Nasi

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For the Arab month by this name, see Nasi (month). This word is not to be confused with nazi as an abbreviation for national socialist.

Nāśī’ (נָשִׂיא) is a Hebrew term meaning, roughly, "Prince". In classical times it was the title given to the head of the Sanhedrin, the supreme court and legislative body of ancient Israel. The position was created in about 191 BCE when the Sanhedrin lost confidence in the ability of the high priests to serve as its head.

Certain great figures from the Jewish history are referred to by this title, e.g., Judah haNasi.

In modern usage Nasi also means President. It is the title used in Modern Hebrew for any democratically elected head of state.

In the ancient times, the intercalary 13th month Adar 2 in Hebrew calendar was always announced by the Nasi.

Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz currently serves as the Nasi in an attempt to re-establish the Sanhedrin of old.

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