Keter Shem Tov. Zolkiew, [1795-1796]. Rare First Edition

Keter Shem Tov. Zolkiew, [1795-1796]. Rare First Edition
Compilation of the Ba'al Shem Tov's sayings cited in the books of his primary disciple, 'Toldot Ya'akov Yosef' and 'Tzofnat Pa'aneach' and from Likutei Amarim - Maggid Devarav L'Ya'akov and Likutei Yekarim, by Rabbi Aharon bar Tzvi Hirsch of Apta. Zolkiew [1795-1796]. First part.
This book is in fact the first book that compiled the Ba'al Shem Tov's Torah into a complete book. It was studied by those who wanted to study the Ba'al Shem Tov's Torah in an orderly manner. It made a big impression upon its publication, so that those objecting to Chassidism made sure to hide it. It is told that it was destroyed and made into matches in Brod; hence its rarity. The book was later printed in many editions.
Approbations by Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Liska, Rabbi Shlomo of Karlin and Rabbi Avraham Moshe of Pshevorsk appear on the reverse side of the title page. The Ba'al Shem Tov's will was printed after it, Kavanat HaMikveh by the Ba'al Shem Tov and a letter from the Besh"t to his brother-in-law Rabbi Avraham Gershon Kitover. 
The author Rabbi Aharon HaCohen of Apta was one of the most important Chassidic scribes. He served as Rosh Av Beit Din in Apta when Rabbi Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Apta, author of Ohev Yisrael, was a rabbi there as well. The book has two variants, the copy before us is similar to variant A in the Bibliography of the Hebrew Book, with the error in the year of print.
[30] leaves, most of the leaves are not paginated. 18.5 cm. Ginzei Yisrael 1146, Stefansky Chassidut 249. Fine condition. Stains. Light professional restoration on the last leaf with completion of several words by professional photocopy. New leather binding.