Chovot HaLevavot with a new elucidation, Toldot Aharon, divided into two sections. Frankfurt on the Oder, [1774]. Only edition, which was never printed in its entirety. Pedigreed copy. Approbations from chassidic leaders, including one of historic importance from Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchov.
Specifications: 4, 40 leaves. 16×20 cm.
Unique features: The Toldot Aharon commentary was written by two brothers and was divided into the Derech HaKodesh and Pachad Yitzchak sections. Prominent approbations. The book was not printed in its entirety, and only includes the commentary for Shaar HaYichud. It concludes on leaf 40 in middle of a sentence. The introduction on leaf 4 also breaks off in the middle.
This book has two prominent chassidic approbations from the beginning of the chassidic movement.
Approbation from Rabbi Shmuel Shmelke Horowitz, Rabbi Shmelke of Nikolsburg. He wrote the approbation in 1772, when he visited Zelechow.Additional approbation from Rabbi Levi Yitzchak, known as Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchov, after the final place he served as Rabbi. This approbation was given on 24 Av 1772, in Zelechow.
Rabbi Shmelke of Nikolsburg influenced Rabbi Levi Yitzchak to visit the Maggid of Mezeritch, where he then stayed for a few years and studied chassidut. Approbations from these two chassidic giants are here before us. Rabbi Levi Yitzchak’s approbation was given in 1772, when he was 32 years old, and was written in Zelechow. This is of historical importance, as there is a lot of uncertainty and difference of opinion regarding Rabbi Levi Yitzchak’s term in the Zelechow rabbinate. It is known that he first started in Ryczywół but was forced to leave because of the local mitnagdim. He then served as rabbi of Zelechow and later Pinsk. Finally, in 1885, he became rabbi of Berditchov. However, it is unclear when he left Zelechow. This approbation proves that he was still in Zelechow in 1772 and refutes the opinion that he moved to Pinsk in 1771.
Condition: Fine. No binding, some aging stains and worming holes in 2-3 leaves.