Sefer Luchot Edut – A polemical work addressing the dispute between Rabbi Yonatan Eibeschutz and Rabbi Yaakov Emden, written as a defense of Rabbi Eibeschutz and his amulets.
First Edition, Altona, 1755.
In this work, Rabbi Yonatan Eibeschutz responds to Rabbi Yaakov Emden’s accusations concerning amulets Rabbi Eibeschutz had written, which Rabbi Emden perceived as containing hints of Sabbateanism. The book includes letters of support from prominent rabbis of the time who sided with Rabbi Eibeschutz.
Notably, the sefer includes a letter from the Vilna Gaon (page 71b), in which he expresses his support for Rabbi Eibeschutz, though he humbly questions why Rabbi Eibeschutz would seek his opinion. This letter is the first published letter by the Vilna Gaon.
Rabbi Eibeschutz begins with a preface detailing the development of the controversy. On page 63, there is a reproduction of an amulet in the shape of a Star of David that Rabbi Eibeschutz had written for a woman in childbirth. He later provided an extensive explanation of the amulet’s purpose, refuting accusations that he used it with Sabbatean intentions.
"Know that Rabbeinu Yehonatan Eybeschütz was answered falsely … and that which was spoken against said gaon … should be burned by fire" (from the text on the title page)
In response to this work, Rabbi Yaakov Emden published his own works, Edut B’Yaakov and Shvitat Luchot HaEven.
[12], 2-78 Leaves.19 cm.
Overall Good condition, water stains, couple small marginal tears, new red binding with leather spine.
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Lot #90