Definition of Shulkhan arukh

The Shulchan Aruch (Hebrew: שולחן ערוך, literally: "Set Table") (also Shulchan Arukh) is a codification, or written catalogue, of halacha (Jewish law), composed by Rabbi Yosef Karo in the 16th century. It, together with its commentaries, is considered by the vast majority of Orthodox Jews to be the most authoritative compilation halakha since the Talmud, with the exception of a minority who continue to hold by the Mishneh Torah. The Shulchan Aruch has come to simply be referred to as the Code of Jewish Law due to its popular appeal.