Historic Note 'Chatleh' from Rabbi Aryeh Levin to Israeli Prime Minister Mr. Menachem Begin

Historic Note 'Chatleh' from Rabbi Aryeh Levin to Israeli Prime Minister Mr. Menachem Begin
Interesting historic note by the tzaddik of Jerusalem, Rabbi Aryeh Levin, to Mr. Menachem Begin, later prime minister of Israel: "To the leader of the movement, the symbol of hardship, even do not despair of mercy, do not forgo on Heav-nly honor. Writing with tears and lifeblood, with appreciation and honor, Aryeh Levin."

The note is not dated, and the circumstances under which is was written are unknown. It was written using inferences, and apparently the matter at stake was weighty. Rabbi Aryeh hints at this with the words: "Even do not despair of mercy." He leaves a space after "Even" to hint at the Talmudic phrase (Tractate Berachot 10a), "Even when a sharp sword is held at a person's throat."

The tzaddik Rabbi Aryeh Levin [1885-1965] was one of the glorious personages of Jerusalem, a great gaon in all aspects of Torah and a merciful father to all the oppressed. He was known as the rabbi of the underground prisoners during period of the British Mandate because he would walk to the prison every Shabbat to visit them and raise their spirits. During his visits to the underground prisoners, Rabbi Aryeh would smuggle notes to and from the prisoners and their families. He was especially connected to Olei HaGardom, and visited them before they were executed.

[1] leaf paper. 10x9 cm. Entirely handwritten and signed by Rabbi Aryeh Levin.

Fine condition. Tears in the white margins without damage to text.