Shiltei HaGibborim. Mantua, 1612. Exclusive Edition.

Shiltei HaGibborim. Mantua, 1612. Exclusive Edition.

Shiltei HaGibborim by Rabbi Avraham HaRofeh Portaleone, son of Rabbi David MiSha’ar Aryeh, Abir HaRofim.

A unique and comprehensive composition pertaining to the Holy Temple, the Tabernacle and their vessels, the Priests, the Levites and their musical instruments. The book commences with an unusual personal letter. In this letter, Rabbi Avraham shares with his sons David, Eliezer and Yehuda, his trials, tribulations and accountings of the soul (cheshbon hanefesh). He also shares some of his life history as a Torah scholar and researcher. Rabbi Avraham concludes his letter sharing a particularly challenging event that ultimately left him paralyzed on his left side. The letter was written using his right hand only.

The book is comprised of 90 chapters that delve into the topic of the Holy Temple and the Tabernacle. Within the book appear ‘Three sub-sections.’ In the first section, the author details a schedule for weekdays, Sabbath and Holidays, followed by the ‘Ma’amadot’. The second section he exhorts his sons as to the importance of the Mincha prayer. He includes a supplicatory prayer and sections for study connected to the ‘Sacrifice offered at twilight’. In the third section he urges his sons to set fixed evening hours for Torah study. The book concludes with ‘An article about our Holy Language’ and his signature.

Rabbi Avraham HaRofeh Portaleone served as Rabbi, Doctor and Mohel in Italy. He was the son of Rabbi David, and lived between the years 1542-1612. He was born into a prominent and wealthy family of pedigree, who featured four generations of Doctors and Torah scholars.

Rabbi Avraham’s book ‘Shiltei HaGibborim’ was only printed once!

Mantua, 1612.

12. 186 pages.

Excellent condition. Antique, leather binding; back cover is slightly restored.

Otzar Hasefer Computerized Database, No. 51767.