Hora‘as Heter. First edition Vilna 1874. (Corfu Esrogim)

Hora‘as Heter. First edition Vilna 1874. (Corfu Esrogim)
Released by the Dayanim in Vilna, R. Yosef Sakowitz and R. Bezalel Ha’Cohen permitting the use of Corfu Esrogim for that particular year. In response to this, a severely worded polemic was published (under the pseudonym “Moshe Rom”) by R. Tzvi Hirsch Rabinowitz of Vilna, son of R. Yitzchok Elchonon Spektor of Kovno.
According to Jewish Romaniote tradition, Esrogim from the Island of Corfu have been used for generations, however their export to Ashkenazic communities only began in the late 18th century. Although initially received with skepticism, they gained popularity during and following the Napoleonic wars when Yanova Esrogim were difficult to procure. A great Halachic debate ensued with R. Shlomo Kluger banning them and R. Yosef Shaul Nathanson permitting them. In 1875 the Esrog dealers in Corfu formed a cartel, drastically raising the price. This resulted in R. Yitzchok Elchonon Spektor banning their Esrogim from use until the price was reduced and their Kashrus status clarified.
Rosencrantz/Fine/ Spritgisser press. 18 pages, 19 cm. Good condition, some foxing minor damage to last page. Modern binding.
Opening bid $175
See lot number 42