menachem Nachum Twersky of Shpikov on Rosh Chodesh Nisan 1887. In the letter, the widowed rebbetzin requests of "the philanthropist… R. Shimon Leib", that he continue supporting them as he did in the past, especially since she is presently in dire financial straits following her daughter's wedding, and burdened with heavy debts. The rebbetzin mentions in her letter the merit of her husband and father-in-law: "…in the merit of my husband and father-in-law, who are aware of the suffering of the living, especially their household members… and now, creditors are pressing me to pay off the loans which I borrowed in order to provide for my family and especially for my daughter's wedding. And whoever helps me to repay my debts, surely their (my husband's and my father-in-law's) merit will protect them, to fill their homes with blessing according to their good heart's wishes…". The letter is signed by the Rebbetzin: "Shaindel wife of R. Menachem Nachum".
The distinguished Rebbetzin Shaindel Twersky was the eldest daughter of Rebbe David Twersky of Tolna. She married (in her first marriage) Rebbe Chaim Menachem of Zinkov son of Rebbe Meshulam Zusia of Zinkov, from the Apta dynasty. From this marriage she bore two sons, Rebbe Pinchas of Zinkov and Rebbe Moshe of Zinkov, as well as two daughters, Rebbetzin Chaya Sara wife of Rebbe Yeshayahu Twersky of Makarov, and Rebbetzin Devorah (second) wife of Rebbe Feivish Hager of Zalishchik. In her second marriage, Rebbetzin Shaindel married her cousin Rebbe Menachem Nachum Twersky of Shpikov, son of Rebbe Yitzchak Twersky of Skver (brother of her father, R. David of Tolna). From this marriage she bore an only son, Rebbe Mordechai (R. Mottele) Twersky of Shpikov. Following the passing of her husband, the rebbe of Shpikov (in 1887, before he reached the age of fifty), the Chassidim housed Rebbetzin Shaindel in a lavish apartment, from where she led a kind of court of her own. The book Ketavim (Mordechai Globman, Jerusalem, 2005, p. 127) reports: "The Chassidim who frequented the court of the young Rebbe (R. Mottele), would also honor her with a visit, out of regard for her esteemed father and late husband, sometimes even giving her a Pidyon and receiving her blessing". The distinguished personality of Rebbetin Shaindel is portrayed at length in the book HaChatzer HaPenimit (Tel Aviv, 1954), by Yochanan Twersky, great-grandson of the Rebbetzin. In this book, he relates: "Almost from the day she entered her father-in-law's home in Skver, and then in Shpikov, all the needs and debts of the court were assigned to her" (ibid, p. 36). This fact is corroborated by the contents of this letter.
This letter was presumably written following the wedding of one of her daughters from her first marriage.
[1] leaf. 17.5 cm. Fair-poor condition. Stains. Tears affecting text. Tape repairs and traces of acidic adhesive tape. Folding marks.
Written by a scribe, with the Rebbetzin's signature. The letter was written after the passing of her husband Rebbe Menachem Nachum Twersky of Shpikov on Rosh Chodesh Nisan 1887. In the letter, the widowed rebbetzin requests of "the philanthropist… R. Shimon Leib", that he continue supporting them as he did in the past, especially since she is presently in dire financial straits following her daughter's wedding, and burdened with heavy debts. The rebbetzin mentions in her letter the merit of her husband and father-in-law: "…in the merit of my husband and father-in-law, who are aware of the suffering of the living, especially their household members… and now, creditors are pressing me to pay off the loans which I borrowed in order to provide for my family and especially for my daughter's wedding. And whoever helps me to repay my debts, surely their (my husband's and my father-in-law's) merit will protect them, to fill their homes with blessing according to their good heart's wishes…". The letter is signed by the Rebbetzin: "Shaindel wife of R. Menachem Nachum".
The distinguished Rebbetzin Shaindel Twersky was the eldest daughter of Rebbe David Twersky of Tolna. She married (in her first marriage) Rebbe Chaim Menachem of Zinkov son of Rebbe Meshulam Zusia of Zinkov, from the Apta dynasty. From this marriage she bore two sons, Rebbe Pinchas of Zinkov and Rebbe Moshe of Zinkov, as well as two daughters, Rebbetzin Chaya Sara wife of Rebbe Yeshayahu Twersky of Makarov, and Rebbetzin Devorah (second) wife of Rebbe Feivish Hager of Zalishchik. In her second marriage, Rebbetzin Shaindel married her cousin Rebbe Menachem Nachum Twersky of Shpikov, son of Rebbe Yitzchak Twersky of Skver (brother of her father, R. David of Tolna). From this marriage she bore an only son, Rebbe Mordechai (R. Mottele) Twersky of Shpikov. Following the passing of her husband, the rebbe of Shpikov (in 1887, before he reached the age of fifty), the Chassidim housed Rebbetzin Shaindel in a lavish apartment, from where she led a kind of court of her own. The book Ketavim (Mordechai Globman, Jerusalem, 2005, p. 127) reports: "The Chassidim who frequented the court of the young Rebbe (R. Mottele), would also honor her with a visit, out of regard for her esteemed father and late husband, sometimes even giving her a Pidyon and receiving her blessing". The distinguished personality of Rebbetin Shaindel is portrayed at length in the book HaChatzer HaPenimit (Tel Aviv, 1954), by Yochanan Twersky, great-grandson of the Rebbetzin. In this book, he relates: "Almost from the day she entered her father-in-law's home in Skver, and then in Shpikov, all the needs and debts of the court were assigned to her" (ibid, p. 36). This fact is corroborated by the contents of this letter.
This letter was presumably written following the wedding of one of her daughters from her first marriage.
[1] leaf. 17.5 cm. Fair-poor condition. Stains. Tears affecting text. Tape repairs and traces of acidic adhesive tape. Folding marks.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $300
Sold for: $688
Including buyer's premium
Letter of wedding congratulations (in Yiddish) on a postcard, handwritten and signed by Rebbetzin Shaina Rachel Friedman, widow of Rebbe Yitzchak of Bohush. Bohush (Buhuși), Kislev 1900.
Letter of wedding wishes, addressed to the Koswen family. The first lines are in scribal script (presumably written by the gabbai), followed by three lines handwritten by the Rebbetzin (free translation from Yiddish): "May you all be healthy and happy, from your close friend, I wish you all only goodness and joyful happiness".
Rebbetzin Shaina Rachel Friedman (d. 1913), widow of R. Yitzchak Friedman, first rebbe of Bohush (1835-1896), daughter of Rebbe David Hager of Zablotov (son of the Ahavat Shalom of Kosov). Her mother Pessia Lea was the daughter of R. Moshe Leib of Sassov. Her father-in-law was Rebbe Shalom Yosef Friedman, eldest son of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin. The betrothal of the Rebbetzin to Rebbe Yitzchak of Bohush was celebrated in the lifetime of their illustrious grandfather R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, with his participation. The Rebbe and his Rebbetzin bore five sons and nine daughters. The sons and sons-in-law were all prominent rebbes in their times. She was renowned for her meticulousness in all matters relating to modesty and holiness, for herself and all her descendants. Rebbetzin Shaina Rachel was the sister-in-law of the Minchat Chinuch (her sister was his second wife).
Postcard. Approx. 13X9 cm. Good condition. Stains. Wear. Folding mark. Postmarks from Buhuși and Târgu Frumos, Romania.
Letter of wedding wishes, addressed to the Koswen family. The first lines are in scribal script (presumably written by the gabbai), followed by three lines handwritten by the Rebbetzin (free translation from Yiddish): "May you all be healthy and happy, from your close friend, I wish you all only goodness and joyful happiness".
Rebbetzin Shaina Rachel Friedman (d. 1913), widow of R. Yitzchak Friedman, first rebbe of Bohush (1835-1896), daughter of Rebbe David Hager of Zablotov (son of the Ahavat Shalom of Kosov). Her mother Pessia Lea was the daughter of R. Moshe Leib of Sassov. Her father-in-law was Rebbe Shalom Yosef Friedman, eldest son of R. Yisrael of Ruzhin. The betrothal of the Rebbetzin to Rebbe Yitzchak of Bohush was celebrated in the lifetime of their illustrious grandfather R. Yisrael of Ruzhin, with his participation. The Rebbe and his Rebbetzin bore five sons and nine daughters. The sons and sons-in-law were all prominent rebbes in their times. She was renowned for her meticulousness in all matters relating to modesty and holiness, for herself and all her descendants. Rebbetzin Shaina Rachel was the sister-in-law of the Minchat Chinuch (her sister was his second wife).
Postcard. Approx. 13X9 cm. Good condition. Stains. Wear. Folding mark. Postmarks from Buhuși and Târgu Frumos, Romania.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $7,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten, signed and stamped by Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno. Komarno, 1905.
Letter of recommendation for R. Yaakov Yisrael [Schmerler] of Safed, who was compelled to travel abroad to repay his medical debts. The rebbe lists in this letter R. Yaakov Yisrael's lineage, up to the Tzaddikim R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, R. Meir of Premishlan, "the Bach, Taz and other righteous and holy men". The rebbe concludes the letter with a blessing: "And in the merit of this important mitzva, and in the merit of his holy ancestors, G-d will shower upon you much blessing and an abundance of success".
Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno (1861-1929), a G-dly kabbalist and holy man. Son of Rebbe Eliezer Tzvi author of Ben Beiti and Damesek Eliezer, and grandson of the Heichal Bracha. He was a disciple of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, and the Maggid of Trisk, who greatly cherished and revered him. In 1898, following his father's passing, he began leading a Chassidic community in Komarno. His prayers were recited with tremendous passion together with weeping, and many were aroused to full repentance through his prayers. He was renowned as a wonder-worker and a G-dly kabbalist benefitting from Divine Inspiration. He became known as the Chozeh of Komarno, appellation earned by astounding revelations he was privy to with Divine Inspiration. He became famous mostly after WWI, when many Polish Jews began frequenting his court, and leading rebbes of Alexander, Radomsk and Ostrovtza would send him Kvittlach for prayer and blessing. Some Jews were blessed with wealth through his blessings and advice. He authored three books which were lost in the Holocaust. His renowned son-in-law, the Minchat Elazar of Munkacs, eulogized him: "My father-in-law benefitted from Divine Inspiration. Behold, I had private matters, which apart from G-d and myself, no one knew about, and when I stood before my father-in-law, he revealed them all to me through Divine Inspiration" (Imrei Kodesh, Komarno, Bnei Brak 2003, p. 531). He was the son-in-law (in his second marriage) of the Imrei Yosef of Spinka.
[1] leaf. Approx. 20 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears to folds, slightly affecting text. Mounted of paper for reinforcement.
This letter was published in Shalshelet Komarno (Jerusalem 2001, pp. 412-413), and its picture was printed in Shoshelet Spinka (Bnei Brak 1990, p. 221).
Letter of recommendation for R. Yaakov Yisrael [Schmerler] of Safed, who was compelled to travel abroad to repay his medical debts. The rebbe lists in this letter R. Yaakov Yisrael's lineage, up to the Tzaddikim R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, R. Meir of Premishlan, "the Bach, Taz and other righteous and holy men". The rebbe concludes the letter with a blessing: "And in the merit of this important mitzva, and in the merit of his holy ancestors, G-d will shower upon you much blessing and an abundance of success".
Rebbe Yaakov Moshe Safrin of Komarno (1861-1929), a G-dly kabbalist and holy man. Son of Rebbe Eliezer Tzvi author of Ben Beiti and Damesek Eliezer, and grandson of the Heichal Bracha. He was a disciple of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, and the Maggid of Trisk, who greatly cherished and revered him. In 1898, following his father's passing, he began leading a Chassidic community in Komarno. His prayers were recited with tremendous passion together with weeping, and many were aroused to full repentance through his prayers. He was renowned as a wonder-worker and a G-dly kabbalist benefitting from Divine Inspiration. He became known as the Chozeh of Komarno, appellation earned by astounding revelations he was privy to with Divine Inspiration. He became famous mostly after WWI, when many Polish Jews began frequenting his court, and leading rebbes of Alexander, Radomsk and Ostrovtza would send him Kvittlach for prayer and blessing. Some Jews were blessed with wealth through his blessings and advice. He authored three books which were lost in the Holocaust. His renowned son-in-law, the Minchat Elazar of Munkacs, eulogized him: "My father-in-law benefitted from Divine Inspiration. Behold, I had private matters, which apart from G-d and myself, no one knew about, and when I stood before my father-in-law, he revealed them all to me through Divine Inspiration" (Imrei Kodesh, Komarno, Bnei Brak 2003, p. 531). He was the son-in-law (in his second marriage) of the Imrei Yosef of Spinka.
[1] leaf. Approx. 20 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears to folds, slightly affecting text. Mounted of paper for reinforcement.
This letter was published in Shalshelet Komarno (Jerusalem 2001, pp. 412-413), and its picture was printed in Shoshelet Spinka (Bnei Brak 1990, p. 221).
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $8,000
Sold for: $10,625
Including buyer's premium
Interesting letter from Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, with his full signature: "Tzvi Hirsh son of R. A. Rabbi of Liska". Liska (Olaszliszka), Iyar 1872.
Addressed to his relative R. Avraham HaLevi Kelner, posek in Nagykövesd (Veľký Kamenec). The Rebbe apologizes for his refusal to get involved in appointing a rabbi as dayan and posek, and in appointing a Shochet and Bodek in one of the villages: "Behold, when he was by me last week, I did not fulfill his wish in the matter at hand and I did not explain to him my motive for this… behold, I have always totally refrained from dealing with these three issues, i.e. Shochet and Bodek, dayanim and poskim, since these are lofty matters, therefore I have removed this yoke from my shoulders and left these weighty decisions to those who are greater than myself…".
Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh Friedman, rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe, from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary. A disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, Rebbe Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and people flocked to him from all over the country to receive his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VehaTov, and others. His illustrious disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who used to sign: "Who was the close attendant of the pious rabbi of Liska".
[1] leaf. 28 cm. Written by a scribe with the handwritten signature of the Rebbe. Fair condition. Tears and stains. Slight damage to text. Marginal paper repairs. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Addressed to his relative R. Avraham HaLevi Kelner, posek in Nagykövesd (Veľký Kamenec). The Rebbe apologizes for his refusal to get involved in appointing a rabbi as dayan and posek, and in appointing a Shochet and Bodek in one of the villages: "Behold, when he was by me last week, I did not fulfill his wish in the matter at hand and I did not explain to him my motive for this… behold, I have always totally refrained from dealing with these three issues, i.e. Shochet and Bodek, dayanim and poskim, since these are lofty matters, therefore I have removed this yoke from my shoulders and left these weighty decisions to those who are greater than myself…".
Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh Friedman, rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe, from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary. A disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, Rebbe Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and people flocked to him from all over the country to receive his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VehaTov, and others. His illustrious disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who used to sign: "Who was the close attendant of the pious rabbi of Liska".
[1] leaf. 28 cm. Written by a scribe with the handwritten signature of the Rebbe. Fair condition. Tears and stains. Slight damage to text. Marginal paper repairs. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $4,400
Unsold
Leaf of novellae on Talmudic topics (two written pages), handwritten by Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh Rabbi of Liska (Olaszliszka).
Novellae on the topic of Kotevet HaGasa (measurement equivalent to a plump date). Autograph, with minor emendations and deletions. Published in his book HaYashar VehaTov (Munkacs, 1880. Talmudic novellae, leaf 15).
Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh Friedman, rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe, from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary. A disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, Rebbe Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and people flocked to him from all over the country to receive his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VehaTov, and others. His illustrious disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who used to sign: "Who was the close attendant of the pious rabbi of Liska".
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 25.5 cm. Bluish paper. Good condition. Stains. Marginal tears.
Novellae on the topic of Kotevet HaGasa (measurement equivalent to a plump date). Autograph, with minor emendations and deletions. Published in his book HaYashar VehaTov (Munkacs, 1880. Talmudic novellae, leaf 15).
Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh Friedman, rabbi of Liska (1798-1874), a leading Hungarian rebbe, from the first generation of the Chassidic movement in Hungary. A disciple of the Yismach Moshe, Rebbe Shalom of Belz, Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, Rebbe Meir of Premishlan and the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. He was renowned as a wonder-worker, and people flocked to him from all over the country to receive his blessings. He authored Ach Pri Tevua, HaYashar VehaTov, and others. His illustrious disciple was R. Yeshaya of Kerestir, who used to sign: "Who was the close attendant of the pious rabbi of Liska".
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 25.5 cm. Bluish paper. Good condition. Stains. Marginal tears.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $2,000
Sold for: $2,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten and signed by Rebbe Chaim Elazar Shapiro author of Minchat Elazar. Munkacs (Mukachevo), Tishrei 1933.
The leaf begins with a letter from the Rebbe's attendant, R. Chaim Dov Gross, "writing at the behest of the Rebbe", acknowledging the receipt of the kvittel with the Pidyon Nefesh - "It was received by the Rebbe, and the Rebbe instructed me to send a loving reply, with blessings for the new year, for a good final sealing and a good year, replete with all good things… life, blessing, abundance and success… and all his heart's wishes for the good and for blessing…".
Beneath the letter, the following addition (one and a half lines), handwritten and signed by the Rebbe: "I hereby seek their wellbeing, and extend my blessings for the new year and for a good final sealing, a year of salvation and speedy redemption, together with the entire Jewish nation, Chaim Elazar Shapiro".
Rebbe Chaim Elazar Shapiro Rabbi of Munkacs (1872-1937) was a leading Torah scholar, halachic authority, rebbe and kabbalist in his generation. He was the son of R. Tzvi Hirsh Rabbi of Munkacs author of Darchei Teshuva, and grandson of R. Shlomo Shapiro Rabbi of Munkacs author of Shem Shlomo. A scion of the illustrious lineage of R. Tzvi Elimelech of Dynów author of Bnei Yissaschar. He battled to preserve the sanctity of the Jewish people, and his teachings in Halacha and Kabbalah were disseminated throughout the Jewish world. His books include: Responsa Minchat Elazar, Shaar Yissachar, Nimukei Orach Chaim, Divrei Torah - 9 parts, and more.
[1] leaf, official stationery of the Rebbe, with additional heading of the presidency of Kollel Munkacs in Eretz Israel. 23 cm. Good condition. Stains and folding marks.
The leaf begins with a letter from the Rebbe's attendant, R. Chaim Dov Gross, "writing at the behest of the Rebbe", acknowledging the receipt of the kvittel with the Pidyon Nefesh - "It was received by the Rebbe, and the Rebbe instructed me to send a loving reply, with blessings for the new year, for a good final sealing and a good year, replete with all good things… life, blessing, abundance and success… and all his heart's wishes for the good and for blessing…".
Beneath the letter, the following addition (one and a half lines), handwritten and signed by the Rebbe: "I hereby seek their wellbeing, and extend my blessings for the new year and for a good final sealing, a year of salvation and speedy redemption, together with the entire Jewish nation, Chaim Elazar Shapiro".
Rebbe Chaim Elazar Shapiro Rabbi of Munkacs (1872-1937) was a leading Torah scholar, halachic authority, rebbe and kabbalist in his generation. He was the son of R. Tzvi Hirsh Rabbi of Munkacs author of Darchei Teshuva, and grandson of R. Shlomo Shapiro Rabbi of Munkacs author of Shem Shlomo. A scion of the illustrious lineage of R. Tzvi Elimelech of Dynów author of Bnei Yissaschar. He battled to preserve the sanctity of the Jewish people, and his teachings in Halacha and Kabbalah were disseminated throughout the Jewish world. His books include: Responsa Minchat Elazar, Shaar Yissachar, Nimukei Orach Chaim, Divrei Torah - 9 parts, and more.
[1] leaf, official stationery of the Rebbe, with additional heading of the presidency of Kollel Munkacs in Eretz Israel. 23 cm. Good condition. Stains and folding marks.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $2,500
Sold for: $5,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter from Rebbe Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam, with a concluding note in his handwriting and with his signature. Kraków, [1934].
The letter is addressed to R. Chaim Shaul Schöndorf in Nuremberg. Written on an official postcard from the Rebbe's court in Kraków, the letter contains the Rebbe's blessings for a complete recovery, and confirmation of the receipt of Pidyon Nefesh monies.
The letter is written by a scribe on the Rebbe's behalf, with the addition of approximately two lines handwritten and signed by the Rebbe: "So are the words of one who seeks his wellbeing and blesses him with a complete recovery, Yitzchak Yeshaya son of the righteous rabbi of Sanz".
Rebbe Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam of Chechiav (1864-1943, perished in the Holocaust, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut II, pp. 412-413) was the youngest son of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam, the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Son-in-law of R. Yechiel Heshel of Krilovitz (Murovani Kurylivtsi), who was the son-in-law of R. Yehoshua of Belz, and in his second marriage, of R. Yaakov Tzvi of Parysów. His father, R. Chaim of Sanz, attested that he possesses a holy soul. He absorbed Chassidism from his older brothers: R. Yechezkel Shraga of Shinova (Sieniawa), R. Baruch of Gorlitz (Gorlice) and R. David of Kshanow (Chrzanów). After his marriage, he settled in Belz and learned Torah from his wife's grandfather, Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz. At the age of nineteen, he was appointed rabbi of Chechiav (Czchów) and was since referred to as R. Yeshayale Chechiaver. He later moved to Satmar, ultimately establishing his court in Kraków. He earned the reputation of a righteous and pious miracle worker, with thousands of followers flocking to his court. Upon the German invasion of Kraków, he was confined to a ghetto. After escaping to Lviv, he wandered from place to place before settling in Bochnia. The Germans searched for him, eventually locating the bunker he was hiding in and murdering all its inhabitants. According to another version, he was murdered together with R. Meir of Vielipoli (Wielopole Skrzyńskie) in the town square, both wrapped in their prayer shawls.
Official postcard, with printed letterhead: "Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam, Kraków"; the Rebbe's name and address are printed in Polish on the verso. 15X10 cm. Very good condition. Postage stamp removed. Light stains.
The letter is addressed to R. Chaim Shaul Schöndorf in Nuremberg. Written on an official postcard from the Rebbe's court in Kraków, the letter contains the Rebbe's blessings for a complete recovery, and confirmation of the receipt of Pidyon Nefesh monies.
The letter is written by a scribe on the Rebbe's behalf, with the addition of approximately two lines handwritten and signed by the Rebbe: "So are the words of one who seeks his wellbeing and blesses him with a complete recovery, Yitzchak Yeshaya son of the righteous rabbi of Sanz".
Rebbe Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam of Chechiav (1864-1943, perished in the Holocaust, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut II, pp. 412-413) was the youngest son of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam, the Divrei Chaim of Sanz. Son-in-law of R. Yechiel Heshel of Krilovitz (Murovani Kurylivtsi), who was the son-in-law of R. Yehoshua of Belz, and in his second marriage, of R. Yaakov Tzvi of Parysów. His father, R. Chaim of Sanz, attested that he possesses a holy soul. He absorbed Chassidism from his older brothers: R. Yechezkel Shraga of Shinova (Sieniawa), R. Baruch of Gorlitz (Gorlice) and R. David of Kshanow (Chrzanów). After his marriage, he settled in Belz and learned Torah from his wife's grandfather, Rebbe Yehoshua of Belz. At the age of nineteen, he was appointed rabbi of Chechiav (Czchów) and was since referred to as R. Yeshayale Chechiaver. He later moved to Satmar, ultimately establishing his court in Kraków. He earned the reputation of a righteous and pious miracle worker, with thousands of followers flocking to his court. Upon the German invasion of Kraków, he was confined to a ghetto. After escaping to Lviv, he wandered from place to place before settling in Bochnia. The Germans searched for him, eventually locating the bunker he was hiding in and murdering all its inhabitants. According to another version, he was murdered together with R. Meir of Vielipoli (Wielopole Skrzyńskie) in the town square, both wrapped in their prayer shawls.
Official postcard, with printed letterhead: "Yitzchak Yeshaya Halberstam, Kraków"; the Rebbe's name and address are printed in Polish on the verso. 15X10 cm. Very good condition. Postage stamp removed. Light stains.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $15,000
Unsold
Letter signed by Rebbe Shlomo Halberstam. Bobov (Bobowa), Tishrei 1904.
Addressed to the philanthropist R. Yeshaya Moshe Gross, with heartfelt blessings from the Rebbe: "…I hereby bless him that G-d should raise his prestige in wealth and honor, and help him see exceptional blessing in his business and in all his endeavors… And may they reap only satisfaction from all their descendants, and may he and his entire family continue being completely healthy, and may only good be heard in all his matters in his home".
The letter concludes with blessings for the new year: "Who seeks his wellbeing wholeheartedly, and blesses him with a positive sealing for a good year, blessed with all good, Shlomo Halberstam".
R. Shlomo Halberstam, first Rebbe of Bobov (1847-1905) was the grandson of the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz and of Rebbe Eliezer Horowitz of Dzikov-Ropshitz. He was orphaned in his childhood of his father, R. Meir Natan Halberstam, and was raised and educated by his two illustrious grandfathers. After his marriage to the daughter of Rebbe Yehoshua of Kaminka, he was appointed in 1864 as rabbi of Bukowsko (at the young age of 17), and later of Ushpitzin (Oświęcim). In 1875, he was one of the grandchildren selected by R. Chaim of Sanz to publish his book Responsa Divrei Chaim. In 1878, he went to serve as rabbi of Vishnitsa, where he established a yeshiva in ca. 1880. He would deliver daily lectures in the yeshiva before hundreds of students. This yeshiva, which was the first to be established in Galicia, produced hundreds of Galician rabbis and dayanim. In 1892, he was appointed rabbi of Bobov, which he became renowned for. He served as rebbe to thousands of Chassidim, particularly working on drawing youths to Chassidism, developing Bobov into a large center of thousands of young Chassidim, who transformed Galician Jewry by disseminating Torah and Chassidism. He founded a large yeshiva in Bobov, with dozens of secondary branches in surrounding cities. R. Shlomo was a leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia and joined the Machzikei HaDat organization (in contrast to the other rebbes of the Sanz dynasty who did not endorse this organization). He wrote numerous halachic responsa. His son, Rebbe Ben Tzion, prepared his writings for print before WWI, but the composition was lost during the war. His son Rebbe Ben Tzion Halberstam, the Kedushat Tzion, was the father of Rebbe Shlomo Halberstam (the second), Rebbe of Bobov-USA - who established the large center of Bobov Chassidism in the United States.
His grandfather the Divrei Chaim cherished and revered him greatly, and in a halachic letter of 1871, he addresses him in terms of great honor (Responsa Divrei Chaim, Yoreh De'ah, section 32). In that responsum, his grandfather requests: "Please pray for me since I am very weak, may G-d help him with a long life… seeking the wellbeing of your Torah and awaiting to see you in peace".
[1] leaf. Approx. 21.5 cm. Thin, acidic paper. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Dark folding marks and creases. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Addressed to the philanthropist R. Yeshaya Moshe Gross, with heartfelt blessings from the Rebbe: "…I hereby bless him that G-d should raise his prestige in wealth and honor, and help him see exceptional blessing in his business and in all his endeavors… And may they reap only satisfaction from all their descendants, and may he and his entire family continue being completely healthy, and may only good be heard in all his matters in his home".
The letter concludes with blessings for the new year: "Who seeks his wellbeing wholeheartedly, and blesses him with a positive sealing for a good year, blessed with all good, Shlomo Halberstam".
R. Shlomo Halberstam, first Rebbe of Bobov (1847-1905) was the grandson of the Divrei Chaim, Rebbe of Sanz and of Rebbe Eliezer Horowitz of Dzikov-Ropshitz. He was orphaned in his childhood of his father, R. Meir Natan Halberstam, and was raised and educated by his two illustrious grandfathers. After his marriage to the daughter of Rebbe Yehoshua of Kaminka, he was appointed in 1864 as rabbi of Bukowsko (at the young age of 17), and later of Ushpitzin (Oświęcim). In 1875, he was one of the grandchildren selected by R. Chaim of Sanz to publish his book Responsa Divrei Chaim. In 1878, he went to serve as rabbi of Vishnitsa, where he established a yeshiva in ca. 1880. He would deliver daily lectures in the yeshiva before hundreds of students. This yeshiva, which was the first to be established in Galicia, produced hundreds of Galician rabbis and dayanim. In 1892, he was appointed rabbi of Bobov, which he became renowned for. He served as rebbe to thousands of Chassidim, particularly working on drawing youths to Chassidism, developing Bobov into a large center of thousands of young Chassidim, who transformed Galician Jewry by disseminating Torah and Chassidism. He founded a large yeshiva in Bobov, with dozens of secondary branches in surrounding cities. R. Shlomo was a leader of Orthodox Jewry in Galicia and joined the Machzikei HaDat organization (in contrast to the other rebbes of the Sanz dynasty who did not endorse this organization). He wrote numerous halachic responsa. His son, Rebbe Ben Tzion, prepared his writings for print before WWI, but the composition was lost during the war. His son Rebbe Ben Tzion Halberstam, the Kedushat Tzion, was the father of Rebbe Shlomo Halberstam (the second), Rebbe of Bobov-USA - who established the large center of Bobov Chassidism in the United States.
His grandfather the Divrei Chaim cherished and revered him greatly, and in a halachic letter of 1871, he addresses him in terms of great honor (Responsa Divrei Chaim, Yoreh De'ah, section 32). In that responsum, his grandfather requests: "Please pray for me since I am very weak, may G-d help him with a long life… seeking the wellbeing of your Torah and awaiting to see you in peace".
[1] leaf. Approx. 21.5 cm. Thin, acidic paper. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Dark folding marks and creases. Mounted on paper for preservation.
Category
Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue