World’s Smallest Gemarah Ever Printed: A Miniature Sized Talmud Babli - Masechta Sukka, Frankfurt (Berlin) 1722. ...

World’s Smallest Gemarah Ever Printed: A Miniature Sized Talmud Babli - Masechta Sukka, Frankfurt (Berlin) 1722. Very Rare.

A complete copy of the smallest Gemarah ever printed. This pocket-sized miniature edition measures only 9cm in size! Interestingly, according to the title page this edition was made exclusively in a miniature format in order that it can be easily carried around thereby enabling everyone to know the entire Masechta and the relevant Halachos by heart. A complete copy in a condition such as this is of utmost rarity.

Out of all Masechtos, only Tractate Sukkah was published in this miniature format. The reason for the printing of this specific Tractate is unknown, however we can surmise that learning and memorizing Tractate Sukkah in such a way was highly common in Eastern Europe.

As this edition was intended only for the purpose of memorizing the Masechta, no commentaries are present, nor are the Dapim in sync with the typical style of the “Tzuras HaDaf” found in all other editions of the Talmud. 

No printing place given, however see Steinschneider (no. 1909) who notes that the initials F.R. printed on the title page are most likely referring to “Fridericus Rex” or King Frederick William I of Prussia, who reigned in Berlin and surrounding areas during the time this edition was printed. He therefore maintains that in all probability it was printed either at Frankfurt or Berlin, both under the reign of King Frederick. Hence the attribution to him seen on title page. 

In very good-excellent condition. Pages slightly browned, final leaf trimmed and lightly stained on verso.

[1], 56 pp. (Mispaginated). 9x3cm. 

Vinograd, Berlin 92, based off Steinschneider. According to Vinograd, this edition is not found in Israel’s National Library or in major library collections.