As the aforementioned pamphlets have been distributed among all the Anash mentioned above, by means of numerous transcriptions at the hands of sundry and diverse copyists, the multitude of transcriptions has given rise to an exceedingly great number of textual errors.

[As mentioned above, the words "sundry and diverse (copyists)" may well allude to two kinds of errors - the intentional as well as the innocent.]

Therefore the spirit of the noble men mentioned on the previous page [23] has generously moved them to make a personal and financial effort to have these pamphlets published, cleared of all dross and copyists' errors [- another possible allusion to the two types of errors mentioned above, with "dross" representing the forgeries], and thoroughly checked. I congratulate them on this worthy deed.

Inasmuch as the verse states explicitly, [24] "Cursed be he who encroaches on his fellow's border," and where the expression "cursed" is used, it implies both damnation and excommunication, [25] G-d preserve us, [it is actually superfluous to add any further prohibition on violating the copyright of the publishers].

I come therefore only [to reinforce the words of Scripture] as [the Talmud cites] a mere practice in Judah in order to reinforce an explicit Scriptural statement, [26] invoking a strict prohibition on all publishers against printing these pamphlets, either themselves or through their agents, without the permission of the above-named, for a period of five years from the day that this printing is completed. [27]

May it be pleasant for those who comply, and may they be blessed with good.

These are the words of the compiler of the aforementioned Likutei Amarim.

   

Notes:

23. (Back to text) Referring to the partners R. Shalom Shachna and R. Mordechai; see approbation of Rabbi Zusya of Anipoli and footnote 11 there.

24. (Back to text) Devarim 27:17.

25. (Back to text) Shevuot 36a (in inverted order); and Rambam, Yad, Hilchot Sanhedrin 26:3.

26. (Back to text) Kiddushin 6a.

27. (Back to text) As above, in the approbations: Tuesday, Parshat KiTavo, 5556.