Detailed
Description |
|
On the laws of mourning by R. Menahem ben Simeon Mordecai. The title page states that it is novellae on the laws of mourning from later rabbinic authorities, as written on hot coals. It is dated, “But the humble shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in והתענגו על (640=1880) the abundance of peace” (Psalms 37:11). On the verso of the title page and the following page is an approbation from R. Abraham Palaggi (1809–1899), rabbi and hakham bashi of Izmir. Below it begins the introduction of R. Menahem. The text follows, in a single column in rabbinic letters, excepting headers and initial words, which are in square letters. The text is organized alphabetically, and encompasses the many diverse laws, issues, and customs related to mourning. The volume concludes with an addenda (80a-84b) of additional material. Menahem Avelim is a comprehensive work on a complex and sensitive subject.
R. Menahem ben Simeon Mordecai (1810?–1887) was a member of the Bekemoharar family of 18th–19th century rabbis of Adrianople. R. Menahem, a preacher and halakhist, was also a productive writer and publisher of the works of his family. His works, in addition to Menahem Avelim, include Devar Emet (Salonika, 1843), on the laws of Torah scrolls; Devar Menahem (2 vols., 1866–69), on Orah Hayyim; and Devar ha-Mishpat (Smyrna, 1874). He was employed in a bank. During the Russo-Turkish War (1878), he escaped to Constantinople; in 1880, he immigrated to Erez Israel, where he died. |
