Biographical Dictionary of Rabbis

Achiezer

Rabbi Chaim Ozer Grodzinski (1863-1940). Ashkenazi posek and talmudic scholar in Lithuania and one of the biggest leaders of his generation. author of responsa Achiezer

Aruch Hashulchan

Rabbi Yechiel Michel Halevi Epstein (1829-1908). He was a community rabbi and a posek in Novardok, Lithuania.

Avnei Nezer

Rabbi Avraham Borenstein (1838-1910). A leading ashkenazi posek in Poland, founder of the Socatchover Chassidus, author of Sh"t Avnei Nezer, a set of halachic responsa, and Eglei Tal, a book on the 39 Melachot of shabbat. Father of the Shem Mishmuel

Az Nidberu

Rabbi Binyomin Zilber (1906-2008), ashkenazi posek and member of the Moetzet Gedolei Hatorah in Bnei Brak, Israel. Author of Sh"t Az Nidberu (14 volumes), Brit Olam on Shabbat (6 volumes), Beit Baruch on the Chayei Adam (3 volumes) and more.

Bach

Rabbi Yoel Sirkes (1561-1640), Rav and Rosh Yeshiva in Poland, author of the bach, the bayit chadash, a commentary on the Tur as well as the Haghot Habach on gemara. Father-in-law of the Taz.

Baer Heitev

Rabbi Yehuda Ashkenazi (1730-1770), Rabbi in Germany, is the author of Baer Heitev on SA OC and EH.

Banim Chavivim

Rabbi Eliyahu HaLevi Yannay (contemporary), Rabbi in Lakewood, NJ, is the author of Banim Chavivim.

Beer Moshe

Rabbi Moshe Stern (1914-1997), also known as the Debrecziner Rav, author of Sh"t Beer Moshe as well as Kuntres HaElectric on the halachic issues of electricity, Rav in Hungary and later moved to New York. Brother of Rav Betzalel Stern

Beit Yosef

Rabbi Yosef Karo (1488-1575), also know as Maran or as the Michaber, the main halachic authority especially for sephardic, author of Kessef Mishne on Rambam, Beit Yosef on Tur, and the Shulchan Aruch.

Ben Ish Chai

Rabbi Yosef Chaim (1832 – 1909) was a leading Sephardic Rabbi, author of the Ben Ish Chai as well as Sh"t Rav Pealim, and Rabbi of Baghdad.

Beur Hagra

Rabbi Eliyahu of Vilna, the Gra (1720-1797), Lithuanian talmid chacham. Author of aderet eliyahu on torah, beur hagra on SA, Haghot hagra on gemara.

Birkat Hashem

Rabbi Moshe Halevi (1961-2001), major Sephardic posek in Israel, author of Menuchat Ahava on halachot of Shabbat, Milveh Hashem on the laws of loans, as well as Birkat Hashem on halachot of Berachot.

Chacham Tzvi

Rabbi Tzvi Hersh ben Yaakov Ashkenazi (1656-1718), ashkenazic rabbi who served as rabbi in many different communities including sephardic ones in Germany, Poland, England and Amsterdam, father of Rav Yaakov Emden, author of responsa Chacham Tzvi.

Chatam Sofer

Rabbi Moshe Sofer (1762-1839), Born in germany, Rabbi in hungary.

Chayei Adam

Rabbi Avraham Danzig of Vilna (1748-1820). Author of the Chayei Adam dealing with the laws of Orach Chaim as well as the Chochmat Adam, dealing with the other areas of Shulchan Aruch that apply to daily life.

Chavot Daat

Rabbi Yaakov Lorberbaum of Lisa (1759-1832). Rav in Lissa, Poland. Author of the Chavot Daat on Yoreh Deah, the Netivot Hamishpat on Choshen Mishpat, the Torat Gittin on Even Haezer, and the Mekor Chaim and Derech Chaim on Orach Chaim. Grandson of the Chacham Tzvi.

Chazon Ish

Rabbi Avraham Yishaya Karelitz (1878-1953), born in Belarus but emigrated to Israel, one of the leaders of the Charedi movement in Bnei Brak, author of Chazon Ish on Shulchan Aruch, brother-in-law of the Steipler Gaon.

Chazon Ovadia

Rabbi Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013), born in Iraq lives in Israel, former sephardic chief rabbi of Israel, one of the foremost sephardic halachia authorities, author of Sh"t Yechave Daat, Sh"t Yabia Omer, both halachic responsa and Chazon Ovadia with halachot of Shabbat and the holidays. Father of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef and Rabbi David Yosef

Chelkat Mechokek

Rabbi Moshe Lima (1605-1685), author of chelkat mechokek, commentary on EH, major halachic authority in Lithuania.

Chida

Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Azulai ben Isaac Zerachia (1724 – 1806) was a Jerusalem born Sephardic rabbinical scholar. He is the author of Machzik Bracha, Birkei Yosef, Shem HaGedolim and many other books.

Children in Halacha

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Eglei Tal

Rabbi Avraham Borenstein (1838-1910). A leading ashkenazi posek in Poland, founder of the Socatchover Chassidus, author of Sh"t Avnei Nezer, a set of halachic responsa, and Eglei Tal, a book on the 39 Melachot of shabbat. Father of the Shem Mishmuel

Eliya Rabbah

Rabbi Eliya Shapira (1660-1712), rabbi in Prague, author of Eliya Rabba, a commentary on Orach Chaim of Shulchan Aruch and Eliyahu Zuta, commentary on the Levush.

Eliyahu Zuta

Rabbi Eliya Shapira (1660-1712), rabbi in Prague, author of Eliya Rabba, a commentary on Orach Chaim of Shulchan Aruch and Eliyahu Zuta, commentary on the Levush.

Emek Bracha

Rabbi Aryeh Pomaronchik (1908 - 1942), student of the Brisker Rav, wrote a sefer of chiddusim called Emek Bracha.

Halacha Brurah

Rabbi David Yosef (1957- ), sephardic posek in Yerushalayim. The author of Halacha Brurah, a commentary on Shulchan Aruch, Torat Hamoadim, on the laws of the holidays and Torat Hatahara, on the laws of Taharat Hamishpacha. Son of Chacham Ovadia Yosef and brother of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef

Halichos Bas Yisrael

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Fuchs, contemporary ashkenazi posek in Israel, the author of Halichos Bas Yisrael, a woman's guide to Jewish observance, Halichot Bein Adam Lachavero, on the laws between man and his fellow, Halichot haKashrut, on the laws related to kashrut, and Tefilla Kihilchita, on the laws of Tefilla.

Halichot Bein Adam Lachavero

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Fuchs, contemporary ashkenazi posek in Israel, the author of Halichos Bas Yisrael, a woman's guide to Jewish observance, Halichot Bein Adam Lachavero, on the laws between man and his fellow, Halichot haKashrut, on the laws related to kashrut, and Tefilla Kihilchita, on the laws of Tefilla.

Halichot Hakashrut

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Fuchs, contemporary ashkenazi posek in Israel, the author of Halichos Bas Yisrael, a woman's guide to Jewish observance, Halichot Bein Adam Lachavero, on the laws between man and his fellow, Halichot haKashrut, on the laws related to kashrut, and Tefilla Kihilchita, on the laws of Tefilla.

Hamoadim Bihalacha

Rabbi Shlomo Yosef Zevin (1888-1978), founder and chief editor of Encyclopedia Talmudit, born in Europe but moved to Israel, author of Hamoadim Biahalacha and Latorah Vilamoaadim.

Iggerot Moshe

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986), Lithuanian Rav who became one of the leading authorities of his generation in North America, author of Sh"t Iggerot Moshe, Dibrot Moshe on Gemara, and Darash Moshe on the Torah.

Kaf Hachayim (Sofer)

Rabbi Yaakov Chaim Sofer (1870-1939), sephardic rav and posek, born in Baghdad and moved to Israel, author of a halachic work called Kaf Hachayim, set up as a commentary to Shulchan Aruch.

Kaf Hachaim (Palachi)

Rabbi Chaim Palachi (1788-1869), sephardic rabbi from Turkey, author of many sefarim, most famously the Kaf Hachaim.

Kessef Mishne

Rabbi Yosef Karo (1488-1575), also know as Maran or as the Michaber, the main halachic authority especially for sephardic, author of Kessef Mishne on Rambam, Beit Yosef on Tur, and the Shulchan Aruch.

Ketzot Hachoshen

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Heller Hakohen (1745-1813). Author of Ketzot Hachoshen on SA CM, Avnei Miluim on EH and Shev Shamytsa on the gemara. Brother of the Kuntres Hasfekos.

Kitzur Shulchan Aruch

Rabbi Shlomo Ganzfried (1804-1886), Hungarian posek and rabbi in Ungvar, author of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch.

Kitzur Shulchan Aruch of Rabbi Rafael Baruch Toledano

Rabbi Rafael Baruch Toledano (1890 - 1970) was the Rabbi of Meknes, Morocco and author of a compendium of Sephardic Halacha and Moroccan minhagim in a book titled Kitzur Shulchan Aruch.

Laws of Daily Living

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Laws of the Three Weeks

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Laws of Yom Tov

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Lechem Mishneh

Rabbi Avraham de Boton (1545-1588), author of lechem Mishneh on the Rambam, Rav in Salonica, Greece.

Machatzit Hashekel

Rabbi Shmuel Kelin Halevi (1724-1806), author of machatzit hashekel on the Magen Avraham.

Magen Avraham

Rabbi Avraham Gombiner Halevi (1637-1683), Rav in poland, author of Magen Avraham on SA OC.

Maharam Shick

Rabbi Moshe Shick (1807-1879), Rosh Yeshiva and Rabbi in Hungary, author of Sh"t Maharam Shick as well as Chiddushim on Gemara and the Torah.

Melamed Leho'il

Rabbi David Tzvi Hoffman (1843-1921), Rabbi in Germany, author of Sh"t Melamed Leho'il.

Menuchat Ahava

Rabbi Moshe Halevi (1961-2001), major Sephardic posek in Israel, author of Menuchat Ahava on halachot of Shabbat, Milveh Hashem on the laws of loans, as well as Birkat Hashem on halachot of Berachot.

Milveh Hashem

Rabbi Moshe Halevi (1961-2001), major Sephardic posek in Israel, author of Menuchat Ahava on halachot of Shabbat, Milveh Hashem on the laws of loans, as well as Birkat Hashem on halachot of Berachot.

Minchat Shlomo

Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (1910-1995), one of the leading Ashkenazic halachic authorities of his generation, Rosh Yeshiva of Kol Torah in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Minchat Shlomo, Minchat Shlomo on gemara, Meorei Esh on electricity in Halacha, Maadanei Eretz on agricultural halacha. His rulings are predominantly quoted in Halichot Shlomo, Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchita and Nishmat Avraham.

Minchat Yitzchak

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Weiss (1902-1989), ashkenaz dayan and posek, Rav and Av Beit Din in Romania, then in Manchester, England. Headed the Eidah Charedis in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Minchat Yitzchak.

Mishna Brurah

Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan (1838 – 1933), known popularly as The Chofetz Chaim from his book on the laws of Lashon Hara, was an influential Lithuanian Rabbi, author of the Mishna Brurah as well as the Beur Halacha which is in more detail and the Shaar Hatziyun which quotes sources

Mishne Lamelech

Rabbi Yehuda Rosannes (1657-1727), Rabbi of Constantinople, Author of Mishna Lamelech on the Mishne Torah.

Mishne Torah

Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon, the Rambam (1135 - 1204). Born in Spain, was one of the foremost Jewish philosophers with his Moreh Nevuchim. He also wrote a commentary on the Mishnayot as well as a fourteen volume code of law, called Mishne Torah, sometimes referred to as Yad Hachazaka.

Mishpatei Uziel

Rabbi Ben-Zion Meir Chai Uziel (1880-1953), sephardic chief Rabbi of Israel from 1939-1954, author of Sh"t Mishpatei Uziel, and Shaarei Uziel.

Muktzeh, A Practical Guide

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Noda Biyehuda

Rabbi Yechezkel Landau Halevi (1713-1794), European Rabbi, Author of Noda Biyehuda, the tzlach (tziyun linefesh chayah) on gemara, and the dagul merivava on the SA.

Or Litzion

Rabbi Ben Zion Abba Shaul (1924-1988), one of the leading sephardic rabbis and halachic authorities of his generation, Rosh Yeshiva of Porat Yosef in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Or Litzion.

Pitchei Teshuva

Rabbi Avraham Tzvi Hirsch Eisenstadt (1813-1868), Rabbi in Utian, Russia. Author of Pitchei Teshuva on YD, CM, and EH as well as on the sefer, Gittin Ve’chalitza, and Nachalat Shiva on works of early Acharonim.

Pri Chadash

Rabbi Chizkiya da Silva (1659-1698), born in Italy but lived much of his life in Israel. Author of Pri Chadash on SA.

Pri Megadim

Rabbi Yosef Teomim (1727-1792), Galician Rabbi, Author of Pri Megadim: Mishbetzot Zahav on the Taz, Eshel Avraham on the Magen Avraham, and Siftei Daat on the Shach. Also author of Porat Yosef on yevamot and ketubot as well as ginat veradim on gemara.

Radiance of Shabbos

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Rama

Rabbi Moshe Isserles (1525-1572), Rabbi in Cracow, Poland, major ashkenazic halachic authority. Author of Darkei Moshe on the Tur, Sh"t Harama a set of responsa, and most famously the haghot on the SA.

Rashba

Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderet (1235-1310), one of the foremost Sephardic Rishonim in Spain, known as the Rashba, the acronym of his name, author of commentary on the Gemara Chiddushei Harashba, Torat Habayit on laws of kashrut, and of a set of Responsa.

Rif

Rabbi Yitzchak Alfasi (1013-1103), one of the earliest Sephardic rishonim and halachic deciders, known by the acronym of his name, Rif, author of Halachot published in the back of the gemaras.

Rivivot Ephraim

Rabbi Ephraim Greenblatt (1932-2004), grew up and passed away in Yerushalayim but was a prominent ashkenazi posek and leader in Memphis. Author of Sh"t Rivivot Ephraim, responsa on many different topics in contemporary halacha.

Rosh

Rabbi Asher ben Yechiel (1250-1327), often referred to by the acronym of his name, Rosh, one of the more prominent Ashkenazic Rishonim, born in Germany, died in Spain, author of commentary published in the back of the gemaras, father of the Tur.

Salmat Chaim

Rabbi Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld (1848-1932), ashkenazic Chief Rabbi of Yerushalayim, founder of Eidah Hacharedis, author of Sh"t Salmat Chaim.

Sanctity of Shabbos

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Shaagas Aryeh

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Ginzberg (1695-1785), Lithuanian Rav and author of responsa, Sh"t Shaagas Aryeh; Turei Even, a commentary on Masechet Rosh Hashana, Chagiga and Megilla; Gevurat Ari on Masechet Taanit

Shaare Teshuva

Rabbi Chaim Mordechai Margaliot (Mid 18th century-1818). Polish Rabbi most famous for his commentary on the Shulchan Aruch called Shaare Teshuva.

Shabbos Home

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Shabbos Kitchen

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Shach

Rabbi Shabbtai Hacohen (1621-1663), author of the Shach, the Siftei Kohen, on SA YD and CM. Was forced to leave Vilna due to persecution and.

Shevet Halevi

Rabbi Shmuel Wosner Halevi (b. 1913), ashkenazic posek in Bnei Brak in Israel, born in Vienna, author of Sh"t Shevet Halevi, a set of halachic of responsa.

Shulchan Aruch

Rabbi Yosef Karo (1488-1575), also know as Maran or as the Michaber, the main halachic authority especially for sephardic, author of Kessef Mishne on Rambam, Beit Yosef on Tur, and the Shulchan Aruch.

Shulchan Aruch HaRav

Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liady (1745 – 1812), was the first Rebbe of Chabad and author of Shulchan Aruch HaRav and the Tanya.

Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata

Rabbi Yehoshua Yeshaya Neuwirth (1935 - 2013), ashkenazic posek in Yerushalayim, author of Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata on the laws of Shabbat and Yom Tov.

Sma

Rabbi Yehoshua Falk Hakohen (1550-1614), Posek and Rosh Yeshiva in Poland, author of Sma, sefer meirat eynayim on Shulchan Aruch.

Sridei Eish

Rabbi Yechiel Yaakov Weinberg (1884-1966), German Posek and Rosh Yeshiva, author of Sridei Eish, a set of responsa.

Taz

Rabbi David Halevi (1586-1667), Rav and Rosh Yeshiva in Poland, author of Taz, the Turei Zahav, on SA, son-in-law of the Bach.

Tefilla Kihilchita

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Fuchs, contemporary ashkenazi posek in Israel, the author of Halichos Bas Yisrael, a woman's guide to Jewish observance, Halichot Bein Adam Lachavero, on the laws between man and his fellow, Halichot haKashrut, on the laws related to kashrut, and Tefilla Kihilchita, on the laws of Tefilla.

Torat Hamoadim

Rabbi David Yosef (1957- ), sephardic posek in Yerushalayim. The author of Halacha Brurah, a commentary on Shulchan Aruch, Torat Hamoadim, on the laws of the holidays and Torat Hatahara, on the laws of Taharat Hamishpacha. Son of Chacham Ovadia Yosef and brother of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef

Torat Hatahara

Rabbi David Yosef (1957- ), sephardic posek in Yerushalayim. The author of Halacha Brurah, a commentary on Shulchan Aruch, Torat Hamoadim, on the laws of the holidays and Torat Hatahara, on the laws of Taharat Hamishpacha. Son of Chacham Ovadia Yosef and brother of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef

Turei Even

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Ginzberg (1695-1785), Lithuanian Rav and author of responsa, Sh"t Shaagas Aryeh; Turei Even, a commentary on Masechet Rosh Hashana, Chagiga and Megilla; Gevurat Ari on Masechet Taanit

Tzitz Eliezer

Rabbi Eliezer Waldenberg (1915-2006), ashkenazic posek and dayan in Yerushalayim, posek of Shaare Tzedek hospital in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Tzitz Eliezer, a set of halachic responsa.

Yaarot Dvash

Rabbi Yonatan Eibeshitz (1690-1764), Rabbi in Germany, author of Yaarot Devash, Kreti U'pleti on YD, Urim Vitumim on CM.

Yabia Omer

Rabbi Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013), born in Iraq lives in Israel, former sephardic chief rabbi of Israel, one of the foremost sephardic halachia authorities, author of Sh"t Yechave Daat, Sh"t Yabia Omer, both halachic responsa and Chazon Ovadia with halachot of Shabbat and the holidays

Yalkut Yosef

Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef (b. 1952), sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel, son of Rav Ovadia Yosef and brother of Rabbi David Yosef, is the author of Yalkut Yosef, which is a encyclopedic work of Sephardic halacha.

Yaavetz

Rabbi Yaakov Emden ben Tzvi (1697-1776), son of Chacham Tzvi, author of Responsa Yaavetz, Mor Uketzia on Shulchan Aruch, and several other sefarim

Yechave Daat

Rabbi Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013), born in Iraq lives in Israel, former sephardic chief rabbi of Israel, one of the foremost sephardic halachia authorities, author of Sh"t Yechave Daat, Sh"t Yabia Omer, both halachic responsa and Chazon Ovadia with halachot of Shabbat and the holidays. Father of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef and Rabbi David Yosef.

Rabbi Akiva Eiger

Rabbi Akiva Eiger (1761-1837), author of tosfot rabbi akiva eiger on mishnayot, gilyon hashas on the side margin of the traditional gemara, chiddushei rabbi akiva eiger, and three volumes of teshuvot rabbi akiva eiger.

Rabbi Asher ben Yechiel

Rabbi Asher ben Yechiel (1250-1327), often referred to by the acronym of his name, Rosh, one of the more prominent Ashkenazic Rishonim, born in Germany, died in Spain, author of commentary published in the back of the gemaras, father of the Tur.

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Ginzberg

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Ginzberg (1695-1785), Lithuanian Rav and author of responsa, Sh"t Shaagas Aryeh; Turei Even, a commentary on Masechet Rosh Hashana, Chagiga and Megilla; Gevurat Ari on Masechet Taanit

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Heller Hakohen

Rabbi Aryeh Leib Heller Hakohen (1745-1813). Author of Ketzot Hachoshen on SA CM, Avnei Miluim on EH and Shev Shamytsa on the gemara. Brother of the Kuntres Hasfekos.

Rabbi Avraham Borenstein

Rabbi Avraham Borenstein (1838-1910). A leading ashkenazi posek in Poland, founder of the Socatchover Chassidus, author of Sh"t Avnei Nezer, a set of halachic responsa, and Eglei Tal, a book on the 39 Melachot of shabbat. Father of the Shem Mishmuel

Rabbi Avraham Danzig

Rabbi Avraham Danzig of Vilna (1748-1820). Author of the Chayei Adam dealing with the laws of Orach Chaim as well as the Chochmat Adam, dealing with the other areas of Shulchan Aruch that apply to daily life.

Rabbi Avraham de Boton

Rabbi Avraham de Boton (1545-1588), author of lechem Mishneh on the Rambam, Rav in Salonica, Greece.

Rabbi Avraham Gombiner

Rabbi Avraham Gombiner Halevi (1637-1683), Rav in poland, author of Magen Avraham on SA OC.

Rabbi Avraham Tzvi Hirsch Eisenstadt

Rabbi Avraham Tzvi Hirsch Eisenstadt (1813-1868), Rabbi in Utian, Russia. Author of Pitchei Teshuva on YD, CM, and EH as well as on the sefer, Gittin Ve’chalitza, and Nachalat Shiva on works of early Acharonim.

Rabbi Avraham Yishaya Karelitz

Rabbi Avraham Yishaya Karelitz (1878-1953), the Chazon Ish, born in Belarus but emigrated to Israel, one of the leaders of the Charedi movement in Bnei Brak, author of Chazon Ish on Shulchan Aruch, brother-in-law of the Steipler Gaon.

Rabbi Ben-Zion Abba Shaul

Rabbi Ben-Zion Abba Shaul (1924-1988), one of the leading sephardic rabbis and halachic authorities of his generation, Rosh Yeshiva of Porat Yosef in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Or Litzion.

Rabbi Ben-zion Meir Chai Uziel

Rabbi Ben-Zion Meir Chai Uziel (1880-1953), sephardic chief Rabbi of Israel from 1939-1954, author of Sh"t Mishpatei Uziel, and Shaarei Uziel.

Rabbi Binyomin Zilber

Rabbi Binyomin Zilber (1906-2008), ashkenazi posek and member of the Moetzet Gedolei Hatorah in Bnei Brak, Israel. Author of Sh"t Az Nidberu (14 volumes), Brit Olam on Shabbat (6 volumes), Beit Baruch on the Chayei Adam (3 volumes) and more.

Rabbi Chaim Mordechai Margaliot

Rabbi Chaim Mordechai Margaliot (Mid 18th century-1818). Polish Rabbi most famous for his commentary on the Shulchan Aruch called Shaare Teshuva

Rabbi Chaim Ozer Grodzinski

Rabbi Chaim Ozer Grodzinski (1863-1940). Ashkenazi posek and talmudic scholar in Lithuania and one of the biggest leaders of his generation. author of responsa Achiezer

Rabbi Chaim Palachi

Rabbi Chaim Palachi (1788-1869), sephardic rabbi from Turkey, author of many sefarim, most famously the Kaf Hachaim.

Rabbi Chaim Yosef David

Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Azulai ben Isaac Zerachia (1724 – 1806) was a Jerusalem born Sephardic rabbinical scholar. He is the author of Machzik Bracha, Birkei Yosef, Shem HaGedolim and many other books.

Rabbi Chizkiya da Silva

Rabbi Chizkiya da Silva (1659-1698), born in Italy but lived much of his life in Israel. Author of Pri Chadash on SA.

Rabbi David Halevi

Rabbi David Halevi (1586-1667), Rav and Rosh Yeshiva in Poland, author of Taz, the Turei Zahav, on SA, son-in-law of the Bach.

Rabbi David Tzvi Hoffman

Rabbi David Tzvi Hoffman (1843-1921), Rabbi in Germany, author of Sh"t Melamed Leho'il.

Rabbi David Yosef

Rabbi David Yosef (1957- ), sephardic posek in Yerushalayim. The author of Halacha Brurah, a commentary on Shulchan Aruch, Torat Hamoadim, on the laws of the holidays and Torat Hatahara, on the laws of Taharat Hamishpacha. Son of Chacham Ovadia Yosef and brother of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef

Rabbi Eliezer Waldenberg

Rabbi Eliezer Waldenberg (1915-2006), ashkenazic posek and dayan in Yerushalayim, posek of Shaare Tzedek hospital in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Tzitz Eliezer, a set of halachic responsa.

Rabbi Eliya Shapira

Rabbi Eliya Shapira (1660-1712), rabbi in Prague, author of Eliya Rabba, a commentary on Orach Chaim of Shulchan Aruch and Eliyahu Zuta, commentary on the Levush.

Rabbi Eliyahu of Vilna

Rabbi Eliyahu of Vilna, the Gra or the Vilna Gaon (1720-1797), Lithuanian talmid chacham. Author of aderet eliyahu on torah, beur hagra on SA, Haghot hagra on gemara.

Rabbi Ephraim Greenblatt

Rabbi Ephraim Greenblatt (1932-2004), grew up and passed away in Yerushalayim but was a prominent ashkenazi posek and leader in Memphis. Author of Sh"t Rivivot Ephraim, responsa on many different topics in contemporary halacha.

Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon

Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon, the Rambam (1135 - 1204). Born in Spain, was one of the foremost Jewish philosophers with his Moreh Nevuchim. He also wrote a commentary on the Mishnayot as well as a fourteen volume code of law, called Mishne Torah, sometimes referred to as Yad Hachazaka.

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986), Lithuanian Rav who became one of the leading authorities of his generation in North America, author of Sh"t Iggerot Moshe, Dibrot Moshe on Gemara, and Darash Moshe on the Torah.

Rabbi Moshe Halevi

Rabbi Moshe Halevi (1961-2001), major Sephardic posek in Israel, author of Menuchat Ahava on halachot of Shabbat, Milveh Hashem on the laws of loans, as well as Birkat Hashem on halachot of Berachot.

Rabbi Moshe Isserles

Rabbi Moshe Isserles, the Rama, (1525-1572), Rabbi in Cracow, Poland, major ashkenazic halachic authority. Author of Darkei Moshe on the Tur, Sh"t Harama a set of responsa, and most famously the haghot on the SA.

Rabbi Moshe Lima

Rabbi Moshe Lima (1605-1685), author of chelkat mechokek, commentary on EH, major halachic authority in Lithuania.

Rabbi Moshe Shick

Rabbi Moshe Shick (1807-1879), the Maharam Shick, Rosh Yeshiva and Rabbi in Hungary, author of Sh"t Maharam Shick as well as Chiddushim on Gemara and the Torah.

Rabbi Moshe Sofer

Rabbi Moshe Sofer (1762-1839), Born in germany, Rabbi in hungary. Author of a commentary on torah, on the talmud and on the Shulchan Aruch as well as Teshuvot Chatam Sofer. Son in law of Rabbi Akiva Eiger and father of the ktav sofer.

Rabbi Moshe Stern

Rabbi Moshe Stern (1914-1997), also known as the Debrecziner Rav, author of Sh"t Beer Moshe as well as Kuntres HaElectric on the halachic issues of electricity, Rav in Hungary and later moved to New York. Brother of Rav Betzalel Stern

Rabbi Ovadia Yosef

Rabbi Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013), born in Iraq lives in Israel, former sephardic chief rabbi of Israel, one of the foremost sephardic halachic authorities, author of Sh"t Yechave Daat, Sh"t Yabia Omer, both halachic responsa and Chazon Ovadia with halachot of Shabbat and the holidays. Father of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef and Rabbi David Yosef

Rabbi Rafael Baruch Toledano

Rabbi Rafael Baruch Toledano (1890 - 1970) was the Rabbi of Meknes, Morocco and author of a compendium of Sephardic Halacha and Moroccan minhagim in a book titled Kitzur Shulchan Aruch.

Rabbi Shabbtai Hacohen

Rabbi Shabbtai Hacohen (1621-1663), author of the Shach, the Siftei Kohen, on SA YD and CM. Was forced to leave Vilna due to persecution at the hands of the Cossacks.

Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderet

Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderet (1235-1310), one of the foremost Sephardic Rishonim in Spain, known as the Rashba, the acronym of his name, author of commentary on the Gemara Chiddushei Harashba, Torat Habayit on laws of kashrut, and of a set of Responsa.

Rabbi Shlomo Ganzfried

Rabbi Shlomo Ganzfried (1804-1886), Hungarian posek and rabbi in Ungvar. Author of Kitzur Shulchan Aruch mostly on Orach Chaim as well as Lechem visimla on hilchot nidda.

Rabbi Shlomo Yosef Zevin

Rabbi Shlomo Yosef Zevin (1888-1978), founder and chief editor of Encyclopedia Talmudit, born in Europe but moved to Israel, author of Hamoadim Biahalacha and Latorah Vilamoaadim.

Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach

Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach (1910-1995), one of the leading ashkenazic halachic authorities of his generation, Rosh Yeshiva of Kol Torah in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Minchat Shlomo, Minchat Shlomo on gemara, Meorei Esh on electricity in Halacha, Maadanei Eretz on agricultural halacha. His rulings are predominantly quoted in Halichot Shlomo, Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchita and Nishmat Avraham.

Rabbi Shmuel Kelin Halevi

Rabbi Shmuel Kelin Halevi (1724-1806), author of machatzit hashekel on the Magen Avraham.

Rabbi Shmuel Wosner

Rabbi Shmuel Wosner Halevi (b. 1913), ashkenazic posek in Bnei Brak in Israel, born in Vienna, author of Sh"t Shevet Halevi, a set of halachic of responsa.

Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liady

Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liady (1745 – 1812), was the first Rebbe of Chabad and author of Shulchan Aruch HaRav and the Tanya.

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen

Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen (contemporary), rav and posek in Lakewood, NJ. Author of several halacha books published in English including The Shabbos Kitchen; two volumes of the Shabbos Home; The Sanctity of Shabbos; The Radiance of Shabbos; The Laws of Yom Tov; Muktzeh, A Practical Guide; Laws of Daily Living; Laws of the Three Weeks; Children in Halacha

Rabbi Tzvi Hersh ben Yaakov Ashkenazi

Rabbi Tzvi Hersh ben Yaakov Ashkenazi (1656-1718), ashkenazic rabbi who served as rabbi in many different communities including sephardic ones in Germany, Poland, England and Amsterdam, father of Rav Yaakov Emden, author of responsa Chacham Tzvi.

Rabbi Yaakov Chaim Sofer

Rabbi Yaakov Chaim Sofer (1870-1939), sephardic rav and posek, born in Baghdad and moved to Israel, author of a halachic work called Kaf Hachayim, set up as a commentary to Shulchan Aruch.

Rabbi Yaakov Emden

Rav Yaakov Emden ben Tzvi (1697-1776), son of Chacham Tzvi, author of Responsa Yaavetz, Mor Uketzia on Shulchan Aruch and several other sefarim

Rabbi Yaakov Lorberbaum

Rabbi Yaakov Lorberbaum of Lisa (1759-1832). Rav in Lissa, Poland. Author of the Chavot Daat and the Netivot Hamishpat, commentaries of the Shulchan Aruch. Grandson of the Chacham Tzvi.

Rabbi Yechezkel Landau

Rabbi Yechezkel Landau Halevi (1713-1794), European Rabbi, Author of Noda Biyehuda, the tzlach (tziyun linefesh chayah) on gemara, and the dagul merivava on the SA.

Rabbi Yechiel Michel Epstein

Rabbi Yechiel Michel Halevi Epstein (1829-1908). He was a community rabbi and a posek in Novardok, Lithuania, author of the Aruch Hashulchan.

Rabbi Yechiel Yaakov Weinberg

Rabbi Yechiel Yaakov Weinberg (1884-1966), German Posek and Rosh Yeshiva, author of Sridei Eish, a set of responsa.

Rabbi Yehoshua Falk

Rabbi Yehoshua Falk Hakohen (1550-1614), Posek and Rosh Yeshiva in Poland, author of Sma, sefer meirat eynayim on Shulchan Aruch.

Rabbi Yehoshua Neuwirth

Rabbi Yehoshua Yeshaya Neuwirth (1935-), ashkenazic posek in Yerushalayim, one of the foremost students of Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, author of Shemirat Shabbat Kehilchata on the laws of Shabbat and Yom Tov.

Rabbi Yehuda Ashkenazi

Rabbi Yehuda Ashkenazi (1730-1770), Rabbi in Germany, author of Baer Heitev on SA OC and EH.

Rabbi Yehuda Rosannes

Rabbi Yehuda Rosannes (1657-1727), Rabbi of Constantinople, Author of Mishna Lamelech on the Mishne Torah.

Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan

Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan (1838 – 1933), known popularly as The Chofetz Chaim from his book on the laws of Lashon Hara, was an influential Lithuanian Rabbi, author of the Mishna Brurah as well as the Beur Halacha which is in more detail and the Shaar Hatziyun which quotes sources.

Rabbi Yitzchak Alfasi

Rabbi Yitzchak Alfasi (1013-1103), one of the earliest Sephardic rishonim and halachic deciders, known by the acronym of his name, Rif, author of Halachot published in the back of the gemaras.

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Fuchs

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Fuchs, contemporary ashkenazi posek in Israel, the author of Halichos Bas Yisrael, a woman's guide to Jewish observance, Halichot Bein Adam Lachavero, on the laws between man and his fellow, Halichot haKashrut, on the laws related to kashrut, and Tefilla Kihilchita, on the laws of Tefilla.

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Weiss

Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Weiss (1902-1989), ashkenaz dayan and posek, Rav and Av Beit Din in Romania, then in Manchester, England. Headed the Eidah Charedis in Yerushalayim, author of Sh"t Minchat Yitzchak.

Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef

Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef (b. 1952), son of Rav Ovadia Yosef and brother of Rabbi David Yosef, is the author of Yalkut Yosef, which is a encyclopedic work of Sephardic halacha.

Rabbi Yoel Sirkes

Rabbi Yoel Sirkes (1561-1640), Rav and Rosh Yeshiva in Poland, author of the bach, the bayit chadash, a commentary on the Tur as well as the Haghot HaBach on gemara. Father-in-law of the Taz.

Rabbi Yonatan Eibeshitz

Rabbi Yonatan Eibeshitz (1690-1764), Rabbi in Germany, author of Yaarot Devash, Kreti U'pleti on YD, Urim Vitumim on CM.

Rabbi Yosef Chaim of Baghdad

Rabbi Yosef Chaim (1832 – 1909) was a leading Sephardic Rabbi, Rabbi of Baghdad, author of the Ben Ish Chai and Sh"t Rav Pealim.

Rabbi Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld

Rabbi Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld (1848-1932), Chief Rabbi of Yerushalayim, founder of Eidah Hacharedis, author of Sh"t Salmat Chaim.

Rabbi Yosef Teomim

Rabbi Yosef Teomim (1727-1792), Galician Rabbi, Author of Pri Megadim: Mishbetzot Zahav on the Taz, Eshel Avraham on the Magen Avraham, and Siftei Daat on the Shach. Also author of Porat Yosef on yevamot and ketubot as well as ginat veradim on gemara.