Bidspirit auction | The Amulet and Sabbatean Controversy

The Amulet and Sabbatean Controversy – Luchot Edut. Altona, 1755. A Work of Major Historical Importance - ”To proclaim that falsehood was spoken against the great and holy Rabbi Yonatan [Eybeschütz], may he live... and whoever opens his mouth to slander the above-mentioned sage—let him be burned with fire.” (from the title page) Luchot Edut, the apologetic work of Rabbi Yonatan Eybeschütz, containing letters and proclamations from rabbis, community leaders, and dignitaries who stood by his side against Rabbi Yaakov Emden (the Yaavetz). Printed in Altona, 1755 [Taktav]. First edition. This is Rabbi Yonatan’s principal composition written to defend his conduct amid the fierce accusations leveled against him by Rabbi Yaakov Emden during the famous Amulet Controversy. At the beginning appears an introduction by Rabbi Yonatan, recounting the unfolding of the dispute. The book includes letters of support from leading rabbis and communal heads who sided with Rabbi Yonatan Eybeschütz. On leaf 63 appears an amulet in the form of a Star of David, written by Rabbi Yonatan for a woman in childbirth, followed by a lengthy explanation of his mystical intent—meant to refute those who accused him of employing Sabbatean-style amulets. In response to this work, his great adversary Rabbi Yaakov Emden published the following year his counter-treatise, Shevirat Luchot Ha-On (“The Breaking of the Tablets of Iniquity”). [12], 78 leaves. 19 cm. Very good condition. Minor age stains. Original parchment binding.