Commentary of Rabbi Avraham “Abaleh” Gombiner (1637-1683) of Kalisz, Poland, on “Orach Chayim,” the Section of the “Shulchan Aruch” that deals with the Laws of Daily Life and Holiday Behavior, such as the Laws concerning Rising in the Morning, the various Prayers, Special Prayers and Mitzvot of the Holidays.
“Magen Avraham” means “Shield of Avraham,” a phrase taken from the “Shemoneh Esray” Prayer, obviously reflecting the author’s name, and possibly using the name of the First of the “Avot” because the Laws dealt with in this section of the Shulchan Aruch are the most fundamental for the Jew to become familiar with and practice.