(of Prague). Zera Kodesh [readings and meditations to prevent nocturnal emissions]

GRAF, MOSES BEN MENACHEM.

Joseph ben Solomon Schneur

Fürth

1696

FIRST EDITION. Title within typographical border

Vinograd, Fürth 44

Fascinating and detailed appendix (not included in subsequent editions) describing the exorcism of a Dybuk performed Graf in the town of Nikolsburg in 1696. Some two thousand people witnessed the exorcism ceremony. The Dybuk claimed he was a leader of the town of Narol in Poland, and admitted to a host of crimes instigated by his mother, including the murder of two rabbis. Graf and those assembled offered to fast and undertake further penance on the Dybuk’s behalf. He in turn agreed to leave only if Rabbi Graf and one of the Dayanim would recite the Kaddish prayer following the recital of Psalms. Graf thereupon proclaimed the Ineffable Name, whilst the congregation prayed and seven shofars were simultaneously sounded. The final leaf lists the twelve Dayanim and leaders of Nikolsburg, including David Oppenheimer, all attesting to the veracity of the incident