Manuscript - Homilies - Izmir or Salonika, 1833-1839

Manuscript, homilies. [Izmir or Salonika?, ca. 1833-1839]. Oriental script. Author's autograph. We were unsuccessful in identifying the author, presumably a Torah scholar of Turkey or Salonika. Some of the homilies pertain to the importance of charity. Title on p. [1b]: "Homily for Clothing for the Talmud Torah, 1833", and on p. [2a]: "For the Talmud Torah, 1833". Title on p. [24a]: "Written in a homily, 1839". A Shabbat Halbasha (Clothing Shabbat) was customarily celebrated once a year in Izmir and Salonika, in which clothing would be donated to the indigent supported by the Talmud Torah (society which provided for Torah scholars). This was a festive Shabbat including a splendid ceremony, the focal point being the Drush Halbasha (Clothing Homily). The homily generally related to the importance of charity. R. Chaim Palachi's books contain many homilies for Shabbat Halbasha, as do other books by Torah scholars of Izmir and Salonika. On p. [5a], the author praises (in flowery expressions) several members of his community who engage in charity. [63] leaves (notebook with extra leaves bound into it), including 18 blank leaves. Approx. 16 cm. Varying condition, good-fair. Stains, tears and wear. Worming. Paper wrappers, damaged.