Tehillim – Safed, 1833 – First Tehillim Printed in Eretz Israel

Tehillim – Safed, 1833 – First Tehillim Printed in Eretz Israel
Tehillim, with the Be'urei Zohar and Metzudat Zion commentaries. Safed: R. Yisrael Bak, [1833].
One of the first books printed by R. Yisrael Bak in Safed, about one year after he established his printing press in the city. First Tehillim printed in Eretz Israel.
Introduction by the printer R. Yisrael Bak on verso of title page: "And all who purchase and spend their gold and silver on books printed here in the Holy Land, especially books of Tehillim with the Zohar to carry in his bosom and in his bag, G-d should save him from all distress, harm and fright…". This is followed by another long introduction by R. Gershon Margaliot. He tells how he begged Yisrael Bak not to print the Kabbalistic commentary Be'urei Zohar alone, rather alongside verses of Tehillim and in the end his advice was heeded.
Kavanat HaMeshorer (the intent of the poet) is printed at the beginning of each Psalm. The volume also contains prayers recited before and after reading Tehillim on weekdays, Shabbat, Yom Tov and Leil Hoshana Raba and a prayer for the sick and Seder Pidyon HaNefesh.
[4], 151 leaves. Lacking final leaf. 14.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Tears. Extensive worming, affecting text, repaired with paper (the book has been professionally restored). Handwritten inscriptions. New leather binding.