Responsa

American  

[ri-spon-suh] / rɪˈspɒn sə /

noun

1. the branch of rabbinical literature comprised of authoritative replies in letter form made by noted rabbis or Jewish scholars to questions sent to them concerning Jewish law.

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responsa British  

/ rɪˈspɒnsə /

noun

1. the plural of responsum

2. that part of rabbinic literature concerned with written rulings in answer to questions

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Etymology

Origin of Responsa

1895–1900; < New Latin; plural of responsum

Example Sentences

These Responsa, “Answers to questions sent from many lands,” give valuable information as to social and religious conditions in the earlier part of the 15th century.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 8, Slice 8 "Dubner" to "Dyeing" by Various

He also collected and edited Rashi's Decisions and Responsa, serving, as it were, as Rashi's literary executor.

From Rashi by Szold, Adele

The case to which I refer may be found in the Responsa Zebi Hirsch.

From The Book of Delight and Other Papers by Abrahams, Israel

Though his correspondents were not so widely scattered, the subjects touched upon by Rashi in his Responsa are very varied in character.

From Rashi by Szold, Adele

The passage in question is taken from these Responsa, No.394.

From Rashi by Szold, Adele