Seder Kavanot HaAri Manuscript – Unknown Version – 17th Century

Seder Kavanot HaAri Manuscript – Unknown Version – 17th Century
Seder Kavanot HaAri Manuscript, abridged and unknown version of prayer book of Rabbi Meir Papirash. Fine early Ashkenazi writing [17th century].
Includes simple illustrations, of intentions, tables of Holy Names and order of universes. Seder HaShulchan and Seder 12 Chalot.
Few revisions in later handwriting from 18th century. For example: Intentions of Counting of Omer contain tables of intentions on side of pages and in handwriting [typical of Russia-Poland of 18th century], allusions to “seven Edomite kings” [addition included only in “Siddur Rabbi Asher” and following prayer books]. As well, at beginning of intentions for blowing of Shofar it is noted on side of page that an additional intention appears in “Sefer Mishnat Hassidim” [see “Shiddur Rabbi Asher” which mentions intentions of “Mishnat Hassidim” and intentions of prayer book, one next to the other]. These additions indicate that the prayer book was used by a Kabbalist from Beit Midrash of leading Kabbalist giants during early period of Chassidism, who added the additions in his handwriting.
In intentions for day preceding Pesach, writer cites Sefer HaShla [Shnei Luchot HaBrit] “to study tractate Pesachim after midday”. This quotation, for example, is an addition which does not appear in known prayer books of the Ari. Many additions such as these are unique to this manuscript. [Since Sefer HaShla was first printed in 1649, this prayer book was apparently composed in approximately 1650, and this manuscript is an early copy which was prepared close to time of editing].
The Ari did not write Seder HaKavanot according to Kabbalah on his own; it was the students of his students who actually edited the prayer books according to the Ari and his disciple, Rabbi Chaim Vital. Rabbi Meir Papirash (passed away in 1662), composed Seder Kavanot which was the basis from which prayer books of the Ari prevalent throughout countries of Ashkenaz were copied. [These prayer books were the basis for “Shiddur Rabbi Asher” and “Siddur HaAri – Yol Ya’akov” during 18th century.
Prayer book of Rabbi Meir Papirash is detailed, however this manuscript is the abridged version which does not appear in other Kavanot prayer books.
8-87, [70] leaves. (Total of 149 leaves). 18 cm. Good-fair condition, stains and extensive usage wear, several restored leaves. Left margins rounded off (with slight damage to text). Ex-libris from “Magad” library. Original leather binding, professionally restored.
Letters by experts authorizing content and significance of manuscript is attached.