Rabbi Moses Isserles • Rema
the Rema
Era of the AcharonimThe Rema (Rabbi Moses Isserles) was the author of the Mapah on the Shulchan Aruch. He added the laws and customs of Ashkenaz to Maran Rabbi Joseph Karo’s Shulchan Aruch, and through this the Shulchan Aruch was accepted by all Israel—Sephardim and Ashkenazim alike.
Biography
The Rema (Rabbi Moses Isserles) was the author of the Mapah on the Shulchan Aruch. He added the laws and customs of Ashkenaz to Maran Rabbi Joseph Karo’s Shulchan Aruch, and through this the Shulchan Aruch was accepted by all Israel—Sephardim and Ashkenazim alike.
Life Story
Childhood
He was from Krakow, born into a family of rabbis.
Teachers
Rabbi Shalom Shachna; Rabbi Joseph Karo (through correspondence).
Students
The sages of his generation.
Family
His son-in-law was Rabbi Judah Loew (the Maharal).
Key Events
The composition of the Mapah on the Shulchan Aruch; service as rabbi of Krakow.
Influence
The Rema’s Mapah completed the Shulchan Aruch and transformed it into a halakhic code for the entire Jewish people.
Death
He passed away in Krakow at a young age.
Writings
Ha-Mapah on the Shulchan Aruch
1570Halakhah
Additions and rulings reflecting Ashkenazic custom on the four sections of the Shulchan Aruch.
Darkhei Moshe
Halakhah
A commentary and supplementary material on the Arba'ah Turim.
His Way and Views
Halacha
The Mapah on the Shulchan Aruch—Ashkenazic halakhic rulings.
Customs
He preserved Ashkenazic customs.
Character
A sage and halakhic decisor whose life was cut short.
Public Role
He led the Jews of Poland.
Famous Quotes
"Established custom can override the law."
Students
Teachers
Timeline
Birth in Krakow
Composition of the Mapah
Death