Explication of an Engraving Called the Origin of the Rites and Worship of the Hebrews; Together with Remarks on Creation, and A Brief Account of Some Observances and their Symbolical Signification
New York: Office of the "Jewish Messenger" 1859. First edition. Hardcover. Octavo. 112pp. Original brown cloth boards with gilt lettering and debossed decorative tooling on front cover. English and Hebrew title pages. The work is Rabbi Max Wolff's attempt to re-examine and possibly redefine the definition of Jewish practice and rituals, through a mystical lens and in reaction to many of the then current theological, philosophical, and scholarly views of the day. The author examines the origins of Jewish beliefs and practices, and attempts to realize his stated purpose, through the examination of subjects and influences, including Kabbalah, Astrology, Numerology, Gematria and Biblical interpretation. Includes a few astrological, numerical and Kabbalistic (including the Sephirot/Sephiroth) charts throughout the text. In English with occasional Hebrew. Binding with chipping, rubbing and fraying along edges, to corners, to spine and front & back covers. Smudging to front and back covers. Half of spine missing. Interior with age toning to pages and occasional light water stains along edges. Book block tight. Binding in overall fair, interior in good- condition. fair to g-. Item #41026
Singerman #1599.
Price: $450.00