Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
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Displaying 85 - 96 of 183
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $5,000
Estimate: $10,000 - $20,000
Sold for: $8,125
Including buyer's premium
Handwritten emissary letter for R. Avraham Revach, a rabbinic emissary sent to Morocco on behalf of the Jerusalem community. Signed by leading Jerusalem rabbis, including R. Yakar, nephew of the Baal Shem Tov – son of his brother-in-law R. Avraham Gershon of Kitov. Jerusalem, 1771.
This emissary letter is addressed to the Jewish community in Fez, Morocco, and signed by the rabbis of the Sephardic community in Jerusalem, including famous Torah scholars. Among the signatories is "Yakar son of R. Avraham Gershon" – son of R. Avraham Gershon of Kitov, the renowned brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov who immigrated to Eretz Israel.
The document bears the following signatures (listed in the order that they appear): R. Refael Meyuchas son of R. Shmuel (1695-1771, Rishon LeZion and Rabbi of Jerusalem, author of Pri HaAdama, Mizbach Adama and other works; R. Yitzchak Zerachya Azulai and his son, the Chida, were members of his Beit Din in Jerusalem), R. Refael Moshe Bula (d. 1773, dean of Yeshivat Neve Shalom in Jerusalem, served as Rishon LeZion for half a year until his death, author of Get Mekushar and other works), R. Mantzur Marzuk (d. 1789, author of Korban Elitzur, Tzur Teuda and Ben Pedatzur), R. Chaim Nissim HaCohen, R. Eliyahu Tzvi, R. Yaakov Burla, R. Yakar son of R. Avraham Gershon of Kitov, R. Efraim son of R. Yehuda Navon, R. Shmuel Eliyahu Meyuchas, R. Moshe Yosef Meyuchas and R. Saadia Marzuk.
The back of the leaf bears the address of the recipients: "…To the distinguished men and community leaders who are headed by the rabbis… of the city of Fez…".
R. Avraham Gershon of Kitov (d. Adar 1761), a prominent Torah scholar and kabbalist, was among the members of the renowned Kloiz in Brody (together with his friend the Noda BiYehuda). He was the brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov, and one of the first Chassidim to immigrate to Eretz Israel. Some say that he was sent to Eretz Israel by the Baal Shem Tov, who hoped to disseminate Chassidut in the Orient. R. Avraham Gershon was the recipient of the well-known letter from the Baal Shem Tov in which he told of his conversation with the Messiah: "When are you coming, my master? When your wellsprings will spread outward". R. Gershon of Kitov first settled in Hebron, and in ca. 1754 he moved to Jerusalem, where he joined the kabbalistic Yeshivat Beit El and studied under the great kabbalist, the Rashash. R. Gershon immigrated together with his wife and two younger children, and was later joined by his two elder sons, R. Aharon Chaim and R. Yakar. Already during their father's lifetime, the two were esteemed by Jerusalem Torah scholars and were actively involved in the city's communal matters. R. Aharon Chaim joined the leadership of the Ashkenazi community of Jerusalem, while his brother R. Yakar was an active member of the Sephardic community. R. Yakar was the son-in-law of the kabbalist R. Moshe Osterer of Zamość, a Torah scholar of the renowned Kloiz in Brody (and author of Arugat HaBosem, a kabbalistic commentary on Shir HaShirim), who was also a close associate of the Baal Shem Tov. Historian R. Yechiel Goldhaber has recently discovered some important specifics regarding the central role that R. Yakar played in the Jerusalem Sephardic community. According to Goldhaber's research, R. Yakar held a prominent position in the Damesek Eliezer Yeshiva in Jerusalem and was a leading signatory among the founders of the yeshiva. In one document published by R. Goldhaber, R. Yakar's signature appears second, after the signature of the yeshiva dean, R. Yehuda Navon (author of Kiryat Melech Rav). On another document, he heads the list of signees, followed by leading Jerusalem rabbis: R. Yehuda son of R. Yaakov Culi, R. Refael Moshe Galiko, R. Yitzchak son of R. Yehuda Navon, R. Avraham Chayun and others. On a third document, his signature appears second after the signature of the Chida.
In 1766, R. Yakar was sent abroad as an emissary on behalf of Kollelot Jerusalem, returning in 1770. In 1775, he was in Italy on another mission, together with R. Yaakov Burla (in Livorno the two clashed with another pair of emissaries, R. Yaakov Chazan and the Maharit Algazi, as well as with the Chida, all of whom arrived in Livorno as emissaries, somewhat straining the relationship between the Chida and R. Yakar, as documented by the Chida in his journal. See: Maagal Tov HaShalem, p. 69). From Italy he travelled to France, then to Holland, and from there to other European communities. The approbations of R. Yakar and R. Burla, from the time they stayed in Carpentras (Southern France), are printed in the book Otzrot Yosef by R. Yosef Damelio-Muscat of Carpentras (printed in Livorno in 1783). R. Yakar signed his approbation: "Yakar Gershon ס"ט". The tombstones of R. Gershon of Kitov and of his son R. Yakar were discovered on the Mount of Olives several years ago by R. Yaakov Shalom Gefner, revealing the precise dates of their passing. On R. Yakar’s tombstone, his name appears as "R. Yakar Gershon Ashkenazi", and the date of his passing is recorded as Friday, 8th Kislev 1779.
[1] double leaf. 25.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, dampstains, tears and worming, slightly affecting several letters.
This emissary letter is addressed to the Jewish community in Fez, Morocco, and signed by the rabbis of the Sephardic community in Jerusalem, including famous Torah scholars. Among the signatories is "Yakar son of R. Avraham Gershon" – son of R. Avraham Gershon of Kitov, the renowned brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov who immigrated to Eretz Israel.
The document bears the following signatures (listed in the order that they appear): R. Refael Meyuchas son of R. Shmuel (1695-1771, Rishon LeZion and Rabbi of Jerusalem, author of Pri HaAdama, Mizbach Adama and other works; R. Yitzchak Zerachya Azulai and his son, the Chida, were members of his Beit Din in Jerusalem), R. Refael Moshe Bula (d. 1773, dean of Yeshivat Neve Shalom in Jerusalem, served as Rishon LeZion for half a year until his death, author of Get Mekushar and other works), R. Mantzur Marzuk (d. 1789, author of Korban Elitzur, Tzur Teuda and Ben Pedatzur), R. Chaim Nissim HaCohen, R. Eliyahu Tzvi, R. Yaakov Burla, R. Yakar son of R. Avraham Gershon of Kitov, R. Efraim son of R. Yehuda Navon, R. Shmuel Eliyahu Meyuchas, R. Moshe Yosef Meyuchas and R. Saadia Marzuk.
The back of the leaf bears the address of the recipients: "…To the distinguished men and community leaders who are headed by the rabbis… of the city of Fez…".
R. Avraham Gershon of Kitov (d. Adar 1761), a prominent Torah scholar and kabbalist, was among the members of the renowned Kloiz in Brody (together with his friend the Noda BiYehuda). He was the brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov, and one of the first Chassidim to immigrate to Eretz Israel. Some say that he was sent to Eretz Israel by the Baal Shem Tov, who hoped to disseminate Chassidut in the Orient. R. Avraham Gershon was the recipient of the well-known letter from the Baal Shem Tov in which he told of his conversation with the Messiah: "When are you coming, my master? When your wellsprings will spread outward". R. Gershon of Kitov first settled in Hebron, and in ca. 1754 he moved to Jerusalem, where he joined the kabbalistic Yeshivat Beit El and studied under the great kabbalist, the Rashash. R. Gershon immigrated together with his wife and two younger children, and was later joined by his two elder sons, R. Aharon Chaim and R. Yakar. Already during their father's lifetime, the two were esteemed by Jerusalem Torah scholars and were actively involved in the city's communal matters. R. Aharon Chaim joined the leadership of the Ashkenazi community of Jerusalem, while his brother R. Yakar was an active member of the Sephardic community. R. Yakar was the son-in-law of the kabbalist R. Moshe Osterer of Zamość, a Torah scholar of the renowned Kloiz in Brody (and author of Arugat HaBosem, a kabbalistic commentary on Shir HaShirim), who was also a close associate of the Baal Shem Tov. Historian R. Yechiel Goldhaber has recently discovered some important specifics regarding the central role that R. Yakar played in the Jerusalem Sephardic community. According to Goldhaber's research, R. Yakar held a prominent position in the Damesek Eliezer Yeshiva in Jerusalem and was a leading signatory among the founders of the yeshiva. In one document published by R. Goldhaber, R. Yakar's signature appears second, after the signature of the yeshiva dean, R. Yehuda Navon (author of Kiryat Melech Rav). On another document, he heads the list of signees, followed by leading Jerusalem rabbis: R. Yehuda son of R. Yaakov Culi, R. Refael Moshe Galiko, R. Yitzchak son of R. Yehuda Navon, R. Avraham Chayun and others. On a third document, his signature appears second after the signature of the Chida.
In 1766, R. Yakar was sent abroad as an emissary on behalf of Kollelot Jerusalem, returning in 1770. In 1775, he was in Italy on another mission, together with R. Yaakov Burla (in Livorno the two clashed with another pair of emissaries, R. Yaakov Chazan and the Maharit Algazi, as well as with the Chida, all of whom arrived in Livorno as emissaries, somewhat straining the relationship between the Chida and R. Yakar, as documented by the Chida in his journal. See: Maagal Tov HaShalem, p. 69). From Italy he travelled to France, then to Holland, and from there to other European communities. The approbations of R. Yakar and R. Burla, from the time they stayed in Carpentras (Southern France), are printed in the book Otzrot Yosef by R. Yosef Damelio-Muscat of Carpentras (printed in Livorno in 1783). R. Yakar signed his approbation: "Yakar Gershon ס"ט". The tombstones of R. Gershon of Kitov and of his son R. Yakar were discovered on the Mount of Olives several years ago by R. Yaakov Shalom Gefner, revealing the precise dates of their passing. On R. Yakar’s tombstone, his name appears as "R. Yakar Gershon Ashkenazi", and the date of his passing is recorded as Friday, 8th Kislev 1779.
[1] double leaf. 25.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains, dampstains, tears and worming, slightly affecting several letters.
Category
Chassidut – Letters and Documents
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000
Sold for: $6,250
Including buyer's premium
Two sale deeds, transfer of ownership of a residence in Botoşani (formerly owned by R. Chaim Thirer Rabbi of Czernowitz, author of Be'er Mayim Chaim, before his immigration to Eretz Israel). Signed by family members of the Be'er Mayim Chaim: His son R. Yaakov Yosef and the latter's wife, Shifra Reiza (granddaughter of the Degel Machane Efraim), his son R. Kalman, and three grandsons (sons of his daughter Devora, widow of R. Yitzchak Eizek of Botoşani). Kałusz (Eastern-Galicia) and Botoşani (Moldavia), Av 1815 and Nissan 1818.
These deeds reveal new information regarding the year of passing of the Be'er Mayim Chaim (see below), and hitherto unknown information about his family.
• Sale deed, transfer of ownership of the residence in Botoşani belonging to R. Yaakov Yosef Yoske, son of the Be'er Mayim Chaim, to his brother-in-law R. Yitzchak Eizek son of R. David, son-in-law of the Be'er Mayim Chaim (the residence was formerly owned by the Be'er Mayim Chaim, and in 1813, he gave it as a gift to this son who resided in Kałusz – see below). Signed by him: "Yaakov Yosef son of R. Chaim", and by his wife: "Shufra[!] Reiza daughter of R. Yitzchak" (daughter of R. Yitzchak of Kałusz, son of the Degel Machane Efraim), by his brother R. Kalman, son of the Be'er Mayim Chaim: "Kalman Thirer son of the late rabbi of Mohyliv", and by four witnesses. Kałusz, 4th Menachem Av 1815.
The deed was written on 4th Menachem Av in Kałusz, where R. Yaakov Yosef resided, whereas the signature of his brother R. Kalman is from 16th Menachem Av in Botoşani, his place of residence. Written before R. Kalman's signature: "For greater force, also the brothers of R. Yaakov Yosef signed – Tuesday, 16th Menachem 1815". In fact, only one brother signed the deed.
[1] leaf (two written pages). Bluish paper. Approx. 34 cm. Good condition. Stains and wear. Folding marks.
• Sale deed, transfer of ownership of the aforementioned residence of R. Yitzchak Eizek son of R. David (son-in-law of the Be'er Mayim Chaim) to R. Elisha son of R. Alexander Zussman. Signed by the three heirs, sons of R. Yitzchak Eizek: R. Moshe Yehuda Leib, R. Aharon and R. Meshulam Feivel Tzvi Hirsh, by the buyer R. Elisha Zussman, and by four witnesses and three Botoşani dayanim. Botoşani, 2nd Adar II 1818.
The sale deed contains the heirs' declaration that the sale has been executed after "we have paid our mother Rebbetzin Devorah all her entitlements from her ketubah". On verso, the Botoşani dayanim write that since the sellers have young brothers who have not yet reached the age of 13, part of the money will be kept by a trustee, and when the orphans become of age, each will receive his share in his father's estate.
[1] leaf (two written pages). 54.5 cm. High-quality thick paper. Good condition. Stains. Folding mark.
The residence sold with these deeds had been owned by the Be'er Mayim Chaim. In Sivan 1813, before he immigrated to the Holy Land, he wrote a gift deed to his sons R. Yaakov Yosef and R. Kalman, giving them his assets in Botoşani as a gift (the gift deed was first publicized in Kedem Auction 63, item 81).
Both deeds delineate the borders of the asset from all four directions and the names of the Jewish and non-Jewish neighbors who live adjacent to the asset. In the first deed, from 1815, it is written that the residence sold to R. Yitzchak Eizek borders on the residence of his brother-in-law Kalman, and that each has permission to pass through the other's courtyard: "…on the east lies the home of my brother R. Kalman Shmuel… and it was explicitly stipulated that R. Kalman son of R. Chaim can pass through the aforementioned courtyard, and that R. Y.E. can pass through the courtyard of R. Kalman". The second deed, from 1818, contains many details of the conditions and limitations imposed upon the asset being sold (which was situated within a compound which also housed the study hall of the Be'er Mayim Chaim, sukkahs and other buildings). In this deed as in the previous deed, "our uncle R. Kalonymus Kalman" is mentioned several times.
R. Yaakov Yosef Yoske Thirer (d. 1866, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, p. 272), was the son-in-law of R. Yitzchak of Kałusz (son of the Degel Machane Efraim). According to the Encyclopedia L'Chassidut (ibid), after the immigration of his father, the Be'er Mayim Chaim, to Eretz Israel in 1813, R. Yaakov Yosef succeeded him as leader of the Chassidim in Czernowitz (Chernivtsi); however, as is evident from the first deed presented here, in 1815, R. Yaakov Yosef still resided in Kałusz, near his father-in-law.
In his youth (ca. late 1790s), R. Kalonymus Kalman Shmuel Thirer wed Yocheved, daughter of the elderly Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta, author of Ohev Yisrael. With time, Kalman forsook Torah observance and consequently divorced his wife (who later married Rebbe Dan of Radvil). Nonetheless, his father, the Be'er Mayim Chaim, did not cease loving him, and would send him gifts, would rise early to prepare for him food and drink, and never refused any of his requests.
The book Beit Komarna relates that this Kalman resided for several years in Komarna, where he succumbed to negative influences. In 1801, R. Chaim came in person to Komarna to visit his son, and found him in a pub suffused with the steam of non-kosher food, playing cards, with sweat pouring down his face. R. Chaim wiped the sweat from his face with his handkerchief, kissed him on his forehead, and encouraged him to leave Komarna and return with him to Czernowitz. As they were exiting Komarna, residents threw stones at them, and R. Chaim inadvertently uttered a curse, that the city should be burnt. They had not yet left the city borders when a fire broke out, consuming all the houses. It further relates that R. Chaim was known to say that his son's deterioration was a heaven-sent test to see if he would continue loving him, since he always pled for the Jewish people, arguing: "Master of the Universe, and if Your sons sin, will You not have mercy on them? After all, even if they sin, they are still Your sons!". He was therefore tested by G-d with a corrupted son, whether he would continue loving him and having mercy on him (Beit Komarna, by R. Baruch Yashar Schlichter, Jerusalem 1965, pp. 16-17). Rebbe David Moshe of Tchorkov explained R. Chaim's conduct with his son as a basis for advocating before G-d, that if he, as a human being, continues loving his wayward son, so G-d should have mercy on His sons, who in all circumstances are called His children (Anaf Etz Avot, Jerusalem 1972, p. 204).
The gift deed featured in Auction 63 demonstrates the love R. Chaim and his wife extended to their son Kalman, bequeathing to him half of their property in the city, a share equal to the one of his brother R. Yosef Yaakov. The deeds here attest that not only his holy father, but also his brother and nephews treated him with love and respect. His brother and nephews refer to him several times in the deeds in a respectful manner, although these are just formal documents (the document from 1818 was possibly never seen by R. Kalman, since it does not bear his signature).
----------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
Discovery: The Year of the Be'er Mayim Chaim's Passing
The first deed presented here provides the first distinct evidence that the author of Be'er Mayim Chaim was no longer alive in the month of Av 1815. In his sons' signatures and within the text of the deed, the honorific for the deceased, "of blessed memory…", is added after his name. This contradicts the hitherto accepted date of his death – 27th Kislev 1817 (apparently, the source of this date is the unclear epitaph on his tombstone in the Safed cemetery; it is not known who wrote it and when the tombstone was erected). Moreover, his son R. Yaakov Yosef does not sign with "hareini kaparat mishkavo" (I am an atonement for his resting place) as customary during the first year after a parent's death. This suggests that on 4th Av 1815 (the date the first deed was signed), more than a year had elapsed since the passing of his father.
R. Efraim Zalman Margolies, a friend and admirer of the Be'er Mayim Chaim, wrote in 1817, in his approbation to the book Be'er Mayim Chaim (Mohyliv-Sudylkiv 1820), that the author immigrated to Eretz Israel after printing his book Sidduro shel Shabbat (Mohyliv, 1813), and within a year from his arrival there, he passed away. The writing of Sidduro shel Shabbat was concluded on 17th Sivan 1813, as stated at the end of the book, giving rise to the conclusion that he passed away in late 1813 (or in 1814). The book Zichron Tzaddikim (Klausenburg 1936, listing of 27th Kislev), by R. Pinchas Zelig HaKohen Schwartz Rabbi of Apahida, also records 1813 as the year of the Be'er Mayim Chaim's passing, providing further proof that the year of death indicated on his tombstone in Safed is incorrect.
A similar case of an erroneous epitaph occurred with the tombstone of the Be'er Mayim Chaim's friend, R. David Shlomo Eybeshutz, author of Arvei Nachal, who died in Safed in 1814. A strong earthquake in Safed in 1837 uprooted many tombstones, and some subsequently disappeared. In his book Shaarei Yerushalayim (Lviv 1866, Chapter 8), R. Moshe Reisher, a Jerusalem emissary, relates that in 1842, he found the faded tombstone of the author of Arvei Nachal, and erected a new tombstone based on the unclear text on the old tombstone. With time, the text on the new tombstone was proven erroneous – both the year of his passing and his father's name were incorrect (1810 should read 1814, and Avigdor should read Yerachmiel). It is possible that the erroneous year on the Be'er Mayim Chaim's tombstone came to be in a similar way.
Category
Chassidut – Letters and Documents
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $8,000
Estimate: $15,000 - $20,000
Sold for: $13,750
Including buyer's premium
Letter (15 long lines) handwritten and signed by Rebbe Chanoch Henich HaKohen of Aleksander. Warsaw, Iyar 1864.
Sent to his son, R. Yechiel Efraim Fischel HaKohen of Lodz, while he was travelling to visit his father in Warsaw. R. Chanoch Henich apologizes to his son for having to urgently travel to Ger (Gur) to receive advice from his friend and teacher, the Rebbe, author of Chiddushei HaRim: "… Therefore, I am traveling today to Ger, to receive advice… and after Shabbat, I will return here and am looking forward to rejoicing with you… to speak to you face to face…".
Written on a leaf folded in half. On verso, an inscription handwritten by R. Chanoch Henich: "To my beloved son… R. Yechiel Efraim Fischel HaKohen". On the page facing the letter – R. Chanoch Henich's personal stamp: " Chanoch Henich son of Pinchas HaCohen".
Rebbe Chanoch Henich HaKohen Levin of Aleksander (1798-1870), leading disciple of R. Simcha Bunim of Peshischa and of the Yehudi HaKadosh of Peshischa. He held a rabbinic position for close to 40 years. He first served as rabbi of Aleksander and Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki, and from 1859, as rabbi of Proshnitz (in 1865, he retired from the rabbinate, and returned to Aleksander as a private person). He was a descendant of R. Shmuel Schotten HaKohen of Frankfurt (the Maharshashach – who was also the grandfather of the Chatam Sofer). After supporting the Polish revolution in 1830, he was compelled to change his surname from Schotten to Levin. Renowned from his youth for his prodigious brilliance, and for his Peshischa-Kotzk style of sharpness. All his actions were concealed and performed with great wisdom. His sayings were penetrating and peppered with incisive humor, and he knew how to disguise exalted matters with humor which only a precious-few would understand. He would frequently cite the saying of his teacher R. Bunim of Peshischa: "All the negative commandments in the Torah can be condensed into one negative commandment – do not be a fool! and all the positive commandments in the Torah can be encapsulated in one – be wise!".
While still a young man, his teacher the Yehudi HaKadosh appointed him rebbe by removing his spodik (tall shtreimel) from his head and placing it on that of his young student, R. Henich, saying: "This spodik suits you well…". About one year after the passing of R. Bunim of Peshischa, R. Henich subjected himself to the authority of his colleague, Rebbe Mendel of Kotsk. After the latter’s death, R. Henich followed his (younger) colleague R. Yitzchak Meir Alter of Ger. Only after the passing of the Chiddushei HaRim in 1866 did the elderly R. Henich agree to serve as rebbe and lead the Chassidic courts of Kotzk and Ger. His disciples and relatives attested to the Divine inspiration he benefitted from, and the wonders and miracles which he performed. His nephew testified that he was present when souls came down to R. Henich from Upper Spheres, requesting reparation. These accounts were recorded in the new edition of his book Chashava LeTova VeLikutim (published by Mossad HaRim Levin, Jerusalem, 1990), see ibid.
The foreword of the new edition contains a beautiful description of the Chassidic legacy which R. Henich transmitted to future generations, and his molding of the character of the Ger Chassidic dynasty: "Aleksander of Rebbe Henich was concealed for about seventy years; in those years the Peshischa Chassidut branched out into seventy facets. For decades, he stood as a disciple before his colleagues, subjected himself to their authority and enjoyed the Peshischa elevation in the hidden parts of his soul, until the crown of leadership was placed upon him… R. Henich of Aleksander combined in his leadership all the wellsprings deriving from Peshischa. With rare and unparalleled wisdom, he merged a following of elite, truth-seeking Chassidim into a single unit, and they together rose to high levels of Torah and worship of G-d. He brought Peshischa, Kotsk and Ger together under one roof, selecting the unique points of each of them – their light, to create a center of Torah, Chassidut, sharpness, holiness and total devotion".
He was one of the teachers of the Sfat Emet, Rebbe of Ger (grandson of the Chiddushei HaRim), whom he appointed as his successor. His descendants were leading members of the Ger court, and his grandson R. Chanoch Tzvi HaKohen Levin Rabbi of Bendin was the son-in-law of the Sfat Emet. His disciples became the leading Torah scholars and rebbes of Poland, including: R. Ze’ev Nachum of Biala and his son Rebbe Avraham of Sochatchov, author of Avnei Nezer; Rebbe Avraham of Porisov; R. Pinchas Menachem Justman Rabbi of Piltz; R. Yoav Yehoshua of Kintzk, the Chelkat Yoav; R. Yitzchak Feigenbaum of Warsaw, and others. His teachings are recorded in his book Chashava LeTova.
[1] double leaf. 16.5 cm. Tiny, close writing. Good-fair condition. Stains. Wear and folding marks. Mounted on thin transparent paper for preservation (slightly blurring the inscription on the back of the letter).
Provenance: Collection of Rebbe Yechiel Meir Morgenstern of Kotzk-Lomaz (1894-1974), son of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Lomaz (who resided for a while in Praga, near Warsaw). Stamps of Rabbi "Yechiel Meir son of the Rebbe of Praga" and an inscription in his handwriting: "Letter no. 87".
This letter and its picture were printed in the book Michtavim V'Igrot Kodesh, New York, 2003, pp. 36-37 (see enclosed material).
Sent to his son, R. Yechiel Efraim Fischel HaKohen of Lodz, while he was travelling to visit his father in Warsaw. R. Chanoch Henich apologizes to his son for having to urgently travel to Ger (Gur) to receive advice from his friend and teacher, the Rebbe, author of Chiddushei HaRim: "… Therefore, I am traveling today to Ger, to receive advice… and after Shabbat, I will return here and am looking forward to rejoicing with you… to speak to you face to face…".
Written on a leaf folded in half. On verso, an inscription handwritten by R. Chanoch Henich: "To my beloved son… R. Yechiel Efraim Fischel HaKohen". On the page facing the letter – R. Chanoch Henich's personal stamp: " Chanoch Henich son of Pinchas HaCohen".
Rebbe Chanoch Henich HaKohen Levin of Aleksander (1798-1870), leading disciple of R. Simcha Bunim of Peshischa and of the Yehudi HaKadosh of Peshischa. He held a rabbinic position for close to 40 years. He first served as rabbi of Aleksander and Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki, and from 1859, as rabbi of Proshnitz (in 1865, he retired from the rabbinate, and returned to Aleksander as a private person). He was a descendant of R. Shmuel Schotten HaKohen of Frankfurt (the Maharshashach – who was also the grandfather of the Chatam Sofer). After supporting the Polish revolution in 1830, he was compelled to change his surname from Schotten to Levin. Renowned from his youth for his prodigious brilliance, and for his Peshischa-Kotzk style of sharpness. All his actions were concealed and performed with great wisdom. His sayings were penetrating and peppered with incisive humor, and he knew how to disguise exalted matters with humor which only a precious-few would understand. He would frequently cite the saying of his teacher R. Bunim of Peshischa: "All the negative commandments in the Torah can be condensed into one negative commandment – do not be a fool! and all the positive commandments in the Torah can be encapsulated in one – be wise!".
While still a young man, his teacher the Yehudi HaKadosh appointed him rebbe by removing his spodik (tall shtreimel) from his head and placing it on that of his young student, R. Henich, saying: "This spodik suits you well…". About one year after the passing of R. Bunim of Peshischa, R. Henich subjected himself to the authority of his colleague, Rebbe Mendel of Kotsk. After the latter’s death, R. Henich followed his (younger) colleague R. Yitzchak Meir Alter of Ger. Only after the passing of the Chiddushei HaRim in 1866 did the elderly R. Henich agree to serve as rebbe and lead the Chassidic courts of Kotzk and Ger. His disciples and relatives attested to the Divine inspiration he benefitted from, and the wonders and miracles which he performed. His nephew testified that he was present when souls came down to R. Henich from Upper Spheres, requesting reparation. These accounts were recorded in the new edition of his book Chashava LeTova VeLikutim (published by Mossad HaRim Levin, Jerusalem, 1990), see ibid.
The foreword of the new edition contains a beautiful description of the Chassidic legacy which R. Henich transmitted to future generations, and his molding of the character of the Ger Chassidic dynasty: "Aleksander of Rebbe Henich was concealed for about seventy years; in those years the Peshischa Chassidut branched out into seventy facets. For decades, he stood as a disciple before his colleagues, subjected himself to their authority and enjoyed the Peshischa elevation in the hidden parts of his soul, until the crown of leadership was placed upon him… R. Henich of Aleksander combined in his leadership all the wellsprings deriving from Peshischa. With rare and unparalleled wisdom, he merged a following of elite, truth-seeking Chassidim into a single unit, and they together rose to high levels of Torah and worship of G-d. He brought Peshischa, Kotsk and Ger together under one roof, selecting the unique points of each of them – their light, to create a center of Torah, Chassidut, sharpness, holiness and total devotion".
He was one of the teachers of the Sfat Emet, Rebbe of Ger (grandson of the Chiddushei HaRim), whom he appointed as his successor. His descendants were leading members of the Ger court, and his grandson R. Chanoch Tzvi HaKohen Levin Rabbi of Bendin was the son-in-law of the Sfat Emet. His disciples became the leading Torah scholars and rebbes of Poland, including: R. Ze’ev Nachum of Biala and his son Rebbe Avraham of Sochatchov, author of Avnei Nezer; Rebbe Avraham of Porisov; R. Pinchas Menachem Justman Rabbi of Piltz; R. Yoav Yehoshua of Kintzk, the Chelkat Yoav; R. Yitzchak Feigenbaum of Warsaw, and others. His teachings are recorded in his book Chashava LeTova.
[1] double leaf. 16.5 cm. Tiny, close writing. Good-fair condition. Stains. Wear and folding marks. Mounted on thin transparent paper for preservation (slightly blurring the inscription on the back of the letter).
Provenance: Collection of Rebbe Yechiel Meir Morgenstern of Kotzk-Lomaz (1894-1974), son of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Lomaz (who resided for a while in Praga, near Warsaw). Stamps of Rabbi "Yechiel Meir son of the Rebbe of Praga" and an inscription in his handwriting: "Letter no. 87".
This letter and its picture were printed in the book Michtavim V'Igrot Kodesh, New York, 2003, pp. 36-37 (see enclosed material).
Category
Chassidut – Letters and Documents
Catalogue Value
![Letter (14 lines) handwritten and signed by Rebbe Yaakov David Rabbi of Amshinov. Amshinov, [Tammuz 1860?].
Sent to R. &quo](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale72-public/88.jpg "Letter from Rebbe Yaakov David (The First) of Amshinov – Amshinov, 186")
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $8,000 - $10,000
Sold for: $7,500
Including buyer's premium
Letter (14 lines) handwritten and signed by Rebbe Yaakov David Rabbi of Amshinov. Amshinov, [Tammuz 1860?].
Sent to R. "Eli. Yosef Rabbi of Radzanów", requesting to arrange in Warka the collection of funds for his relative R. Yechiel Bunim of "Bezun" (presumably Bieżuń, near Radzanów, Poland).
The first Amshinov Rebbe, R. Yaakov David Kalish (1814-1877, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, pp. 262-263), known by Amshinov Chassidim as "HaAdmor HaZaken". Eldest son of Rebbe Yitzchak of Warka. Appointed rabbi of Gowarczów in his youth, he later served as rabbi of Peshischa (Przysucha) and then as rabbi of Ger (Góra Kalwaria) before R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, author of Chiddushei HaRim. Afterwards, he established his court in Amshinov (Mszczonów). A leading Polish rebbe, he was a close friend of the Chiddushei HaRim, collaborating with him in communal activities. This close relationship continued with the latter's grandson, the Sfat Emet of Ger, who bestowed the honor of sandak upon the Amshinov Rebbe at the brit milah of his son R. Nechemia Alter. R. Yaakov David was one of the closest Chassidim of Rebbe Mendele "the Saraf" of Kotzk, and one of the only individuals who succeeded in convincing him to leave the solitude of his room and sit with his Chassidim in Kotzk.
The recipient of the letter: Rebbe Eli. Yosef Rabbi of Radzanów, a senior Chassid of Rebbe Yitzchak of Warka (R. Yaakov David's father), who chose him to teach and guide his sons and sons-in-law. In his youth, he was a disciple of Rebbe Bunim of Peshischa. Rebbe Bunim suggested the marriage of R. Eli. Yosef with the daughter of R. Yaakov of Sheps (Sierpc).
[1] leaf. Approx. 14.5 cm. Approx. 14 autograph lines and signature. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears, affecting text (with some loss). Mounted on paper for reinforcement.
Sent to R. "Eli. Yosef Rabbi of Radzanów", requesting to arrange in Warka the collection of funds for his relative R. Yechiel Bunim of "Bezun" (presumably Bieżuń, near Radzanów, Poland).
The first Amshinov Rebbe, R. Yaakov David Kalish (1814-1877, Encyclopedia L'Chassidut, II, pp. 262-263), known by Amshinov Chassidim as "HaAdmor HaZaken". Eldest son of Rebbe Yitzchak of Warka. Appointed rabbi of Gowarczów in his youth, he later served as rabbi of Peshischa (Przysucha) and then as rabbi of Ger (Góra Kalwaria) before R. Yitzchak Meir Alter, author of Chiddushei HaRim. Afterwards, he established his court in Amshinov (Mszczonów). A leading Polish rebbe, he was a close friend of the Chiddushei HaRim, collaborating with him in communal activities. This close relationship continued with the latter's grandson, the Sfat Emet of Ger, who bestowed the honor of sandak upon the Amshinov Rebbe at the brit milah of his son R. Nechemia Alter. R. Yaakov David was one of the closest Chassidim of Rebbe Mendele "the Saraf" of Kotzk, and one of the only individuals who succeeded in convincing him to leave the solitude of his room and sit with his Chassidim in Kotzk.
The recipient of the letter: Rebbe Eli. Yosef Rabbi of Radzanów, a senior Chassid of Rebbe Yitzchak of Warka (R. Yaakov David's father), who chose him to teach and guide his sons and sons-in-law. In his youth, he was a disciple of Rebbe Bunim of Peshischa. Rebbe Bunim suggested the marriage of R. Eli. Yosef with the daughter of R. Yaakov of Sheps (Sierpc).
[1] leaf. Approx. 14.5 cm. Approx. 14 autograph lines and signature. Fair condition. Stains and wear. Tears, affecting text (with some loss). Mounted on paper for reinforcement.
Category
Chassidut – Letters and Documents
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $15,000
Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000
Sold for: $30,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter with the full signature of Rebbe Yeshaya of Kerestir (R. Yeshaya'le Kerestirer) – "Yeshaya son of R. Moshe, who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska". [Bodrogkeresztúr (Kerestir)], 1920.
A letter of blessings for an ill person. Written by a scribe, on a postcard, with the Rebbe's signature. On verso of postcard, another short letter handwritten and signed by R. Yeshaya'le's scribe: "Elimelech ----". Postage stamps and postmarks, and the personal inked stamp of the tzaddik: "Saje Steiner, Bodrogkeresztur".
Blessings and wishes for a complete recovery and success: "… the Pidyon Nefesh of the woman… I pray that G-d will send his word and cure her completely and speedily, and may only goodness and kindness pursue her and all her close ones, and you should succeed in all your endeavors…".
R. Yeshaya Steiner of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr; 1852-1922) was the disciple of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska (Olaszliszka), author of Ach Pri Tevua and reverently followed in his footsteps. He was orphaned from his father at the age of three and was raised in the home of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska from the age of twelve. Drawn to Chassidut, he frequented the courts of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz and Rebbe Mordechai of Nadvorna. However, his primary rebbe and mentor remained Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, and he eventually became his close attendant (even when R. Yeshaya already served as rebbe, with throngs flocking to his court from all over Hungary, he would still sign with his stamp and on his letters: "…who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska"). Rebbe Yeshaya was revered by the leading rebbes of his day, including Rebbe Chaim of Sanz and Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (who stated that the "key to sustenance" is in the hands of R. Yeshaya of Kerestir). He performed thousands of charitable deeds, personally engaging in hospitality, and was considered one of the pillars of kindness and prayer in his times. He was renowned as a holy man, and thousands of Jews (as well as non-Jews) from all over Hungary would travel to his court to seek his advice. He was also renowned as a wonder-worker and for providing amulets. Until this day, his portrait is hung in homes as a segulah against mice. The story behind this custom is related in his biography, Mei Be'er Yeshayahu.
Postcard. 9X14 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and a few creases.
A letter of blessings for an ill person. Written by a scribe, on a postcard, with the Rebbe's signature. On verso of postcard, another short letter handwritten and signed by R. Yeshaya'le's scribe: "Elimelech ----". Postage stamps and postmarks, and the personal inked stamp of the tzaddik: "Saje Steiner, Bodrogkeresztur".
Blessings and wishes for a complete recovery and success: "… the Pidyon Nefesh of the woman… I pray that G-d will send his word and cure her completely and speedily, and may only goodness and kindness pursue her and all her close ones, and you should succeed in all your endeavors…".
R. Yeshaya Steiner of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr; 1852-1922) was the disciple of Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska (Olaszliszka), author of Ach Pri Tevua and reverently followed in his footsteps. He was orphaned from his father at the age of three and was raised in the home of R. Tzvi Hirsh of Liska from the age of twelve. Drawn to Chassidut, he frequented the courts of Rebbe Chaim Halberstam of Sanz and Rebbe Mordechai of Nadvorna. However, his primary rebbe and mentor remained Rebbe Tzvi Hirsh of Liska, and he eventually became his close attendant (even when R. Yeshaya already served as rebbe, with throngs flocking to his court from all over Hungary, he would still sign with his stamp and on his letters: "…who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska"). Rebbe Yeshaya was revered by the leading rebbes of his day, including Rebbe Chaim of Sanz and Rebbe Yissachar Dov of Belz (who stated that the "key to sustenance" is in the hands of R. Yeshaya of Kerestir). He performed thousands of charitable deeds, personally engaging in hospitality, and was considered one of the pillars of kindness and prayer in his times. He was renowned as a holy man, and thousands of Jews (as well as non-Jews) from all over Hungary would travel to his court to seek his advice. He was also renowned as a wonder-worker and for providing amulets. Until this day, his portrait is hung in homes as a segulah against mice. The story behind this custom is related in his biography, Mei Be'er Yeshayahu.
Postcard. 9X14 cm. Good-fair condition. Stains and a few creases.
Category
Chassidut – Letters and Documents
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $10,000
Estimate: $40,000 - $80,000
Sold for: $42,500
Including buyer's premium
Large handwritten leaf – certificate appointing Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum as president of the Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem, signed by seven leaders of the "city committee of the Ashkenazi community – Perushim and Chassidim". With a long letter handwritten and signed by R. Zelig Reuven Bengis, Rabbi of the Eda HaCharedit. Jerusalem, Adar II 1951.
Calligraphic square script. The text is set within a curtained arch frame, painted in blue, red and yellow, surmounted by a golden crown and illustrations of the holy sites – the Western Wall and Rachel's Tomb.
The certificate is signed by the seven leaders of the Jerusalem city committee: R. Baruch Greenfeld, R. Meir Shraga Katz Klein, R. Eliyahu Nachum Porush Glickman, R. Avraham Cohen Roth, R. Amram son of R. Sh.Y. Blau, R. Yaakov Meir Shechter and R. Avraham Yochanan Blumenthal.
At the foot of the certificate is an interesting letter handwritten and signed by R. Bengis, Rabbi of the Eda HaCharedit, in which he approves of the appointment of the Satmar Rebbe as president of the Eda HaCharedit, stating that " through you and through me the Almighty will be glorified".
Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar (1887-1979), one of the greatest leaders of his generation, president of the Eda HaCharedit and leader of American Orthodox Jewry, one of the founding pillars of Chassidic Jewry after the Holocaust. Born in Sighet (Sighetu Marmației), he was the son of Rebbe Chananya Yom Tov Lipa, the Kedushat Yom Tov, and grandson of Rebbe Yekutiel Yehuda, the Yitav Lev, who both served as rabbis of Sighet and were leaders of Chassidic Jewry in the Maramureș region. He was renowned from his youth for his perspicacity and intellectual capacities, as well as for his holiness and outstanding purity. After marrying the daughter of Rebbe Avraham Chaim Horowitz of Polaniec, he settled in Satmar (Satu Mare) and taught Torah and Chassidut to an elite group of disciples and followers. He served as rabbi of Irshava, Karaly (Carei, from 1925) and Satmar (from 1934), managing in each of these places a large yeshiva and Chassidic court. He stood at the helm of faithful, uncompromising Orthodox Jewry in the Maramureș region. During the Holocaust, he was rescued by the Kastner Train, and after a journey through Bergen-Belsen and Eretz Israel, he reached the United States, where he established the largest Chassidic group in the world – Satmar Chassidut, until today the dominant faction in American Orthodox Jewry.
In 1951, he was appointed president of the Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem, and in 1953, after the passing of the elderly R. Bengis, he succeeded him as "Rabbi of all the Ashkenazi Communities – The Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem" (the rebbe was appointed as Rabbi of the Eda HaCharedit even though he lived in the United States, and in Jerusalem, R. Pinchas Epstein was appointed as Raavad – Head of the Rabbinical Court. To this day, the Eda HaCharedit is headed by two rabbis, the Gaavad and the Raavad. For example, after the passing of R. Epstein and R. David Jungreis, R. Yitzchak Yaakov Weiss, author of Minchat Yitzchak, was appointed as Raavad of the Eda HaCharedit, and after the passing of the Satmar Rebbe, he was appointed Gaavad – in effect the Chief Rabbi of the Eda HaCharedit).
Rebbe Teitelbaum was a leading opponent of Zionism and of the founding of the State of Israel, and zealously led crucial battles for the preservation of the unique character of the Jewish people and its holiness, fearful for the honor of the Torah and the future of faithful Jewry. He was renowned as an exceptionally charitable person; his door was open to the poor and his ear attentive to the needy from every stream of the Jewish people. An outstanding Torah scholar, he responded to many halachic queries, and his writings were published in dozens of books: VaYoel Moshe, Responsa Divrei Yoel, Divrei Yoel on the Torah and more.
[1] large leaf, 42X54.5 cm. Thick Bristol board. Good-fair condition. Stains. Repaired marginal tears.
Calligraphic square script. The text is set within a curtained arch frame, painted in blue, red and yellow, surmounted by a golden crown and illustrations of the holy sites – the Western Wall and Rachel's Tomb.
The certificate is signed by the seven leaders of the Jerusalem city committee: R. Baruch Greenfeld, R. Meir Shraga Katz Klein, R. Eliyahu Nachum Porush Glickman, R. Avraham Cohen Roth, R. Amram son of R. Sh.Y. Blau, R. Yaakov Meir Shechter and R. Avraham Yochanan Blumenthal.
At the foot of the certificate is an interesting letter handwritten and signed by R. Bengis, Rabbi of the Eda HaCharedit, in which he approves of the appointment of the Satmar Rebbe as president of the Eda HaCharedit, stating that " through you and through me the Almighty will be glorified".
Rebbe Yoel Teitelbaum of Satmar (1887-1979), one of the greatest leaders of his generation, president of the Eda HaCharedit and leader of American Orthodox Jewry, one of the founding pillars of Chassidic Jewry after the Holocaust. Born in Sighet (Sighetu Marmației), he was the son of Rebbe Chananya Yom Tov Lipa, the Kedushat Yom Tov, and grandson of Rebbe Yekutiel Yehuda, the Yitav Lev, who both served as rabbis of Sighet and were leaders of Chassidic Jewry in the Maramureș region. He was renowned from his youth for his perspicacity and intellectual capacities, as well as for his holiness and outstanding purity. After marrying the daughter of Rebbe Avraham Chaim Horowitz of Polaniec, he settled in Satmar (Satu Mare) and taught Torah and Chassidut to an elite group of disciples and followers. He served as rabbi of Irshava, Karaly (Carei, from 1925) and Satmar (from 1934), managing in each of these places a large yeshiva and Chassidic court. He stood at the helm of faithful, uncompromising Orthodox Jewry in the Maramureș region. During the Holocaust, he was rescued by the Kastner Train, and after a journey through Bergen-Belsen and Eretz Israel, he reached the United States, where he established the largest Chassidic group in the world – Satmar Chassidut, until today the dominant faction in American Orthodox Jewry.
In 1951, he was appointed president of the Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem, and in 1953, after the passing of the elderly R. Bengis, he succeeded him as "Rabbi of all the Ashkenazi Communities – The Eda HaCharedit in Jerusalem" (the rebbe was appointed as Rabbi of the Eda HaCharedit even though he lived in the United States, and in Jerusalem, R. Pinchas Epstein was appointed as Raavad – Head of the Rabbinical Court. To this day, the Eda HaCharedit is headed by two rabbis, the Gaavad and the Raavad. For example, after the passing of R. Epstein and R. David Jungreis, R. Yitzchak Yaakov Weiss, author of Minchat Yitzchak, was appointed as Raavad of the Eda HaCharedit, and after the passing of the Satmar Rebbe, he was appointed Gaavad – in effect the Chief Rabbi of the Eda HaCharedit).
Rebbe Teitelbaum was a leading opponent of Zionism and of the founding of the State of Israel, and zealously led crucial battles for the preservation of the unique character of the Jewish people and its holiness, fearful for the honor of the Torah and the future of faithful Jewry. He was renowned as an exceptionally charitable person; his door was open to the poor and his ear attentive to the needy from every stream of the Jewish people. An outstanding Torah scholar, he responded to many halachic queries, and his writings were published in dozens of books: VaYoel Moshe, Responsa Divrei Yoel, Divrei Yoel on the Torah and more.
[1] large leaf, 42X54.5 cm. Thick Bristol board. Good-fair condition. Stains. Repaired marginal tears.
Category
Chassidut – Letters and Documents
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $40,000
Estimate: $50,000 - $100,000
Sold for: $50,000
Including buyer's premium
Lettet of rabbinic ordination signed by R. Yechezkel Landau – the Noda BiYehuda, and by the dayanim of his Beit Din in Prague. Prague, 3rd Sivan 1760.
The certificate was accorded to R. David son of R. Yitzchak Eizek Bindeles of Prague, granting him the title "Morenu HaRav".
Written by a scribe, the letter concludes: "So are the words of one who is engaged in Torah and worship of G-d, together with the rabbis of the Beit Din here in Prague on Sunday, 3rd Sivan 1760". This is followed by the handwritten signature of the Noda BiYehuda: " One who speaks in honor of the Torah and those who learn it, Yechezkel Segal Landau".
The signature of the Noda BiYehuda is followed by that of the dayanim of his Beit Din, leading Prague Torah scholars: " Yehuda Leib Kassowitz of Prague" – R. Leib Kassowitz (Rassowitz; d. 1783), head of the Beit Din during the time of the Noda BiYehuda; " Yitzchak Wolf son of R. Aharon Austerlitz Segal" – R. Yitzchak Binyamin Wolf Austerlitz (d. 1762), close disciple of R. Yehonatan Eybeschutz, dean of the Prague yeshiva and rabbi of the Chatzer HaGadol synagogue in Prague, one of the first signatories on the rabbinic appointment of the Noda BiYehuda; " Meir son of R. F. Bomsela" – R. Meir son of R. Fishel (Fischels) Bomsela (d. 1770), disciple and associate of R. Yehonatan Eybeschutz, served as head of the Prague Beit Din during the time of the Noda BiYehuda, dean of the Prague yeshiva for forty years, most of the Prague Torah scholars were his disciples; " Asher Anshel son of R. Baruch Osers" – R. Ascher Anschel Osers (d. 1765), a Prague Torah scholar and dayan in the Beit Din of the Noda BiYehuda, " Shlomo Zalman son of R. Gumpel Emerich" – R. Shlomo Zalman Emerich (d. 1794), disciple of R. Netanel Weill author of Korban Netanel, rabbi of the Maisel synagogue in Prague, dayan in the Prague Beit Din from 1762, and head of the Beit Din from 1793, author of Shisha Zironei Aruga (Prague 1789).
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Segal Landau – the Noda BiYehuda (1713-1793) was a leading halachic authority of all times, relied upon by the entire Jewish nation. Already as a young man, he was renowned as a leading Torah scholar of his generation. From the age of 13 until 30, he resided in Brody, a Torah center in those times, home to the celebrated Brody Kloiz. The outstanding Torah scholars who studied there covered all realms of Torah, and produced famous compositions on the Talmud, Halacha and Kabbala.
The Noda BiYehuda served for about ten years as head of one of the four Batei Din in Brody. During his stay there, he drew close to the Kloiz scholars, such as R. Gershon of Kitov (brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov) and R. Chaim Sanzer, one of the Kloiz's leading scholars, together with whom he studied the writings of the Arizal.
In ca. 1745, he went to serve as rabbi of Yampola (Yampil), and in 1754, he was appointed as rabbi of Prague and the region. In Prague, he led his community fearlessly, becoming a foremost leader of his generation. He established a large yeshiva, where he educated thousands of disciples, including many of the leading Torah scholars of that generation (his disciple R. Elazar Fleckeles, author of Teshuva MeAhava, eulogized him: "He edified several thousands of disciples, including hundreds of rabbis and dayanim". Olat HaChodesh HaShlishi, 17, p. 85a). Thousands of questions were addressed to him from far-flung places. Approximately 850 of his responsa were published in Noda BiYehuda. His books published in his lifetime, Responsa Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Kama, and Tzelach on Tractates Pesachim and Berachot, earned him worldwide eminence already then (Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Tinyana, printed after his passing, Prague 1811, includes hundreds of his responsa to questions regarding his first book, addressed to him from various places).
The Chida in Shem HaGedolim describes him as an exceptionally outstanding Torah scholar who disseminated much Torah through his books and disciples, and mentions the acuity and extensive Torah wisdom apparent in his responsa and books. The Noda BiYehuda himself wrote in one of his responsa, regarding one of his novellae, that in his opinion, it was a true Torah thought (Even HaEzer, Mahadura Tinyana section 23, 2). The Chatam Sofer comments on a responsum of the Noda BiYehuda (Responsa Chatam Sofer part II, Even HaEzer, section 95): "And the words of G-d are in his mouth, truth".
[1] double leaf. 21.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Folding mark.
The certificate was accorded to R. David son of R. Yitzchak Eizek Bindeles of Prague, granting him the title "Morenu HaRav".
Written by a scribe, the letter concludes: "So are the words of one who is engaged in Torah and worship of G-d, together with the rabbis of the Beit Din here in Prague on Sunday, 3rd Sivan 1760". This is followed by the handwritten signature of the Noda BiYehuda: " One who speaks in honor of the Torah and those who learn it, Yechezkel Segal Landau".
The signature of the Noda BiYehuda is followed by that of the dayanim of his Beit Din, leading Prague Torah scholars: " Yehuda Leib Kassowitz of Prague" – R. Leib Kassowitz (Rassowitz; d. 1783), head of the Beit Din during the time of the Noda BiYehuda; " Yitzchak Wolf son of R. Aharon Austerlitz Segal" – R. Yitzchak Binyamin Wolf Austerlitz (d. 1762), close disciple of R. Yehonatan Eybeschutz, dean of the Prague yeshiva and rabbi of the Chatzer HaGadol synagogue in Prague, one of the first signatories on the rabbinic appointment of the Noda BiYehuda; " Meir son of R. F. Bomsela" – R. Meir son of R. Fishel (Fischels) Bomsela (d. 1770), disciple and associate of R. Yehonatan Eybeschutz, served as head of the Prague Beit Din during the time of the Noda BiYehuda, dean of the Prague yeshiva for forty years, most of the Prague Torah scholars were his disciples; " Asher Anshel son of R. Baruch Osers" – R. Ascher Anschel Osers (d. 1765), a Prague Torah scholar and dayan in the Beit Din of the Noda BiYehuda, " Shlomo Zalman son of R. Gumpel Emerich" – R. Shlomo Zalman Emerich (d. 1794), disciple of R. Netanel Weill author of Korban Netanel, rabbi of the Maisel synagogue in Prague, dayan in the Prague Beit Din from 1762, and head of the Beit Din from 1793, author of Shisha Zironei Aruga (Prague 1789).
R. Yechezkel HaLevi Segal Landau – the Noda BiYehuda (1713-1793) was a leading halachic authority of all times, relied upon by the entire Jewish nation. Already as a young man, he was renowned as a leading Torah scholar of his generation. From the age of 13 until 30, he resided in Brody, a Torah center in those times, home to the celebrated Brody Kloiz. The outstanding Torah scholars who studied there covered all realms of Torah, and produced famous compositions on the Talmud, Halacha and Kabbala.
The Noda BiYehuda served for about ten years as head of one of the four Batei Din in Brody. During his stay there, he drew close to the Kloiz scholars, such as R. Gershon of Kitov (brother-in-law of the Baal Shem Tov) and R. Chaim Sanzer, one of the Kloiz's leading scholars, together with whom he studied the writings of the Arizal.
In ca. 1745, he went to serve as rabbi of Yampola (Yampil), and in 1754, he was appointed as rabbi of Prague and the region. In Prague, he led his community fearlessly, becoming a foremost leader of his generation. He established a large yeshiva, where he educated thousands of disciples, including many of the leading Torah scholars of that generation (his disciple R. Elazar Fleckeles, author of Teshuva MeAhava, eulogized him: "He edified several thousands of disciples, including hundreds of rabbis and dayanim". Olat HaChodesh HaShlishi, 17, p. 85a). Thousands of questions were addressed to him from far-flung places. Approximately 850 of his responsa were published in Noda BiYehuda. His books published in his lifetime, Responsa Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Kama, and Tzelach on Tractates Pesachim and Berachot, earned him worldwide eminence already then (Noda BiYehuda – Mahadura Tinyana, printed after his passing, Prague 1811, includes hundreds of his responsa to questions regarding his first book, addressed to him from various places).
The Chida in Shem HaGedolim describes him as an exceptionally outstanding Torah scholar who disseminated much Torah through his books and disciples, and mentions the acuity and extensive Torah wisdom apparent in his responsa and books. The Noda BiYehuda himself wrote in one of his responsa, regarding one of his novellae, that in his opinion, it was a true Torah thought (Even HaEzer, Mahadura Tinyana section 23, 2). The Chatam Sofer comments on a responsum of the Noda BiYehuda (Responsa Chatam Sofer part II, Even HaEzer, section 95): "And the words of G-d are in his mouth, truth".
[1] double leaf. 21.5 cm. Good condition. Stains. Folding mark.
Category
Rabbinic Letters
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $4,000
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Sold for: $6,875
Including buyer's premium
Emissary letter appointing R. Avraham son of Asher and R. Yitzchak Zerachya Azulai – father of the Chida, as emissaries on behalf of the Jerusalem community, to travel to Italy and Western Europe. The letter is addressed to the rabbis and dignitaries of the Ancona community, Italy, and is signed by the leading Torah scholars of Jerusalem. Jerusalem, [1741].
Neat scribal script (similar to the handwriting of the Chida). Calligraphic signatures of eight of Jerusalem's leading Torah scholars. The list of signees is headed by the Rishon LeTzion, R. "Eliezer Nachum" – author of Chazon Nachum (1662-1745, renowned rabbi and yeshiva dean in Turkey, immigrated to Eretz Israel were he succeeded R. Binyamin HaKohen Maali as rabbi of Jerusalem). The other signees are the dayanim of his Beit Din – leading Torah scholars of Jerusalem: R. "Nissim Chaim Moshe Mizrachi" – author of Admat Kodesh (ca. 1690-1749, succeeded R. Eliezer Nachum as Rishon LeTzion), R. "Yehuda son of R. Amram Diwan" – author of Chut HaMeshulash (d. ca. 1752), R. "Yisrael Meir son of R. Yosef Mizrachi" – author of Pri HaAretz (d. after 1749. He was the brother of R. Nissim Chaim Moshe Mizrachi and served as dean of the Beit Yaakov Yeshiva), R. "David Yekutiel HaKohen", R. "Yitzchak Aruch", R. "Yaakov Ashkenazi" and R. "Meyuchas Bechor Shmuel" author of Pri HaAdama and Mizbach Adama (1695-1771. Served as Rishon LeTzion following the passing of R. Yaakov Yisrael Algazi).
The letter is addressed to "Our brethren, our saviors in Ancona…", and depicts at length the trials and tribulations the Jerusalem community are undergoing. The Torah scholars of Jerusalem appoint R. Avraham son of R. Asher and R. Yitzchak Zerachya Azulai as emissaries, to raise funds from the Jews of Ancona on behalf of the Jewish settlement in Jerusalem.
Address inscribed on verso "To our dear brethren, the community of Ancona…".
R. Yitzchak Zerachya Azulai (1702-1765) was one of the leading Torah scholars and kabbalists in Jerusalem in his times. A member of the Beit Yaakov study hall, he served as dean of the yeshiva founded by the wealthy Mordechai Tallouk (named Gedulat Mordechai), alongside his brother-in-law R. Yona Navon. He was a dayan in the Batei Din of leading rabbis of Jerusalem, and his signature is featured together with theirs on the city regulations. His eldest son was the Chida, who quotes him extensively in his works. R. Yitzchak Zerachya was the first of a prestigious dynasty of four generations of emissaries who travelled abroad on behalf of Eretz Israel: his son the Chida – a renowned emissary, his grandsons R. Avraham Azulai and R. Refael Yeshaya Azulai (sons of the Chida) and later, the grandson of R. Refael Yeshaya (son of his son R. Moshe) – R. Yehuda Zerachya Azulai.
R. Yitzchak Zerachya's companion, R. Avraham son of R. Asher (d. 1772), served as head of the Jerusalem Beit Din and dean of the Yefa'er Anavim yeshiva. In 1771 (following the passing of R. Meyuchas Bechor Shmuel, one of the signees of this letter), he was appointed Rishon LeTzion and rabbi of Jerusalem, yet he passed away a year later during an epidemic. While in Constantinople on an earlier mission on behalf of the Jerusalem community, in 1734, he published the book Shaarei Kedusha by R. Chaim Vital, based on a manuscript he found in Egypt. R. Avraham completed the mission documented in this letter on his own, after R. Yitzchak Zerachya took ill upon reaching Constantinople and was compelled to return to Eretz Israel. See A. Yaari, Sheluchei Eretz Israel, pp. 389-391. A different letter written for these two emissaries is also featured there.
[1] double leaf. 29 cm. Good condition. A few stains. Folding marks.
Neat scribal script (similar to the handwriting of the Chida). Calligraphic signatures of eight of Jerusalem's leading Torah scholars. The list of signees is headed by the Rishon LeTzion, R. "Eliezer Nachum" – author of Chazon Nachum (1662-1745, renowned rabbi and yeshiva dean in Turkey, immigrated to Eretz Israel were he succeeded R. Binyamin HaKohen Maali as rabbi of Jerusalem). The other signees are the dayanim of his Beit Din – leading Torah scholars of Jerusalem: R. "Nissim Chaim Moshe Mizrachi" – author of Admat Kodesh (ca. 1690-1749, succeeded R. Eliezer Nachum as Rishon LeTzion), R. "Yehuda son of R. Amram Diwan" – author of Chut HaMeshulash (d. ca. 1752), R. "Yisrael Meir son of R. Yosef Mizrachi" – author of Pri HaAretz (d. after 1749. He was the brother of R. Nissim Chaim Moshe Mizrachi and served as dean of the Beit Yaakov Yeshiva), R. "David Yekutiel HaKohen", R. "Yitzchak Aruch", R. "Yaakov Ashkenazi" and R. "Meyuchas Bechor Shmuel" author of Pri HaAdama and Mizbach Adama (1695-1771. Served as Rishon LeTzion following the passing of R. Yaakov Yisrael Algazi).
The letter is addressed to "Our brethren, our saviors in Ancona…", and depicts at length the trials and tribulations the Jerusalem community are undergoing. The Torah scholars of Jerusalem appoint R. Avraham son of R. Asher and R. Yitzchak Zerachya Azulai as emissaries, to raise funds from the Jews of Ancona on behalf of the Jewish settlement in Jerusalem.
Address inscribed on verso "To our dear brethren, the community of Ancona…".
R. Yitzchak Zerachya Azulai (1702-1765) was one of the leading Torah scholars and kabbalists in Jerusalem in his times. A member of the Beit Yaakov study hall, he served as dean of the yeshiva founded by the wealthy Mordechai Tallouk (named Gedulat Mordechai), alongside his brother-in-law R. Yona Navon. He was a dayan in the Batei Din of leading rabbis of Jerusalem, and his signature is featured together with theirs on the city regulations. His eldest son was the Chida, who quotes him extensively in his works. R. Yitzchak Zerachya was the first of a prestigious dynasty of four generations of emissaries who travelled abroad on behalf of Eretz Israel: his son the Chida – a renowned emissary, his grandsons R. Avraham Azulai and R. Refael Yeshaya Azulai (sons of the Chida) and later, the grandson of R. Refael Yeshaya (son of his son R. Moshe) – R. Yehuda Zerachya Azulai.
R. Yitzchak Zerachya's companion, R. Avraham son of R. Asher (d. 1772), served as head of the Jerusalem Beit Din and dean of the Yefa'er Anavim yeshiva. In 1771 (following the passing of R. Meyuchas Bechor Shmuel, one of the signees of this letter), he was appointed Rishon LeTzion and rabbi of Jerusalem, yet he passed away a year later during an epidemic. While in Constantinople on an earlier mission on behalf of the Jerusalem community, in 1734, he published the book Shaarei Kedusha by R. Chaim Vital, based on a manuscript he found in Egypt. R. Avraham completed the mission documented in this letter on his own, after R. Yitzchak Zerachya took ill upon reaching Constantinople and was compelled to return to Eretz Israel. See A. Yaari, Sheluchei Eretz Israel, pp. 389-391. A different letter written for these two emissaries is also featured there.
[1] double leaf. 29 cm. Good condition. A few stains. Folding marks.
Category
Rabbinic Letters
Catalogue Value
![Letter handwritten and signed by R. Elazar Kalir rabbi of Rechnitz and Kolin. [Kolin], 17th Cheshvan, 1794.
Letter (one lea](https://files.kedem-auctions.com/files/Sale72-public/93.jpg "Letter Handwritten and Signed by Rabbi Elazar Kalir, Author of Or Chad")
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $1,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $6,250
Including buyer's premium
Letter handwritten and signed by R. Elazar Kalir rabbi of Rechnitz and Kolin. [Kolin], 17th Cheshvan, 1794.
Letter (one leaf folded in half) with words of inspiration and friendship, sent to "Rabbi Shmuel Leib of Prague" (apparently, R. Shmuel Leib Kauder of Prague, author of Olat Shmuel).
R. Elazar opens his letter with praise of his disciple's Torah knowledge and diligence and writes that he is enclosing a copy of his book Or Chadash on tractate Pesachim (Frankfurt an der Oder, 1776) with his letter. He ends the letter with words of inspiration: " Do not forsake G-d's Torah and rely on G-d, and honor will be forthcoming".
The name of the recipient and his address are written on verso of the letter: "To Prague… R. Shmuel Leib". Apparently, this letter has never been printed.
R. Elazar Kalir (1738-1801) was one of the most renowned Torah scholars of his times. He served as rabbi of Zablodove, Rechnitz (1768-1781) and Kolin (1781-1801). In each place he also served as yeshiva dean. He edified many disciples and many of the rabbis of his generation were his close disciples. He corresponded extensively with the Noda BiYehuda and dozens of responsa in the Responsa Noda BiYehuda are addressed to him. The Noda BiYehuda esteemed him greatly although R. Elazar was decades younger than him and in one responsum addresses him with many honorary titles. In his approbation to the book Or Chadash on Pesachim, the Noda BiYehuda writes that R. Elazar's novellae befit the Rishonim. R. Baruch Jeitteles, a Prague Torah scholar, writes in the preface to his book Taam HaMelech of R. Elazar's high stature in Central
Europe after the passing of R. Yechezkel Landau: "After the death of the Noda BiYehuda, R. Elazar, author of the Or Chadash books, became the leader of the Jewish People, the one individual in our country to whom all eyes turn and many Prague Torah scholars consider him a halachic authority".
He authored: Or Chadash on the Torah (Fürth, 1766), Or Chadash on tractate Pesachim (Frankfurt an der Oder, 1776), Or Chadash on tractate Kiddushin (Vienna, 1769), Chavat Yair HeChadash (Prague, 1792) and Responsa Cheker Halacha (Vienna, 1838).
R. Shmuel Kauder (1766-1838) was one of the leading Torah scholars in Prague. He was a close associate of R. Betzalel Ronsburg, and dayan in his Beit Din in Prague. He was a prime disciple of R. Michael Bacharach Rabbi of Prague, and later of R. Elazar Kalir author of Or Chadash (R. Shmuel writes about this in the preface to his book Olat Shmuel, and in another place in his book, he calls his teacher R. Elazar "Rabbi of the entire Diaspora"). He resided in Kalady (Koloděje), and from 1812 served as rabbi in the communities of Tábor and Budweis (České Budějovice) in Bohemia. In 1835 he was appointed head of the Prague Beit Din, where he disseminated Torah and was renowned as a prominent halachic authority. Of his many writings, only Responsa Olat Shmuel (on Orach Chaim), Ahavat Emet (homily) and Zikaron BaSefer (on tractate Megillah) were published.
[1] double leaf. 22 cm. Good condition. Stains and wear. Folding marks.
Letter (one leaf folded in half) with words of inspiration and friendship, sent to "Rabbi Shmuel Leib of Prague" (apparently, R. Shmuel Leib Kauder of Prague, author of Olat Shmuel).
R. Elazar opens his letter with praise of his disciple's Torah knowledge and diligence and writes that he is enclosing a copy of his book Or Chadash on tractate Pesachim (Frankfurt an der Oder, 1776) with his letter. He ends the letter with words of inspiration: " Do not forsake G-d's Torah and rely on G-d, and honor will be forthcoming".
The name of the recipient and his address are written on verso of the letter: "To Prague… R. Shmuel Leib". Apparently, this letter has never been printed.
R. Elazar Kalir (1738-1801) was one of the most renowned Torah scholars of his times. He served as rabbi of Zablodove, Rechnitz (1768-1781) and Kolin (1781-1801). In each place he also served as yeshiva dean. He edified many disciples and many of the rabbis of his generation were his close disciples. He corresponded extensively with the Noda BiYehuda and dozens of responsa in the Responsa Noda BiYehuda are addressed to him. The Noda BiYehuda esteemed him greatly although R. Elazar was decades younger than him and in one responsum addresses him with many honorary titles. In his approbation to the book Or Chadash on Pesachim, the Noda BiYehuda writes that R. Elazar's novellae befit the Rishonim. R. Baruch Jeitteles, a Prague Torah scholar, writes in the preface to his book Taam HaMelech of R. Elazar's high stature in Central
Europe after the passing of R. Yechezkel Landau: "After the death of the Noda BiYehuda, R. Elazar, author of the Or Chadash books, became the leader of the Jewish People, the one individual in our country to whom all eyes turn and many Prague Torah scholars consider him a halachic authority".
He authored: Or Chadash on the Torah (Fürth, 1766), Or Chadash on tractate Pesachim (Frankfurt an der Oder, 1776), Or Chadash on tractate Kiddushin (Vienna, 1769), Chavat Yair HeChadash (Prague, 1792) and Responsa Cheker Halacha (Vienna, 1838).
R. Shmuel Kauder (1766-1838) was one of the leading Torah scholars in Prague. He was a close associate of R. Betzalel Ronsburg, and dayan in his Beit Din in Prague. He was a prime disciple of R. Michael Bacharach Rabbi of Prague, and later of R. Elazar Kalir author of Or Chadash (R. Shmuel writes about this in the preface to his book Olat Shmuel, and in another place in his book, he calls his teacher R. Elazar "Rabbi of the entire Diaspora"). He resided in Kalady (Koloděje), and from 1812 served as rabbi in the communities of Tábor and Budweis (České Budějovice) in Bohemia. In 1835 he was appointed head of the Prague Beit Din, where he disseminated Torah and was renowned as a prominent halachic authority. Of his many writings, only Responsa Olat Shmuel (on Orach Chaim), Ahavat Emet (homily) and Zikaron BaSefer (on tractate Megillah) were published.
[1] double leaf. 22 cm. Good condition. Stains and wear. Folding marks.
Category
Rabbinic Letters
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $5,500
Including buyer's premium
"Rabbonus Brief", a handwritten rabbinic contract of the Aruch LaNer, for his first rabbinic position in the district of Ladenburg, signed by leaders of the Jewish community and by the Aruch LaNer. [Ladenburg district, Germany], Elul 1828.
A contract of 16 clauses, with opening and concluding passages. Calligraphic and cursive scripts. The contract is signed by several leaders of the Jewish community of the Ladenburg district, as well as by the newly appointed rabbi, the Aruch LaNer: " Yukev son of R. Aharon Ettlingen, rabbi of the Ladenburg district".
The contract is bound in a paper cover, inscribed: "Rabbonus Brief [rabbinic contract] – 1828".
R. Yaakov Yukev Ettlinger (1798-1871), chief rabbi of Altona and the surroundings, was a foremost leader of German Jewry and one of the strongest opponents of the Reform movement. In his youth, he served as lecturer in the yeshiva of his father, R. Aharon Ettlinger (Ettlingen) in Karlsruhe, and was one of the primary disciples of R. Asher Wallerstein, son of the Shaagat Aryeh and rabbi of the city. He also studied in the Würzburg yeshiva under R. Avraham Bing, and was a colleague of Chacham Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg and R. Elazar Bergman of Jerusalem.
In 1828, he was appointed as district rabbi of Ladenburg and settled in nearby Mannheim, where he was appointed dean of the yeshiva and rabbi of the Kloiz (at that time, R. Samson Refael Hirsch of Hamburg was his disciple). This document attests to R. Ettlinger's appointment as rabbi of the Ladenburg district.
In 1836, he went to serve as rabbi of the Three Communities (Altona, Hamburg and Wandsbeck), where he established a prominent yeshiva. R. Yaakov Ettlinger dedicated his life to disseminating Torah, and leading German rabbis were his disciples, the most renowned ones include: R. Samson Refael Hirsch; R. Azriel Hildesheimer, R. Tzvi Binyamin Auerbach Rabbi of Halberstadt and author of Nachal Eshkol, R. Getsch Schlesinger dayan in Hamburg, R. Eliyahu Munk dayan in Altona and his son R. Yehuda Munk Rabbi of Marburg, R. Zev Yitzchak HaLevi Dünner of Köln author of LiChevod Amudei HaTorah, R. Moshe Weisskopf Rabbi of Paris, and other renowned disciples who glorified German communities in that generation.
He authored the following books: Aruch LaNer on Talmudic tractates, Bikurei Yaakov, Responsa Binyan Tzion, Minchat Ani on the Torah and others. He was the founder and editor of the Orthodox periodical Shomer Tzion HaNe'eman. His books are studied until this day in Torah study halls, and his teachings are quoted extensively in Halachic literature. Already in his generation, he was considered a leading Halachic authority, and Halachic questions were referred to him from Jerusalem and throughout the Jewish world. R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn wrote in several dispensations for Agunot, that he will issue a permission only if the "Gaon of Altona" will concur with him (Shoel UMeshiv, Telitaa, II, 216; III, 87). He was the supreme authority amongst German rabbis, and even the great Torah scholar from Würzburg, R. Yitzchak Dov Bamberger, wrote regarding him: "Since then, I would bring any difficulty before one of the leading Torah scholars of the generation, R. M. Kargau and my mechutan R. Yaakov Ettlinger… before them I posed any difficult matter" (Responsa Yad HaLevi, Jerusalem 1988, p. 60). After his passing and that of the Ktav Sofer the same year, Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Deyzh termed them the righteous men of the generation (Maaglei Tzedek, I, Parashat Vaera).
[4] leaves (including cover). 33 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor tears. Folding marks.
A contract of 16 clauses, with opening and concluding passages. Calligraphic and cursive scripts. The contract is signed by several leaders of the Jewish community of the Ladenburg district, as well as by the newly appointed rabbi, the Aruch LaNer: " Yukev son of R. Aharon Ettlingen, rabbi of the Ladenburg district".
The contract is bound in a paper cover, inscribed: "Rabbonus Brief [rabbinic contract] – 1828".
R. Yaakov Yukev Ettlinger (1798-1871), chief rabbi of Altona and the surroundings, was a foremost leader of German Jewry and one of the strongest opponents of the Reform movement. In his youth, he served as lecturer in the yeshiva of his father, R. Aharon Ettlinger (Ettlingen) in Karlsruhe, and was one of the primary disciples of R. Asher Wallerstein, son of the Shaagat Aryeh and rabbi of the city. He also studied in the Würzburg yeshiva under R. Avraham Bing, and was a colleague of Chacham Yitzchak Bernays of Hamburg and R. Elazar Bergman of Jerusalem.
In 1828, he was appointed as district rabbi of Ladenburg and settled in nearby Mannheim, where he was appointed dean of the yeshiva and rabbi of the Kloiz (at that time, R. Samson Refael Hirsch of Hamburg was his disciple). This document attests to R. Ettlinger's appointment as rabbi of the Ladenburg district.
In 1836, he went to serve as rabbi of the Three Communities (Altona, Hamburg and Wandsbeck), where he established a prominent yeshiva. R. Yaakov Ettlinger dedicated his life to disseminating Torah, and leading German rabbis were his disciples, the most renowned ones include: R. Samson Refael Hirsch; R. Azriel Hildesheimer, R. Tzvi Binyamin Auerbach Rabbi of Halberstadt and author of Nachal Eshkol, R. Getsch Schlesinger dayan in Hamburg, R. Eliyahu Munk dayan in Altona and his son R. Yehuda Munk Rabbi of Marburg, R. Zev Yitzchak HaLevi Dünner of Köln author of LiChevod Amudei HaTorah, R. Moshe Weisskopf Rabbi of Paris, and other renowned disciples who glorified German communities in that generation.
He authored the following books: Aruch LaNer on Talmudic tractates, Bikurei Yaakov, Responsa Binyan Tzion, Minchat Ani on the Torah and others. He was the founder and editor of the Orthodox periodical Shomer Tzion HaNe'eman. His books are studied until this day in Torah study halls, and his teachings are quoted extensively in Halachic literature. Already in his generation, he was considered a leading Halachic authority, and Halachic questions were referred to him from Jerusalem and throughout the Jewish world. R. Yosef Shaul Natansohn wrote in several dispensations for Agunot, that he will issue a permission only if the "Gaon of Altona" will concur with him (Shoel UMeshiv, Telitaa, II, 216; III, 87). He was the supreme authority amongst German rabbis, and even the great Torah scholar from Würzburg, R. Yitzchak Dov Bamberger, wrote regarding him: "Since then, I would bring any difficulty before one of the leading Torah scholars of the generation, R. M. Kargau and my mechutan R. Yaakov Ettlinger… before them I posed any difficult matter" (Responsa Yad HaLevi, Jerusalem 1988, p. 60). After his passing and that of the Ktav Sofer the same year, Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Deyzh termed them the righteous men of the generation (Maaglei Tzedek, I, Parashat Vaera).
[4] leaves (including cover). 33 cm. Good condition. Stains. Minor tears. Folding marks.
Category
Rabbinic Letters
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $2,000
Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Sold for: $3,750
Including buyer's premium
Letter (11 lines) handwritten and signed by R. Yerucham Leibowitz. Mir, Nissan 1934.
Letter of recommendation for the yeshiva student Mr. Eliyahu Zorkes, in advance of his immigration to the Holy Land: "… He studied in our yeshiva for two years with diligence and grew in sharpness and knowledge and correct understanding…".
R. Yerucham HaLevi Leibowitz (1875-1936), a leading educator and Torah scholar of his times, affiliated with the Mussar Movement. Disciple of Beit HaTalmud in Kelm and teacher of R. Yechezkel Levenstein. He served as mashgiach in Lithuanian yeshivot, in the Radin Yeshiva and others. His most productive position was his long tenure as mashgiach of the Mir Yeshiva, which he directed in its move to Poltava during WWI. After the return of the yeshiva to Mir, he was the backbone of its reconstruction, raising close disciples, including many illustrious yeshiva deans of our times. R. Chaim Shmuelevitz and R. Aryeh Leib Malin, who edited the books of his discourses, Chever Maamarim and Daat Chochmah UMussar, were among these disciples.
He showed special care for the students from Central Europe and delivered classes especially for them, illuminating the basic tenets of faith and the deep Torah thinking of Lithuanian yeshivot (some were later printed in the five volumes of Daat Torah).
Rabbi Wolbe, one of the youngest disciples of Rabbi Leibowitz, wrote in the preface to his well-known book Alei Shur: "…How does a Torah man look, after becoming a different person? Come with me… and see the beauty… The author of this book, in his youth… was brought close to a giant among men, the light of our eyes, who resurrects the dead with his speech, R. Yerucham HaLevi… in the Mir Yeshiva…".
[1] leaf, official stationery of the Mir Yeshiva. 27.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears to folds, with adhesive tape repairs on verso.
Letter of recommendation for the yeshiva student Mr. Eliyahu Zorkes, in advance of his immigration to the Holy Land: "… He studied in our yeshiva for two years with diligence and grew in sharpness and knowledge and correct understanding…".
R. Yerucham HaLevi Leibowitz (1875-1936), a leading educator and Torah scholar of his times, affiliated with the Mussar Movement. Disciple of Beit HaTalmud in Kelm and teacher of R. Yechezkel Levenstein. He served as mashgiach in Lithuanian yeshivot, in the Radin Yeshiva and others. His most productive position was his long tenure as mashgiach of the Mir Yeshiva, which he directed in its move to Poltava during WWI. After the return of the yeshiva to Mir, he was the backbone of its reconstruction, raising close disciples, including many illustrious yeshiva deans of our times. R. Chaim Shmuelevitz and R. Aryeh Leib Malin, who edited the books of his discourses, Chever Maamarim and Daat Chochmah UMussar, were among these disciples.
He showed special care for the students from Central Europe and delivered classes especially for them, illuminating the basic tenets of faith and the deep Torah thinking of Lithuanian yeshivot (some were later printed in the five volumes of Daat Torah).
Rabbi Wolbe, one of the youngest disciples of Rabbi Leibowitz, wrote in the preface to his well-known book Alei Shur: "…How does a Torah man look, after becoming a different person? Come with me… and see the beauty… The author of this book, in his youth… was brought close to a giant among men, the light of our eyes, who resurrects the dead with his speech, R. Yerucham HaLevi… in the Mir Yeshiva…".
[1] leaf, official stationery of the Mir Yeshiva. 27.5 cm. Good-fair condition. Tears to folds, with adhesive tape repairs on verso.
Category
Rabbinic Letters
Catalogue Value
Auction 72 - Rare and Important Items
July 7, 2020
Opening: $500
Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000
Sold for: $4,000
Including buyer's premium
Letter from the Bnei Brak municipality, to "The rabbi and tzaddik, the Gaon of Steipel", with an enclosed bank check – "…Grant from the Bnei Brak municipality to participate in the printing of his books". A response letter (4 lines), handwritten and signed by R. Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, appears on the leaf, in which he refuses to accept the grant. [Bnei Brak, Nissan 1985].
This letter, written in the last months of the Steipler's life (he passed away in Av 1985; the handwriting is indicative of his old age and frailty), is addressed to the mayor, R. Moshe Irenstein: "…T o the Mayor, I do not accept any help with the exception of taxes from which the Torah exempts me, because thank G-d, I am not poor. My regards and honor... Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky".
The Steipler, in his righteousness, refused the funds – sent at the decision of the municipality to support the city's rabbis towards Pesach – and returned the check to the mayor.
R. Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky (1899-1985), one of the most prominent Torah leaders of the past generation. He was known as the Steipler, appellation derived from his hometown Hornostaipil, Ukraine. A foremost student of the Novardok yeshivot in Ukraine and Poland, he was reputed as one of the most diligent and scholarly students in the yeshiva world. In his youth, he published his book Shaarei Tevuna and after seeing the book, the Chazon Ish chose him as a match for his younger sister Pesha Miriam. After his marriage, he served as dean of the Novardok yeshiva in Pinsk, and in 1934, he immigrated to Eretz Israel to serve as dean of the Beit Yosef-Novardok yeshiva in Bnei Brak. For many years, he lived in Bnei Brak in the same house as his brother-in-law, the Chazon Ish. After the yeshiva shut down, he resumed his studies in Kollel Chazon Ish and in his home, and authored the Kehillot Yaakov series on most Talmudic topics and tractates. He was known as a wonder-worker who benefitted from Divine Inspiration, and many sought his blessings and counsel.
[1] leaf, official stationery of the Mayor of Bnei Brak, 23.5 cm + bank check + envelope. Good-fair condition. Creases and folding marks.
This letter, written in the last months of the Steipler's life (he passed away in Av 1985; the handwriting is indicative of his old age and frailty), is addressed to the mayor, R. Moshe Irenstein: "…T o the Mayor, I do not accept any help with the exception of taxes from which the Torah exempts me, because thank G-d, I am not poor. My regards and honor... Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky".
The Steipler, in his righteousness, refused the funds – sent at the decision of the municipality to support the city's rabbis towards Pesach – and returned the check to the mayor.
R. Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky (1899-1985), one of the most prominent Torah leaders of the past generation. He was known as the Steipler, appellation derived from his hometown Hornostaipil, Ukraine. A foremost student of the Novardok yeshivot in Ukraine and Poland, he was reputed as one of the most diligent and scholarly students in the yeshiva world. In his youth, he published his book Shaarei Tevuna and after seeing the book, the Chazon Ish chose him as a match for his younger sister Pesha Miriam. After his marriage, he served as dean of the Novardok yeshiva in Pinsk, and in 1934, he immigrated to Eretz Israel to serve as dean of the Beit Yosef-Novardok yeshiva in Bnei Brak. For many years, he lived in Bnei Brak in the same house as his brother-in-law, the Chazon Ish. After the yeshiva shut down, he resumed his studies in Kollel Chazon Ish and in his home, and authored the Kehillot Yaakov series on most Talmudic topics and tractates. He was known as a wonder-worker who benefitted from Divine Inspiration, and many sought his blessings and counsel.
[1] leaf, official stationery of the Mayor of Bnei Brak, 23.5 cm + bank check + envelope. Good-fair condition. Creases and folding marks.
Category
Rabbinic Letters
Catalogue Value