This Day in History: Passing of the Renowned "Baal HaTurim"

Rabbi Yaakov, the son of the Rosh, lived during the 14th century. He was born in Germany, but his life story contains many uncertainties. Various sources indicate he lived in Toledo and served as a rabbi there. Some suggest he is buried on the island of "Chios" in Greece, while others believe his resting place is in Izmir.

Regardless, Rabbi Yaakov Ben Asher is credited with one of the greatest halachic compilations, "Arba'ah Turim." This pivotal work draws from the teachings of Maimonides and includes rulings from his father, Rabbi Asher Ben Yechiel. The book is structured into four divisions, or "Turim":

Tur Orach Chayim – covering daily practices, from morning handwashing to festival laws;

Tur Yoreh De'ah – focusing on forbidden and permissible matters, purity laws, Torah study, and more;

Tur Even HaEzer – dealing with marital laws, divorce, levirate marriage, and related topics;

and Tur Choshen Mishpat – primarily addressing judicial matters and monetary law.

Over the years, the foundational "Arba'ah Turim" has inspired numerous commentaries and expansions, including Rabbi Yosef Karo's "Beit Yosef" and the "Darkei Moshe" by the Rema, among many others.

Baal HaTurim passed away on the 12th of Tammuz in the year 508. May his merit protect us.