Jacob Ibn Tsur

Jacob Ibn Tsur was one of the greatest Moroccan rabbis of his time. He was a learned talmudist, a highly productive author, and judge, and gained a reputation as a practical kabbalist. Ibn Tsur spent most of his life in Fez, apart from periods in Meknes (1717–1730) and Tétouan (1738–1740). He was not afraid to confront even the most powerful figures in the community and at times found himself involved in disagreements. In addition to his published responsa, Mishpat u-tsedakah be-Ya‘akov (Judgment and Righteousness [Are] in Jacob), a number of works by Ibn Tsur have survived in manuscript form. In addition, he composed many piyyutim (liturgical poems), among them laments for the Ninth of Av that were incorporated into the Moroccan Jewish canon.