(ReM”A). Mechir Yayin [homiletical and philosophical commentary to the Book of Esther]

ISSERLES, MOSES.

V. Conti

Cremona

1559

FIRST EDITION

Vinograd Cremona 27; Benayahu, Cremona p. 210, no. 22; Adams I-248

This works demonstrates the Author’s mastery of exposition of biblical works and his understanding of Kabbalah and Maimonidean philosophy. The ReM”A wrote this work in Shidlov (Szydlowiec) in 1556 where he resided to escape the plague (“ipush ha-avir”) that was ravaging Cracow. He states that his living conditions were deplorable (providing numerous examples) and in order to "chase away my state of depression I decided to write this commentary, for the words of Torah makes the heart rejoice.”