Sefer Drush V'Chiddush R. Akiva Eiger, Warsaw 1839. First Edition. Copy of R. Zvi Hirsch Epstein.

Sefer Drush V'Chiddush R. Akiva Eiger, Warsaw 1839. First Edition. Copy of R. Zvi Hirsch Epstein.

A complete copy of Chidushim and Derushim of R. Akiva Eiger. Includes novella on Meseches Berachos, Seder Moed, Yevamos, and Kesubos. It was published in Warsaw by his two sons, R. Shlomo and R. Avraham Eiger. 

Also featured in this volume are additional responsa of R. Akiva Eiger which were not printed in the first volume, including a lengthy reply to his grandson R. Avraham Shmuel Binyamin Sofer, author of Kesav Sofer. Interestingly, R. Shlomo Eiger includes the entire question of the Kesav Sofer, including an additional few lines which were added by his father the Chasam Sofer. He writes that he is so busy that he is unable to read the question of his son, but he sends his blessing to his revered father-in-law, and signs “His son-in-law who feels like a son, Moshe Sofer of Frankfurt”. 

This copy belonged to R. Zvi Hirsch Epstein (1836-1920), originally of Suvalk. Upon emigrating to America in the early 20th century, he became Rav in Boston at the synagogue which was later known as Congregation Beth Jacob, or “The Wall Street Synagogue”. His personal autograph is seen on title page and following leaf. Scholarly marginal glosses seen on several leaves, sometimes lengthy.

A remarkable testament to the elite Torah scholarship which permeated America’s cities in the early 20th century. 

In very good condition. Printed on high-quality paper, with wide margins. Margins of several leaves trimmed. Paper slightly browned, typical of Warsaw imprints from this era. Bound in a new binding. 33.5cm. 

44; 38; 48; 13 leaves. 

Stefansky Hebrew Classics, 81.