Rabbi Menachem Meiri (1249-c.1310) was a famous Talmudist and Halakhist.

Early Life

Menachem Meiri was born in Provence, France in 1249. He was the student of Rabbi Reuven the son of Chaim of Narbonne, France.

Beit HaBechirah

His commentary, the Beit HaBechirah (The chosen building), is one of the most monumental works written on the Talmud. This work is less a commentary and more of a digest of all of the comments in the Talmud, arranged in a manner similar to the Talmud - presenting first the mishnah and then laying out the discussions that are raised concerning it. This commentary cites many of the major Rishonim, referring to them not by name but rather by distinguished titles.

Other Works

He also wrote several minor works, including a commentary to Avot whose introduction includes a recording of the chain of tradition from Moshe through the Tana'im.