Bidspirit auction | Set of the Five Books

Set of the Five Books of Moses - Torat HaElokim with Commentary by Rabbi Yitzchak Shlomo Rigio, Vienna 1821 Title: Torat HaElokim (תורת האלהים) Author: Rabbi Yitzchak Shlomo Rigio Place of Printing: Vienna, 1821 Edition: First Edition (נדירה) Rarity: Extremely Rare, complete set in excellent condition Commentary: The work is a comprehensive commentary on the Five Books of Moses, offering linguistic and textual explanations based on the plain meaning of the text (Peshat) and the rules of grammar. Book Description: Torat HaElokim is a multi-volume commentary by Rabbi Yitzchak Shlomo Rigio, a scholar from Gorizia, Italy. The commentary provides a detailed explanation of the Torah based on the literal meaning of the text as well as linguistic insights that explore the grammar and structure of the Hebrew language. The book is notable for its parallel text layout: the main text of the Torah is printed alongside the commentary in two columns—one in Hebrew and the other in Italian, making it accessible to the Italian-speaking Jewish community of the time. Set Composition: This is a complete set of five volumes, covering the entire Pentateuch (Chumash), with the commentary placed side-by-side with the Hebrew text and written in both Hebrew and Italian. The commentary blends linguistic analysis, philological insights, and traditional interpretations, making it a significant contribution to biblical scholarship of the period. Condition: Overall Condition: Excellent The volumes are in exceptional condition for their age. The text is clear and well-preserved, with only slight aging and wear. The original bindings are intact, with leather spines and original boards, giving the set an elegant and durable appearance. The set has been preserved in a way that ensures the books remain functional and aesthetically pleasing. Pages: Volume I (בראשית) – Renah Volume II (שמות) – Kaf Tet Volume III (ויקרא) – Kaf Mem Dalet Volume IV (במדבר) – Kaf Hey Volume V (דברים) – Kaf Bet The pages are of high quality, with fine paper and clear type. The volume is well-bound, with leather spine and raised bands, and the text is easy to read despite its age. Significance: This first edition is considered an extremely rare and important text within Jewish biblical commentary literature. Rabbi Rigio was known for his scholarly contributions to linguistics and biblical exegesis, and this work stands out not only for its peshat analysis but also for its unique language accessibility to both Hebrew and Italian speakers of the era. Rabbinic endorsement: The set includes the stamp of Rabbi Yehuda Leib HaKohen Fishman Maimon, a prominent rabbi, scholar, and communal leader, further adding value and historical context to this set. Perfect For: Collectors of rare Judaica and Torah commentaries, particularly those focusing on early 19th-century works. Academic libraries or individuals seeking a rare and historically significant edition of Torah commentaries. **Torah scholars and those interested in the intersection of biblical exegesis and linguistics. Summary: This first edition of Torat HaElokim by Rabbi Yitzchak Shlomo Rigio represents a rare and historically significant text in the field of Jewish biblical commentary. The five-volume set is well-preserved, with original bindings and high-quality pages, making it an exceptional example of 19th-century Jewish scholarship. Its unique format—combining the Hebrew text with an Italian-language commentary—adds to its value, and its rarity makes it a coveted piece for any serious collector of historical Jewish works.