Ya’akov Yoseph of Polonoye. Toldoth Ya’akov Yoseph [homilies to the Chumash, etc.]

(CHASSIDISM)

Medzhibozh

1817

Second edition. Printed on blue tinted paper. Includes approbation by R. Avraham Yehoshua Heshel of Apta. With previous owner’s marks by members of the Silberman Family of Safed.

Vinograd, Medzhibozh 11; Stefansky, Chassiduth 606.

Second edition of the first printed book of Chassidic philosophy. This fundamentally important work is the primary source for the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov. It emphasized that only through the applied study of Chassidic thought would the Redemption arrive. Due to its prestige, a number of Chassidic legends have arisen concerning the publication and dissemination of the Toldos, thus creating a unique aura around this early edition. A previous owner, R. Avraham Leib Silberman, was Chief Rabbi of Safed from 1917 until his death in 1948. He was responsible for the rebuilding of the Ashkenazic Ari synagogue in the city, and a strong advocate of ‘Ge’ulat Ha’Aretz,’ the purchasing of land from Arab owners. On Lag Ba’Omer, he served as the emissary of the Boyaner Rebbe, lighting the first bonfire at the Mount Meron celebrations.