Bidspirit auction | Letter from the Gaavad of

Letter from the Gaavad of Jerusalem, the Gaon Rabbi Zelig Reuven Bengis, addressed to the leaders of American Jewry - “…At this time, when the free-thinkers are rising to weaken the voice of Torah everywhere, Heaven forbid, it is upon us, in contrast, to raise the banner of the holy Torah and its learners in every detail, with the greatest affection…” Fine recommendation letter to the rabbis and dayanim of the United States, on behalf of Yeshivat Novardok and its Rosh Yeshiva, the Gaon Rabbi Ben Zion Brook. Written entirely in the holy handwriting, signed and sealed by the Chief Rabbi and Av Beit Din of Jerusalem, the renowned Gaon Rabbi Zelig Reuven Bengis, author of L’Flg’ot Reuven. Jerusalem, 13 Tishrei 5707 [1946]. In his words to American Jewry, Rabbi Bengis stresses—so strikingly relevant even in our times—that precisely when the secularists attempt to weaken Torah, the obligation of the observant is not merely to continue standing guard as always, but to increase support for Torah scholars, measure for measure, “in every matter, with special affection.” “The Tzaddik Decrees” – at the margin of the letter, Mara D’ara Yisrael blesses American Jewry with rare blessings drawn from the power of his Torah: “In all matters of greatness, honor and distinction, and handfuls full of goodness.” [1] official leaf, 28 cm. Entirely in the handwriting of Rabbi Bengis, with his autograph signature and official seal. Condition: Good. Folding marks. Rabbi Zelig Reuven Bengis (1864–1953) – born in Lithuania, studied at the Volozhin Yeshiva, where he was famed as a phenomenal ilui. His teacher, the Netziv, called him a “living Shas.” In 1894 he was appointed rabbi and Av Beit Din of Bodaki in the Grodno district until 1911, then served as rabbi of Kalvarija until 1938. That year he immigrated to Eretz Yisrael to serve as Ra’avad of the Edah HaChareidis, and from 1949 until his passing he was Gaavad (Chief Rabbi). Renowned for his immense Torah genius, he authored the multi-volume series L’Flg’ot Reuven.