Lida, David. Sepher Sod Hashem [Mohel’s compendium]. [Vinograd, Amsterdam 1585]. Amsterdam, 1745

(CIRCUMCISION RECORD-BOOK)

Germany

1799-1835

84 manuscript pages tipped in recording the performance of 402 circumcisions in numerous locations throughout Germany. Black, brown and red inks on paper, Aschkenazi square and cursive Hebrew scripts

An important record for German-Jewish genealogy, with details of many families and localities. Of significance is Entry Number 252, the birth of the grandson of Issachar Berish President of the the Beth DIn of Hannover, who was the grandson of Jacob Joshua Falk (The Penei Yehoshua) A very appealing record by one Shimon b. Aaron of Wansdorf, with a very pleasing style and fine calligraphic hand. The manuscript commences with an account of how Shimon became a Mohel and his gratitude to God for such a blessed responsibility. Also includes instruction regarding the Kabbalistic properties inherent in the prepuce, as well as medical usage (e.g. remedy for treating scorpion bite). Additionally, records the destruction by fire in 1813 of the Synagogue in Wansdorf