Rabbi Joel Sirkes

Rabbi Joel Sirkes, also known as the Bach, was a prominent Jewish rabbi and scholar in the early 17th century. Born in approximately 1561 in Kraków, Poland, he became one of the most influential figures in Jewish law of his time. Sirkes served as the chief rabbi in several communities, including Lukow, Medzyboz, Brest (Brisk), and finally Kraków, where he was recognized as a leading authority in Jewish law. His works and decisions have had a lasting impact on the interpretation and application of Jewish law. Rabbi Sirkes is perhaps best known for his commentary on the Arba'ah Turim, titled 'Bayit Chadash' (Bach), which critically analyzes and explains this foundational legal text. His insights and methodologies in legal reasoning continue to be studied and revered in yeshivot around the world.

Books

Bach. Rabbi Joel Sirkes