Does Rashi indicate that birds require a Mesorah?

Rashi's views on the requirements for birds in relation to kosher laws include the necessity of a Mesorah, or traditional transmission, to validate the kosher status of birds. A Mesorah refers to the lineage or method of determining which species are considered kosher, particularly in birds, where there may be more confusion due to the existence of similar species.

The ruling of the Rama, who often codified Rashi's interpretations within the context of Jewish law, supports this view by confirming that specific guidelines are needed to ensure compliance with dietary laws regarding birds. This highlights the importance of established tradition and authority in determining the kosher status of birds and underlines that without a Mesorah, one cannot ascertain the kosher status of a bird, due to the risk of misidentification with non-kosher species. Therefore, this approach underscores the critical role that tradition plays in maintaining the integrity of dietary laws in Jewish practice.

Other options may imply varying levels of necessity or importance regarding the Mesorah, but Rashi's view aligns with a requirement for verification through traditional lineage, affirming its necessity for maintaining kosher observance among birds.