Rare 'Noam Elimelech' Book Expected to Shatter Jewish Collectibles Records
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A rare first edition of the "Noam Elimelech," a significant Hasidic text, is set for auction with an opening bid over $1 million, expected to break records for Jewish books. Printed in 1748, the book is highly valued for its spiritual properties and unique "star" symbols, believed to denote divine revelations. Its rarity is attributed to frequent use and its perceived ability to bring blessings, leading to many copies being lost or damaged over time. The upcoming sale by Ginzim auction house is anticipated as a historic event in Jewish collectibles.
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- A rare 1748 first edition of "Noam Elimelech" is up for auction with a starting bid over $1 million.
- The book is expected to shatter all previous records for Jewish collectibles at the Ginzim auction.
- Its rarity and desirability stem from unique spiritual properties and historical significance.
- Tradition holds that special symbols within the book signify divine revelations.
- The book has been historically used for blessings, healing, and prayer, contributing to its scarcity.
A rare first edition of the "Noam Elimelech," a foundational text in Hasidic Judaism, is set to go to auction with an opening bid exceeding $1 million, potentially breaking all previous records for Jewish books. The sale, being handled by the prestigious Ginzim auction house, has generated significant excitement within Hasidic communities.
This particular edition, printed in Lviv in 1748 (Takam"h), holds special importance as it was the first time the teachings of Rabbi Elimelech of Lizhensk were put into print, overseen by his sons and a disciple. According to Rabbi Moshe Roitman, an influencer and rabbi, the book's sanctity is underscored by stories of its divine inspiration and the meticulous, holy process of its printing, with traditions suggesting the typesetters may have been among the 36 righteous individuals.
Further enhancing its uniqueness are the "stars," asterisk-like symbols interspersed throughout the text by Rabbi Elazar, one of the author's sons. These are believed to signify divine revelations or encounters with the prophet Elijah experienced by Rabbi Elimelech or his son during the book's preparation. The first edition also includes Rabbi Elazar's "Apology of the Author's Son" and later additions like "Likutey Shoshana" and "Igros Kodesh," which address critiques of the work.
Hasidic collector Chaim Schweid, who owns a similar rare copy, explained that the book's immense desirability stems from its renowned spiritual properties, making it a coveted item for bringing blessings into a home. However, this very demand has led to its rarity, as the books were frequently used for study and as a protective amulet, often not preserved in pristine condition. Complete copies, including the title page and all appended sections, are exceptionally rare, driving up their value.
Throughout history, the "Noam Elimelech" has been associated with numerous miracles, including healing and aiding childbirth, with people often placing "kvitel" (prayer notes) within its pages. Rabbi Aharon of Belz, for instance, would not enter a home without a copy of the book. Schweid himself noted that his copy contains over 150 such prayer notes, with many individuals returning to report answered prayers. The book's significance transcends Hasidic circles, attracting wealthy collectors globally, and is even cited by the Chofetz Chaim as a source of repentance for many.
Ginzim auction house anticipates the sale as a historic event in the world of Jewish books, highlighting the burgeoning field of Jewish collectibles. "The sale of the 'Noam Elimelech' is a historical moment," stated Moshe Stepensky, a co-owner of Ginzim, noting the unprecedented cross-border interest as a testament to the growth of Jewish collecting.
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