Sefer Midbar Yehuda – A collection of sermons for the yearly cycle, special occasions (such as circumcisions, bar mitzvahs, and weddings), and eulogies for prominent figures of Italian Jewry, authored by Rabbi Yehuda Aryeh of Modena. It includes a notable eulogy for Rabbi Shmuel Yehuda Katzenellenbogen, son of the renowned Maharim of Padua.
First Edition. Venice, 1602. Printed by Daniel Zanetti.
Following the title page, there is a poem by Rabbi Shmuel Archivolti, the author’s teacher, extolling the virtues of the sefer and its author, along with a poem of friendship by Rabbi Azariah Figo. The last page features "A Prayer for the Refinement of the Proofreader on His Errors, " written by the proofreader Nissim Shushan.
At the bottom of the title page is an antique inscription datred 1667 documenting the purchase of the sefer in Mantua from Dr. Binyamin MiSha’ar Aryeh, identified as the uncle and brother-in-law of the writer, Yehuda….
Regarding Rabbi Yehuda Aryeh of Modena’s sermons, Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Azulai (the Chida) writes:
"He would say that when one purchases an object with their money, they are entitled to treat it as they wish, even to discard or destroy it, as it is theirs and they need not be concerned with others’ opinions. However, if a distinguished individual gives an item as a gift to another, the recipient is not permitted to treat it dismissively, as this would disrespect the giver. Out of respect for the giver, the item must be treated properly… I observe that while I deliver daily rebukes, you treat my words with disdain and disregard them. It seems that since you provide me with compensation for my sermons, you feel as though you are purchasing these rebukes and thus dismiss them as you see fit. Therefore, I declare that from now on, you will give me nothing. In this way, my rebukes will be considered a gift to you, and you will be obligated to receive them graciously and not to disdain them, as they are given as a gift." (Shem HaGedolim, entry on Rabbi Yehuda Aryeh of Modena).
104 Leaves. 18.2 cm.
Overall Good Condition, water stains, minor marginal worming to first two pages, slightly frayed edges, last few pages have small marginal tears, page 102 has a tape repaired tear affecting text, old binding.
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Lot #59