Bidspirit auction | Shu”t Perach mateh Aharon. First

Shu”t Perach mateh Aharon. First Edition. Amsterdam, 1703. With the Famous Illustrated Title Page. Copy of Rabbi Avraham Hirsch Lebov, one of f the signatories of the Hachtara document of the Chasam Sofer. - Shu”t “Perach Mateh Aharon, Part II, by the gaon Rabbi Aharon HaKohen Farhiah, among the rabbis of Salonika and one of the leading halachic authorities in the Western lands. Amsterdam, 1703. First edition. Pedigree copy! On the title page appears a ownership inscription: “belongs to the learned Rabbi, the honorable Mr. Avraham Hirsch Lebov, may he live long.” Rabbi Avraham Hirsch Lebov was among the leading figures of the distinguished community of Pressburg and one of the signatories of the Hachtara document of the Chasam Sofer. He was a central personality in the Pressburg community and is described in Melitzei Esh as “a great Torah scholar, a mighty tzaddik, a powerful magnate, a leader and dignitary, a state intercessor, greatly honored in the eyes of all.” The author, Rabbi Aharon HaKohen Farhiah, was among the great sages of Salonika and leading decisors of his time. Rabbi Chaim Farhiah, author of Mutzal Me’esh, wrote of him: “In practical matters, heed him, for he is the greatest of the later authorities in his time, foremost in importance, and who is a teacher like him?” The Chida writes in Shem HaGedolim: “He was wealthy in Torah and greatness, his appearance like an angel of God, and from his responsa the strength of his Torah greatness is evident.” The work is among the important halachic compositions of its period, containing 256 comprehensive responsa on a wide range of topics. The author also wrote other works, including Perchi Kehunah and Zikaron Devarim. A distinctive feature of the book is its magnificent title page, among the most renowned and impressive in Hebrew printing. At its top appears the Ark of the Covenant, flanked by Kohanim in priestly garments; below are depictions of Birkat Kohanim and the washing of the priests’ hands. In the lower center appears an illustration of the author holding the Tablets of the Covenant facing the sea—a reference to the port city of Salonika, where he served as rabbi. Printed on light, high-quality paper. Collation: [3], 249; [3], 168 leaves. Antique leather binding. Light age stains at the margins. Good–very good condition.