Sepher Ha’aruch [Talmudic dictionary]

NATHAN BEN YECHIEL OF ROME.

Gershom Soncino

Pesaro

1517

Second Edition. Various owners’ signatures on the rare title page.

Vinograd, Pesaro 44; Adams N-59

R. Nathan’s Aruch is “a manifestation not only of its author’s brilliance and deep acquaintance with sources, but also of his encyclopaedic knowledge. Indeed, in some instances it is the sole source for ancient traditions of Talmudic interpretation.” S. B. Linderman, Sefer Sarid Be’arachin (1972), introduction. It is important for its many citations of Geonic sources, descriptions of Jewish customs, and citations of Midrashim which are not found in the extant editions. In addition, it is historically noteworty as the only literary production of the Italian Jews of this era. It is thus a significant monument in the history of Jewish culture.