Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
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Displaying 37 - 48 of 63
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $800
Unsold
Lengthy letter (2 pages), signed by R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski. Vilna, Sivan 1927.
Sent to Rabbi Aharon Reuven Charney, rabbi of Bayonne, NJ. An appeal for assistance on behalf of the longstanding yeshiva in Vilna - the Ramailes yeshiva - "The yeshiva has been standing for over a century… and has continuously emitted light - the light of Torah… even during the war and German occupation, the eternal light did not cease, and after the war, it gained strength and benches were added to the study hall, and leading Torah scholars deliver regular lectures…". R. Chaim Ozer writes that the support received from the United States Central Relief Committee is not sufficient to sustain the yeshiva, and additional donations are required.
R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski (1863-1940) was a foremost rabbi of his generation and leader of the entire European Jewry. At the age of 11, he entered the Volozhin yeshiva and became a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk. At the age of 24, he was appointed rabbi and posek of Vilna. He assumed the yoke of public leadership from a young age, and his opinion was conclusive on all communal matters which arose in the Diaspora for close to fifty years. Apart from his spiritual leadership and responding to halachic questions addressed to him from throughout the world, he worked ceaselessly and extensively to rehabilitate the yeshivot and improve the standing of the rabbis in Lithuania and the surroundings. His responsa were published in the four parts of his responsa series Achiezer.
The Ramailes yeshiva in Vilna was founded in 1815 by the rabbis of the city, and was named Ramailes after the plot which was donated for the purpose of building the yeshiva, which was known as "R. Maile's courtyard" (from the estate of R. Maile of Vilna). The yeshiva underwent many vicissitudes over the years, thought never did the sound of Torah cease. The yeshiva was led by R. Avraham Tzvi Grodzinski - brother of R. Chaim Ozer, between 1890 and 1938. R. Chaim Ozer himself was very dedicated to the yeshiva, especially after 1911 when he lost his only daughter (who passed away in her adolescence). He then initiated the construction of a new building for the yeshiva. After WWI, the yeshiva was directed by R. Shlomo Heiman, who had returned from exile in Belarus (where he had established the yeshiva in Smilavichy, together with R. Elchanan Wasserman). During that time, the standing of the yeshiva improved. A prominent student from that period was R. Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz, who studied there until 1935, and later arranged and published his teacher's novellae in the book Chiddushei R. Shlomo.
[1] leaf (written on both sides), official stationery. 20 cm. Letter written by a scribe, with the handwritten signature of R. Chaim Ozer and his ornate stamp. Good condition. Light wear. Folding marks.
Enclosed is part of the envelope, with the name and address of the recipient of the letter.
Sent to Rabbi Aharon Reuven Charney, rabbi of Bayonne, NJ. An appeal for assistance on behalf of the longstanding yeshiva in Vilna - the Ramailes yeshiva - "The yeshiva has been standing for over a century… and has continuously emitted light - the light of Torah… even during the war and German occupation, the eternal light did not cease, and after the war, it gained strength and benches were added to the study hall, and leading Torah scholars deliver regular lectures…". R. Chaim Ozer writes that the support received from the United States Central Relief Committee is not sufficient to sustain the yeshiva, and additional donations are required.
R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski (1863-1940) was a foremost rabbi of his generation and leader of the entire European Jewry. At the age of 11, he entered the Volozhin yeshiva and became a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk. At the age of 24, he was appointed rabbi and posek of Vilna. He assumed the yoke of public leadership from a young age, and his opinion was conclusive on all communal matters which arose in the Diaspora for close to fifty years. Apart from his spiritual leadership and responding to halachic questions addressed to him from throughout the world, he worked ceaselessly and extensively to rehabilitate the yeshivot and improve the standing of the rabbis in Lithuania and the surroundings. His responsa were published in the four parts of his responsa series Achiezer.
The Ramailes yeshiva in Vilna was founded in 1815 by the rabbis of the city, and was named Ramailes after the plot which was donated for the purpose of building the yeshiva, which was known as "R. Maile's courtyard" (from the estate of R. Maile of Vilna). The yeshiva underwent many vicissitudes over the years, thought never did the sound of Torah cease. The yeshiva was led by R. Avraham Tzvi Grodzinski - brother of R. Chaim Ozer, between 1890 and 1938. R. Chaim Ozer himself was very dedicated to the yeshiva, especially after 1911 when he lost his only daughter (who passed away in her adolescence). He then initiated the construction of a new building for the yeshiva. After WWI, the yeshiva was directed by R. Shlomo Heiman, who had returned from exile in Belarus (where he had established the yeshiva in Smilavichy, together with R. Elchanan Wasserman). During that time, the standing of the yeshiva improved. A prominent student from that period was R. Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz, who studied there until 1935, and later arranged and published his teacher's novellae in the book Chiddushei R. Shlomo.
[1] leaf (written on both sides), official stationery. 20 cm. Letter written by a scribe, with the handwritten signature of R. Chaim Ozer and his ornate stamp. Good condition. Light wear. Folding marks.
Enclosed is part of the envelope, with the name and address of the recipient of the letter.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
![Letter handwritten and signed by R. Baruch Ber Leibowitz, dean of the Kamenitz yeshiva. [Kamenitz (Kamyanyets)], "5th Tishrei](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/237.jpg "Letter from Rabbi Baruch Ber Leibowitz - Blessings for Rabbi Tzvi Yehu")
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Sold for: $1,625
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Baruch Ber Leibowitz, dean of the Kamenitz yeshiva. [Kamenitz (Kamyanyets)], "5th Tishrei" [ca. 1937].
Addressed to R. Dov Kook (brother of R. Avraham Yitzchak Kook), director of the Harry Fischel institute in Jerusalem. The leaf begins with a letter from the gabbai of the Kamenitz yeshiva library, expressing their gratitude for the book he sent - teachings of the Rishonim on Tractate Moed Katan (published in Jerusalem by the Harry Fischel institute, 1937). Another letter follows (8 lines), handwritten and signed by the yeshiva dean R. Baruch Ber, thanking them for the book, and blessing R. Dov Kook and his "nephew, the eminent Torah scholar, R. Tzvi Yehuda - blessing you with great satisfaction for many years to come, and with all your hearts' wishes for the good…".
R. Baruch Dov (Ber) Leibowitz (1864-1939), author of Birkat Shmuel, was a leading disseminator of Torah in his generation. He was a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk in the Volozhin yeshiva and son-in-law of R. Avraham Yitzchak Zimmerman Rabbi of Halusk. After the latter relocated to Kremenchug to serve as rabbi there, R. Baruch Ber succeeded him as rabbi of Halusk and established there a yeshiva. After 13 years, he was invited to serve as dean of the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Slabodka. During WWI, he wandered with the yeshiva to Minsk, Kremenchug and Vilna, finally establishing it in Kamenitz. He authored Birkat Shmuel on Talmudic topics. His orally transmitted and written teachings are the basis of in-depth yeshiva study.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and damage to paper (not affecting text). Folding marks.
Addressed to R. Dov Kook (brother of R. Avraham Yitzchak Kook), director of the Harry Fischel institute in Jerusalem. The leaf begins with a letter from the gabbai of the Kamenitz yeshiva library, expressing their gratitude for the book he sent - teachings of the Rishonim on Tractate Moed Katan (published in Jerusalem by the Harry Fischel institute, 1937). Another letter follows (8 lines), handwritten and signed by the yeshiva dean R. Baruch Ber, thanking them for the book, and blessing R. Dov Kook and his "nephew, the eminent Torah scholar, R. Tzvi Yehuda - blessing you with great satisfaction for many years to come, and with all your hearts' wishes for the good…".
R. Baruch Dov (Ber) Leibowitz (1864-1939), author of Birkat Shmuel, was a leading disseminator of Torah in his generation. He was a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk in the Volozhin yeshiva and son-in-law of R. Avraham Yitzchak Zimmerman Rabbi of Halusk. After the latter relocated to Kremenchug to serve as rabbi there, R. Baruch Ber succeeded him as rabbi of Halusk and established there a yeshiva. After 13 years, he was invited to serve as dean of the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Slabodka. During WWI, he wandered with the yeshiva to Minsk, Kremenchug and Vilna, finally establishing it in Kamenitz. He authored Birkat Shmuel on Talmudic topics. His orally transmitted and written teachings are the basis of in-depth yeshiva study.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears and damage to paper (not affecting text). Folding marks.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
![Letter from R. Baruch Ber Leibowitz, dean of the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Kamenitz (Kamyenyets). [Kamenitz], Elul 193](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/238.jpg "Letter of Good Year Wishes from Rabbi Baruch Ber Leibowitz - Kamenitz,")
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,200
Sold for: $1,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter from R. Baruch Ber Leibowitz, dean of the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Kamenitz (Kamyenyets). [Kamenitz], Elul 1936.
Lengthy letter (in Yiddish) from the Kamenitz yeshiva, with blessings for a good year, addressed to a family of philanthropists in Philadelphia, United States.
The letter, mostly typewritten, concludes with close to 6 lines handwritten and signed by R. Baruch Ber Leibowitz, the yeshiva dean, with warm and hearty blessings in Yiddish and Hebrew: "I second the blessings… may you be written and sealed in the book of absolute pious men, immediately for a good and advanced life, for a good and blessed year, with all the blessings and success… One who blesses him, Baruch Dov Leibovitz dean of the Beit Yitzchak yeshiva".
R. Baruch Dov (Ber) Leibowitz (1864-1940), author of Birkat Shmuel, taught many disciples. He was a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk in the Volozhin yeshiva, and the son-in-law of R. Avraham Yitzchak Zimmerman Rabbi of Hlusk. After his father-in-law went to serve as rabbi of Kremenchuk, he succeeded him in Hlusk and established a yeshiva. After a 13-year tenure, he was asked to head the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Slabodka. During WWI, he wandered with the yeshiva to Minsk, Kremenchuk and Vilna, finally settling in Kamenitz. He authored Birkat Shmuel on Talmudic topics. His writings are basic works of deep yeshiva Torah study.
2 leaves, official stationery. Approx. 29 cm. Good condition. Minor tears to margins and folding marks.
Lengthy letter (in Yiddish) from the Kamenitz yeshiva, with blessings for a good year, addressed to a family of philanthropists in Philadelphia, United States.
The letter, mostly typewritten, concludes with close to 6 lines handwritten and signed by R. Baruch Ber Leibowitz, the yeshiva dean, with warm and hearty blessings in Yiddish and Hebrew: "I second the blessings… may you be written and sealed in the book of absolute pious men, immediately for a good and advanced life, for a good and blessed year, with all the blessings and success… One who blesses him, Baruch Dov Leibovitz dean of the Beit Yitzchak yeshiva".
R. Baruch Dov (Ber) Leibowitz (1864-1940), author of Birkat Shmuel, taught many disciples. He was a disciple of R. Chaim of Brisk in the Volozhin yeshiva, and the son-in-law of R. Avraham Yitzchak Zimmerman Rabbi of Hlusk. After his father-in-law went to serve as rabbi of Kremenchuk, he succeeded him in Hlusk and established a yeshiva. After a 13-year tenure, he was asked to head the Knesset Beit Yitzchak yeshiva in Slabodka. During WWI, he wandered with the yeshiva to Minsk, Kremenchuk and Vilna, finally settling in Kamenitz. He authored Birkat Shmuel on Talmudic topics. His writings are basic works of deep yeshiva Torah study.
2 leaves, official stationery. Approx. 29 cm. Good condition. Minor tears to margins and folding marks.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Letter signed by R. "Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop", dean of the Grodno yeshiva. Hrodna (Grodno), Elul 1938.
Addressed to R. Yisrael Zinober in England. Typewritten, with the handwritten signature "Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop". The letter contains an appeal on behalf of the yeshiva, which was in dire financial straits. R. Shimon asks him to arrange a special fundraising campaign on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and concludes with blessings for a good year and the threefold Priestly blessing (comprised of three verses): "…please generate publicity on behalf of our holy yeshiva, during the High Holidays, to alleviate a little our financial pressure and difficulty, and so that G-d should bring upon him and all who accompany him the blessing of "he who upholds", apart from our private blessing, the threefold Priestly blessing, and blessings for a good and sweet year…".
R. Shimon Yehuda Shkop (1860-1939) was as disciple of R. Chaim Soloveitchik in the Volozhin yeshiva, who instructed him on intricate and profound methodology of Torah study. At the age of 24, he was appointed dean of the Telshe yeshiva (founded by his uncle R. Eliezer Gordon), where he gave over to the many students his innovative method of logical study - approach adopted by the entire Torah world until this day. One of his foremost disciples from that period was R. Elchanan Wasserman. In 1920, he was called to head the Shaar HaTorah yeshiva in Grodno. His works include: Shaarei Yosher, Maarechet HaKinyanim and Chiddushei R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks, with light wear and minor tears.
Addressed to R. Yisrael Zinober in England. Typewritten, with the handwritten signature "Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop". The letter contains an appeal on behalf of the yeshiva, which was in dire financial straits. R. Shimon asks him to arrange a special fundraising campaign on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and concludes with blessings for a good year and the threefold Priestly blessing (comprised of three verses): "…please generate publicity on behalf of our holy yeshiva, during the High Holidays, to alleviate a little our financial pressure and difficulty, and so that G-d should bring upon him and all who accompany him the blessing of "he who upholds", apart from our private blessing, the threefold Priestly blessing, and blessings for a good and sweet year…".
R. Shimon Yehuda Shkop (1860-1939) was as disciple of R. Chaim Soloveitchik in the Volozhin yeshiva, who instructed him on intricate and profound methodology of Torah study. At the age of 24, he was appointed dean of the Telshe yeshiva (founded by his uncle R. Eliezer Gordon), where he gave over to the many students his innovative method of logical study - approach adopted by the entire Torah world until this day. One of his foremost disciples from that period was R. Elchanan Wasserman. In 1920, he was called to head the Shaar HaTorah yeshiva in Grodno. His works include: Shaarei Yosher, Maarechet HaKinyanim and Chiddushei R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28.5 cm. Good condition. Folding marks, with light wear and minor tears.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Letter signed by R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop, dean of the Grodno yeshiva. Hrodna (Grodno), Tammuz 1925.
Addressed to the philanthropist R. Yerucham Fishel son of R. Avraham Yitzchak Munk. Written by a scribe, with the handwritten signature of R. "Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop". The letter acknowledges and confirms the receipt of money on behalf of the yeshiva - "For our holy yeshiva, which numbers close to two hundred students, who study G-d's Torah with exceptional diligence, and are destined to become the leaders of the Jewish people, replete with Torah and of noble character…". The letter concludes with R. Shimon Shkop's threefold blessing (the priestly blessing, comprising three verses).
R. Shimon Yehuda Shkop (1860-1939) was as disciple of R. Chaim Soloveitchik in the Volozhin yeshiva, who instructed him on intricate and profound methodology of Torah study. At the age of 24, he was appointed dean of the Telshe yeshiva (founded by his uncle R. Eliezer Gordon), where he gave over to the many students his innovative method of logical study - approach adopted by the entire Torah world until this day. One of his foremost disciples from that period was R. Elchanan Wasserman. In 1920, he was called to head the Shaar HaTorah yeshiva in Grodno. His works include: Shaarei Yosher, Maarechet HaKinyanim and Chiddushei R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen.
[1] leaf, official stationery. Approx. 28 cm. Good condition. Folding marks and stains.
Addressed to the philanthropist R. Yerucham Fishel son of R. Avraham Yitzchak Munk. Written by a scribe, with the handwritten signature of R. "Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop". The letter acknowledges and confirms the receipt of money on behalf of the yeshiva - "For our holy yeshiva, which numbers close to two hundred students, who study G-d's Torah with exceptional diligence, and are destined to become the leaders of the Jewish people, replete with Torah and of noble character…". The letter concludes with R. Shimon Shkop's threefold blessing (the priestly blessing, comprising three verses).
R. Shimon Yehuda Shkop (1860-1939) was as disciple of R. Chaim Soloveitchik in the Volozhin yeshiva, who instructed him on intricate and profound methodology of Torah study. At the age of 24, he was appointed dean of the Telshe yeshiva (founded by his uncle R. Eliezer Gordon), where he gave over to the many students his innovative method of logical study - approach adopted by the entire Torah world until this day. One of his foremost disciples from that period was R. Elchanan Wasserman. In 1920, he was called to head the Shaar HaTorah yeshiva in Grodno. His works include: Shaarei Yosher, Maarechet HaKinyanim and Chiddushei R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen.
[1] leaf, official stationery. Approx. 28 cm. Good condition. Folding marks and stains.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
![Postcard with a letter signed by R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop, dean of the Grodno yeshiva. Hrodna (Grodno), [1924?]. Addres](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale67-public/241.jpg "Letter from Rabbi Shimon Shkop to Rabbi Yehuda Leib Chasman - Grodno,")
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Postcard with a letter signed by R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop, dean of the Grodno yeshiva. Hrodna (Grodno), [1924?].
Addressed to R. Yehuda Leib Chasman Rabbi of Stutchin (the name of the recipient was mistakenly spelled in the letter as "R. Aryeh[!] Leib Chashman"). Written by a scribe, with the handwritten signature of R. "Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop". The letter informs of the impending visit in their city of the yeshiva's emissary, R. Aharon Zurawski, on a fundraising mission to save the yeshiva, which was "in terrible danger, due to prices increasing by the minute" (in reference to the hyperinflation which raged in Europe in 1923-1925 as a consequence of WWI). R. Shimon Shkop requests of the rabbi of the city, "to please bolster his spirit (of the emissary) and support him in every way he can, and may the blessing of 'he who upholds' be applied to him…".
R. Shimon Yehuda Shkop (1860-1939) was as disciple of R. Chaim Soloveitchik in the Volozhin yeshiva, who instructed him on intricate and profound methodology of Torah study. At the age of 24, he was appointed dean of the Telshe yeshiva (founded by his uncle R. Eliezer Gordon), where he gave over to the many students his innovative method of logical study - approach adopted by the entire Torah world until this day. One of his foremost disciples from that period was R. Elchanan Wasserman. In 1920, he was called to head the Shaar HaTorah yeshiva in Grodno. His works include: Shaarei Yosher, Maarechet HaKinyanim and Chiddushei R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen.
Postcard. 9X14 cm. Good condition. Stains. Stamps partially removed. Damage to postmarks.
Addressed to R. Yehuda Leib Chasman Rabbi of Stutchin (the name of the recipient was mistakenly spelled in the letter as "R. Aryeh[!] Leib Chashman"). Written by a scribe, with the handwritten signature of R. "Shimon Yehuda HaKohen Shkop". The letter informs of the impending visit in their city of the yeshiva's emissary, R. Aharon Zurawski, on a fundraising mission to save the yeshiva, which was "in terrible danger, due to prices increasing by the minute" (in reference to the hyperinflation which raged in Europe in 1923-1925 as a consequence of WWI). R. Shimon Shkop requests of the rabbi of the city, "to please bolster his spirit (of the emissary) and support him in every way he can, and may the blessing of 'he who upholds' be applied to him…".
R. Shimon Yehuda Shkop (1860-1939) was as disciple of R. Chaim Soloveitchik in the Volozhin yeshiva, who instructed him on intricate and profound methodology of Torah study. At the age of 24, he was appointed dean of the Telshe yeshiva (founded by his uncle R. Eliezer Gordon), where he gave over to the many students his innovative method of logical study - approach adopted by the entire Torah world until this day. One of his foremost disciples from that period was R. Elchanan Wasserman. In 1920, he was called to head the Shaar HaTorah yeshiva in Grodno. His works include: Shaarei Yosher, Maarechet HaKinyanim and Chiddushei R. Shimon Yehuda HaKohen.
Postcard. 9X14 cm. Good condition. Stains. Stamps partially removed. Damage to postmarks.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $600
Unsold
Letter signed by R. Elchanan Bunem Wasserman dean of the Baranovich yeshiva, with the stamp of the yeshiva. [Baranovich, 1930s].
This leaf contains the second half of a typewritten letter (leaf 2 only), with the handwritten signature of R. Elchanan. The letter consists of an appeal on behalf of the yeshiva, addressed to the rabbi of a community. R. Elchanan requests that he generate support for the yeshiva "amongst the members of his community, and especially amongst the members of the prominent Ezrat Torah organization in his town, so that they should come to the aid of our holy yeshiva in its time of great need…". The letter concludes with blessings for those who support Torah: "It is a tree of life… and those who support it are fortunate", closing off with blessings: "His friend, who reveres and respects him, who blesses him with life, peace, and only good forever…".
R. Elchanan Wasserman (1875-1941) was a disciple of R. Shimon Shkop in the Telshe yeshiva and prominent disciple of the Chafetz Chaim. He served as lecturer and dean in the Brisk (Brest) yeshiva and in other places. During WWI, at the behest of the Chafetz Chaim, he established a yeshiva in Smilavichy (Minsk province, today Belarus), and after the war, R. Elchanan founded the Ohel Torah yeshiva in Baranovich. A renowned Torah scholar and a foremost yeshiva dean in Lithuania, he represented the Chafetz Chaim and R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski in the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael. He composed many essays on Jewish ideology which were later published in his book Ikveta DeMeshicha, in which he expressed the Torah stance of his teacher the Chafetz Chaim on Zionist nationalism and the spiritual state of the Jewish people. During the Holocaust, he was deported to the Kovno (Kaunas) ghetto, and was later murdered in the Seventh Fort, while studying the laws of Kiddush HaShem. His teachings and lectures were published in the following books: Kovetz Shiurim, Kovetz He'arot, Kovetz Inyanim, Kovetz Igrot HaGaon R. Elchanan Wasserman and others. His approach in learning and his books serve until this day as the basis of intensive yeshiva study in the Torah world.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28 cm. Good-fair condition. Wear and minor damage to folds.
This leaf contains the second half of a typewritten letter (leaf 2 only), with the handwritten signature of R. Elchanan. The letter consists of an appeal on behalf of the yeshiva, addressed to the rabbi of a community. R. Elchanan requests that he generate support for the yeshiva "amongst the members of his community, and especially amongst the members of the prominent Ezrat Torah organization in his town, so that they should come to the aid of our holy yeshiva in its time of great need…". The letter concludes with blessings for those who support Torah: "It is a tree of life… and those who support it are fortunate", closing off with blessings: "His friend, who reveres and respects him, who blesses him with life, peace, and only good forever…".
R. Elchanan Wasserman (1875-1941) was a disciple of R. Shimon Shkop in the Telshe yeshiva and prominent disciple of the Chafetz Chaim. He served as lecturer and dean in the Brisk (Brest) yeshiva and in other places. During WWI, at the behest of the Chafetz Chaim, he established a yeshiva in Smilavichy (Minsk province, today Belarus), and after the war, R. Elchanan founded the Ohel Torah yeshiva in Baranovich. A renowned Torah scholar and a foremost yeshiva dean in Lithuania, he represented the Chafetz Chaim and R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski in the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael. He composed many essays on Jewish ideology which were later published in his book Ikveta DeMeshicha, in which he expressed the Torah stance of his teacher the Chafetz Chaim on Zionist nationalism and the spiritual state of the Jewish people. During the Holocaust, he was deported to the Kovno (Kaunas) ghetto, and was later murdered in the Seventh Fort, while studying the laws of Kiddush HaShem. His teachings and lectures were published in the following books: Kovetz Shiurim, Kovetz He'arot, Kovetz Inyanim, Kovetz Igrot HaGaon R. Elchanan Wasserman and others. His approach in learning and his books serve until this day as the basis of intensive yeshiva study in the Torah world.
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28 cm. Good-fair condition. Wear and minor damage to folds.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $600
Sold for: $750
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Yisrael Yaakov Lubchansky, mashgiach of the Baranovich yeshiva. Baranovich (Baranavichy), Sivan 1937.
Addressed to R. Yaakov Levin, secretary of R. Chaim Ozer in Vilna. R. Yisrael Yaakov asks him to find out whether R. Chaim Ozer wrote a letter pertaining to matters of the "Kollel" (apparently, of one of the Novardok yeshivot): "…perhaps it is possible to inquire if R. Chaim Ozer wrote to Ostroh regarding papers for the Kollel, which he suggested when he was here, and to inform us of the situation… Yisrael Yaakov".
R. Yisrael Yaakov Lubchansky was a leading musar figure in his times. Born in Baranovich to his father, who served as rabbi of the town. He was one of the initial students in the yeshiva of R. Yozel Horowitz, the Alter of Novardok, and later became his son-in-law. Following his father's passing, he served for a time as rabbi of Baranovich, a position he later handed over to his brother-in-law, R. David Weitzel. He headed the Tsaritsyn (Volgograd) and Kharkiv branches of the Novardok yeshiva. When he crossed the border to Poland, R. Elchanan Wasserman appointed him mashgiach of the Ohel Torah yeshiva in Baranovich. He was also the mainstay of the Beit Yosef - Novardok chain of yeshivot, founded by his father-in-law, the Alter of Novardok, and the profound, inspirational lectures which he delivered at alumni gatherings were received with great love and respect. He would preach about striving to reach perfection, and absolute devotion to a life of Torah and refining one's character traits. A most preeminent Torah figure of the generation, outstanding in Torah and noble traits, who combined piety with action. His worship of G-d was passionate. Exceptionally humble, he would conceal his holy ways in every way possible, though his righteousness and modesty became well known. During his tenure as rabbi of Baranovich, he would arise early to assist the beadle, and he was beloved and revered by every member of the community. When he would go on Erev Shabbat to remind the storekeepers to close their shops, they would all hurry to comply, so as not to cause him anguish even for a short moment. With the outbreak of WWII, he fled to Vilna with part of the Baranovich yeshiva. He was murdered by the Nazis in the Kaunas fortress in Tammuz 1941.
Official postcard of the Baranovich yeshiva. 10.5X14.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Filing holes (slightly affecting text of date). Minor tear to corner. Postmarks (postage stamps removed).
Addressed to R. Yaakov Levin, secretary of R. Chaim Ozer in Vilna. R. Yisrael Yaakov asks him to find out whether R. Chaim Ozer wrote a letter pertaining to matters of the "Kollel" (apparently, of one of the Novardok yeshivot): "…perhaps it is possible to inquire if R. Chaim Ozer wrote to Ostroh regarding papers for the Kollel, which he suggested when he was here, and to inform us of the situation… Yisrael Yaakov".
R. Yisrael Yaakov Lubchansky was a leading musar figure in his times. Born in Baranovich to his father, who served as rabbi of the town. He was one of the initial students in the yeshiva of R. Yozel Horowitz, the Alter of Novardok, and later became his son-in-law. Following his father's passing, he served for a time as rabbi of Baranovich, a position he later handed over to his brother-in-law, R. David Weitzel. He headed the Tsaritsyn (Volgograd) and Kharkiv branches of the Novardok yeshiva. When he crossed the border to Poland, R. Elchanan Wasserman appointed him mashgiach of the Ohel Torah yeshiva in Baranovich. He was also the mainstay of the Beit Yosef - Novardok chain of yeshivot, founded by his father-in-law, the Alter of Novardok, and the profound, inspirational lectures which he delivered at alumni gatherings were received with great love and respect. He would preach about striving to reach perfection, and absolute devotion to a life of Torah and refining one's character traits. A most preeminent Torah figure of the generation, outstanding in Torah and noble traits, who combined piety with action. His worship of G-d was passionate. Exceptionally humble, he would conceal his holy ways in every way possible, though his righteousness and modesty became well known. During his tenure as rabbi of Baranovich, he would arise early to assist the beadle, and he was beloved and revered by every member of the community. When he would go on Erev Shabbat to remind the storekeepers to close their shops, they would all hurry to comply, so as not to cause him anguish even for a short moment. With the outbreak of WWII, he fled to Vilna with part of the Baranovich yeshiva. He was murdered by the Nazis in the Kaunas fortress in Tammuz 1941.
Official postcard of the Baranovich yeshiva. 10.5X14.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Filing holes (slightly affecting text of date). Minor tear to corner. Postmarks (postage stamps removed).
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Unsold
Three interesting letters from deans of Lithuanian yeshivot, during the 1930s.
• Lengthy letter (4 pages) handwritten and signed by R. Yitzchak Eizik Sher, dean of the Slabodka yeshiva. Written during his trip to England in the 1930s, addressed to his colleague R. Yisrael Zissel Dvortz of Jerusalem. He mentions events which occurred in Eretz Israel, and the debts of the yeshiva which are cast upon "our friend R. A.G." (R. Avraham Grodzinski),
• Letter signed by R. Avraham Tzvi Grodzinski, dean of the Ramailes yeshiva in Vilna, addressed to R. Reuven Katz - rabbi of Petach Tikva. Recommendation for a student of the Ramailes yeshiva wishing to continue his Torah studies in Eretz Israel. Vilna, Nisan 1937.
• Lengthy letter from R. Yosef Shub (director of the Vaad HaYeshivot in Vilna and confidant of R. Chaim Ozer), addressed to Mr. Ze'ev Fisher-Shein, regarding the activities of the delegation of the Poalei Agudath Israel movement from Eretz Israel (the delegation visited Vilna to encourage the settlement of groups of workers in Eretz Israel, and in preparation for shemittah 1937-1938). Vilna, Nisan 1937.
R. Yitzchak Eizik Sher (1875-1952), outstanding Torah scholar, leading figure of the musar movement. A student of the Halusk, Volozhin, Slutsk and Slabodka yeshivot. Following his marriage to the daughter of R. Natan Tzvi Finkel, the Alter of Slabodka, he went to study in the Kelm yeshiva for several years. He served as head of the Kovno Kollel, and lecturer in Knesset Yisrael yeshiva in Slabodka. Following the immigration of some of the students to Eretz Israel to establish the yeshiva in Hebron, R. Eizik was appointed dean of the Slabodka yeshiva in Lithuania. With the outbreak of WWII, he was residing in Switzerland, and from there he immigrated to Eretz Israel and founded the Slabodka yeshiva in Bnei Brak.
R. Avraham Tzvi Hirsh Grodzinski (ca. 1857-1938), eldest son of R. David Shlomo Rabbi of Iwye, and eldest brother of R. Chaim Ozer. He served for close to fifty years as dean and director of the Ramailes yeshiva in Vilna. In his book Achiezer (part III, section 83), R. Chaim Ozer mentions "my brother R. Avraham Tzvi Hirsh who was the dean of the Ramailes yeshiva in our community from 1890 onwards, and passed away on the first day of Rosh Chodesh Kislev 1938.
R. Yosef Shub (1897-perished in the Holocaust 1941), director of the central office of the Vaad HaYeshivot in Vilna. A confidant of R. Chaim Ozer, and his trusted attendant in managing the matters of the World Agudath Israel and other communal matters. An editor of the Orthodox newspaper Vort, published in Vilna (see: Eleh Ezkerah, I, pp. 247-254). In this interesting letter as well, it is apparent that he is writing on behalf of R. Chaim Ozer and in accordance with his views. R. Yosef writes of the cautious approach in encouraging the settlement movement of Poalei Agudath Israel, while arousing to strengthen Torah observance within the camp.
Three letters, two of them on official stationery. Size and condition vary.
• Lengthy letter (4 pages) handwritten and signed by R. Yitzchak Eizik Sher, dean of the Slabodka yeshiva. Written during his trip to England in the 1930s, addressed to his colleague R. Yisrael Zissel Dvortz of Jerusalem. He mentions events which occurred in Eretz Israel, and the debts of the yeshiva which are cast upon "our friend R. A.G." (R. Avraham Grodzinski),
• Letter signed by R. Avraham Tzvi Grodzinski, dean of the Ramailes yeshiva in Vilna, addressed to R. Reuven Katz - rabbi of Petach Tikva. Recommendation for a student of the Ramailes yeshiva wishing to continue his Torah studies in Eretz Israel. Vilna, Nisan 1937.
• Lengthy letter from R. Yosef Shub (director of the Vaad HaYeshivot in Vilna and confidant of R. Chaim Ozer), addressed to Mr. Ze'ev Fisher-Shein, regarding the activities of the delegation of the Poalei Agudath Israel movement from Eretz Israel (the delegation visited Vilna to encourage the settlement of groups of workers in Eretz Israel, and in preparation for shemittah 1937-1938). Vilna, Nisan 1937.
R. Yitzchak Eizik Sher (1875-1952), outstanding Torah scholar, leading figure of the musar movement. A student of the Halusk, Volozhin, Slutsk and Slabodka yeshivot. Following his marriage to the daughter of R. Natan Tzvi Finkel, the Alter of Slabodka, he went to study in the Kelm yeshiva for several years. He served as head of the Kovno Kollel, and lecturer in Knesset Yisrael yeshiva in Slabodka. Following the immigration of some of the students to Eretz Israel to establish the yeshiva in Hebron, R. Eizik was appointed dean of the Slabodka yeshiva in Lithuania. With the outbreak of WWII, he was residing in Switzerland, and from there he immigrated to Eretz Israel and founded the Slabodka yeshiva in Bnei Brak.
R. Avraham Tzvi Hirsh Grodzinski (ca. 1857-1938), eldest son of R. David Shlomo Rabbi of Iwye, and eldest brother of R. Chaim Ozer. He served for close to fifty years as dean and director of the Ramailes yeshiva in Vilna. In his book Achiezer (part III, section 83), R. Chaim Ozer mentions "my brother R. Avraham Tzvi Hirsh who was the dean of the Ramailes yeshiva in our community from 1890 onwards, and passed away on the first day of Rosh Chodesh Kislev 1938.
R. Yosef Shub (1897-perished in the Holocaust 1941), director of the central office of the Vaad HaYeshivot in Vilna. A confidant of R. Chaim Ozer, and his trusted attendant in managing the matters of the World Agudath Israel and other communal matters. An editor of the Orthodox newspaper Vort, published in Vilna (see: Eleh Ezkerah, I, pp. 247-254). In this interesting letter as well, it is apparent that he is writing on behalf of R. Chaim Ozer and in accordance with his views. R. Yosef writes of the cautious approach in encouraging the settlement movement of Poalei Agudath Israel, while arousing to strengthen Torah observance within the camp.
Three letters, two of them on official stationery. Size and condition vary.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Sold for: $575
Including buyer's premium
Lengthy letter (2 pages) handwritten by R. Yehuda Leib Chasman, with his signature: "Y.H.L.". Stutchin (Shchuchyn), Shevat 1925.
Addressed to his confidant R. Yosef Shub, director of the Vaad HaYeshivot office in Vilna (see previous item). The beginning of the letter contains various directives concerning Vaad HaYeshivot matters, which were under the jurisdiction of R. Yehuda Leib Chasman. R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski is also mentioned in the letter. R. Yehuda Leib Chasman then puts forth sharp criticism on the Orthodox newspaper Vort, published in Vilna by R. Yosef Shub. It appears that the newspaper quoted an article supporting the Orthodox position, which was written by a negative person with unacceptable views. R. Yehuda Leib Chasman responds to this and guides the editors of the newspaper in their work: "Publicizing the views of such a person is detrimental to the readership and the responsibility for it lies on the publishers". R. Yehuda Leib also advises that great caution must be taken when publishing polemic articles quoting essays espousing negative opinions, since when printing heretic views even for the purpose of criticizing them, the harm caused might supersede the gain. He also writes of the obligation to be very discerning with the choice of articles published in the Vilna newspaper, which is viewed as the organ of R. Chaim Ozer, and the need to set a up a spiritual board to supervise the paper: "…it appears that there is no preliminary supervision and judgement regarding the articles printed in the newspaper, and the public considers it authoritative. There are also those who think that it is proofread by R. Chaim Ozer…".
R. Yehuda Leib Chasman (1869-1934), a leading Torah scholar of his times, was the study partner and friend of R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski in their native city of Iwye. A student of the Kelm Beit HaTalmud, he served as mashgiach of the Telshe yeshiva (Telšiai) during the time of R. Shimon Shkop. From 1909, he served as rabbi of Szczuczyn, and established there a Yeshiva Gedola which was closed at the outbreak of World War I. After the war, with the ensuing destruction of Torah institutes and communities, he dedicated himself to the activities of the Vaad HaYeshivot in Vilna. He was a confidant of the heads of the Vaad: R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski, the Chafetz Chaim and R. Shimon Shkop. In 1927, the Saba of Slabodka (who dubbed him "the genius in ethics") called him to succeed him as mashgiach of his yeshiva in Hebron, a position he held until his death in Cheshvan 1935. His Torah novellae were published in his book Minchat Yehuda and his discourses were printed by his leading disciples in the three volumes of Or Yahel.
[1] leaf (written on both sides, approx. 38 autograph lines). Approx. 17 cm. Good condition. Filing holes, slightly affecting text.
Addressed to his confidant R. Yosef Shub, director of the Vaad HaYeshivot office in Vilna (see previous item). The beginning of the letter contains various directives concerning Vaad HaYeshivot matters, which were under the jurisdiction of R. Yehuda Leib Chasman. R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski is also mentioned in the letter. R. Yehuda Leib Chasman then puts forth sharp criticism on the Orthodox newspaper Vort, published in Vilna by R. Yosef Shub. It appears that the newspaper quoted an article supporting the Orthodox position, which was written by a negative person with unacceptable views. R. Yehuda Leib Chasman responds to this and guides the editors of the newspaper in their work: "Publicizing the views of such a person is detrimental to the readership and the responsibility for it lies on the publishers". R. Yehuda Leib also advises that great caution must be taken when publishing polemic articles quoting essays espousing negative opinions, since when printing heretic views even for the purpose of criticizing them, the harm caused might supersede the gain. He also writes of the obligation to be very discerning with the choice of articles published in the Vilna newspaper, which is viewed as the organ of R. Chaim Ozer, and the need to set a up a spiritual board to supervise the paper: "…it appears that there is no preliminary supervision and judgement regarding the articles printed in the newspaper, and the public considers it authoritative. There are also those who think that it is proofread by R. Chaim Ozer…".
R. Yehuda Leib Chasman (1869-1934), a leading Torah scholar of his times, was the study partner and friend of R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski in their native city of Iwye. A student of the Kelm Beit HaTalmud, he served as mashgiach of the Telshe yeshiva (Telšiai) during the time of R. Shimon Shkop. From 1909, he served as rabbi of Szczuczyn, and established there a Yeshiva Gedola which was closed at the outbreak of World War I. After the war, with the ensuing destruction of Torah institutes and communities, he dedicated himself to the activities of the Vaad HaYeshivot in Vilna. He was a confidant of the heads of the Vaad: R. Chaim Ozer Grodzinski, the Chafetz Chaim and R. Shimon Shkop. In 1927, the Saba of Slabodka (who dubbed him "the genius in ethics") called him to succeed him as mashgiach of his yeshiva in Hebron, a position he held until his death in Cheshvan 1935. His Torah novellae were published in his book Minchat Yehuda and his discourses were printed by his leading disciples in the three volumes of Or Yahel.
[1] leaf (written on both sides, approx. 38 autograph lines). Approx. 17 cm. Good condition. Filing holes, slightly affecting text.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $400
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Moshe Sokolovsky, dean of the "Torat Chessed yeshiva - Brisk D'Lita". Iyar, 1927.
Addressed to R. Yosef Shub of Vilna, director of the Vaad HaYeshivot, regarding funding for students requiring to go away for a vacation or for convalescence. He describes the success of the yeshiva, and the increase in the number of students, as well as the financial difficulties and the lack of space. He also writes of the new mashgiach who had joined the yeshiva staff, "the rabbi of Pinsk", and of his letter to R. Chaim Ozer, in which he requested help in procuring funding for the mashgiach's salary.
R. Moshe Sokolovsky (1868-1931), a leading Torah educator in Lithuania. He was a close disciple of R. Chaim Brisk. In 1896-1931, he served as dean of the Torat Chessed yeshiva in Brisk (Brest; together with R. Simcha Zelig Rieger). He was renowned for his exceptional diligence and absorption in his learning: "When he would go to deliver his class in the yeshiva, all his senses and thoughts were focused on the topic the class concerned, to the point that he often unknowingly bumped into trees, so focused as he was on his Torah studies.. one of the Torah leaders of our times attested that he was able to contemplate one topic for 16 hours" (Gedolei HaDorot, p. 1021). His book Imrei Moshe was received in the yeshiva world with great reverence, and serves until this day as a basic book for scholarly, in-depth study. His renowned disciples include: family members of R. Chaim and R. Yitzchak Ze'ev Soloveitchik Rabbis of Brisk (who valued him for his profound and logical reasoning), R. Moshe Soloveitchik of Switzerland, his colleague R. Aharon Yehuda Leib Steinman author of Ayelet HaShachar, R. Aryeh Pomeranchik author of Torat Zera'im and R. Ze'ev Eidelman.
The mashgiach mentioned in the letter is R. Avraham Yaakov Gordon Rabbi of Pinsk, who raised the spiritual standard of the yeshiva since his appointment as its mashgiach in 1925 (see: Yeshurun, 27, p. 831; HaRav MiBrisk, I, pp. 250-252).
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28 cm. Approx. 23 autograph lines. Good condition. Creases and wear. Filing holes affecting text.
Addressed to R. Yosef Shub of Vilna, director of the Vaad HaYeshivot, regarding funding for students requiring to go away for a vacation or for convalescence. He describes the success of the yeshiva, and the increase in the number of students, as well as the financial difficulties and the lack of space. He also writes of the new mashgiach who had joined the yeshiva staff, "the rabbi of Pinsk", and of his letter to R. Chaim Ozer, in which he requested help in procuring funding for the mashgiach's salary.
R. Moshe Sokolovsky (1868-1931), a leading Torah educator in Lithuania. He was a close disciple of R. Chaim Brisk. In 1896-1931, he served as dean of the Torat Chessed yeshiva in Brisk (Brest; together with R. Simcha Zelig Rieger). He was renowned for his exceptional diligence and absorption in his learning: "When he would go to deliver his class in the yeshiva, all his senses and thoughts were focused on the topic the class concerned, to the point that he often unknowingly bumped into trees, so focused as he was on his Torah studies.. one of the Torah leaders of our times attested that he was able to contemplate one topic for 16 hours" (Gedolei HaDorot, p. 1021). His book Imrei Moshe was received in the yeshiva world with great reverence, and serves until this day as a basic book for scholarly, in-depth study. His renowned disciples include: family members of R. Chaim and R. Yitzchak Ze'ev Soloveitchik Rabbis of Brisk (who valued him for his profound and logical reasoning), R. Moshe Soloveitchik of Switzerland, his colleague R. Aharon Yehuda Leib Steinman author of Ayelet HaShachar, R. Aryeh Pomeranchik author of Torat Zera'im and R. Ze'ev Eidelman.
The mashgiach mentioned in the letter is R. Avraham Yaakov Gordon Rabbi of Pinsk, who raised the spiritual standard of the yeshiva since his appointment as its mashgiach in 1925 (see: Yeshurun, 27, p. 831; HaRav MiBrisk, I, pp. 250-252).
[1] leaf, official stationery. 28 cm. Approx. 23 autograph lines. Good condition. Creases and wear. Filing holes affecting text.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue
Auction 67 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
September 18, 2019
Opening: $300
Sold for: $425
Including buyer's premium
Letter (approx. 10 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Avraham Dov Ber Kahana-Shapiro Rabbi of Kovno (Kaunas). Zurich (Switzerland), Adar 1939.
Interesting letter addressed to R. Botschko(?). R. Avraham Dov Ber begins the letter by relating that he received an urgent call from R. Klibansky, director of the Kollel in Kovno, informing him that the Kollel was in dire straits, with no foreseeable source of income to cover the large expenses of the upcoming Passover festival. Further in the letter, R. Avraham Dov Ber refers to his personal matters and to his recovery: "My friend surely heard what I have undergone, and blessed is the One Who bestows good things upon the unworthy, and has bestowed upon me every goodness, and His kindnesses have overcome me". He writes that he intends to return home in the coming week (ultimately, the Devar Avraham only returned to Kovno at the end of the summer, following the outbreak of WWII, see below). The letter concludes with blessings: "With all goodness and a kosher, joyful festival… Avraham Dov Ber Kahana Shapiro".
Following his signature, the Devar Avraham added an apology for writing the letter on stationery bearing the logo in Lithuanian only, without the Hebrew heading: "The Hebrew stationery has run out, and only this remains".
R. Avraham Dov Ber Kahana Shapiro (1871-1943), author of Devar Avraham, an eminent rabbi in his times, son of R. Zalman Sender Kahana Shapiro and son-in-law of "the Gadol of Minsk", R. Yerucham Yehuda Leib Perelman. A student of the Volozhin yeshiva. His scholarly book Devar Avraham, the first part of which was first printed in 1906, earned him worldwide fame and already in his times, leading rabbis discussed its contents. He was renowned as a prominent leader of Lithuanian Jewry. In 1924, he joined the famous expedition of rabbis to America together with the Kli Chemda, R. Kook and R. Epstein. In 1939, he went to convalesce in Switzerland, and he was still there when WWII broke out. His friends begged him to save himself by remaining in neutral Switzerland, yet he returned to Kovno, stating that a captain does not abandon his ship during a storm. He perished in the Kovno Ghetto and thousands of Jews attended his funeral.
[1] leaf, official stationery. Approx. 15X23 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears to margins and folds.
Interesting letter addressed to R. Botschko(?). R. Avraham Dov Ber begins the letter by relating that he received an urgent call from R. Klibansky, director of the Kollel in Kovno, informing him that the Kollel was in dire straits, with no foreseeable source of income to cover the large expenses of the upcoming Passover festival. Further in the letter, R. Avraham Dov Ber refers to his personal matters and to his recovery: "My friend surely heard what I have undergone, and blessed is the One Who bestows good things upon the unworthy, and has bestowed upon me every goodness, and His kindnesses have overcome me". He writes that he intends to return home in the coming week (ultimately, the Devar Avraham only returned to Kovno at the end of the summer, following the outbreak of WWII, see below). The letter concludes with blessings: "With all goodness and a kosher, joyful festival… Avraham Dov Ber Kahana Shapiro".
Following his signature, the Devar Avraham added an apology for writing the letter on stationery bearing the logo in Lithuanian only, without the Hebrew heading: "The Hebrew stationery has run out, and only this remains".
R. Avraham Dov Ber Kahana Shapiro (1871-1943), author of Devar Avraham, an eminent rabbi in his times, son of R. Zalman Sender Kahana Shapiro and son-in-law of "the Gadol of Minsk", R. Yerucham Yehuda Leib Perelman. A student of the Volozhin yeshiva. His scholarly book Devar Avraham, the first part of which was first printed in 1906, earned him worldwide fame and already in his times, leading rabbis discussed its contents. He was renowned as a prominent leader of Lithuanian Jewry. In 1924, he joined the famous expedition of rabbis to America together with the Kli Chemda, R. Kook and R. Epstein. In 1939, he went to convalesce in Switzerland, and he was still there when WWII broke out. His friends begged him to save himself by remaining in neutral Switzerland, yet he returned to Kovno, stating that a captain does not abandon his ship during a storm. He perished in the Kovno Ghetto and thousands of Jews attended his funeral.
[1] leaf, official stationery. Approx. 15X23 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears to margins and folds.
Category
Letters - Lithuanian, Polish and Eretz Israeli Rabbis
Catalogue