The Use of Tobacco

Should not the use of tobacco be prohibited by Jewish law on the basis of the growing consensus of physicians that it is injurious to health? Also, what are the chief responsa which deal with the question of the use of tobacco? (Dr. S.Z. Hulman, Leeds, England) Tobacco was introduced into Europe in the sixteenth century (in England, in 1565). The use of it in various forms spread immediately all over Europe. Both church and state expressed strong opposition to its use. At times the church threatened excommunication, and the state imposed fines, imprisonment, and even capital punishment. Naturally the