Definition

Noun 1. A body of written works: The collected or complete works of a particular author, period, or genre. 2. The third division of the Hebrew Scriptures: Specifically, the third and final section of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible), also known as the Ketuvim, which includes books such as Psalms, Proverbs, and Job.

Usage

• The term is often used in academic or formal contexts to refer to a significant collection of texts.
• When capitalized ("Writings"), it typically refers to the specific biblical division.

Examples

• General use (uncapitalized):
  • Scholars study the writings of ancient philosophers to understand their ideas.
  • Her published writings cover a wide range of topics from science to poetry.
• Specific biblical use (capitalized):
  • The Writings include the Book of Psalms, which is a collection of religious songs and poems.
  • In the Hebrew canon, the Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings form the three main divisions.

Advanced Usage

• "Sacred writings": This phrase refers to the religious texts of a particular faith, such as the Vedas, the Quran, or the Bible.
  • Comparative religion studies the sacred writings of different world religions.

Variants and Related Words

• Writing (noun, uncountable): The activity or skill of marking coherent words on paper; written work.
  • She enjoys creative writing.
• Write (verb): To mark letters, words, or symbols on a surface.
  • Please write your name here.

Synonyms

• Works: The complete output of an author or artist.
• Oeuvre: The complete works of a writer, painter, or composer.
• Literature: Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.
• Texts: Written or printed pieces of material.

Different Meanings

1. Meaning 1 (General): Any collection of written material.
2. Meaning 2 (Specific/Proper Noun): The Ketuvim, a specific section of the Hebrew Bible. This meaning is always capitalized.

Noun

1. the third of three divisions of the Hebrew Scriptures