Derech Emunah [“The Way of Faith”- kabbalah]
AUCTION 17 |
Tuesday, November 12th,
2002 at 1:00
Fine Judaica: Printed Books, Manuscripts and Works of Graphic and Ceremonial Art From Various Owners
Lot 197
IBN GABBAI, MEIR.
Derech Emunah [“The Way of Faith”- kabbalah]
Padua: Lorenzo Pasquato 1563
Est: $800 - $1,200
PRICE REALIZED $1,200
THE FIRST HEBREW BOOK PRINTED IN PADUA.
Despite the ancient presence of the University - one of the great institutions of learning in Europe - only two Hebrew books were printed in Padua throughout the 16th century. See Amram, pp. 338-41 and 387-88.
A Kabbalist of the generation of Spanish exiles, the details of Meir ibn Gabbai’s life are not known. He was one of the leading proponents of the view that the Sefiroth are the essence of Divinity. In Derech Emunah, which is writen as a Socratic dialogue, ibn Gabbai offers an explanation for the doctrine of the Sefiroth. For a brief biographical overview of the author see A. Yaari, Kiryat Sepher (1933) pp.388-93