(The Steipler Gaon). Eifath Tzedek on Shiurim [the measurements of the “Revi’ith” and the “Ama” (cubit) required for performance of Mitzvoth].

KANIEVSKY, YA’AKOV YISROEL

(Bnei Brak

1949)

Autograph Manuscript in Hebrew. With some additional wording and significant variances from the published edition.

Written in support of the Halachic measurements of the Chazon Ish as opposed to those of R. Chaim Noeh. This autograph manuscript cites 32 supportive texts and contains variances from the published edition. For example, in no. 5(a), when citing the author of Mishnath Chasidim the Steipler references him with the honorific “HaGaon HaMekubal.” The published version does not contain this title. No. 5(b) refers to the measurements of Jerusalem cited in the work Birchoth HaMayim. The published version (no. 6) does not state that these are the measurements of Jerusalem. Some citations are more precise, i.e. no. 20 cites the Meishiv Davar Siman 24, the published version (no. 21) does not cite the exact Siman. R. Ya’akov Yisrael Kanievsky (1899-1985), was known as the “Steipler Gaon” after his hometown of Hornosteipel, Ukraine. He briefly served as Rosh Yeshivah of the Novardok Yeshivah before settling in Bnei Brak where he devoted himself entirely to an uninterrupted life of study. Renowned both for his Talmudic genius and his piety, many sought out his blessings. He yielded enormous influence within the Torah world and yet held no official office.