Bidspirit auction | Nishmat Kol Chai – Artistic
Nishmat Kol Chai – Artistic Script on Parchment, Stunning Illustrations - An exquisite and beautifully decorated parchment scroll, handwritten by a master scribe in Ashkenazi script (*Ketav Beit Yosef*) with shimmering, lustrous ink on high-quality, light parchment. The scroll is adorned throughout its length with delicate, handcrafted artistic illustrations in gold and a variety of vibrant colors. [Israel, 2024]. New. At the beginning of the scroll, on the white margin of the parchment, there is a drawing of two Herodian-style columns with flower vases. Following this, the title ”Nishmat” appears in golden letters at the top of the text. Along the bottom edge of the scroll, stunning illustrations depict the beauty of creation as reflected in this special prayer. These include musical instruments, birds, animals, dancing Hasidim, and more. A well-known segulah for salvation from any distress: The custom of reciting *Nishmat* has been recognized as a powerful segulah for generations (see details below). In recent decades, this practice has been revived, following the guidance of Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky and his wife, Rebbetzin Batsheva, who advised petitioners: ”Accept upon yourselves, without a vow, to recite *Nishmat* after the salvation arrives.” Indeed, late at night, one can see groups gathering at the Western Wall to recite *Nishmat* publicly. [3] Parchment sheets. Maximum size: approximately 270X32 cm. Condition: Excellent. Very minor creases. A selection of sources highlighting the virtue and power of reciting *Nishmat Kol Chai*: Rabbi Yehuda Alay in his *Sefer Kemach Solet*: ”When leaving a city, say: 'I accept upon myself that upon safely arriving at a specific place, I will recite *Nishmat Kol Chai*.' Upon arriving safely, fulfill this vow.” The gaon Rabbi Heschel of Krakow, in *Chinuch HaTorah*, instructed: ”Before departing from your house, place your hand on the mezuzah and declare: 'I vow that upon seeing the specified destination, I will recite *Nishmat Kol Chai*.' When you see that place, immediately recite *Nishmat Kol Chai* to completion.” Rabbi Yosef Chaim, in *Ben Ish Chai* (Year Two, Parashat Toldot, Halacha 3), wrote: ”The praise of *Nishmat Kol Chai* is exceedingly precious and elevated. If a person faces any distress, they should accept upon themselves to recite *Nishmat Kol Chai* after their deliverance, and it will be effective for them.” Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky and Rebbetzin Batsheva, before every childbirth, during a child's illness, or when seeking salvation, would accept upon themselves, without a vow, that once the salvation arrived, they would recite *Nishmat Kol Chai*. They advised those who sought their counsel: ”Accept upon yourselves, without a vow, to recite *Nishmat* after the salvation comes!” A story shared by Rebbetzin Tzion (Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky's daughter): ”A child fell from a great height and severely injured his leg. Doctors determined that he would require a series of surgeries, and even then, they couldn’t guarantee full recovery. The grandmother, distressed, rushed to the Rebbetzin and poured out her heart. The Rebbetzin instructed her to recite *Nishmat* and declared, 'There will be no need for surgery!' Throughout the recovery process, the Rebbetzin followed the child’s progress and emphasized reciting *Nishmat* at every improvement. Contrary to all medical expectations, the child fully recovered without undergoing surgery!”