Thick manuscript: Sefer HeAruch – alphabetic list of entries from Chaza”l’s literature, with a division into chapters from the second letter in each letter. The work is written by Rabbi Nathan ben Yechiel MeRomi, one of the gedolei hador from the period of the Rishonim. Transcribed by the scribe Chaim ben David Alfheim. Kitzbat Tzlimah (NW Yemen), 1655 [א’ תתקס”ו לשטרות – תט”ו לבריאת העולם].
In contrast to traditional prayer books and textbooks, Sefer HaAruch is not meant to be studied regularly, so it was copied in a very limited fashion.
At the beginning of every new letter (except for the first two letters, which are lacking), the letter is written in a colorful decorative border. The bar-shniya entry bears illustrative borders, also in color.
Colophon at the end of the sefer in the scribe’s penmanship: “This sacred work was completed … Wednesday, 24 Adar I […] may Kitzba Tzlima be destroyed and Jerusalem be rebuilt … Chaim ben David ben […] David Hameivin, known as Alfheim.”
[370] pp, two columns on each page. Lacking several leaves at the beginning and in the middle of the volume. 30 cm. Glosses in several leaves by various writers.
Overall moderate-fine condition. Characteristic stains and usage marks. Restored tears with paper completions (with blemishes in the text if a few leaves). Antique Yemenite leather binding (not the original) with leather loops. Chafed with light blemishes.