Halachic Works: Codes, Commentary, and Custom
Jewish legal sources from different periods and communities, presented for study rather than personal rulings.
Halachic literature includes codes, responsa, commentaries, and works of communal practice. A later work does not simply replace an earlier one, and different books often address different communities and questions.
Rabbi Yosef Karo's Shulchan Aruch is divided into Orach Chayim, Yoreh De'ah, Even HaEzer, and Choshen Mishpat. The Rema's glosses printed with it preserve Ashkenazi rulings and customs in many places, so the work must be read with attention to legal tradition.
Mishnah Berurah addresses Orach Chayim and is especially influential in Ashkenazi halachic study. Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Peninei Halakha, and other works were written for different purposes and audiences. Madreiga presents sources; practical application depends on circumstances and the user's halachic authority.
What you get in Madreiga
- Access to different parts of Shulchan Aruch
- Mishnah Berurah on Orach Chayim
- Concise guides and later halachic works
- References by siman and se'if where available
Books in this category
- Mishnah BerurahAcharonim
- Shulchan Aruch - Orach ChayimAcharonim
- Shulchan Aruch - Yoreh De'ahAcharonim
- Shulchan Aruch - Even HaEzerAcharonim
- Shulchan Aruch - Choshen MishpatAcharonim
- Arba'ah TurimRishonim
- Kitzur Shulchan AruchAcharonim
- Chayei AdamAcharonim
- Peninei HalakhaContemporary halacha
- Mishneh Torah (Rambam)Rishonim
- SiddurJewish liturgy
Frequently asked questions
What is halacha?
Halacha is the practical and interpretive tradition through which commandments and laws are applied. It is studied through Scripture, rabbinic literature, Rishonim, codes, responsa, and communal custom.
How do Shulchan Aruch and Mishnah Berurah differ?
Shulchan Aruch is Rabbi Yosef Karo's four-part code, printed together with the Rema's glosses. Mishnah Berurah is a later commentary on Orach Chayim and is especially influential in Ashkenazi halachic study.
Why do halachic practices differ among communities?
Sephardic and Edot HaMizrach communities, Ashkenazi communities, and different Hasidic traditions may follow distinct legal authorities and customs.
Which book should I use for a practical question?
That depends on the subject, community, and personal circumstances. An introductory work can help with orientation, but a practical or sensitive question should be brought to a rabbi familiar with the questioner's tradition and situation.