Rav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (1740–1809) is one of the most beloved figures in the annals of the chassidic movement
The treasured siddur of Rav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev is part of the Sotheby’s “Important Judaica” auction scheduled for Thursday, June 16
Though he never established a formal court, Rav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (1740–1809) is one of the most beloved figures in the annals of the chassidic movement. Born into a prominent rabbinic family in Poland, he was introduced to chassidus by Rav Shmuel Shmelke Horowitz, who in turn sent him to Rav Dov Ber, the Maggid of Mezritch, and Rav Levi Yitzchak emerged as one of his greatest disciples.
He succeeded the Rebbe Rav Shmelke in the rabbinate of Ryczywol when the latter migrated to Nikolsburg in Moravia, and subsequently served as the rabbi of Zelechow, Pinsk, and Berditchev. An able rabbi, posek, teacher, and disseminator of chassidic teachings — he published his Kedushas Levi in 1798 and 1806 — two of his unique qualities gained him renown. With the appellation “Defender of the Jewish People” attached to his name for posterity, he famously went to great lengths to seek out the good in every Jew, and stories abound of his creative efforts in this regard. Another characteristic was the way he prayed, which left an indelible impression on those who witnessed it.
Praying for banei, chayei, mezonei for his people combined his animated approach to davening with his boundless ahavas Yisrael. In line with his reputation, his descendants assumed the surname Derbaremdiker (Yiddish for compassionate), and they zealously guarded the family heirlooms of their illustrious forebear.
Create a free account to keep reading.
