Unbelievably Rare: ‘Drashot HaTorah’ by the Saintly Sage Rabbi Shem Tov Ibn Shem Tov. Salonika 1525. Glosses and ...

Unbelievably Rare: ‘Drashot HaTorah’ by the Saintly Sage Rabbi Shem Tov Ibn Shem Tov. Salonika 1525. Glosses and Signatures.

The book ‘Drashot HaTorah’ was authored by Rabbi Shem Tov Ibn Shem Tov, son of Rabbi Yosef Ibn Shem Tov. The book is compiled of sermons in Biblical order, with additional sermons for Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, sermons for repentance and the Chuppa. Printed without the title page.

This is one of only two known compositions authored by this great 15th century sage, who was exiled during the Spanish expulsion.

The following glowing approbation was written about this sage’s commentary on the book Moreh Nevuchim:

“Upstanding and faithful in his commentary, he is more reliable that the 24 commentaries I have seen on Sefer HaMoreh”.

47 Jewish books were printed in Salonika during the 15th century. This book was printed by Rabbi Yehuda Gedaliah, who was born in Lisbon and was active in both Portugal and Salonika during the 16th century. Rabbi Yehuda was a Rabbi, author and printer. He was a most respected figure during his time, and his work received great acclaim.

Drashot HaTorah was printed without a title page. The first page features an antique list of owners, and an unidentified stamp. The book features handwritten glosses, from two different authors. At the end of the book are unidentified signatures, and interesting list of owners and memoriam.

Rabbi Shem Tov Ibn Shem Tov (The 2nd) was a Spanish sage who lived in the generation prior to the Spanish Expulsion. He was a lecturer and the son of Rabbi Yosef Ibn Shem Tov. Rabbi Shem Tov was born in Spain and exiled to Portugal, where he passed away in 1493. He was a disciple of Rabbi Yitzchak Kanpenton, one of the greatest Spanish sages prior to the Expulsion, and served as Rosh Yeshiva, Kabbalist, Doctor and community activist.

In contrast to his grandfather, Rabbi Shem Tov Ibn Shem Tov greatly endorsed the Rambam, and even authored a commentary on the prominent book Moreh Nevuchim. This commentary along with the book Drashot HaTorah are the only known works of this great sage.

Salonika, 1525.

90 pages. 30 cm.

Complete copy. The first two pages are slightly restored and a little brown. Aside from this, the copy is in fantastic condition.

Otzar Hasefer Computerized Database, No. 60988.

Most valuable and rare item.