Autographed Letter by the Admor Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch of Liska
“Build yourselves a Mikveh……. it should be unquestionably kosher .”
Autographed letter by the Rebbe Harav Tzvi Hirsch of Liska to Harav Yaakov Katz, Av Beis Din of Anad regarding “His question concerning the mikveh… It is improper to construct a mikveh that shall be founded from its start on a doubt, and why should his honor enter into any problems? Therefore, make yourself a mikveh… that should be unquestionably kosher.”
Further in the letter, he offers a practical method of heating the mikveh waters and invites a delegation from Anad to visit the mikveh in Liska and see how it was constructed.
The margin of the letter features his sacred autograph:
“These are my words, your loving friend hakatan Tzvi Hirsch ben Rav Aharon z”l, Av Beis Din of the holy congregation of Liska.”
Harav Tzvi Hirsch of Liska was the spiritual master of the holy Rebbe Harav Shayele Kerestirer. Rav Shayele would sign his name and refer to himself as meshamesh bakodesh by the tzaddik from Liska (see lot #180).
Harav Tzvi Hirsch of Liska’s grandson, who served him faithfully for many years, described his grandfather’s awe-inspiring service of Hashem:
“If he ever felt that there was a place that he could grant merits to Yisrael in the ways of serving Hashem, and particularly regarding mikveh and Jewish purity, he would never desist and would even travel afar” (Darchei Hayashar V’hatov p. 35a, Munkacs, 1910).
Harav Tzvi Hirsh Friedman of Liska (1798-1874) was one of the illustrious progenitors of Chassidus who was revered for the “Glory of his holiness and purity, ” as described by the Divrei Chaim of Sanz in his approbation to Ach Pri Tevuah.
He gained fame throughout Europe for the miracles and wonders that he performed on behalf of the countless Jews who appealed to him for blessings. Born in Ihel and raised in the home of the Yismach Moshe, he was a genius and thoroughly versed in both the Revealed and Hidden Torah. Following the passing of the Yismach Moshe, thousands streamed to him for blessing and counsel, among them the great sages of Hungary.
Aside from his spiritual duties as Rebbe, he continued serving as Av Beis Din and authored numerous halachic responsa, as evident from this letter.
His written legacy includes Ach Pri Tevuah and Hayashar V’hatov, (see biography in Darkei HaYashar V’hatov).
Farad, 1870. Page size: 17×21 cm. Several water stains. Professionally restored at margins.
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