Sepher Tephiloth U'Berachoth HaLekutoth MiSepharim [collected prayers]

(LITURGY).

(Italy)

1791

Hebrew manuscript on thick paper. Title within architectural columns, floral design at top. Hebrew in square characters with vowel points, directions in Italian. Broad margins.

A most attractive petite manuscript. Though Italian Jewry has been portrayed as a community greatly influenced by the Enlightenment Movement, this handsome collection of prayers gives eloquent testimony to the fact that even at this late date (end 18th-century) Italian Jews were still absorbed under the influence of the Kabbalah. At least the first half of this manuscript is occupied by "Seder Keri'ath Shema al Derech HaKabbalah" (The Order of Prayers before Retiring for the Night According to the Kabbalah). The compendium concludes with touching prayers in relation to female duties and concerns.