Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
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Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $5,000
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 and 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 kvitelach 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 and 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 kvitelach 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, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $400
Unsold
Handwritten leaf, Tenaim document upon the engagement of the groom "R. Meir Yisrael Leib" son of R. Avraham Dov Sharf of Safed with the bride Tamar Hinda daughter of R. Yaakov Yosef Biderman "and on his behalf, stands his father R. David Tzvi Shlomo", signed by the witnesses R. "Shmuel Meir Wir[th?]" and R. "Asher Lemel HaKohen from Jerusalem". Safed, 25th Iyar 1897.
The bride was the only daughter of R. Yaakov Yosef Biderman - the eldest son of Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo of Lelov-Jerusalem (see enclosed material). R. Yaakov Yosef died young in 1900 (in the lifetime of his father), and already in 1897, his father the rebbe undertook all the financial obligations of the marriage: "R. David Tzvi Shlomo undertook to give 15 napoléons as dowry for his son, and five napoléons for the gifts to the groom… and to support the couple at his table for two years after the wedding…". Interestingly, at the time of his engagement, the groom was not yet of bar-mitzva age and the date of the wedding was set for "the time the groom will reach the age to don tefillin…".
Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo Biderman (1844-1918) was the son of Rebbe Elazar Menachem Mendel of Lelov (1827-1883), leader of the Chassidic communities of Jerusalem. R. David Tzvi was holy and pure from his youth. In 1850, when his grandfather, Rebbe Moishe’le, travelled to Eretz Israel and took leave of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, the Ruzhiner said that the boy David has "shining, bright eyes". Over the years, R. David Tzvi Shlomo travelled from Jerusalem to Karlin and became one of the leading Chassidim of the Beit Aharon. His father, Rebbe Elazar Mendel, attested that he always saw the Shiviti before his eyes. The Yismach Yisrael of Aleksander dubbed him "a Sefer Torah". R. Chaim Shmuel of Chęciny said that for many years he was the "tzaddik of the generation". Upon his father’s death in 1883 he was appointed rebbe, and was the primary leader of the Chassidic community of Jerusalem.
[1] leaf. 25.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears, some repaired with tape on verso.
The bride was the only daughter of R. Yaakov Yosef Biderman - the eldest son of Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo of Lelov-Jerusalem (see enclosed material). R. Yaakov Yosef died young in 1900 (in the lifetime of his father), and already in 1897, his father the rebbe undertook all the financial obligations of the marriage: "R. David Tzvi Shlomo undertook to give 15 napoléons as dowry for his son, and five napoléons for the gifts to the groom… and to support the couple at his table for two years after the wedding…". Interestingly, at the time of his engagement, the groom was not yet of bar-mitzva age and the date of the wedding was set for "the time the groom will reach the age to don tefillin…".
Rebbe David Tzvi Shlomo Biderman (1844-1918) was the son of Rebbe Elazar Menachem Mendel of Lelov (1827-1883), leader of the Chassidic communities of Jerusalem. R. David Tzvi was holy and pure from his youth. In 1850, when his grandfather, Rebbe Moishe’le, travelled to Eretz Israel and took leave of Rebbe Yisrael of Ruzhin, the Ruzhiner said that the boy David has "shining, bright eyes". Over the years, R. David Tzvi Shlomo travelled from Jerusalem to Karlin and became one of the leading Chassidim of the Beit Aharon. His father, Rebbe Elazar Mendel, attested that he always saw the Shiviti before his eyes. The Yismach Yisrael of Aleksander dubbed him "a Sefer Torah". R. Chaim Shmuel of Chęciny said that for many years he was the "tzaddik of the generation". Upon his father’s death in 1883 he was appointed rebbe, and was the primary leader of the Chassidic community of Jerusalem.
[1] leaf. 25.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears, some repaired with tape on verso.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $500
Unsold
Responsum letter of Torah thoughts on the laws of shelichut, sent to R. Yitzchak Teitelbaum dayan and posek in Bardiov (Bardejov), signed "Ben Z[ion]". [Bobov?, before 1905?].
The handwriting is similar to that of known letters from the court of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. The signature is torn and damaged, making it difficult to compare to other signatures, however, it seems to be the signature of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. At the foot of the letter, he writes "Regards from my father"; this indicates that the letter was written before 1905, the year his father, Rebbe Shlomo of Bobov, passed away.
The recipient: R. Yitzchak Teitelbaum (1858-1942, perished in the Holocaust) served as dayan and posek in Bardiov (Bardejov, in German: Bartfeld). He was the disciple of Maharam Schick, and was beloved by the Yitav Lev of Sighet. Likewise, he was revered and cherished by the rebbes of Bobov, R. Shlomo Halberstam and his son R. Ben Zion - author of Kedushat Tzion. Reputedly, when the Kedushat Tzion of Bobov visited Bardiov, of all the prominent rabbis and community notables who came to greet him, he chose R. Yitzchak to sit beside him in the carriage on his way from the train station to his lodgings. He explained his choice by saying: "Do not be surprised that I chose him and none other from among the elder rabbis. This is because my father [Rebbe Shlomo] attested that he learns Torah for the sake of Heaven". R. Yitzchak perished in Auschwitz on 9th Av 1942. Some of his writings were published in the book Divrei Yitzchak.
Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam, author of Kedushat Tzion (1874-1941, perished in the Holocaust), was the second rebbe of the Bobov dynasty, one of the leading rebbes of his generation and leader of West Galician Jewry. Prominent Torah scholar, clever and sharp, he had an aristocratic demeanour (Encyclopedia L’Chassidut, I, p. 360). He was the son and successor of Rebbe Shlomo (the first) of Bobov, and son-in-law of his great-uncle Rebbe Shalom Eliezer Halberstam of Ratzfert. In 1892, he was appointed Junior Rabbi of Bobov, and already in his father’s lifetime he led the city’s rabbinate and the "holy court". For over 35 years, he served as rabbi and rebbe of thousands of Chassidic families. Many disciples flocked to his yeshiva in Bobov, and under his guidance the studies in the yeshiva reached a very high level. After WWI, he rebuilt the Galician Torah world, establishing the large network of Etz Chaim yeshivot. In the aftermath of WWI and the severe crisis of Galician Chassidism, these yeshivot gave rise to a new generation of Chassidim. He was very active in rabbinical and communal matters, and in 1928, founded the Western-Galicia rabbinic organization. During the Holocaust, he escaped to Lviv, where he was murdered by the Nazis. His son, Rebbe Shlomo (the second) of Bobov, arrived in the United States after the Holocaust and re-established the Bobov Chassidism, which today is one of the largest Chassidic communities in the world.
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 24 cm. Fair condition. The letter is damaged, with a large open tear at the top of the leaf (repaired with paper), affecting text and signature. Tears (repaired) and stains.
The handwriting is similar to that of known letters from the court of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. The signature is torn and damaged, making it difficult to compare to other signatures, however, it seems to be the signature of Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam of Bobov. At the foot of the letter, he writes "Regards from my father"; this indicates that the letter was written before 1905, the year his father, Rebbe Shlomo of Bobov, passed away.
The recipient: R. Yitzchak Teitelbaum (1858-1942, perished in the Holocaust) served as dayan and posek in Bardiov (Bardejov, in German: Bartfeld). He was the disciple of Maharam Schick, and was beloved by the Yitav Lev of Sighet. Likewise, he was revered and cherished by the rebbes of Bobov, R. Shlomo Halberstam and his son R. Ben Zion - author of Kedushat Tzion. Reputedly, when the Kedushat Tzion of Bobov visited Bardiov, of all the prominent rabbis and community notables who came to greet him, he chose R. Yitzchak to sit beside him in the carriage on his way from the train station to his lodgings. He explained his choice by saying: "Do not be surprised that I chose him and none other from among the elder rabbis. This is because my father [Rebbe Shlomo] attested that he learns Torah for the sake of Heaven". R. Yitzchak perished in Auschwitz on 9th Av 1942. Some of his writings were published in the book Divrei Yitzchak.
Rebbe Ben Zion Halberstam, author of Kedushat Tzion (1874-1941, perished in the Holocaust), was the second rebbe of the Bobov dynasty, one of the leading rebbes of his generation and leader of West Galician Jewry. Prominent Torah scholar, clever and sharp, he had an aristocratic demeanour (Encyclopedia L’Chassidut, I, p. 360). He was the son and successor of Rebbe Shlomo (the first) of Bobov, and son-in-law of his great-uncle Rebbe Shalom Eliezer Halberstam of Ratzfert. In 1892, he was appointed Junior Rabbi of Bobov, and already in his father’s lifetime he led the city’s rabbinate and the "holy court". For over 35 years, he served as rabbi and rebbe of thousands of Chassidic families. Many disciples flocked to his yeshiva in Bobov, and under his guidance the studies in the yeshiva reached a very high level. After WWI, he rebuilt the Galician Torah world, establishing the large network of Etz Chaim yeshivot. In the aftermath of WWI and the severe crisis of Galician Chassidism, these yeshivot gave rise to a new generation of Chassidim. He was very active in rabbinical and communal matters, and in 1928, founded the Western-Galicia rabbinic organization. During the Holocaust, he escaped to Lviv, where he was murdered by the Nazis. His son, Rebbe Shlomo (the second) of Bobov, arrived in the United States after the Holocaust and re-established the Bobov Chassidism, which today is one of the largest Chassidic communities in the world.
[1] leaf (written on both sides). 24 cm. Fair condition. The letter is damaged, with a large open tear at the top of the leaf (repaired with paper), affecting text and signature. Tears (repaired) and stains.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $600
Sold for: $875
Including buyer's premium
Printed invitation to the wedding of R. Yehoshua Rokeach son of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz, with the bride Shifra Chana daughter of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a Fromer, in Belz on 13th Kislev 1924. (Radom): "M. Zucker, Radom", [1924].
A handwritten invitation letter is inscribed on the verso, including one line handwritten and signed by the father of the bride: "From me, who awaits the Redemption and salvation, Moshe E.B. son of R. Y.". The letter was sent to Łódź to his mechutan Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander: "To my honored… mechutan, the holy rabbi and Tzaddik… R. Betzalel Yair". The leaf also contains various inscriptions in pen and pencil, including kvitel inscriptions of names to be mentioned in prayer and for blessing.
The groom: R. Yehoshua Rokeach, later rebbe of Yaroslav (Jarosław; 1897-perished in the Holocaust 1943), son of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (elder Chassidim asserted that his attributes were similar to those of his father). He was the son-in-law of Rebbe Yosef Meir Twersky of Machnovka in his first marriage, and of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a of Ostrovtza (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski) in his second marriage. Following his father’s passing in 1927, he moved to Yaroslav, where he served as rebbe, occasionally frequenting the court of his brother Rebbe Aharon of Belz. During the Holocaust, he fled to Zborov, where he was murdered by the Nazis together with his wife and children. His eldest son (from his first marriage) immigrated to Eretz Israel, and was the father of Rebbe Yehoshua Rokeach of Machnovka.
Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a Fromer (1877-perished in the Holocaust 1942), father of the bride who signed the letter and invitation, was the son and successor of Rebbe Yerachmiel Fromer of Ostrovtza. A scion of the rebbes of the Lipsk-Kozhnitz dynasties. In 1909, he was appointed rebbe in Radom. His son Rebbe Yechiel Elimelech Fromer of Łódź served as rebbe already in his father’s lifetime, and was the son-in-law of the recipient of this invitation, Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander and Łódź (1865-1934).
[1] double leaf. Approx. 23.5 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folds (professionally restored). Stains. Old tape stains.
A handwritten invitation letter is inscribed on the verso, including one line handwritten and signed by the father of the bride: "From me, who awaits the Redemption and salvation, Moshe E.B. son of R. Y.". The letter was sent to Łódź to his mechutan Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander: "To my honored… mechutan, the holy rabbi and Tzaddik… R. Betzalel Yair". The leaf also contains various inscriptions in pen and pencil, including kvitel inscriptions of names to be mentioned in prayer and for blessing.
The groom: R. Yehoshua Rokeach, later rebbe of Yaroslav (Jarosław; 1897-perished in the Holocaust 1943), son of Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (elder Chassidim asserted that his attributes were similar to those of his father). He was the son-in-law of Rebbe Yosef Meir Twersky of Machnovka in his first marriage, and of Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a of Ostrovtza (Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski) in his second marriage. Following his father’s passing in 1927, he moved to Yaroslav, where he served as rebbe, occasionally frequenting the court of his brother Rebbe Aharon of Belz. During the Holocaust, he fled to Zborov, where he was murdered by the Nazis together with his wife and children. His eldest son (from his first marriage) immigrated to Eretz Israel, and was the father of Rebbe Yehoshua Rokeach of Machnovka.
Rebbe Moshe Elyakim Beri’a Fromer (1877-perished in the Holocaust 1942), father of the bride who signed the letter and invitation, was the son and successor of Rebbe Yerachmiel Fromer of Ostrovtza. A scion of the rebbes of the Lipsk-Kozhnitz dynasties. In 1909, he was appointed rebbe in Radom. His son Rebbe Yechiel Elimelech Fromer of Łódź served as rebbe already in his father’s lifetime, and was the son-in-law of the recipient of this invitation, Rebbe Betzalel Yair Danziger of Alexander and Łódź (1865-1934).
[1] double leaf. Approx. 23.5 cm. Fair condition. Tears to folds (professionally restored). Stains. Old tape stains.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Yechezkel HaLevi Halstock at the time he served as Rabbi of Inowłódz (Poland), Elul 1913.
Addressed to one of his disciples: "Peace to my beloved friend… astute and well-versed… Yaakov". At the beginning of the letter, he writes: "I have received your letter with your dear and pleasant Torah novellae, which I cherish… G-d willing, I will take the time to study your words well and then write to you a longer response…". The letter concludes with blessings for the New Year, signed "Yechezkel HaLevi…".
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Halstock, second Ostrovtza Rebbe (1887-1942, perished in the Holocaust), was the son of Rebbe Meir Yechiel HaLevi Rabbi of Ostrovtza ("the rebbe who fasted for 40 years") and the son-in-law of R. Naftali of Melitz-Ropshitz. An outstanding Torah scholar and holy man, he was known for his ingenious study methods learned from his scholarly father. In 1911, he was appointed rabbi of Inowłódz near Tomaszów, and in 1921 moved to serve in the Nasielsk rabbinate. In 1928, he became rebbe and rabbi of Ostrovtza, succeeding his holy father. He founded the Beit Meir network of yeshivot and stood at their helm. Many students studied in these yeshivot, adopting the special study method of the Ostrovtza rebbes - sharpness and proficiency in all areas of Torah study. He and all his descendants (seven sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren) were murdered in the Holocaust. Remnants of his Torah novellae on Seder Kodshim, homilies on the Torah and more, were printed in Kodshei Yechezkel.
Postcard. 14 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and creases. Postmarks.
Addressed to one of his disciples: "Peace to my beloved friend… astute and well-versed… Yaakov". At the beginning of the letter, he writes: "I have received your letter with your dear and pleasant Torah novellae, which I cherish… G-d willing, I will take the time to study your words well and then write to you a longer response…". The letter concludes with blessings for the New Year, signed "Yechezkel HaLevi…".
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Halstock, second Ostrovtza Rebbe (1887-1942, perished in the Holocaust), was the son of Rebbe Meir Yechiel HaLevi Rabbi of Ostrovtza ("the rebbe who fasted for 40 years") and the son-in-law of R. Naftali of Melitz-Ropshitz. An outstanding Torah scholar and holy man, he was known for his ingenious study methods learned from his scholarly father. In 1911, he was appointed rabbi of Inowłódz near Tomaszów, and in 1921 moved to serve in the Nasielsk rabbinate. In 1928, he became rebbe and rabbi of Ostrovtza, succeeding his holy father. He founded the Beit Meir network of yeshivot and stood at their helm. Many students studied in these yeshivot, adopting the special study method of the Ostrovtza rebbes - sharpness and proficiency in all areas of Torah study. He and all his descendants (seven sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren) were murdered in the Holocaust. Remnants of his Torah novellae on Seder Kodshim, homilies on the Torah and more, were printed in Kodshei Yechezkel.
Postcard. 14 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and creases. Postmarks.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $875
Including buyer's premium
Three letters handwritten and signed by Rebbe Baruch Hager of Seret-Vizhnitz and Haifa:
1. Letter of recommendation to assist a man wishing to live near Haifa. The Rebbe implores on behalf of this person, as if it were for himself: "…and you are literally doing me a personal favor. He is an elevated and G-d fearing person. I hope you will do whatever you can. Your friend Baruch". Haifa, Adar I 1951.
2. Letter to the Gaon of Turda R. Yosef Adler - congratulations for his daughter’s wedding: "…may you merit seeing from her and from all your descendants blessed, upright and learned generations… and may we all merit to rejoice upon the holy land with the coming of the true redeemer, to hear and tell only good tidings… Baruch son of R. Y.". Haifa, Tammuz 1953.
3. Letter of Torah thoughts, addressed to R. Naftali HaKohen. The Rebbe concludes the letter with blessings: "May G-d lengthen your years in good health, to serve G-d in contentment and tranquility. Your friend… who awaits Heavenly mercy. Baruch son of R. Y.". Ramat Vizhnitz, Haifa, Tevet 1957.
Rebbe Baruch Hager of Seret-Vizhnitz (1895-1963) was the fourth son of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. He received rabbinical ordination from R. Meir Arik and R. Avraham Menachem Steinberg of Brody, and served in the rabbinate from 1923. In 1936 he was appointed Rebbe in Seret (Siret). In 1947 he immigrated to Haifa, where he reestablished his Beit Midrash and community institutions, which exist until this day in Haifa and other cities. Over the years he founded Kiryat Ramat Vizhnitz in Haifa. A member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael.
Three letters, official stationery. 18.5-22 cm. Condition varies, good to good-fair. Creases, ink stains and traces of past dampness.
1. Letter of recommendation to assist a man wishing to live near Haifa. The Rebbe implores on behalf of this person, as if it were for himself: "…and you are literally doing me a personal favor. He is an elevated and G-d fearing person. I hope you will do whatever you can. Your friend Baruch". Haifa, Adar I 1951.
2. Letter to the Gaon of Turda R. Yosef Adler - congratulations for his daughter’s wedding: "…may you merit seeing from her and from all your descendants blessed, upright and learned generations… and may we all merit to rejoice upon the holy land with the coming of the true redeemer, to hear and tell only good tidings… Baruch son of R. Y.". Haifa, Tammuz 1953.
3. Letter of Torah thoughts, addressed to R. Naftali HaKohen. The Rebbe concludes the letter with blessings: "May G-d lengthen your years in good health, to serve G-d in contentment and tranquility. Your friend… who awaits Heavenly mercy. Baruch son of R. Y.". Ramat Vizhnitz, Haifa, Tevet 1957.
Rebbe Baruch Hager of Seret-Vizhnitz (1895-1963) was the fourth son of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. He received rabbinical ordination from R. Meir Arik and R. Avraham Menachem Steinberg of Brody, and served in the rabbinate from 1923. In 1936 he was appointed Rebbe in Seret (Siret). In 1947 he immigrated to Haifa, where he reestablished his Beit Midrash and community institutions, which exist until this day in Haifa and other cities. Over the years he founded Kiryat Ramat Vizhnitz in Haifa. A member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudat Yisrael.
Three letters, official stationery. 18.5-22 cm. Condition varies, good to good-fair. Creases, ink stains and traces of past dampness.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $500
Unsold
Printed wedding invitation, with letters signed by Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim and his son Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, author of Yeshuot Moshe. Bnei Brak, 1966.
Printed invitation, on behalf of the Rebbe author of Imrei Chaim, to the wedding of his granddaughter, daughter of his son Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, with Rebbe Aharon Teitelbaum of Siget-Satmar, on 21st Sivan 1966. On verso is a letter handwritten by a scribe an hand-signed by the bride’s grandfather, Rebbe "Chaim Meir", and a letter handwritten and signed by the bride’s father "Moshe Yehoshua".
The invitation was sent to their relative R. Mordechai Aryeh Horwitz Rabbi of Banyliv.
Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim (1888-1972), son and successor of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Following the Holocaust, he returned to Grosswardein (Oradea), moving in 1947 to Antwerp and then to Tel Aviv. He established the Kiryat Vizhnitz neighborhood in Bnei Brak, rebuilt the Vizhnitz Chassidic dynasty, and set up its institutions. He was one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Eretz Israel, and a member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. His teachings were published in the Imrei Chaim series. His wife, Rebbetzin Margalit was the daughter of Rebbe Zeev Twersky of Rachmastrivka.
His son and successor, Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, author of Yeshuot Moshe (1916-2012), served as Rabbi of Vil’khovets. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Upon his arrival, he was appointed dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva, and assisted his father in establishing and expanding the Vizhnitz Chassidism. Following his father’s passing in 1972, he succeeded him and led the large court of Vizhnitz Chassidim for forty years. He was renowned for his exceptional diligence, holiness and outstanding service of G-d. Multitudes flocked to his Tishim, to be inspired by his fiery passion and typical Vizhnitz "sweetness", which enraptured and aroused the crowd. From 1989, he served as president of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. Some of his discourses and letters were published in the nine-volume Yeshuot Moshe series, including a collection of his lectures on Tractate Pesachim. His sons are Rebbe Yisrael Hager and Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager. His sons-in-law are the Rebbes of Skver and Belz, Rebbe Aharon of Satmar and R. Menachem Ernster dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva.
[1] leaf. 22 cm. Good-fair condition. Dark stains. Folding marks and creases.
Printed invitation, on behalf of the Rebbe author of Imrei Chaim, to the wedding of his granddaughter, daughter of his son Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, with Rebbe Aharon Teitelbaum of Siget-Satmar, on 21st Sivan 1966. On verso is a letter handwritten by a scribe an hand-signed by the bride’s grandfather, Rebbe "Chaim Meir", and a letter handwritten and signed by the bride’s father "Moshe Yehoshua".
The invitation was sent to their relative R. Mordechai Aryeh Horwitz Rabbi of Banyliv.
Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim (1888-1972), son and successor of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Following the Holocaust, he returned to Grosswardein (Oradea), moving in 1947 to Antwerp and then to Tel Aviv. He established the Kiryat Vizhnitz neighborhood in Bnei Brak, rebuilt the Vizhnitz Chassidic dynasty, and set up its institutions. He was one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Eretz Israel, and a member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. His teachings were published in the Imrei Chaim series. His wife, Rebbetzin Margalit was the daughter of Rebbe Zeev Twersky of Rachmastrivka.
His son and successor, Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager, author of Yeshuot Moshe (1916-2012), served as Rabbi of Vil’khovets. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Upon his arrival, he was appointed dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva, and assisted his father in establishing and expanding the Vizhnitz Chassidism. Following his father’s passing in 1972, he succeeded him and led the large court of Vizhnitz Chassidim for forty years. He was renowned for his exceptional diligence, holiness and outstanding service of G-d. Multitudes flocked to his Tishim, to be inspired by his fiery passion and typical Vizhnitz "sweetness", which enraptured and aroused the crowd. From 1989, he served as president of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. Some of his discourses and letters were published in the nine-volume Yeshuot Moshe series, including a collection of his lectures on Tractate Pesachim. His sons are Rebbe Yisrael Hager and Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager. His sons-in-law are the Rebbes of Skver and Belz, Rebbe Aharon of Satmar and R. Menachem Ernster dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva.
[1] leaf. 22 cm. Good-fair condition. Dark stains. Folding marks and creases.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Travel certificate - joint passport for both Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim of Vizhnitz and his wife, Rebbetzin Margalit.
Israeli passport issued in Jerusalem in 1952. On p. 4, photos of the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin, with their signatures. The passport contains the Rebbe’s biographical details and details of his travels: entry permits, stamps and inscriptions from various countries.
Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim (1888-1972), son and successor of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Following the Holocaust, he returned to Grosswardein (Oradea), moving in 1947 to Antwerp and then to Tel Aviv. He established the Kiryat Vizhnitz neighborhood in Bnei Brak, rebuilt the Vizhnitz Chassidic dynasty, and set up its institutions. He was one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Eretz Israel, and a member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. His teachings were published in the Imrei Chaim series. His wife, Rebbetzin Margalit was the daughter of Rebbe Zeev Twersky of Rachmastrivka
32 pages. 15 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. The Rebbe’s photo is partially damaged. One corner of the front cover was cut off, marking the cancellation of the passport.
Israeli passport issued in Jerusalem in 1952. On p. 4, photos of the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin, with their signatures. The passport contains the Rebbe’s biographical details and details of his travels: entry permits, stamps and inscriptions from various countries.
Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager, author of Imrei Chaim (1888-1972), son and successor of the Ahavat Yisrael of Vizhnitz. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Following the Holocaust, he returned to Grosswardein (Oradea), moving in 1947 to Antwerp and then to Tel Aviv. He established the Kiryat Vizhnitz neighborhood in Bnei Brak, rebuilt the Vizhnitz Chassidic dynasty, and set up its institutions. He was one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Eretz Israel, and a member of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah. His teachings were published in the Imrei Chaim series. His wife, Rebbetzin Margalit was the daughter of Rebbe Zeev Twersky of Rachmastrivka
32 pages. 15 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains. The Rebbe’s photo is partially damaged. One corner of the front cover was cut off, marking the cancellation of the passport.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $500
Unsold
Passport of Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager of Vizhnitz, author of Yeshuot Moshe.
The passport was issued in Sivan 1969, valid for five years, and later renewed for five more years. On p. 3, the Rebbe’s photo, with his signature underneath. The passport contains the Rebbe’s biographical details and details of his travels to various countries: entry permits, stamps and handwritten inscriptions.
Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager of Vizhnitz, author of Yeshuot Moshe (1916-2012), son of Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager of Vizhnitz, the Imrei Chaim. Before his marriage, he already served as rabbi in Vil’khovets. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Upon his arrival, he was appointed dean of the Vizhnitz yeshiva, and assisted his father in establishing and expanding the Vizhnitz Chassidism. Following his father’s passing in 1972, he succeeded him and led the large court of Vizhnitz Chassidim for forty years. He was renowned for his exceptional diligence, holiness and outstanding service of G-d. Multitudes flocked to his Tishim, to be inspired by his fiery passion and typical Vizhnitz "sweetness", which enraptured and aroused the crowd. From 1989, he served as president of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. Some of his discourses and letters were published in the nine-volume Yeshuot Moshe series, including a collection of his lectures on Tractate Pesachim. His sons are Rebbe Yisrael Hager and Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager. His sons-in-law are the Rebbes of Skver and Belz, Rebbe Aharon of Satmar and R. Menachem Ernster dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva.
34 pp. 15 cm. Good condition. Stains. Cancellation stamps on several leaves. The corners of the front cover are cut off, marking the cancellation of the passport.
The passport was issued in Sivan 1969, valid for five years, and later renewed for five more years. On p. 3, the Rebbe’s photo, with his signature underneath. The passport contains the Rebbe’s biographical details and details of his travels to various countries: entry permits, stamps and handwritten inscriptions.
Rebbe Moshe Yehoshua Hager of Vizhnitz, author of Yeshuot Moshe (1916-2012), son of Rebbe Chaim Meir Hager of Vizhnitz, the Imrei Chaim. Before his marriage, he already served as rabbi in Vil’khovets. In 1944, he escaped the Holocaust and immigrated to Eretz Israel. Upon his arrival, he was appointed dean of the Vizhnitz yeshiva, and assisted his father in establishing and expanding the Vizhnitz Chassidism. Following his father’s passing in 1972, he succeeded him and led the large court of Vizhnitz Chassidim for forty years. He was renowned for his exceptional diligence, holiness and outstanding service of G-d. Multitudes flocked to his Tishim, to be inspired by his fiery passion and typical Vizhnitz "sweetness", which enraptured and aroused the crowd. From 1989, he served as president of the Moetzet Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Yisrael. Some of his discourses and letters were published in the nine-volume Yeshuot Moshe series, including a collection of his lectures on Tractate Pesachim. His sons are Rebbe Yisrael Hager and Rebbe Menachem Mendel Hager. His sons-in-law are the Rebbes of Skver and Belz, Rebbe Aharon of Satmar and R. Menachem Ernster dean of the Vizhnitz Yeshiva.
34 pp. 15 cm. Good condition. Stains. Cancellation stamps on several leaves. The corners of the front cover are cut off, marking the cancellation of the passport.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Unsold
Collection of items from the kabbalist R. Asher Ze'ev Werner Rabbi of Tiberias:
• Large collection of letters, documents, postcards, photographs and paper items, from the archive of R. Asher Ze'ev Werner Rabbi of Tiberias and his family. Tiberias, 1941-1957.
The collection includes: 32 promissory notes from the Oneg Yom Tov free-loan society run by R. Asher Ze'ev Werner, handwritten by the lender R. Asher Ze'ev Werner. The signatures of the borrowers and guarantors appear at the foot of the notes, and include: Rebbe Shalom Noach Berezovsky of Slonim - the Netivot Shalom (3 signatures), R. Asher Ze'ev's father-in-law R. Aharon Yosef Luria - author of Avodat Pnim, and others. The collection also includes a document from the Tiberias Beit Din, handwritten and signed by R. Asher Ze'ev; receipts and letters addressed to him and to his wife, some from rabbis and public figures including: R. Shmuel Baruch Werner - head of the Tel Aviv Beit Din, R. Yitzchak Gerstenkorn - founder of Bnei Brak, R. Binyamin Mintz and others; family photographs of his son R. Moshe Werner (d. 2010), and of his brother-in-law Rebbe Meir Halberstam of Tshakava.
R. Asher Ze'ev Werner (1892-1957), Rabbi of Tiberias and prominent kabbalist. He was the close disciple of R. Moshe Kliers, author of Torat HaAretz. He studied under the elder disciples of the Yesod HaAvoda of Slonim, and absorbed from them much guidance in worship of G-d. During WWI, he sojourned in the United States where he served as rabbi of several cities and was tremendously successful in bolstering Torah observance. In 1934, he returned to Tiberias upon the request of R. Kliers, and shortly thereafter was appointed Ashkenazi rabbi of Tiberias. He engaged in profound study of kabbalah and Chassidism from a young age, and was exceptionally well-versed in the writings of the Arizal and the Rashash, within which he innovated his individual approach. The majority of his novellae in Halacha, Kabbalah and homily are recorded in his books Taam Zekenim (Jerusalem 1955) and BiNe'arenu UbiZekenenu (Jerusalem 1957). Most of his halachic responsa were printed in his biography Me'od Naalah (Jerusalem 2013).
R. Asher Ze'ev Werner was reputed as the pillar of lovingkindness and charity in his generation. His home was like that of our patriarch Avraham, open to any needy, despondent or embittered person. His home was always filled with guests, who ate and slept there as if it were their own home. During his stay in the United States, he raised funds for the recovery of the Jewish settlement in Tiberias (which was under threat of collapse during WWI). Upon his return to Tiberias, he managed several large free-loan societies, with the support of American donors. The societies served people from throughout the country. The present documents give us a glimpse into his extensive activity in this field. The documents disclose the scope of the sums of money he loaned in the early 1950s, during the Israeli austerity-period.
• Chanukah Lamp which belonged to the kabbalist R. Asher Ze'ev Werner Rabbi of Tiberias. He lit this Chanukah lamp in the final two years of his life, Chanukah 1956 and 1957.
A large upright Chanukah lamp, with scrolling vines, the Tablets of the Law, lions and a Star of David. Warsaw, [ca. early 20th century].
Stamped and cast copper alloy, silver plated; the candlestick is marked "Zybert Galw. Warszawa".
Large Chanukah lamp, designed as a candlestick bearing the upper part of the lamp - a central arm, eight branches and a shamash. The candlestick and oil fonts are decorated with architectural pillars, wreaths, vine leaves and clusters of grapes. The branches of the lamp are fashioned as scrolling vines, with leaves and clusters of grapes. The central branch is topped with a ball bearing a pair of heraldic lions supporting the Tablets of the Law, surmounted by a Star of David. The shamash is removable.
97 paper items (including 33 documents handwritten by R. Werner, one of them with his stamp) + 3 photographs. Size varies. Overall good condition. Chanukah lamp: Height -Approx. 73 cm. Width - Approx. 44 cm. Good-fair condition. Bends. Losses to silver plating in large areas of the candlestick and branches.
• Large collection of letters, documents, postcards, photographs and paper items, from the archive of R. Asher Ze'ev Werner Rabbi of Tiberias and his family. Tiberias, 1941-1957.
The collection includes: 32 promissory notes from the Oneg Yom Tov free-loan society run by R. Asher Ze'ev Werner, handwritten by the lender R. Asher Ze'ev Werner. The signatures of the borrowers and guarantors appear at the foot of the notes, and include: Rebbe Shalom Noach Berezovsky of Slonim - the Netivot Shalom (3 signatures), R. Asher Ze'ev's father-in-law R. Aharon Yosef Luria - author of Avodat Pnim, and others. The collection also includes a document from the Tiberias Beit Din, handwritten and signed by R. Asher Ze'ev; receipts and letters addressed to him and to his wife, some from rabbis and public figures including: R. Shmuel Baruch Werner - head of the Tel Aviv Beit Din, R. Yitzchak Gerstenkorn - founder of Bnei Brak, R. Binyamin Mintz and others; family photographs of his son R. Moshe Werner (d. 2010), and of his brother-in-law Rebbe Meir Halberstam of Tshakava.
R. Asher Ze'ev Werner (1892-1957), Rabbi of Tiberias and prominent kabbalist. He was the close disciple of R. Moshe Kliers, author of Torat HaAretz. He studied under the elder disciples of the Yesod HaAvoda of Slonim, and absorbed from them much guidance in worship of G-d. During WWI, he sojourned in the United States where he served as rabbi of several cities and was tremendously successful in bolstering Torah observance. In 1934, he returned to Tiberias upon the request of R. Kliers, and shortly thereafter was appointed Ashkenazi rabbi of Tiberias. He engaged in profound study of kabbalah and Chassidism from a young age, and was exceptionally well-versed in the writings of the Arizal and the Rashash, within which he innovated his individual approach. The majority of his novellae in Halacha, Kabbalah and homily are recorded in his books Taam Zekenim (Jerusalem 1955) and BiNe'arenu UbiZekenenu (Jerusalem 1957). Most of his halachic responsa were printed in his biography Me'od Naalah (Jerusalem 2013).
R. Asher Ze'ev Werner was reputed as the pillar of lovingkindness and charity in his generation. His home was like that of our patriarch Avraham, open to any needy, despondent or embittered person. His home was always filled with guests, who ate and slept there as if it were their own home. During his stay in the United States, he raised funds for the recovery of the Jewish settlement in Tiberias (which was under threat of collapse during WWI). Upon his return to Tiberias, he managed several large free-loan societies, with the support of American donors. The societies served people from throughout the country. The present documents give us a glimpse into his extensive activity in this field. The documents disclose the scope of the sums of money he loaned in the early 1950s, during the Israeli austerity-period.
• Chanukah Lamp which belonged to the kabbalist R. Asher Ze'ev Werner Rabbi of Tiberias. He lit this Chanukah lamp in the final two years of his life, Chanukah 1956 and 1957.
A large upright Chanukah lamp, with scrolling vines, the Tablets of the Law, lions and a Star of David. Warsaw, [ca. early 20th century].
Stamped and cast copper alloy, silver plated; the candlestick is marked "Zybert Galw. Warszawa".
Large Chanukah lamp, designed as a candlestick bearing the upper part of the lamp - a central arm, eight branches and a shamash. The candlestick and oil fonts are decorated with architectural pillars, wreaths, vine leaves and clusters of grapes. The branches of the lamp are fashioned as scrolling vines, with leaves and clusters of grapes. The central branch is topped with a ball bearing a pair of heraldic lions supporting the Tablets of the Law, surmounted by a Star of David. The shamash is removable.
97 paper items (including 33 documents handwritten by R. Werner, one of them with his stamp) + 3 photographs. Size varies. Overall good condition. Chanukah lamp: Height -Approx. 73 cm. Width - Approx. 44 cm. Good-fair condition. Bends. Losses to silver plating in large areas of the candlestick and branches.
Category
Chassidism - Letters, Documents and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $400
Sold for: $750
Including buyer's premium
Transcript of a question on the laws of inheritance, from Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneersohn, the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch, handwritten by R. Meshulam Zalman Neumark Rabbi of Starodub. [After Nissan 1866].
The following inscription appears at the top of the page: "Transcript of the words of the rebbe".
A personal question pertaining to the Tzemach Tzedek’s bequest: "I request of his honor, to please study this case which is of practical relevance to me, and it is difficult for me to rely on myself to issue a ruling… I am elderly, may G-d grant me longevity, and I wish to give one of my sons a gift. That is, a debt owed to me by a reliable person… with a repayment of several hundred silver ruble a year… I wish to gift this debt to one son specifically, for a reason I shall not disclose. And although all my sons will presumably honor this wish, I must take necessary measures. Therefore, I wish to somehow reinforce this command, so that they should not be able to transgress it in any way…". Further in the question, the Tzemach Tzedek outlines the main points and sources which indicate that there is a halachic option of transferring the recovery of a debt to one specific son. (The son at issue is presumably the Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch, see on this affair R. Yehoshua Mondshein, Kfar Chabad weekly, Issue 1041, 11th Nissan 2003, p. 38 onwards).
The Tzemach Tzedek (1789-1866) was very feeble in his final years, and he wrote very little between 1860-1866. His manuscripts (as well as transcripts of his writings) from these years are very rare (MiBeit Genazim, p. 238).
The copyist of this question, R. Meshulam Zalman Neumark Rabbi of Horki, Starodub, Vitebsk and Nevel (d. 1893), was a prominent Chabad rabbi. "He was very cherished by the Tzemach Tzedek" (Preface to Eshel Avraham, Zera’im); see item 379. The Tzemach Tzedek may have addressed this question to R. Meshulam Zalman, yet it is also probable that a copy of this question was sent to several Chabad rabbis (see below - this question was also sent to R. Meir son of R. Peretz Chen).
[2] leaves (3 written pages). Approx. 18 cm. Good condition. Stains. Ink stains. Folding marks.
Discovery! This question was first published recently (with several copying errors) in Responsa Avnei Chen (Brooklyn, 2013), with the response of R. Meir (son of R. Peretz) Chen, who cited the text of the question prior to answering it (pp. 155-164). The publisher erroneously attributed the question to one of the rabbis of Babinavichy. It has now been revealed that this question was posed by the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch in his final years (the basis for the attribution of this question to a rabbi of Babinavichy is the following sentence at the end of the letter: "Please respond to this as soon as possible… by post to Babinavichy, to my address…". Lubavitch was a very small village, without a post office, and any post sent to Lubavitch was received in the closest post office branch, in Babinavichy - see Igrot HaTzemach Tzedek, 2013 edition, footnote on p. 213, and p. 219).
The following inscription appears at the top of the page: "Transcript of the words of the rebbe".
A personal question pertaining to the Tzemach Tzedek’s bequest: "I request of his honor, to please study this case which is of practical relevance to me, and it is difficult for me to rely on myself to issue a ruling… I am elderly, may G-d grant me longevity, and I wish to give one of my sons a gift. That is, a debt owed to me by a reliable person… with a repayment of several hundred silver ruble a year… I wish to gift this debt to one son specifically, for a reason I shall not disclose. And although all my sons will presumably honor this wish, I must take necessary measures. Therefore, I wish to somehow reinforce this command, so that they should not be able to transgress it in any way…". Further in the question, the Tzemach Tzedek outlines the main points and sources which indicate that there is a halachic option of transferring the recovery of a debt to one specific son. (The son at issue is presumably the Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch, see on this affair R. Yehoshua Mondshein, Kfar Chabad weekly, Issue 1041, 11th Nissan 2003, p. 38 onwards).
The Tzemach Tzedek (1789-1866) was very feeble in his final years, and he wrote very little between 1860-1866. His manuscripts (as well as transcripts of his writings) from these years are very rare (MiBeit Genazim, p. 238).
The copyist of this question, R. Meshulam Zalman Neumark Rabbi of Horki, Starodub, Vitebsk and Nevel (d. 1893), was a prominent Chabad rabbi. "He was very cherished by the Tzemach Tzedek" (Preface to Eshel Avraham, Zera’im); see item 379. The Tzemach Tzedek may have addressed this question to R. Meshulam Zalman, yet it is also probable that a copy of this question was sent to several Chabad rabbis (see below - this question was also sent to R. Meir son of R. Peretz Chen).
[2] leaves (3 written pages). Approx. 18 cm. Good condition. Stains. Ink stains. Folding marks.
Discovery! This question was first published recently (with several copying errors) in Responsa Avnei Chen (Brooklyn, 2013), with the response of R. Meir (son of R. Peretz) Chen, who cited the text of the question prior to answering it (pp. 155-164). The publisher erroneously attributed the question to one of the rabbis of Babinavichy. It has now been revealed that this question was posed by the Tzemach Tzedek of Lubavitch in his final years (the basis for the attribution of this question to a rabbi of Babinavichy is the following sentence at the end of the letter: "Please respond to this as soon as possible… by post to Babinavichy, to my address…". Lubavitch was a very small village, without a post office, and any post sent to Lubavitch was received in the closest post office branch, in Babinavichy - see Igrot HaTzemach Tzedek, 2013 edition, footnote on p. 213, and p. 219).
Category
Chabad Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue
Auction 70 - Judaica - Books, Manuscripts, Rabbinical Letters, Ceremonial Art
March 31, 2020
Opening: $300
Sold for: $375
Including buyer's premium
Letter of halachic responsum pertaining to the laws of constructing a synagogue and changing the status of a synagogue to profane, handwritten by R. Meshulam Zalman Neumark. Addressed to Rebbe Shalom Dov Ber Schneersohn of Lubavitch (the Rashab). [Presumably written between 1884 and 1889].
Responsum letter in two copies. One is entirely handwritten by R. Meshulam Zalman, and the second is partially written by a scribe and partially by R. Meshulam Zalman. Variations in the text of the two copies. These may be drafts of the letter which was actually sent, or copies which R. Meshulam Zalman penned for his own record.
The letter was written in response to a complex question which Rebbe Rashab sent regarding the laws of the holiness of a synagogue (the question from Rebbe Rashab was published in Igrot Kodesh of Rebbe Rashab, V, p. 199 onwards, and in Responsa Torat Shalom, p. 25 onwards).
In his letter, R. Meshulam Zalman testifies on the stringent approach of Rebbe Maharash in these matters, when the latter rebuilt his home and the synagogue following the fire which ravaged Lubavitch: "I can testify what I explicitly and directly heard from his father R. Shmuel, when I visited him for the first time after he built his present home. He showed me the small room which was open to the long room after the Sukkah… and he explained to me his reason for setting aside this small room - this place used to hold a small part of the burnt down study hall which was in the courtyard of the Tzemach Tzedek, and, not wishing to include it in his home, he set it aside for holy use, for writing Chassidic essays and the like…" (the ground on which Rebbe Maharash built his home in Lubavitch, partially overlapped with the area which used to hold the synagogue of the Tzemach Tzedek, which burnt down. When the Maharash built his private home, he designated one room, which was built on the grounds of the synagogue, for Torah study and recording Torah thoughts, rather than for personal use, so that it should remain a study hall of sorts).
R. Chaim Meshulam Zalman Neumark (d. 1893), a leading Chabad rabbi, cherished disciple of the Tzemach Tzedek and his son Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch. One of the most renowned and prominent rabbis of Chabad Chassidism in his times. He served as rabbi of the following prominent Chabad cities and towns: Horki (1857-1867), Starodub (1867-1886), Vitebsk (1886-1888) and Nevel (1888-1893). Rebbe Yehuda Leib of Kopust wrote regarding his brilliance both in hidden and revealed parts of the Torah: "He is a renowned posek, both in Halachic ruling and in his Chassidic erudition". See item 379.
[2] double leaves (6 written pages). 21 cm and 15 cm. Good condition. Stains and folding marks.
This letter was presumably never published.
Responsum letter in two copies. One is entirely handwritten by R. Meshulam Zalman, and the second is partially written by a scribe and partially by R. Meshulam Zalman. Variations in the text of the two copies. These may be drafts of the letter which was actually sent, or copies which R. Meshulam Zalman penned for his own record.
The letter was written in response to a complex question which Rebbe Rashab sent regarding the laws of the holiness of a synagogue (the question from Rebbe Rashab was published in Igrot Kodesh of Rebbe Rashab, V, p. 199 onwards, and in Responsa Torat Shalom, p. 25 onwards).
In his letter, R. Meshulam Zalman testifies on the stringent approach of Rebbe Maharash in these matters, when the latter rebuilt his home and the synagogue following the fire which ravaged Lubavitch: "I can testify what I explicitly and directly heard from his father R. Shmuel, when I visited him for the first time after he built his present home. He showed me the small room which was open to the long room after the Sukkah… and he explained to me his reason for setting aside this small room - this place used to hold a small part of the burnt down study hall which was in the courtyard of the Tzemach Tzedek, and, not wishing to include it in his home, he set it aside for holy use, for writing Chassidic essays and the like…" (the ground on which Rebbe Maharash built his home in Lubavitch, partially overlapped with the area which used to hold the synagogue of the Tzemach Tzedek, which burnt down. When the Maharash built his private home, he designated one room, which was built on the grounds of the synagogue, for Torah study and recording Torah thoughts, rather than for personal use, so that it should remain a study hall of sorts).
R. Chaim Meshulam Zalman Neumark (d. 1893), a leading Chabad rabbi, cherished disciple of the Tzemach Tzedek and his son Rebbe Maharash of Lubavitch. One of the most renowned and prominent rabbis of Chabad Chassidism in his times. He served as rabbi of the following prominent Chabad cities and towns: Horki (1857-1867), Starodub (1867-1886), Vitebsk (1886-1888) and Nevel (1888-1893). Rebbe Yehuda Leib of Kopust wrote regarding his brilliance both in hidden and revealed parts of the Torah: "He is a renowned posek, both in Halachic ruling and in his Chassidic erudition". See item 379.
[2] double leaves (6 written pages). 21 cm and 15 cm. Good condition. Stains and folding marks.
This letter was presumably never published.
Category
Chabad Chassidism - Letters and Manuscripts
Catalogue