In the annals of Jewish history, few biographies can match the pathos of the epic story of Rabbi Yom Tov Lipmann Heller, the author of the Tosafos Yom Tov, the celebrated commentary on the Mishnah. Set against the backdrop of the tempestuous events of the Thirty Years' War in the seventeenth century, the saga of the illustrious leader's life unfolds, relating his fall from eminence and prestige to the depths of despair, to be snatched from the clutches of death by breathtaking miraculous intervention. Swept along by surging emotions, we are introduced into a bizarre world of intrigue and betrayal, confronted by the powers of faith, heroism and magnanimity. History comes alive as we participate with utter fascination in a religious dispute, pitting twelve Catholic judges against one lone rabbi. From a front row seat, we follow the proceedings at a medieval court trial, to be stung by the venomous attacks of the judges and heartened by the rabbi's brilliant rebuttal. We encounter a cast of characters that runs the gamut from treacherous financiers to good-hearted righteous gentiles, from corrupt judges to selfless shtadlan, the courageous advocate and defender of helpless Jews before ruthless despots, all overshadowed by the awe-inspiring personality of Rabbi Heller, the Chief Rabbi of Prague. Besides being the personal account of a towering Torah personality, this biography is also an important historic document, affording illuminating insights into the life of an eastern European Jewish community in the Middle Ages, its relations with the ruling circles and its deep-rooted respect for the authority of the rabbinate. A Chronicle of Hardship and Hope is a new translation of the autobiographical Megillas Avivah by Rabbi Heller. Throughout the ages, this classic has been an inspiration to young and old alike. Aside from offering a moving glimpse into the humble soul of its saintly author, its pages are a testimony to his indomitable spirit ad unflinching courage. In his personal account of torment and distress, we recognize a true reflection of the agonizing history of the Jewish nation in galus. May his subsequent restoration to former glory serve as an auspicious omen for the speedy redemption of the Jewish people.
by Rabbi Yom Tov Lipmann Heller
Translated by Rabbi Avraham Yaakov Finkel