Sefer Or Amim, by Rabbi Ovadya Sforno. Bologna 1537. Fine, Impressive Copy

Sefer Or Amim, by Rabbi Ovadya Sforno. Bologna 1537. Fine, Impressive Copy

First Edition in the Author's Lifetime – with Handwritten Notations. 

In his philosophical work Or Amim, Rabbi Ovadya Sforno deals with the claims of non-Jewish philosophers who did not believe in G-d, especially Aristotle.

Rabbi Ovadya placed great importance on this work, publishing it and adding on the last leaf a list of corrections of errors. Later, he translated his book into Latin and sent it to King Henri II of France, who was a lover of holy books [and the Latin edition was published in Bologna a year later, in 1538].

In Bologna, where Rabbi Ovadya of Sforno lived, only 22 Hebrew books were published –  This is the first one that was printed at the printing house of the partner printers, which Rabbi Ovadya was involved in its establishment.

On both sides of the title page, there are many and lengthy notations of Divrei Torah in ancient Italian script. On leaf 49a, there is a handwritten comment. On the leaf following the title page, there is an erased ownership notation and a stamp of the Ashkenazic Sa'adat Bahurim Beit Midrash for rabbis and teachers in Amsterdam (appears also on the last page).

The Sa'adat Bahurim theological seminar: at first, the institution was funded by donations. It was famed also for its special attention to the students' needs rather than their academic achievements. In 1836, following the changes introduced by King Wilhelm I of Holland, the seminar received governmental recognition and support. Its graduates were entitled to be accepted into the university.

Rabbi Ovadya Sforno (passed away in 1550): one of the leading sages of Italy, famed for his commentary on the Torah. Settled in Bologna, where he operated as a Posek Halacha and earned his living as an expert physician.

Bologna, [1537]. Press of the Partners Osei Melechet Hameshi.

64 leaves. 21 cm. Very good condition. Impressive copy – fine wide margins. Bright quality paper. Some restored moth perforations. Fine new leather binding.

Vinograd, Bologna 8.