Behinat Olam or An Investigation of Causes Arising from the Organization of the World, in Which Man is Particularly Interested
London: Printed by L. Alexander, 1806. First English language edition. Hardcover. Small octavo. 72pp. Tan calf over brown leather boards. Red-brown label with gilt lettering, pasted on the spine. This is the first English-language translation of Jedaiah ben Abraham Bedersi's lengthy lyrical poem. The work decries the futility and vanity of the physical world, while praising the benefits of a life of religious and intellectual pursuits. This edition contains the original Hebrew text opposite the English translation.
Binding with corners rubbed. Some abrasions and stains to the covers. Interior with sporadic minor water stains throughout. Interior front cover with some bibliographic notes in pencil. Binding in good, interior in overall very good condition. g to vg. Item #45109
Hebrew title: בחינות עולם, ידעיה הפניני
Alternate transliteration: Behinot Olam
Bibliographic references: ZEDNER, p.315, VINOGRAD p.367
Rabbi Tobias Goodman (? -1824) was a German-born, influential member of the British Jewish community at the time, and was among the first Rabbis to regularly give sermons in English. His 1817 sermon on the death of Princess Charlotte of Wales, is believed to be the earliest known printed sermon by a Rabbi, in English.
Price: $250.00