Sefer ha-ṭurim

work by Asher

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July 13, 2026

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The Sefer ha-d'urim is a significant work within Jewish legal codification, compiled by Jacob ben Asher in the 14th century. It is structured into four major categories, or d'urim, and focuses on laws applicable after the destruction of the Temple. This work is a continuation of the tradition of codifying the Talmud, which began shortly after the Talmud's completion.1

Asher ben Jehiel, Jacob ben Asher's father, was also a prominent codifier whose work, Piske Halakhot, served as a foundation for later codes. The Sefer ha-d'urim is notable for its organization and its focus on post-Temple laws, influencing subsequent legal codes such as the Shulchan Aruch.21

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Talmud and Midrash
Codes
(2) The Sefer ha-ṭurim (“Book of Rows,” or “ Parts”), by Jacob ben Asher (14th century), the son of Asher ben Jehiel, introduced new groupings, dividing subject matter into four major categories (ṭurim) reminiscent of the Mishnaic orders; it includes only laws applicable after the destruction of…
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(2) The Sefer ha-ṭurim (“Book of Rows,” or “ Parts”), by Jacob ben Asher (14th century), the son of Asher ben Jehiel, introduced new groupings, dividing subject matter into four major categories (ṭurim) reminiscent of the Mishnaic orders; it includes only laws applicable after the destruction of…
Read More