Shulkhan Arukh

The Shulkhan Arukh (Hebrew: "Prepared Table"), by Rabbi Yosef Karo is considered the most authoritative compilation of Jewish law since the Talmud. With its commentaries, it is the main authoratitive source of halakha (Jewish law and custom) and often referred to as the Code of Jewish Law.

Structure

The Shulkhan Arukh (and its forerunner Beth Yosef) follow the same structure as Arba'ah Turim. There are four books, subdivided on chapters and paragraphs:

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• Orach Chayim - laws of prayer and synagogue, Sabbath, holidays;
• Yoreh De'ah - laws of shechita, kashrut;interest. religious conversion)
• Even HaEzer - laws of marriage, divorce and related issues
• Choshen Mishpat - laws of finance, financial responsibility, damages (personal and financial), and the rules of the Bet Din, as well as the laws of witnesses.